2000 Subaru Forester Oil Type & Capacity
The 2000 Subaru Forester oil type depends on the engine: the L, Automatic takes 5W-30 (4.4 quarts qt with filter); the L, Standard takes 5W-30 (4.2 quarts qt with filter); the S, Automatic takes 5W-30 (4.4 quarts qt with filter); the S, Standard takes 5W-30 (4.2 quarts qt with filter), per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
It depends on the engine:
- L, Automatic: 5W-30, 4.4 quarts with filter
- L, Standard: 5W-30, 4.2 quarts with filter
- S, Automatic: 5W-30, 4.4 quarts with filter
- S, Standard: 5W-30, 4.2 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L, Automatic — Automatic Trans | API - SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | — | — |
| L, Standard — Standard Trans | API - SAE 5W-30 | 4.20 QTS. | — | — |
| S, Automatic — Automatic Trans | API - SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | — | — |
| S, Standard — Standard Trans | API - SAE 5W-30 | 4.20 QTS. | — | — |
More factory specs & repair guides for your Forester
🛞 2000 Subaru Forester Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2000 Subaru Forester Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2000 Subaru Forester Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2000 Subaru Forester Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
6.6 quarts (6.24 L) — 50/50 mixture of Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze and water
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2000 Subaru Forester take?
It depends on the engine: L, Automatic uses 5W-30; L, Standard uses 5W-30; S, Automatic uses 5W-30; S, Standard uses 5W-30.
What is the oil capacity of a 2000 Subaru Forester?
Oil capacity depends on the engine: L, Automatic holds 4.4 quarts with filter; L, Standard holds 4.2 quarts with filter; S, Automatic holds 4.4 quarts with filter; S, Standard holds 4.2 quarts with filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 2000 Subaru Forester?
Most 2000 Subaru Forester 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 2000 Subaru Forester?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2000 Subaru Forester. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.