Maintaining the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek 2.0L FB20 engine and its drivetrain requires precise fluid selection to ensure longevity and performance. This subcompact crossover SUV relies on specific viscosities and formulations, particularly because synthetic oil is a requirement for this engine code. Using the wrong fluid can lead to premature wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential damage to sensitive components like the CVT transmission and the all-wheel-drive differentials. Below, we detail the essential lubricants and fluids needed to keep your Crosstrek running smoothly, including capacity information and top-tier AMSOIL recommendations designed to outperform standard maintenance schedules.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The ultimate protection for your FB20 engine, offering superior wear resistance and the ability to last up to 25,000 miles or one year.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic Hybrid Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for hybrid and modern engines to maximize fuel economy and control sludge effectively.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers 37% more cleaning power than standard oils to keep the engine running smoother for up to 20,000 miles.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An OEM-quality synthetic that fights sludge and deposits while maintaining the exact protection standards required by the manufacturer.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Ideal for engines exceeding 75,000 miles, featuring enhanced detergents to reduce sludge and improve performance in older vehicles.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter EA15K13-EA – Provides 99 percent filtration efficiency at 20 microns, offering superior capacity for small contaminants compared to competing filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A ready-to-use 50/50 pre-mix that protects all cooling system metals and provides up to 150,000 miles of protection.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic CVT Fluid – Essential for the Crosstrek’s transmission, this fluid offers exceptional metal-to-metal frictional properties for smooth shifting.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection for the front and rear differentials, controlling thermal runaway and protecting against rust and corrosion.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction-control systems with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
Engine Oil and Filter Requirements
The heart of the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek is the FB20 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. Subaru explicitly requires synthetic oil for this engine code, making high-quality synthetic lubricants a necessity rather than a luxury. The oil capacity for this system is 5.1 quarts when the filter is also replaced. It is crucial to observe the correct torque specification for the oil drain plug, which is 31 ft/lbs, and always install a new washer on the drain bolt to prevent leaks.
AMSOIL offers a range of 0W-20 synthetic motor oils tailored to different vehicle needs. For owners seeking the longest possible service intervals and the absolute best engine protection, the Signature Series is the top choice, with independent testing showing 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear. For those with high-mileage vehicles exceeding 75,000 miles, the High-Mileage formula is designed to reduce sludge by 67% and boost the detergent package to keep older engines running cleanly.
Matching the oil with a high-quality filter is equally important. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K13-EA) is engineered for extended service life, allowing lower restriction to keep engine parts lubricated while providing greater capacity for contaminants. For those preferring an OEM-equivalent filter alternative, the WIX Oil Filter (57055-EA) is also recommended, offering premium media that improves over original equipment manufacturer filters.
Transmission and Drivetrain Fluids
The 2014 XV Crosstrek utilizes a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which places specific demands on the fluid used. Subaru specifies a fluid compatible with the TH58A transmission code. The total fill capacity for the automatic transmission is approximately 14.5 quarts, though refill amounts should be verified using the dipstick or level check procedures after the refill.
The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic CVT Fluid is specifically formulated to provide exceptional metal-to-metal frictional properties, ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear on the drive belt and pulleys. Using a dedicated synthetic CVT fluid can help prevent the shudder and slipping issues that sometimes plague these transmissions over time.
For the all-wheel-drive system, the vehicle requires different gear lubricants for the front and rear differentials. The front final drive is designed for automatic transmission applications only and has a capacity of 3 pints. The rear differential has a capacity of 1.7 pints. Various AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® options are suitable here. The 75W-90 and 75W-110 synthetic gear lubes are excellent choices for controlling thermal runaway and protecting against rust. For limited-slip differentials, AMSOIL gear lubes containing friction modifiers are available to ensure proper operation and reduce noise. The 75W-90 Long Life synthetic gear lube is also an option for extended service intervals.
Coolant and Brake Fluid
Proper cooling system maintenance is vital for the FB20 engine to prevent overheating and corrosion. The cooling system capacity for the 2014 Crosstrek is 8.7 quarts. AMSOIL offers two primary coolant options. The Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant (ANTPC1G-EA) is a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation, supplied as a 50/50 pre-mix for immediate use. It is phosphate, nitrate, and silicate-free, making it compatible with all cooling system metals and hoses.
For those who prefer a concentrated formula to mix themselves, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant (ANT1G-EA) is a superior option that can provide protection for up to 150,000 miles. It greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion. Both coolants are designed to work with a wide variety of vehicle cooling systems and can be mixed with other coolant colors if necessary.
Braking performance should never be compromised. The 2014 Crosstrek requires DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid. AMSOIL’s 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid (DOT 3 and DOT 4) is an excellent upgrade. It provides a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, which ensures excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction-control systems. This synthetic fluid boils at higher temperatures than conventional fluids, maintaining brake pedal firmness under heavy loads and reducing the risk of vapor lock.
Seasonal Storage and Maintenance
For owners who use their Crosstrek for seasonal driving or need to protect fuel systems during storage, AMSOIL offers specialized additives. The AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, fighting ethanol corrosion and preventing varnish and gum buildup that can clog injectors. The AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is a powerful fuel system cleaner that can restore up to 14% horsepower and restore GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after just one tank of treated fuel.
During engine storage, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil is designed to coat internal components with a protective film, preventing rust and corrosion during long periods of inactivity. This is particularly useful for vehicles that sit through harsh winters or off-seasons.
About the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek (also known as the Impreza XV Crosstrek in some markets) occupies a unique niche in the automotive world as a subcompact crossover SUV. Based on the Subaru Impreza sedan platform but raised with increased ground clearance, it combines the fuel-efficient, balanced handling of a compact car with the rugged capability of an off-road vehicle. The 2.0L FB-series engine code FB20 introduced a dual injection system (combining port and direct injection in later iterations), which was a significant step forward in emission control and efficiency for Subaru at the time.
Subaru’s reputation for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a core feature of the XV Crosstrek. This system provides equal power distribution to all four wheels, offering excellent traction in rain, snow, and light off-road conditions. The vehicle is known for its versatility, serving as a practical daily commuter as well as a capable weekend adventurer. The elevated stance and robust suspension tuning allow it to handle rougher roads better than its sedan counterparts, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and urban drivers alike who need a bit more ground clearance without sacrificing the fuel economy of a small car. With a focus on safety, reliability, and all-weather capability, the XV Crosstrek has established itself as a standout in the compact SUV segment.
Additional Protectants and Cleaners
Maintaining the exterior and interior of the Crosstrek is also important. For heavy-duty cleaning, AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease offers outstanding performance in cold weather and high-load applications. The AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Degreaser is a professional-strength formula that quickly removes oil, tar, and grime from engine surfaces or undercarriages. To protect the vehicle’s paint and metalwork from the elements, especially for those living in coastal or snowy areas, the AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector provides a long-lasting, amber-colored wax-like coating that resists salt and moisture. For interior care, the AMSOIL Interior Detailers effectively clean surfaces and eliminate odors, while the AMSOIL Silicone Spray provides a dry lubricating film that protects rubber components from cracking.
By adhering to the recommended fluid specifications and using high-performance synthetic lubricants, owners can ensure that their 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek remains reliable, efficient, and ready for whatever the road throws its way.