Last reviewed: March 28, 2026
2024 Subaru Forester Oil Type & Fluid Specs
Oil Filter Part Numbers
Complete Fluid Specifications
0W-20 Oil for the 2024 Subaru Forester
Subaru's boxer (horizontally opposed) engine in the 2024 Forester has a unique layout that affects oil changes. Because the cylinders are horizontal rather than vertical, oil drains differently and the filter is typically accessible from underneath without removing a splash guard on most models. The 2.5L Boxer 4-Cylinder takes 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic.
Subaru recommends 6,000-mile intervals — shorter than Toyota or Honda's recommendations. Subaru drivers also tend to be more active drivers (Subarus are popular in mountainous regions, with AWD systems that put additional load on the engine), so the shorter interval makes sense for the typical use case. The CVT fluid in your Forester (Subaru CVT Fluid) holds a large 12.3 quarts — that's a lot of transmission fluid, and it's worth maintaining on schedule.
Save on Your Next Oil Change
Use our oil change cost calculator to see exactly what a DIY change costs compared to a shop — most Forester owners save $30–$60 per change. Not sure when to change it? Our oil change interval calculator gives you a personalized recommendation based on your actual driving habits, climate, and vehicle age.
Sources & Methodology
- 2024 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual — Fluid specifications section
- American Petroleum Institute (API) — Oil certification standards
- FRAM, Mobil 1, Bosch — Oil filter cross-reference catalogs
Data last verified: March 28, 2026
2024 Subaru Forester — Common Questions
The 2024 Subaru Forester with the 2.5L Boxer 4-Cylinder engine takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic oil meeting API SP specifications. You'll need 5.1 quarts with a new filter.
Subaru recommends oil changes every 6,000 miles or 6 months for the 2024 Forester, whichever comes first. If you frequently drive in severe conditions — lots of short trips, stop-and-go traffic, towing, extreme temperatures, or dusty roads — consider shortening that interval to 5,000 miles.
Subaru specifies full synthetic oil for the 2024 Forester. While using conventional oil in an emergency won't immediately damage your engine, it doesn't meet the same performance standards that your engine was designed around. Synthetic oil provides better protection at temperature extremes, lasts longer between changes, and reduces internal engine friction. For the relatively small price difference ($10–$15 more per oil change), stick with synthetic — your engine will thank you.
The OEM oil filter part number for the 2024 Subaru Forester is 15208AA170. Compatible aftermarket filters include the FRAM PH7317, Mobil 1 M1-110A, and Bosch 3323. Any of these will work well — the key is to always replace the filter with every oil change and to make sure the gasket on the old filter comes off cleanly when you remove it.