Oil usage

[Arinca2]

Hi I am new to the forum and am thinking about buying a 2008 Tribeca Limited with 36k miles on it. I have read on a couple other sites complaints about how much oil the 2008 engine uses and compression issues. Anyone have any issues or feedback on this? I fell in love with the Tribeca when driving a rental around Indiana a few years back. Found a great deal just not sure if it's too great of a deal and if a 2009 tribeca would be better to wait for. Thanks.

[SubieDriver]

I haven't had any oil usage issues with my '07, but mine has the 3.0, not the 3.6.

[cowboy]

I have a 2010 Limited with 16,500 miles......from new to about 14/15,000 miles it used about 1 quart between changes.....since then, it has stopped using oil all together.......use synthetic (German Castrol) from the first oil change (3,000) on, and will continue to use this product.......

[tommlev]

I have an 08 Tribeca Limited that is my wife's car. I had posted a thread a few months ago asking the same question because the Tribeca was burning a quart every 1000 miles. It turns out the rings were bad and long story short is Subaru replaced the short block on the motor. My suggestion would be to make sure you purchase a certified vehicle. Buying the added warranty more than paid for itself. She still loves her Tribeca.

[LORE BECA]

The oil dip stick is right at the low line on our 09 tribeca with 26,000 miles on it with dealer oil every 3750 miles. This last oil change had the stick with oil to the middle between holes. Its been 3300 since last oil change.

Wonder how many Tribecas have this concern?

[cowboy]

Subaru H-6 engines are hard to get a true reading, in my opinion.....the 3.6 such as yours, holds 7 quarts of oil with filter......if it is reading on the lower line, then you are a quart low, with the engine hot and you have waited 5 to 10 minutes before you checked it and are using dino oil.......I have found that when mine is cold it will always shows below the top line...however, I use synthetic which expands and once it gets hot and I check it, it generally will be on the top "full line" or close to it.....

My suggestion is to always check it when it is hot after you have waited 5 to 10 minutes......I usually check mine when I get fuel......check it after I have filled up and have gone in to pay......if you are not doing this, try it and see if you don't get a better and more consistent reading.......

If your dealer is not putting 7 quarts in, I suggest that you take your own oil in at the time of service and asked for the empty bottles back.....that's what I do and give the bottles to the "Boy Scouts" who collect plastics and alum cans to make money...

this is my 2cents worth, and hope it works for you..........

[LORE BECA]

Do Subarus in general burn oil?
Oil changes bring it to the top line as I have checked and it is at the lower line after sitting for 10 minutes.
Is that one quart or two?

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

The turbo engines do burn oil. The NA boxers are easier on oil. I used to have oil burning issues when I first had my B9 for a year. It had 17k miles when I bought it and used Mobil 1 5W30 and 0W30. Once I switched to Castrol 5W30 Edge, oil consumption went away. Now I use Pennzoil Ultra 5W30 and it doesn't burn oil at all in Guam's high heat and humidity and 5k oil change intervals. I think all Subaru's burn Mobil 1 5W30 and 0W30. My STI drinks this stuff. I used German Castrol 0W30 and consumption went away.

[LORE BECA]

I use the dealership BLEND which is not MOBIL 1 and I am seeing 1.5 quarts in 3,300 miles in a vehicle that has 26,000 miles on it. Has the 3.6 motor. I was about to switch to Mobil one and start 5000 mile intervals, but if it burns more then that's a no go!

I have had many vehicles and only noticed burning of oil after 120,000 miles on all of them at the 3000 mile mark/interval oil change down by 3/4 quart and never over 1 quart.

Subaru tells me industry standard 1 quart in 1200 miles, I call it bad engineering. And this is a non TURBO.

We like the vehicle so far, but having to check oil every fill up of gas on a brand new car is ridiculous.

[LORE BECA]

Subaru needs to come out and say to go thicker on oil due to burning issue.
Or fix what the problem is instead of having customer get frustrated of taking it in for oil consumption test every 1200 miles for 4800 miles.
I can tell you that even if it is a 3/4 quart in 1200 miles it is unlikely that a first time SUBARU owner will be buying a second one. They will relate it to bad design.

