The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek strikes an outstanding balance between rugged off-road capabilities and in-town functionality. If you want to keep your Subaru in top condition, you'll need to know its engine oil capacity—which is 4.7 quarts.

The costs of car ownership can really add up. Between routine maintenance, fuel costs, and insurance premiums, there's always an expense around the corner. However, you can save some money by changing your own oil. Just make sure you check your owner's manual for the car's oil capacity first.

If you want a little extra guidance on the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek engine oil capacity, you're in the right place.

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2020 Subaru Crosstrek Engine Oil Capacity

The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that powers your 2020 Subaru Crosstrek has an oil capacity of 4.7 quarts (about 4.3 liters) of motor oil.

Before going into more detail, it's important to note the difference between engine displacement—the 2.0-liter volume of your engine's cylinders—and engine oil capacity, which is the 4.7 quarts of oil the motor holds and uses as a lubricant.

Engine displacement and oil capacity are two different numbers. These two terms are never interchangeable.

What kind of oil does a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek need?

When you replace the oil in your car, you need to ensure that you're filling the engine with the correct type of new oil.

Your 2020 Crosstrek should receive SAE 0W-20 motor oil. That's what Subaru recommends for your Crosstrek, and going with the manufacturer's recommendation is always a wise decision.

Let’s break down what exactly SAE 0W-20 means. "SAE" stands for Society of Automotive Engineers. That's the organization responsible for creating the engine oil codes.

The numbers represent the oil's viscosity or thickness. The first number, “0,” signifies how thick the oil is at cold temperatures, while the “20” represents its thickness at warm temperatures. The “W” stands for winter, which is why it's positioned before the number representing the cold-temperature viscosity.

You can identify thinner oils by their smaller numbers. These oils are ideal because they can move through your engine more efficiently.

What about synthetic motor oil? The 0W-20 oil that Subaru recommends using in your car is already partially synthetic. However, there are full synthetic varieties that you can use. Doing so will allow you to go longer in between oil changes.

If you're still confused about which oil to buy, consider these three options:

Subaru Synthetic 0W-20 Motor Oil

. This is the official Subaru motor oil and what your owner's manual recommends using in your Crosstrek.

Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil

. Mobil 1 is a cheaper alternative but still an excellent quality oil.

Mobil 1 High Mileage 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil

. This is the oil you want if your Crosstrek has more than 75,000 miles.

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How often to change the oil on a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek

Subaru recommends changing the oil in your 2020 Crosstrek every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. If you don't like paying attention to the odometer, try to remember to change your oil every three to six months.

You can stretch that time to around 7,500 miles if you use full synthetic motor oil.

Those are pretty long ranges of time, so it's important to check your oil periodically to ensure that it's still in good condition. We recommend checking your oil every other time you fill the gas tank, or at least once a month.

When you check the oil, look for these signs that it needs to be replaced:

Black or dark brown, muddy-looking oil (clean oil should be a dark honey color)

Oil with a gritty, grimy, or sandy texture

Weird noises coming from the engine

Poor engine performance

Foul odors coming from the engine, like burning, oil, or smoke

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How to change your oil and oil filter

When you're sure that you've got the correct oil and filter, it's time to get started. These are the tools you'll need:

Ratchet wrench with a 17-millimeter socket

Drain pan for the dirty oil

Jack and jack stands or ramps to raise the car

Oil filter wrench

Funnel

Torque wrench

Clean towel or rag

To begin, start your engine and allow the car to idle for five minutes. This will warm the oil enough, causing it to drain better. Once the vehicle is warm, turn off the engine, open the hood and follow the steps below.

Step 1: Pull the dipstick and remove the oil fill cap.

Step 2: Go beneath the car and remove the oil drain plug. Position the drain pan to catch the used oil.

Step 3: As the oil drains, remove the old oil filter.

Step 4: Apply a thin layer of oil to the new oil filter's gasket and screw it into place. Only tighten the filter until it is snug.

Step 5: Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to 31 lb-ft.

Step 6: Refill the engine with clean oil and replace the fill cap.

After you complete these steps, turn the vehicle on for around 30 seconds and use the dipstick to check the oil level. Top off the oil if needed and finish by ensuring that the fill cap and dipstick are secure.

Finally, recycle your old oil by putting it into the new oil container and returning it to an auto parts store.

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Don't forget regular insurance policy maintenance

Staying on top of regular maintenance, like oil changes, is a great way to protect your vehicle. Another essential form of protection for your car and yourself is a quality insurance plan.

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