Is Your Subaru Burning Oil? Here’s What We’ve Seen and How to Fix It

At A&A The Shop, we’ve worked with countless Subaru owners over the years, and recently, we've seen an increase in vehicles experiencing higher-than-expected oil consumption. Many of these vehicles come into our shop needing additional oil between service intervals—sometimes as much as one quart per 1,000 miles. While this can vary based on driving habits and maintenance history, it’s an issue we’ve encountered frequently in models equipped with FB and FA-series engines.

Our team understands how frustrating it can be to constantly check and refill your oil, and we want to help you prevent unnecessary wear on your Subaru’s engine.

What We’ve Seen in Our Shop

Based on our experience servicing Subarus, certain models seem more prone to oil consumption concerns, particularly those with FB and FA-series engines. The vehicles we commonly see with these issues include:

• 2011–2014 Subaru Forester (2.5L FB25 engine)
• 2013–2014 Subaru Legacy & Outback (2.5L FB25 engine)
• 2012–2013 Subaru Impreza & Crosstrek (2.0L FB20 engine)
• 2014–2018 Subaru WRX (2.0L FA20DIT engine)
• 2000–2009 Subaru Models (2.5L EJ25 non-turbo engine, particularly with high mileage)

In many cases, we've found that oil consumption is linked to piston ring efficiency, PCV system performance, and the use of ultra-low viscosity synthetic oil. Some customers have reported adding oil between changes, while others only noticed the issue after seeing the oil warning light illuminate well before their next scheduled service.

Why Does Oil Consumption Happen?

From what we’ve seen, multiple factors contribute to Subaru’s oil consumption concerns:

1. Fuel Quality & Carbon Buildup

We’ve observed that Subarus regularly running on low-quality fuel tend to develop more carbon buildup inside the engine. Over time, deposits can cause piston rings to stick, allowing oil to seep into the combustion chamber and burn off.

Our recommendation? Use top-tier gasoline with detergent additives and consider periodic fuel system cleaning to keep your engine running efficiently.

2. PCV System Issues

A malfunctioning Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system can worsen oil consumption. We’ve seen that replacing a worn or clogged PCV valve often helps reduce excessive oil loss.

3. Extended Oil Change Intervals

Some Subaru owners follow longer oil change intervals (often recommended by the manufacturer), but in our experience, this can allow carbon buildup to form sooner, leading to increased oil consumption. We recommend oil changes every 3,500–4,000 miles instead of stretching intervals too far.

Signs You May Have an Oil Consumption Issue

Based on the Subaru's we’ve serviced, owners typically report these warning signs:

• Low oil levels between oil changes – Are you having to top off your oil frequently?
• Blue smoke from the exhaust on cold startup – A sign that oil is burning in the combustion chamber.
• Noticeable drop in fuel economy – Burning oil can impact fuel efficiency.
• Oil warning light before scheduled service – If your oil light turns on before your next change, it’s time to investigate.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to unnecessary engine wear or even costly repairs, so we always recommend getting ahead of the problem.

How We Help Subaru Owners Solve This Issue

At A&A The Shop, we’ve developed a proactive approach to help our customers manage oil consumption and protect their engines. Here’s what we offer:

• PCV Valve Inspection & Replacement – Ensuring proper engine ventilation reduces oil loss.
• More Frequent Oil Changes – We recommend oil changes every 3,500–4,000 miles to prevent buildup.
• Top-Tier Gasoline Use – We’ve found that brands like Chevron with Techron, Shell V-Power, or ExxonMobil Synergy help prevent carbon deposits.
• Fuel System Cleaning – Using a high-quality fuel injector and combustion chamber cleaner or performing a professional fuel system flush helps maintain efficiency.
• BG MOA Oil Fortifier – Our experience has shown that BG MOA stabilizes oil viscosity, prevents ring sticking, and reduces sludge formation, helping extend engine life.
• Engine Repairs & Replacement – In extreme cases, excessive oil consumption may require further repairs or, in rare cases, engine replacement.

Why Addressing This Early Matters

We’ve seen firsthand how regular oil checks and preventive maintenance save Subaru owners thousands in future repairs. If you’re experiencing oil loss between changes, don’t wait—early intervention can keep your Subaru on the road for years to come.

Let’s Get Your Subaru Checked

Our technicians at A&A The Shop specialize in Subaru maintenance and can inspect your vehicle for oil consumption concerns today.

Call us at 907-562-3919 or visit our shop in Anchorage for a thorough inspection. Don’t let oil consumption lead to expensive repairs—let’s get ahead of it together.