2022 Subaru Forester Fluid Type Specs

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	0W-20 Full Synthetic, API SN PLUS or later, or ILSAC GF-6	4.8 US Quarts (4.5 liters) with filter
Engine Coolant	Subaru Super Coolant (Blue), Long-Life HOAT	7.6 US Quarts (7.2 liters)
Transmission Fluid (CVT)	Subaru High Torque CVTF-II	Check owner's manual/OEM service info (typically not a user-serviceable item)
Front Differential	75W-90 GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil	1.4 US Quarts (1.3 liters)
Rear Differential	75W-90 GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil	0.8 US Quarts (0.75 liters)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	Check reservoir
Power Steering	Electric Power Steering (No Fluid)	N/A
Washer Fluid	Subaru Windshield Washer Fluid or equivalent	1.3 US Gallons (5.0 liters)

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Engine Oil

For your 2022 Subaru Forester, the manufacturer specifies 0W-20 full synthetic engine oil. It is crucial to use oil that meets API SN PLUS or later (e.g., API SP) standards, and/or ILSAC GF-6. These specifications ensure the oil provides optimal protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), a common issue in modern turbocharged and direct-injected engines, as well as improved fuel economy and wear protection.

Capacity: The engine oil capacity with a filter change is approximately 4.8 US Quarts (4.5 liters). Always re-check the oil level on a flat surface after filling and running the engine briefly to circulate the new oil, then waiting a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the pan.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Subaru recommends engine oil and filter changes every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. If you frequently drive in severe conditions (e.g., stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, towing, dusty roads), you may need to reduce this interval. Using conventional oil or an incorrect viscosity can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential warranty issues. Always use full synthetic oil of the specified grade.

Engine Coolant

Your 2022 Subaru Forester uses Subaru Super Coolant (blue in color). This is a factory-fill, long-life, Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolant formulated for extended service intervals. It is designed to provide excellent corrosion protection for aluminum components and maintain stable operating temperatures.

Capacity: The total cooling system capacity is approximately 7.6 US Quarts (7.2 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: Subaru Super Coolant has an extended service life, typically around 137,500 miles or 11 years for the initial change, then 75,000 miles or 6 years thereafter. Never mix Subaru Super Coolant with other types of coolant (e.g., traditional green IAT coolant or other OAT/HOAT coolants of different formulations or colors). Mixing coolants can lead to chemical incompatibility, premature corrosion, gel formation, and severe damage to the cooling system and engine. Always use genuine Subaru Super Coolant or an equivalent specifically formulated for Subaru vehicles.

Transmission Fluid (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission)

The 2022 Subaru Forester is equipped with a Lineartronic CVT. This transmission requires Subaru High Torque CVTF-II. It is crucial to use only this specific fluid to ensure proper operation and longevity of the CVT.

Capacity: CVT fluid capacity typically varies, and checking your owner's manual or OEM service information is essential for precise amounts. It's important to note that CVT fluid changes are often considered advanced maintenance and may not be a user-serviceable item. For accurate fluid level checks and changes, it is highly recommended to consult a Subaru dealership or a qualified independent repair shop.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Subaru generally considers the CVT fluid to be a "lifetime" fill under normal driving conditions, meaning no regular maintenance interval is specified. However, for vehicles driven under severe conditions (e.g., heavy towing, frequent extreme temperature exposure, aggressive driving), it is advisable to consider a fluid change every 60,000 miles. Using incorrect fluid or attempting to service the CVT without the proper tools and knowledge can cause severe and costly damage to the transmission.

Front Differential Fluid

For the front differential, your 2022 Subaru Forester requires 75W-90 GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil. This specification ensures adequate lubrication and protection for the gears under various operating conditions.

Capacity: The front differential typically holds approximately 1.4 US Quarts (1.3 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: Subaru recommends inspecting the differential fluid every 30,000 miles or 30 months, and replacing it every 30,000 miles or 30 months under severe driving conditions, or 60,000 miles or 60 months under normal conditions. Using an incorrect viscosity or going against the GL-5 specification can lead to increased wear, noise, and eventual failure of the differential.

Rear Differential Fluid

Similar to the front differential, the rear differential of your 2022 Subaru Forester also requires 75W-90 GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil.

Capacity: The rear differential holds approximately 0.8 US Quarts (0.75 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: The maintenance intervals for the rear differential fluid are the same as the front: inspect every 30,000 miles or 30 months and replace every 30,000 miles or 30 months under severe conditions, or 60,000 miles or 60 months under normal conditions. Always ensure that the gear oil explicitly states GL-5, as GL-4 oils lack the extreme pressure additives needed for hypoid gears, which are present in your Forester's differentials.

Brake Fluid

Your 2022 Subaru Forester uses either DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 fluid has a higher wet and dry boiling point than DOT 3, offering slightly better performance, especially under demanding conditions. Both are glycol-ether based and are compatible, meaning you can top off DOT 3 with DOT 4, but it's always best to stick to one type when performing a full flush.

Capacity: Refer to the fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir. The system does not have a specific "capacity" for replacement as it\