Peter Banks If you own a 2010 Subaru Forester, it’s essential to know what kind of oil is suitable for your vehicle to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. In this guide, we’ll discuss the different types of oil suitable for the 2010 Subaru Forester, the recommended oil viscosity, and some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- The 2010 Subaru Forester can take synthetic or conventional motor oil.
- Subaru recommends using synthetic motor oil of 0W-20 viscosity for the best performance and fuel efficiency.
- The 2010 Subaru Forester should have its oil changed every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first.
- Always consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity for your specific Subaru Forester model.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil
Before we discuss the recommended oil type for the 2010 Subaru Forester, let’s understand the difference between synthetic and conventional oil.
Conventional oil is a crude oil-derived product that goes through a refining process to remove impurities. It consists of various additives to improve its lubricating properties, reduce engine wear, and prevent rust and corrosion.
On the other hand, synthetic oil is a man-made product produced by chemical reactions. Synthetic oil has superior lubricating properties, temperature resistance, and engine cleanliness compared to conventional oil. It’s also more expensive.
Both synthetic and conventional oil are suitable for the 2010 Subaru Forester, but Subaru recommends using synthetic oil for better performance and fuel efficiency.
Recommended Oil Viscosity for the 2010 Subaru Forester
The recommended oil viscosity for the 2010 Subaru Forester is 0W-20. The "W" in the specification stands for winter, indicating the oil’s cold-weather performance. The lower the number before the "W," the better the oil’s cold-weather performance.
The number after the "W" indicates the oil’s viscosity at operating temperatures. The higher the number, the thicker the oil, and the better it can handle high temperatures.
Using a 0W-20 synthetic oil provides better fuel efficiency, reduces engine wear, and improves engine protection compared to conventional oil.
Oil Change Interval
Subaru recommends changing the oil every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. This interval is for severe driving conditions, including frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, and dusty environments.
If you drive under normal conditions, the oil change interval can be extended to 10,000 miles or twelve months, whichever comes first.
Always consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval for your specific Subaru Forester model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use conventional oil instead of synthetic oil for my 2010 Subaru Forester?
A. Yes, you can use conventional oil, but Subaru recommends using synthetic oil for better performance and fuel efficiency.
Q. Can I use a different oil viscosity for my 2010 Subaru Forester?
A. No, it’s best to use the recommended 0W-20 oil viscosity to ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
Q. How often should I change the oil in my 2010 Subaru Forester?
A. Subaru recommends changing the oil every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first, for severe driving conditions. For normal driving conditions, the interval can be extended to 10,000 miles or twelve months, whichever comes first.
Q. Can I use any brand of oil for my 2010 Subaru Forester?
A. Yes, you can use any brand of oil as long as it meets the recommended oil viscosity and performance standards for your Subaru Forester model.
Conclusion
Using the recommended synthetic oil of 0W-20 viscosity for your 2010 Subaru Forester can provide better performance, fuel efficiency, and engine protection. Always consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity for your specific Subaru Forester model. Changing the oil every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first, can help prolong your vehicle’s life and ensure optimal performance.
