I have a 2024 Crosstrek 2.5L on order and just saw in the manual that Subaru is now calling for 0W-16 oil.
My understanding is that the 2.5L has been slightly revised and now makes a full 2 additional ft•lb of torque. Do you think there have been changes that require 0W-16? The manual says 0W-20 can be used to top up if a top up is needed, but should be switched back to 0W-16 at the next oil change.
I know that 0W-16 is thinner than the 0W-20 required in our Outbacks and so should provide better cold weather heating and fuel efficiency, but at the cost of high temperature protection and, well, cost.
My past experience has led me to take the position that producing the recommended oil change intervals should be considered an upper limit rather than a safe target.
I think the notion that clean oil (that meets the latest specs) will perform and protect better than dirty oil, even if that dirty oil is an advanced formula that can outlast other brands.
In my OBW I am changing the oil (and filter) every 5000 km using Costco’s Kirkland brand oil.
My opinion is that the range is overkill, but the oil is cheap (and at a stable price) and still meets the latest specs. It will never be in danger of degrading too much and being so clean can reduce carbon deposits/sludge.
While I’m not particularly against using 0W-16 in the Crosstrek, my Costco here in Canada does not carry 0W-16. There are actually very few 0W-16s available at local auto parts stores and they are easily x2 the price.
Considering the engine probably hasn’t changed that much and the requirement to use 0W-16 is most likely related to their published fuel economy, do you think it’s fine to stick with 0W-20? Yes, I know voiding the warranty is a possibility since that’s not what the manual says.
I know there are a lot of knowledgeable people here, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
