2008 Subaru Forester Oil Type & Capacity
The 2008 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 L.L. Bean Edition | 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, 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. |
| XT Limited, 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 Limited, 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. |
Buy the right oil
Buy 5W-30 motor oil on Amazon2008 Subaru Forester oil filter on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases made through these links.
More specs & repair guides for your Forester
2008 Subaru Forester factory service manualAll fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner site AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
7.2 quarts (6.81 L) — SUBARU Coolant or equivalent: a 50/50 mixture of Ethylene-Glycol Coolant and distilled water
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2008 Subaru Forester take?
The 2008 Subaru Forester takes 5W-30 motor oil (API - SM or SL, SAE 5W-30), per the factory service manual.
How much oil does a 2008 Subaru Forester take?
The 2008 Subaru Forester holds 4.4 quarts with a filter change, or 4.2 quarts without changing the filter.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 2008 Subaru Forester?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2008 Subaru Forester. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.