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DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Subaru OutbackOil Type & Capacity
OEM spec from the factory service manual for the Base, Automatic CVT Trans variant.
Quick Answer
Oil Type
$API - SM or SN or ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil
Capacity (w/ Filter)
4.40 QTS.
4.16 L
Variant
Base, Automatic CVT Trans
This vehicle's factory manual
2012 Subaru Outback: confirm the engine, trim, or drivetrain to open the available repair and diagnosis sections.
Sister site: See this spec on WhatTypeOfOil.com — our quick oil type & capacity lookup for every vehicle.
What You'll Need
Related for Your 2012 Subaru Outback
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of oil does a 2012 Subaru Outback take?
- The 2012 Subaru Outback requires API - SM or SN or ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil. The exact spec may vary slightly by engine variant — this page shows the OEM recommendation for the Base, Automatic CVT Trans configuration.
- How much oil does a 2012 Subaru Outback need?
- The 2012 Subaru Outback takes 4.40 QTS. (4.16 L) of engine oil with the filter replaced.
- Can I use synthetic oil in my 2012 Subaru Outback?
- Yes — synthetic oil that meets the API - SM or SN or ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil specification is acceptable and often preferred for better protection and longer change intervals.
- What happens if I use the wrong oil in my 2012 Subaru Outback?
- Using oil that does not meet the API - SM or SN or ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil specification can reduce engine protection, increase wear, and potentially void warranty coverage. Always use oil that meets the OEM spec.