2021 Subaru Forester Oil Type & Capacity: 0W-20 (4.4 quarts)

The 2021 Subaru Forester takes 0W-20 motor oil — 4.4 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.

Factory-spec answer

0W-20 — 4.4 quarts with filter

Oil capacity by engine

EngineOil Type (viscosity)Capacity w/ FilterCapacity w/o FilterNotes
BaseILSAC GF-5, API - SN PLUS, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Oil4.40 QTS.—If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. Adding the oil from low level to full level: 1.1 US qt (1.0 liter, 0.9 Imp qt).
LimitedILSAC GF-5, API - SN PLUS, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Oil4.40 QTS.—If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. Adding the oil from low level to full level: 1.1 US qt (1.0 liter, 0.9 Imp qt).
PremiumILSAC GF-5, API - SN PLUS, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Oil4.40 QTS.—If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. Adding the oil from low level to full level: 1.1 US qt (1.0 liter, 0.9 Imp qt).
SportILSAC GF-5, API - SN PLUS, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Oil4.40 QTS.—If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. Adding the oil from low level to full level: 1.1 US qt (1.0 liter, 0.9 Imp qt).
TouringILSAC GF-5, API - SN PLUS, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Oil4.40 QTS.—If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. Adding the oil from low level to full level: 1.1 US qt (1.0 liter, 0.9 Imp qt).

More factory specs & repair guides for your Forester

🛞 2021 Subaru Forester Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2021 Subaru Forester Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2021 Subaru Forester Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2021 Subaru Forester Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)

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Coolant capacity

9.0 quarts (8.51 L) — SUBARU Super Coolant

Frequently asked questions

What type of oil does a 2021 Subaru Forester take?

The 2021 Subaru Forester takes 0W-20 motor oil (ILSAC GF-5, API - SN PLUS, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Oil), per the factory service manual.

What is the oil capacity of a 2021 Subaru Forester?

The 2021 Subaru Forester oil capacity is 4.4 quarts with a filter change.

How often should I change the oil in my 2021 Subaru Forester?

Most 2021 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 2021 Subaru Forester?

Yes. 0W-20 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2021 Subaru Forester. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.

Other Subaru Forester years

2025 Forester2024 Forester2023 Forester2022 Forester2020 Forester2019 Forester2018 Forester2017 Forester2016 Forester2015 Forester2014 Forester2013 Forester2012 Forester2011 Forester2010 Forester2009 Forester2008 Forester2007 Forester2006 Forester2005 Forester2004 Forester2003 Forester2002 Forester2001 Forester2000 Forester1999 Forester1998 Forester

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