The turbo engines do burn oil. The NA boxers are easier on oil. I used to have oil burning issues when I first had my B9 for a year. It had 17k miles when I bought it and used Mobil 1 5W30 and 0W30. Once I switched to Castrol 5W30 Edge, oil consumption went away. Now I use Pennzoil Ultra 5W30 and it doesn't burn oil at all in Guam's high heat and humidity and 5k oil change intervals. I think all Subaru's burn Mobil 1 5W30 and 0W30. My STI drinks this stuff. I used German Castrol 0W30 and consumption went away.

[LORE BECA]

Wonder how many here have switched to German castrol AND HAD OIL STOPPED burning off?

Is you interval 3,750 or 5000 mile oil changes now?

I have a 2010 Limited with 16,500 miles......from new to about 14/15,000 miles it used about 1 quart between changes.....since then, it has stopped using oil all together.......use synthetic (German Castrol) from the first oil change (3,000) on, and will continue to use this product.......

[cowboy]

I am like Stigr......have used Mobil in previous car and used oil like crazy.....I too had oil consumption until around 17,000 miles and now with Castrol Syn 0-30 (German Castrol), my oil consumption has gone away.......I would try a different brand of oil......even when you change, it will probably use some until it gets used to the new oil that you are using.......if you still are having the problem, I would go with a 5w40 wt oil.......the German Castrol is a heavy 30 wt oil, and I think that is one of the reasons I don't have oil loss issues now....I have only found this oil at Auto-Zone....says European Blend on the front and on the back, it says made in Germany......I also run this oil in my wife's MB, another Mobil 1 car that the dealer used, and was using a quart every 3 to 4000 miles....switched to German Castrol and within 5,000 miles, the oil consumption was gone.....Mercedes says ever 10,000, and I change every 5,000 miles or six months...on the Beca, since it is still under warranty, I change ever 3750 miles....my first Blackstone oil analysis with on the Beca using German Castrol, told me to go 6,000 because the additives were still that robust after 3750 miles.....you have a great car, keep working with it and this too shall pass....

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

i've read on NASIOC that Subaru in the 90's spec'd their engines with 10W40. They switched oil to 5W30 to increase fuel mileage. The Subaru repair manual specs 5W30 but if you are driving in severe conditions, you can use 5W40 or thicker.

[LORE BECA]

Dealer says 5w 30 and now with the newer SUBARUS some are going to 5w20. I wanted to switch to mobil 1 synthetic to go every 5000 miles but with oil consumption AND reading that mobil 1 may burn off more then usual, may stick to dealer dino every 3750 miles until they figure out if there is any other problem.
Reading in this forum about ring job on another post with exact same concern as mine. Dealer does not want to say, yea they all burn and no need wasting your time coming in for oil consumption. Or try a thicker oil.

It is just strange to me on such a low miles non turbo, no diesel vehicle to start burning/venting off this much oil.


Dealer i've read on NASIOC that Subaru in the 90's spec'd their engines with 10W40. They switched oil to 5W30 to increase fuel mileage. The Subaru repair manual specs 5W30 but if you are driving in severe conditions, you can use 5W40 or thicker.

[LORE BECA]

GERMAN CASTROL at almodt 9 dollars a quart and needing 7 quarts is pricey. Wonder if the edge would do better then Mobil 1?
I have extended warranty and stick to the 3750 miles, I think SUBARU allows 5000 intervals??

