2009 Outback Oil Change

I would add 5W30 synthetic. Any name brand oil will do.

Good advice from F_O_R but why not have the oil changed using the oil and viscosity recommended by Subaru now and record what is recommended? Then change it about every 5000 miles as the car ages.

5W30 is the recommended oil. If it is an oil burner try 10W40.

Thank you for the assistance. I added 10W30 synthetic (the only oil I had). It took 3 quarts and is still 1/2 a quart low. I will pick up some more and have the oil changed asap. The question is: why did my "oil low" light not come on? Is it a sensor that is not working? Also, will the CEL go off on its own? One last question: I reviewed my owners manual. It did not say anything about using synthetic only regular oil. Is synthetic OK? Thanks again...

You dodged a bullet. Running that low is usually fatal for an engine. Never let it get more than 1/2 quart low. Check it every tank of gas. I see no problem with using synthetic but use what ever you like. I would probably use regular oil and change it every 3,000 miles but syn is OK too. I don't know if your car has a low oil warning or not. The CEL means you need to scan for codes.

Ok...ok. I'm here. The 2000-2012 2.5i holds 4.5 qts, but can easily take 5qts on refill with new filter. That's how you should start, as all Subie engines are horizontally opposed, and will drink thin oil...especially in winter. That's why it can be a little sketchy to use 5w30 in the older engine especially. Better is 10w40...dino or synth. This motor WILL run on 1.5qts oil...but just barely. You DID dodge that bullet. If consumption is high in very hot summer use add 20w50 good old summer racing oil to boost viscosity. Do NOT under any circumstances (except under zero F) use Subaru's current spec 0w20 synth as you'll just consume it voraciously! (The newer DOHC 2.5i is best with 5w30 synth, by the way.)

Forgot: yes, there's an EMPTY low-pressure warning light, but by then it's too late. The 2013+ DOHC 2.5i has a "one liter down" warning reminder, as well a low pressure (empty) light. On the older 2,5 SOHC motor the dipstick is calibrated so that when just off the stick you still have 2-2.5 qts in there, and can run carefully, safely until you add 2-3 qts as needed to slightly overfill. The newer motor is even more conservative, in that the level will go below the stick when only 2qts down, leaving 3+ qts in there. Smart alarm!

Thank you everyone for your help!

I used 10W40 in my 2003 Forester with 200,000 miles. It used a quart or two in 3,000 miles but it ran like new.