2016 Subaru Legacy Oil Type & Capacity
The 2016 Subaru Legacy oil type depends on the engine: the 2.5i takes 0W-20 (5.1 quarts qt with filter); the 2.5i Limited takes 0W-20 (5.1 quarts qt with filter); the 2.5i Premium takes 0W-20 (5.1 quarts qt with filter); the 3.6R Limited takes 5W-30 (6.9 quarts qt with filter), per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
It depends on the engine:
- 2.5i: 0W-20, 5.1 quarts with filter
- 2.5i Limited: 0W-20, 5.1 quarts with filter
- 2.5i Premium: 0W-20, 5.1 quarts with filter
- 3.6R Limited: 5W-30, 6.9 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5i — 2.5L Eng | ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, API - SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil | 5.10 QTS. | 4.90 QTS. | If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. |
| 2.5i Limited — 2.5L Eng | ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, API - SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil | 5.10 QTS. | 4.90 QTS. | If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. |
| 2.5i Premium — 2.5L Eng | ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, API - SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil | 5.10 QTS. | 4.90 QTS. | If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. |
| 3.6R Limited — 3.6L Eng | ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, API - SAE 5W-30 Conventional Motor Oil | 6.90 QTS. | 6.70 QTS. | Your vehicle is designed to use 5W-30 conventional motor oil, however 5W-30 synthetic may be used for optimum engine performance. If you do choose to use synthetic oil, SUBARU recommends that you continue using synthetic for the life of your vehicle. |
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More factory specs & repair guides for your Legacy
🛞 2016 Subaru Legacy Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2016 Subaru Legacy Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2016 Subaru Legacy Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2016 Subaru Legacy Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
8.2 quarts (7.76 L) — SUBARU Super Coolant
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2016 Subaru Legacy take?
It depends on the engine: 2.5i uses 0W-20; 2.5i Limited uses 0W-20; 2.5i Premium uses 0W-20; 3.6R Limited uses 5W-30.
What is the oil capacity of a 2016 Subaru Legacy?
Oil capacity depends on the engine: 2.5i holds 5.1 quarts with filter; 2.5i Limited holds 5.1 quarts with filter; 2.5i Premium holds 5.1 quarts with filter; 3.6R Limited holds 6.9 quarts with filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 2016 Subaru Legacy?
Most 2016 Subaru Legacy 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 2016 Subaru Legacy?
Yes. 0W-20 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2016 Subaru Legacy. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.