2005 Subaru Forester Engine Oil Types & Buying Guide

2005-subaru-forester

Engine oil is a vital part of the car. Without it, the engine will not function properly. When you need to change your engine oil, it is important to know how much you need and when to do so. There are a few factors that can affect how often you need to replace your engine oil. One of these factors is the type of oil that you us

When should I change the engine oil in my 2005 Subaru Forester Car?

The older an engine, the weaker the engine gets. Older engines are often classified as engines in cars made before 2010 or engines with more than 100,000 mileage. Whichever comes first. It is often advised to change the oil of older engines as soon as you can, preferable after every 6 months or 4000 – 7,000 miles depending on the state of the engine.

Cars with high mileage or older engines tend to have oil leakage as a result of the seals wearing out, and as such, high mileage engine oil has additives that help protect the seals and lessen the oil league.

2005 Subaru Forester Engine

What type of engine oil does the 2005 Subaru Forester Use?

The recommended engine oil for the 2005 Subaru Forester is the 5W-30 Conventional Oil with 4.4 Quarts Capacity. Conventional oils, especially for older engines can be scarce since engine oil makers have started phasing them out and replacing them with synthetic and synthetic blends (semi-synthetic) for newer model cars.

You can also use the following oil type for the 2005 Subaru Forester

5W-30 – Conventional or Synthetic Blends
5W-40 – Conventional or Synthetic Blends
10W-30 – Conventional or Synthetic Blends ( Preferred use during summer or in hot region)
10W-40 – Conventional or Synthetic Blends ( Preferred use during summer or in hot region)
15W-40 – Conventional or Synthetic Blends ( Preferred use during summer or in hot region)
15W-30 – Conventional or Synthetic Blends ( Preferred use during summer or in hot region)

Can I use 5w-30 synthetic oil?

Yes, you can use 5w-30 full synthetic oil for the 2005 Subaru forester. The Idea that synthetic oil spoils cars with older engines is FALSE and should be disregarded. You just have to follow manufacturer guidelines for recommended viscosity. The downside of using synthetic oils for older cars could be oil leakage (as reported in some cases) or cost. Synthetic oils are expensive than blends or conventional oil.

What is 5W-30 Oil?

5W-30 conventional oil is one of the most popular engine oil in the world, as it is commonly used in petrol and diesel engines. The 5w30 oil ranges from low to high viscosity grade. I.e from 5 to 30.

The “W” stands for “winter,” the number “5” before the W stands for the oil’s viscosity (or thickness) at cold temperatures (hence the W), and the number after the “W” stands for the viscosity at higher temperatures. I.e. when the engine is running, during summer or in hotter regions.

5w-30 oil works in temperatures as low as -30ºC and as high as 35ºC. This makes it a great choice to use if you’re in a tropical region or places with high-temperature changes. The 5W-30 works well for cars driving in the cold region because of its low viscosity. It can flow freely when the engine is started at a low temperature, and is also great for long travels because of its adaptability to heat.

Why does the 2005 Subaru Forester Use 5W-30 conventional oil?

Although the synthetic oil is of superior quality to conventional oil, many cars like the 2005 Subaru Forester use 5W-30 conventional oil because of its adaptability to different weathers. And the presence of some detergents, friction modifiers, anti-foaming agents, and other additives that are of great benefit to older generation engines

What is the difference between 5W-30 conventional oil and 5W-30 Synthetic oil?

5W-30 Synthetic oil lasts longer and it is more expensive than the 5W-30 Conventional oil
5W-30 Conventional oil consists of base oil, some detergents, friction modifiers, anti-foaming agents and other additives that are of great benefit to older engines, while 5W-30 Synthetic oil consists of base oil without all the additives in conventional oils.
5W-30 Conventional oil is great for older and high mileage engines. While 5W-30 Synthetic oil is great for newer model cars.

17 Best 5w-30 Conventional Oil to Use in Your 2005 Subaru Forester

1. STP Pro Formula Engine Oil Conventional 5W-30, 5 Quarts

STP-Pro-Formula-Engine-Oil-Conventional-5W-30-5-Quart

The STP Pro Formula Engine Oil Conventional 5W-30 5 Quarts is great for older car engines with less than 100k mileage.

If you have a classic car, that has been abandoned or not in use for a while, this motor oil is great to kickstart it again. The STP Pro Formula Engine Oil Conventional 5W-30 5 Quarts Protects against the harmful effects of rust and corrosion. It’s also great for cold weather.

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2. Mobil 1 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30, 5 Quarts

The Mobil 1 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30, 5 Quart is one of the best synthetic oil for cars with high mileage at a reasonable price.

General reviews indicate that cars using this oil consumed 1 quart per 2,000 miles. This Motor Oil is can last for at least 8,000 miles. Mobil Oil is the best choice of synthetic oil because of its availability and durability.

