2004 Subaru Forester Oil Type & Capacity: 5W-30 (4.4 quarts)
The 2004 Subaru Forester takes 5W-30 motor oil — 4.4 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
5W-30 — 4.4 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X, Automatic | API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | In hot weather oil of higher viscosity is required to properly lubricate the engine. |
| X, Standard | API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | In hot weather oil of higher viscosity is required to properly lubricate the engine. |
| XS, Automatic | API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | In hot weather oil of higher viscosity is required to properly lubricate the engine. |
| XS, Standard | API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | In hot weather oil of higher viscosity is required to properly lubricate the engine. |
| XT, Automatic | API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | In hot weather oil of higher viscosity is required to properly lubricate the engine. |
| XT, Standard | API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30 | 4.40 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | In hot weather oil of higher viscosity is required to properly lubricate the engine. |
More factory specs & repair guides for your Forester
🛞 2004 Subaru Forester Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2004 Subaru Forester Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2004 Subaru Forester Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2004 Subaru Forester Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
7.2 quarts (6.81 L) — SUBARU Coolant or equivalent: a 50/50 mixture of Ethylene-Glycol Coolant and soft water
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2004 Subaru Forester take?
The 2004 Subaru Forester takes 5W-30 motor oil (API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30), per the factory service manual.
What is the oil capacity of a 2004 Subaru Forester?
The 2004 Subaru Forester oil capacity is 4.4 quarts with a filter change, or 4.2 quarts without changing the filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 2004 Subaru Forester?
Most 2004 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 2004 Subaru Forester?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2004 Subaru Forester. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.