2024 Crosstrek 0W16 -> 5W30 ?

[kschachn]

It’s not going to hurt anything but “required” (from your quote of the booklet) is strong language. How long are you planning on keeping the car? Does it have a Subaru extended warranty?

Yes, it is required, it’s required to meet the requirements of their EPA letter. But that’s as far as it goes. There is no mechanical requirement for that grade.

 

[Revving2Redline]

Is there any chance I can cause damage switching from 0W-16 to 5W-30 for 2024 Crosstrek which specifices 0W-16? From my research 0W16 is specified because it is the optimum for balancing gas mileage and protection. Not optimum for protection. It is probably the bare minimum for protection.

From owners manual "0W16 is the required oil for optimum engine performance and protection."

The 2022 Crosstrek in Japan specified a range of oils and I believe it is the same engine.
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2025 Rav4 in Japan specifies from 0w8 to 5w30
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Once you get past 5000 miles I your okay to deviate especially if your really going to drive it and not just stop and go around town.
My recommendations will be RedlineOil HP 0w20,Amsoil 0w30, HPL maybe in their 10w20 but for winter look for their 0w-20 or 0w30 mid tier lines.
If you want to stay at Walmart.. Mobil 1 Extended Performance 0w-20 or Valvoline Restore 0w-20 or Mobil 1 0w30.

After 100,000 miles I would stay with 0w30 and 5w30 weather permitting. Im up to over 425,000 and starting to look at 40w or at least staying in high 30w's with viscosity thickners to keep it together

 

[mt23]

My $.02 use 5w30 Valvoline Restore and Protect and sleep well at night with clean piston rings, clean avcs system and an oil that ends up as a 20 grade. Maybe some fuel cleaner regularly like Berrymans B12 chemtool in the gas every 3rd tank as directed and have fuel injectors spraying as properly as possible for lower fuel dilution. Sweet ride in a time of being able to keep carbon at bay