If you’ve been using conventional oils till your car got to over 100k mileage, it’s best to not switch to synthetic.

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3. The Subaru SAE 5W30 Synthetic Motor Oil

The Subaru oil is made by Japanese company, Idemitsu manufacturers. 
The Subaru SOA868V9285 / SOA427V1415 SAE 5W30 Synthetic Motor Oil is one of the best oils in the market, especially for Subaru cars. It’s also great if you’re looking to maintain the warranty on your car.

You might need to get an extra bottle as it might not be enough for a 2005 Subaru Forester that requires more than 4.0 quarts.

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4. STP Engine Oil High Mileage Conventional 5W-30, 5 Quart

STP high mileage conventional oil is one of the BEST oil for older model Subaru Cars. As it contains a premium additive package scientifically formulated to help insulate high mileage engine from the damaging effects of wear.

The STP high mileage motor oil helps keep moving parts within your engine protected in cold or cold operating temperatures.

The STP high mileage motor oil is one of the few conventional oil available in stores. And it’s a product we highly recommend.

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5. Quaker State Advanced Durability Engine Oil Conventional 5W-30 5 Quarts

The Quaker State Advanced Durability Engine Oil Conventional 5W-30 5 Quarts is known to provide incredible protection against the wear of car engines than all the industry standard engine oil. . The Quaker engine oil can also be mixed with other conventional or synthetic oils.

The Quaker State Advanced Durability Engine Oil Conventional 5W-30 is great for both non-turbo and turbo engines.

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6. Valvoline Daily Protection SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil 5 QT

Like every other synthetic blend, the Valvoline Daily Protection SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil 5 QT contains 4% synthetic and 96% base oil. Because of its quality, the Valvoline blend is very popular among other cars owners.

Car owners using the Valvoline Synthetic Blend recommends change after every 4,000 miles. The Motor oil is designed to flow easily at cold temperatures, reducing wear in tough conditions.

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7. Amazon Basics Conventional Motor Oil – 5W-30 – 5 Quart

Amazon Basics Conventional Motor Oil provides the best mix of performance and cost. It is perfect for your vehicle and protects against rust, corrosion, and wear for a lifetime. The high resistivity helps retain lubricating properties even under high-temperature conditions.


The Only with the Amazon Basics Conventional Motor Oil issue is there is no strip to see through to the liquid. This means you can’t tell how much is really in there once you’ve begun to pour. If you’re pouring exactly 5 quarts you have no issue but if say 4.5 like me you have to pour most of it and measure the rest

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8. Pennzoil Synthetic Blend 5W-30 Motor Oil (5-Quart, Single-Pack)

Pennzoil Synthetic Blend Motor Oil is a synthetic blend oil designed to help prevent dirt, sludge, and contaminants from turning into performance-robbing deposits. It’s formulated to provide superb protection through its Active Cleansing Technology which ensures your vehicle engine doesn’t experience the wear associated with traditional oils.

With Pennzoil Motor Oil, you get more than just an oil. You get a unique blend of advanced technology and high-quality ingredients to help keep your engine at its peak performance. When used with Pennzoil Synthetic Blend Oil Filters and Pennzoil Motor Oil Fuel Injectors, Pennzoil’s motor oil provides complete protection against engine damage caused by dirt, sludge, and oil contaminants.

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9. Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife Technology SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil 5 QT

Valvoline High Mileage Motor Oil with MaxLife Technology is a high mileage blend of synthetic and conventional oil engineered for extra-high-mileage vehicles.

Protect your engine with this non-detergent oil that’s formulated to combat wear and fuel consumption, delivering superior protection from the harmful effects of carbon deposits, sludge, and varnish, as well as overall engine performance for up to 75,000 miles.

Valvoline High Mileage™ Motor Oil has been engineered with cutting-edge technology that extends engine life over 75,000 miles to help you reduce your oil changes over time. This Grade SAE 10W-30 Synthetic Motor oil is fortified with thicker anti-wear film for maximum protection of your engine. Plus, Valvoline’s unique blend of detergents destroys sludge and deposits for better performance and the premium seal

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10. Valvoline High Mileage 150K with MaxLife Plus Technology Motor Oil SAE 5W-30 5 QT

You’ve put in the time and miles, but that’s nothing to show for it when you’re still driving an old tired car that’s got a tired engine.

This Valvoline Motor Oil has a powerful cleaning detergent designed to meet the unique challenges of aging engines. Our innovative defense formula is designed specifically to battle the tough build-up of grime and deposits that causes engine efficiency to decrease.

