Oil
- Viscosity
- 0W-20
- Oil type
- Full Synthetic
- Capacity (with filter)
- 5.1 qt
- Capacity (without filter)
- 4.6 qt
OEM notes: API SP
2020 Subaru Forester Maintenance & Specs
Everything you need to maintain your 2020 Subaru Forester — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.
The 2020 Subaru Forester takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic with a total capacity of 5.1 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 17mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 44 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Subaru 15208AA170, with 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.
Data last verified: April 30, 2026
Oil
0W-20
Full Synthetic
Buy on Amazon →
Capacity
5.1 qt
with filter
Drain plug
17 mm
44 Nm torque
Filter
15208AA170
Subaru (OEM)
Buy on Amazon →
OEM spec: API SP
Quick DIY Tips for the 2020 Subaru Forester
- Torque your drain plug to 44 Nm (32 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
- Using the OEM filter (Subaru 15208AA170) is recommended for warranty compliance.
- Always use 0W-20 Full Synthetic as specified by Subaru — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
- Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
Filter options
Drain bolt & hardware
- Socket size
- 17 mm
- Thread size
- M16x1.5
- Torque spec
- 44 Nm
- Gasket type
- Crush washer
Notes: 5th gen SK (2.5L FB25D H4)
Fluid specifications
Transmission Fluid
Buy →- Type
- Subaru ATF HP
- Capacity
- 4.2 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Brake Fluid
Buy →- DOT type
- DOT 3
- Change interval
- 45,000 mi
Coolant
Buy →- Type
- Super Long Life
- Color
- Blue
- Capacity
- 6.3 qt
- Change interval
- 120,000 mi
Differential Fluid (rear)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-90 GL-5
- Capacity
- 2.5 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Differential Fluid (front)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-85 GL-4
- Capacity
- 1.5 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Differential Fluid (rear)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-90 GL-5
- Capacity
- 2.5 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Differential Fluid (front)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-85 GL-4
- Capacity
- 1.5 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Transfer Case Fluid
Buy →- Type
- ATF Dexron III
- Capacity
- 2 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Parts & specifications
Spark Plugs
- Type
- Iridium
- Gap
- 0.044
- Quantity
- 4
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Battery
- Group size
- 25
- CCA
- 550
Tires
- Size
- 245/60R18
- Front pressure
- 33 PSI
- Rear pressure
- 33 PSI
Air Filter
Cabin Air Filter
Brake Pads
Wiper Blades
Maintenance schedule
Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.
Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$32,000
Private Party Value
$13,984 – $15,456
Dealer Retail Value
$16,192 – $18,400
Trade-In Value
$12,512 – $13,984
Depreciation
54%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Technical Service Bulletins247
Torque specifications
- lug nut
- 89 ft-lbs / 120.7 Nm
- spark plug
- 18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm
14mm thread, aluminum head
Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.
Shop Parts for the Subaru Forester
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2020 Subaru Forester on Amazon.
Tools & supplies
Step-by-step guide
Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.
Read guide →How often to change oil
Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.
Read guide →Synthetic vs. conventional
Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.
Read guide →Have info for this vehicle?
Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.
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