1986 Subaru Brat Oil Type & Capacity: 5W-30 (4.2 quarts)
The 1986 Subaru Brat takes 5W-30 motor oil — 4.2 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
5W-30 — 4.2 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brat — 1.8L Eng | API - SAE 5W-30 (Below -30Deg.F to -5Deg.F), 10W-30/40/50 (Below -30Deg.F to 90Deg.F), 30, 20W-40/50 (30Deg.F to 90Deg.F), 40 (Above 90Deg.F) | 4.20 QTS. | — | — |
More factory specs & repair guides for your Brat
🛞 1986 Subaru Brat Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 1986 Subaru Brat Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 1986 Subaru Brat Light Bulb Sizes →📖 1986 Subaru Brat Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
5.8 quarts (5.48 L) — Anti-freeze and Anticorrosive Ethylene-Glycol Coolant
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 1986 Subaru Brat take?
The 1986 Subaru Brat takes 5W-30 motor oil (API - SAE 5W-30 (Below -30Deg.F to -5Deg.F), 10W-30/40/50 (Below -30Deg.F to 90Deg.F), 30, 20W-40/50 (30Deg.F to 90Deg.F), 40 (Above 90Deg.F)), per the factory service manual.
What is the oil capacity of a 1986 Subaru Brat?
The 1986 Subaru Brat oil capacity is 4.2 quarts with a filter change.
How often should I change the oil in my 1986 Subaru Brat?
Most 1986 Subaru Brat owners follow a 5,000–7,500 mile interval with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with full synthetic. Always check the oil life monitor if equipped, and consult your owner's manual — Subaru recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 1986 Subaru Brat?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 1986 Subaru Brat. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.