Valvoline High Mileage 150k Mileage is a revolutionary formula that provides 20% MORE DEPOSIT PROTECTION to reduce oil consumption with powerful, grime-cleaning detergents. Valvoline 150k Mileage’s innovative defense formula is designed to fight surface friction and protect against wear.

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11. Mobil Super (120432-6PK) 5W-30 Motor Oil – 1 Quart

Mobil Super 5W-30 engine oil can help you avoid expensive repairs by keeping your engine running smoothly for years. Mobil Super 5W-30 engine oil offers protection to keep your engine protected from sludge and wear.

This engine oil comes in a bottle and not a can. Oil is best replaced every 5,000 miles or every six months. Mobil Super 5W-30 engine oil helps deliver the protection that’s needed to protect your engine.

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12. Pennzoil Conventional 10W-30 Motor Oil

Pennzoil 10W-30 Motor Oil is a high-quality, conventional engine oil designed to keep engines clean and responsive. Pennzoil 10W-30 Motor Oil is one of the best choices for any vehicle, from cars and trucks to lawnmowers and farm equipment.


Pennzoil 10W-30 Motor Oil is perfect with older model cars during summer or in hottter region. Pennzoil 10W-30 Motor Oil exceeds the toughest industry standards (based on ILSAC GF-6A and API SP) and is available in a single 1-quart bottle. So, you have to buy 5 quarts.

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13. Quaker State 5W-30 All Mileage Motor Oil, 5 Quart

Quaker State 5W-30 All Mileage Oil is a conventional motor oil formula that provides protection for new and old vehicles. It’s formulated to provide durable wear protection that helps engines survive daily commutes under all driving conditions.

If you’re an owner of a new car, truck, or SUV and worried about the quality of oil your engine is getting, then don’t be. The Quaker 5W-30 Mileage Oil offers protection for any number of miles on your ride. Not only does it help prevent and reduce le s, but it also has anti-wear additives that help protect against wear experienced by high mileage engines.

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14. Castrol GTX 10W-30 Conventional Motor Oil, 5 Quarts

Castrol GTX 10W-30 Conventional Motor Oil, 5 Quarts is a superior oil that helps to protect your engine from sludge and viscosity breakdown. It has been developed for use on modern engines and contains advanced anti-wear additives. Castrol 10W-30 Motor Oil helps to minimize oil consumption as well as extend the life of your engine.

For older Subaru forester cars, the Castrol GTX 10W-30 Conventional Motor Oil, 5 Quarts is a perfect choice for summer or desert level weather

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15. Pennzoil Conventional 10W-30 Motor Oil, 5-Quarts

Go beyond protection with Pennzoil’s 10W-30 Motor Oil, a specially formulated formula that helps prevent deposits from turning into performance-robbing deposits, while also providing proven wear protection.

Pennzoil 10W-30 is an oil that ensures the engine will operate smoothly and efficiently. It contains a special formula that helps prevent dirt and contaminants from turning into performance-robbing deposits. It provides proven wear protection, so your engine will be clean and responsive for the long haul.

Castrol 10W-30 Motor Oil is ideal for all car, SUV, light van, and truck gasoline engines under all driving conditions. This product has been developed using the latest synthetic engine oils to provide maximum protection for your mechanical parts and prevent wear.

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16. Valvoline Daily Protection SAE 10W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil 1 QT

Valvoline Motor Oil is designed specifically for engines and vehicles that have been properly maintained, and are in good working order. Valvoline Motor Oil provides superior performance and protection at an affordable price.

Looking for a brand new oil for your car? Valvoline Motor Oil is a synthetic blend of 10W-30 that’s designed to protect your engine from wear and tear.

With a 1 qt container, it’s perfect for vehicles of all sizes including motorcycles and lawnmowers. You will need at least 4 pack for a 4.+ quarts Subaru Forester capacity

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17. Mobil 1 10W-30 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 qt.

The Mobil 1 10W-30 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 qt. is one of the most powerful, high-performance motor oils on the market today.

Mobil 1 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil is a blend of synthetics and petroleum oils that allows you to get maximum miles per gallon.

Mobil 1 High Mileage engine oils are fortified with seal conditioner to help prevent leaks and help extend engine life in vehicles with more than 75,000 miles. Mobil 1 High Mileage oils are designed for use in high-mileage engines, including those that have been modified or rebuilt.

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18. Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil for Vehicles Over 75K Miles

Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil for Vehicles Over 75K Miles is a high mileage oil that provides excellent protection for your engine.

It’s formulated with advanced technology to help protect against wear and tear, and it’s made with premium quality synthetic base oils.

The Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage 5W-30 is full synthetic engine oil made from natural gas, not crude, using Pennzoil’s patented gas-to-liquid PurePlus Technology. This engine oil is designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles. It keeps pistons up to 45% cleaner than the industry standard.

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