I am like Stigr......have used Mobil in previous car and used oil like crazy.....I too had oil consumption until around 17,000 miles and now with Castrol Syn 0-30 (German Castrol), my oil consumption has gone away.......I would try a different brand of oil......even when you change, it will probably use some until it gets used to the new oil that you are using.......if you still are having the problem, I would go with a 5w40 wt oil.......the German Castrol is a heavy 30 wt oil, and I think that is one of the reasons I don't have oil loss issues now....I have only found this oil at Auto-Zone....says European Blend on the front and on the back, it says made in Germany......I also run this oil in my wife's MB, another Mobil 1 car that the dealer used, and was using a quart every 3 to 4000 miles....switched to German Castrol and within 5,000 miles, the oil consumption was gone.....Mercedes says ever 10,000, and I change every 5,000 miles or six months...on the Beca, since it is still under warranty, I change ever 3750 miles....my first Blackstone oil analysis with on the Beca using German Castrol, told me to go 6,000 because the additives were still that robust after 3750 miles.....you have a great car, keep working with it and this too shall pass....

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

I thought that the oil change intervals on non-turbo engines is 7.5K? 3750 is for the turbo engines. I do 5k because I do a lot of short stop and go drives, with hills in high heat/humidity here on Guam. Anyways, Subaru does also spec thicker oils in the repair manual for severe conditions.

[LORE BECA]

That's what I thought too, but dealer says 3750 which is not what is in the BOOK.I thought that the oil change intervals on non-turbo engines is 7.5K? 3750 is for the turbo engines. I do 5k because I do a lot of short stop and go drives, with hills in high heat/humidity here on Guam. Anyways, Subaru does also spec thicker oils in the repair manual for severe conditions.

[cowboy]

The 3750 change is for heavy duty type driving ie, stop and go as in mostly city driving, towing a small trailer or boat trailer, etc.......I do the 3750 because I live in the mountains and have a lot of hills which causes more stress that normally I would not get if I lived on flat ground.....the 7500 is the normal (turbo's being the exception), not sure what normal is......the best solution is to do an oil analysis and let them tell you how your engine is doing on the oil that you are using and see if they can possible help you figure out why your Beca is using oil.......I would also pull off the bottom engine cover or shroud or what ever it is called to see if you have any leaks anywhere...

Yes $9 bucks is a lot to pay for a quart of oil, but I wait until Castrol Syn goes on sale and get 5 quarts and a filter for $29.00......since both of my cars use the same oil, I usually stock up at this time and get the filters for my MB and use OEM filters on my Beca while it is under warranty......

[sb9tango]

I'm about ready to do an oil change and received a discount coupon in the mail from our local auto parts and 5 qt. Castrol with K&N oil filter is on sale with rebate. I have 2 questions and please bear with my ignorance:

1) Which one is the "German Castrol"? a) Syntec or b) Edge?
2) What do you think about K&N oil filters for Subaru H6? Is it better or just as good and equivalent of Subaru OE oil filter?

Thanks in advance for any inputs..... and I apologize for hi-jacking the thread....

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

I'm about ready to do an oil change and received a discount coupon in the mail from our local auto parts and 5 qt. Castrol with K&N oil filter is on sale with rebate. I have 2 questions and please bear with my ignorance:

1) Which one is the "German Castrol"? a) Syntec or b) Edge?
2) What do you think about K&N oil filters for Subaru H6? Is it better or just as good and equivalent of Subaru OE oil filter?

Thanks in advance for any inputs..... and I apologize for hi-jacking the thread....

it's 0W30 and it says "made in Germany" on the bottle. Castrol just recently changed all the bottles and printed "Edge" on all of them. One will say Edge with syntec (which is just syntec) and Edge with titanium.

[cowboy]

Stigr is right......it is Castrol Syntec 0-30, it will not say Edge, and will say European Formula on the front and will say made in Germany on the back.....because of the warranty, I run the Subaru OEM filters....K&N makes a good filter, so it is up to you whether you use the K&N or a Subaru OEM filter...only place I have found the "German Castrol" in the Atlanta area is the Auto Zone stores....different parts of the country I have heard that Pep Boys carry it....

[LORE BECA]

Is it worth the price for the german syntec?

