2020 Subaru Crosstrek Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek with the standard 2.0L engine requires 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic oil when changing the oil and filter. The Crosstrek Hybrid model requires slightly less at 4.5 quarts (4.2 liters).

Performing a regular oil change is the single most important piece of maintenance you can do for your vehicle. Using the correct oil and filter ensures your Subaru's Boxer engine remains properly lubricated, cooled, and clean for years to come. This guide provides all the specifications, part numbers, and tips you need to do the job right.

Quick Answer: 2020 Crosstrek Oil Service Specs

• Oil Capacity (2.0L Non-Hybrid): 5.1 quarts / 4.8 liters (with filter)
• Oil Capacity (2.0L Hybrid): 4.5 quarts / 4.2 liters (with filter)
• Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 0W-20
• Required Oil Specification: API grade SN PLUS or SP, Resource Conserving, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6
• Oil Filter (OEM): Subaru 15208AA15A
• Oil Filter (Fram): Fram XG7317 or TG7317
• Oil Filter (Wix): 57055
• Oil Filter (Mobil 1): M1-110A

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2020 Crosstrek was available with two powertrain options that use slightly different oil capacities.

Oil Change Interval

Subaru recommends an oil change interval of 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, for vehicles driven under normal conditions.

However, if you operate your Crosstrek under "severe duty" conditions, the interval should be shortened to 3,000 miles or 3 months. Many city-driven vehicles fall into this category. Severe duty conditions include:

• Repeated short-distance trips where the engine doesn't fully warm up.
• Driving in stop-and-go traffic.
• Operating in extremely hot or cold weather.
• Driving in dusty or muddy conditions.
• Towing a trailer.

Drain Plug Torque & Crush Washer

Properly tightening the drain plug is critical to prevent leaks. Always use a torque wrench.

• Drain Plug Torque: 30.8 ft-lbs (41.8 Nm)
• Crush Washer: Always use a new crush washer. The Subaru OEM part number is 803916010. Reusing an old crush washer is the most common cause of a leaky drain plug.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil in a 2020 Crosstrek is straightforward thanks to the top-mounted oil filter.

1. Warm the engine for 2-3 minutes to warm the oil.
2. Safely lift and support the vehicle on jack stands.
3. Place a drain pan under the drain plug and remove the 20mm plug.
4. While the oil is draining, pop the hood and locate the oil filter on the top-front of the engine.
5. Unscrew the old filter. A small amount of oil may spill, so have a rag ready.
6. Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new filter and screw it on until it makes contact, then tighten it an additional 3/4 to one full turn.
7. Once the oil has finished draining, install the drain plug with a new crush washer and torque it to 30.8 ft-lbs.
8. Lower the vehicle and fill the engine with the specified amount of 0W-20 oil.
9. Start the engine, let it run for 30 seconds, shut it off, and re-check the oil level on the dipstick after a minute. Top off as necessary.

Common Issues / Tips

• Top-Mounted Filter: The second-generation Crosstrek features a top-mounted oil filter, making it one of the easiest cars to service. It virtually eliminates the mess of a typical bottom-mounted filter.
• Check Oil Levels: While the FB20 engine in the 2020 model is reliable, it's good practice to check your oil level every few hundred miles, especially on long road trips.
• Use Quality Synthetic: Do not use conventional oil. The 0W-20 synthetic specification is required for proper function of the engine's variable valve timing system and for achieving the designed fuel economy.
• Fumoto Valve: Many Subaru owners install a Fumoto F108N oil drain valve in place of the stock plug. This allows for cleaner, tool-free draining in the future.

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