Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! If you're cruising around in a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, you're probably wondering about the right oil type to keep that engine purring like a kitten. Well, you've come to the right place! Choosing the correct oil is super important for your Crosstrek's health and longevity. It helps with everything from engine performance to fuel efficiency, and even prevents those dreaded engine breakdowns. This guide is designed to provide you with all the info you need on the best oil for your 2017 Crosstrek. We'll dive into the specific oil types recommended by Subaru, the importance of oil viscosity, the benefits of synthetic oil, and some extra tips to keep your Crosstrek in tip-top shape. So, grab a coffee, and let's get into it, shall we?

Understanding the Basics of Oil for Your 2017 Crosstrek

First things first, let's talk about why oil is such a big deal for your car. Think of it like this: your engine is a complex machine with lots of moving parts. These parts are constantly rubbing against each other, generating heat and friction. Without proper lubrication, those parts would wear down quickly, leading to serious damage. That's where engine oil comes in. Engine oil reduces friction, cools the engine, cleans away debris, and seals the gaps between the pistons and cylinders. Essentially, oil is the lifeblood of your engine.

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is known for its reliability and efficiency, thanks to its boxer engine. This engine design is unique, with horizontally opposed cylinders. This design has advantages but also specific requirements when it comes to oil. That's why picking the right oil is so crucial. Using the wrong type can lead to poor performance, increased fuel consumption, and, worst-case scenario, engine damage. It's like feeding a gourmet meal to a car and junk food to another. The results are very different!

So, what are the key things to know about oil? First, you need to understand the different types of oil and their properties. There are three main types: conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic. Conventional oil is the most basic, made from refined crude oil. Synthetic blend oil combines conventional oil with synthetic oil for added performance. And finally, full synthetic oil is the top-of-the-line, offering superior protection and performance. We’ll break these down further, but just keep in mind that the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek usually benefits greatly from synthetic oil.

Then, you've got to consider the oil's viscosity. Viscosity refers to how thick or thin the oil is. This is indicated by numbers like 0W-20 or 5W-30. These numbers tell you how the oil behaves at different temperatures. For instance, the first number (before the 'W') indicates the oil's viscosity at cold temperatures, while the second number indicates its viscosity at operating temperatures. We will also get into this more later. But just keep in mind, choosing the right viscosity is like finding the perfect pair of shoes; it needs to fit right for optimal performance. Now, let’s dig into the details and find the best oil for your Crosstrek, alright?

Recommended Oil Type for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about the specific oil type that Subaru recommends for your 2017 Crosstrek. According to Subaru, the best oil for your Crosstrek is a 0W-20 oil. This is the official recommendation, and for good reason! This particular viscosity is engineered to work well with the Crosstrek's engine, providing excellent lubrication in a wide range of temperatures. Using this oil helps ensure that your engine starts smoothly in cold weather and maintains its performance under hot conditions.

Now, when it comes to the type of oil – conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic – Subaru actually recommends using a full synthetic 0W-20 oil. Full synthetic oils offer superior protection and performance compared to conventional oils. They are formulated to handle higher temperatures, provide better wear protection, and resist breakdown over time. This means that using a full synthetic oil can extend the life of your engine, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce the need for frequent oil changes. Think of it as investing in your engine’s long-term health!

Why does Subaru recommend a 0W-20 full synthetic oil? There are several reasons. First, the 0W-20 viscosity is optimized for the Crosstrek’s engine design. It flows easily at cold temperatures, ensuring quick lubrication at startup. At higher temperatures, it maintains its viscosity, providing consistent protection. Second, full synthetic oils are designed to withstand the stress and heat generated by modern engines. They are also less prone to breaking down compared to conventional oils. They offer better protection against sludge and deposits, which helps keep your engine cleaner and running more efficiently.

However, in certain situations, such as if a 0W-20 oil is unavailable, Subaru allows the use of a 5W-30 oil. It's important to note, though, that this is a temporary solution. You should switch back to the recommended 0W-20 oil as soon as possible. Stick with the official guidelines to ensure your engine runs like a dream. Choosing the right oil is a simple yet crucial step to maintaining your car's value and performance. If you have any doubts, always consult your owner's manual or a trusted mechanic for the most accurate and up-to-date information. They're like the car whisperers, and they can provide personalized advice for your specific needs.

The Significance of Oil Viscosity

Let’s dive a little deeper into oil viscosity, because it is more important than it seems. Viscosity is essentially the measure of an oil's resistance to flow. It's indicated by numbers like 0W-20 or 5W-30. These numbers tell you how the oil will behave in different temperatures. The