Stigr is right......it is Castrol Syntec 0-30, it will not say Edge, and will say European Formula on the front and will say made in Germany on the back.....because of the warranty, I run the Subaru OEM filters....K&N makes a good filter, so it is up to you whether you use the K&N or a Subaru OEM filter...only place I have found the "German Castrol" in the Atlanta area is the Auto Zone stores....different parts of the country I have heard that Pep Boys carry it....

[cowboy]

I never pay full price, I stock up when it goes on sale at Auto Zone and it usually equates out to like $5.00 per quart which is really reasonable for full syn oil in todays market......your question is it worth the money? I am not a chemist or an oil employee....I just did a lot of research on motor oils after I bought my Tribeca.....I ran Vavoline for a lot of years, but engines change, oil changes, etc. My main research was off the web site "Bob is the oil Guy", and everything that I read on German Castrol was good.....that was what got me to try it....then I had an oil analysis done (BlackStone) at my 14K service,(4000 mi oil change) and it came back with really no issues and there was a lot of additives left and for me to try 6,000 miles before I changed oil the next time......also it is the only 0w30 oil that is also approved for my wife's MB.....so I can use one brand of oil for both cars.......7 quarts for the Tribeca and 8.5 quarts for the MB...I go 5,000 miles or 6 months before changing the MB.....now, there are a lot of good oils on the market, have to be to be competitive, but that was my method of madness for selecting "German Castrol" I hope this has answered your question and helped.......

[LORE BECA]

Thanks for that info.
We had a 99 C 230 so I am a little familiar.
Its the loss of oil at low mileage that has me concerned and reading on ring jobs fixing problems on this forum fro EXCESSIVE OIL consumption, if it is a problem. Dealer does not want to say that that is the way these non turbo SUBARUS work. Don't want anyone to tear down the engine for a small amount of oil consumption. I run MOBIL 1 5W20 ON MY Toyota truck, that stuff is water and on that forum there was talk of m.p.g. savings was only reason for thinner oil and not engine longevity. Truck does not lose oil at all.
Can't imagine engine breakage of running a thicker 5w30 over 5w 20 on those?
I remember some MB needing 5w40 over 5w30.

At 5 dollars a quart I'LL STOCK UP for 2 years easy, I'll keep a watch on sales.





I never pay full price, I stock up when it goes on sale at Auto Zone and it usually equates out to like $5.00 per quart which is really reasonable for full syn oil in todays market......your question is it worth the money? I am not a chemist or an oil employee....I just did a lot of research on motor oils after I bought my Tribeca.....I ran Vavoline for a lot of years, but engines change, oil changes, etc. My main research was off the web site "Bob is the oil Guy", and everything that I read on German Castrol was good.....that was what got me to try it....then I had an oil analysis done (BlackStone) at my 14K service,(4000 mi oil change) and it came back with really no issues and there was a lot of additives left and for me to try 6,000 miles before I changed oil the next time......also it is the only 0w30 oil that is also approved for my wife's MB.....so I can use one brand of oil for both cars.......7 quarts for the Tribeca and 8.5 quarts for the MB...I go 5,000 miles or 6 months before changing the MB.....now, there are a lot of good oils on the market, have to be to be competitive, but that was my method of madness for selecting "German Castrol" I hope this has answered your question and helped.......

[sb9tango]

I went ahead and changed the oil and filter with Castrol Edge (Titanium - Gold Jug) and K&N oil filter.

One thing I noticed:

Before (w/ CarQuest oil filter and 5W-30 Pennzoil Full Synthetic): When I first start the engine, regardless of the water temparature or how long it was sitting, the engine sound is rough for about 3 - 5 seconds, as if the engine is dry, then after 5 seconds, the engine sound smooths up with its normal sound after the oil pressure builds up.

After (w/ K&N oil filter and 5W-30 Castrol Edge) - The engine sound is silky smooth right away after the turn of the key. But haven't tried yet after it sat overnight.

Rationale: Somebody please correct me if I'm wrong but I'm thinking it must be the oil filter. I remember, I've read somewhere (sorry, can't remember where, so, I can't cite) that oil filters are built differently. There are filters that have a check valve, which prevents the oil in the filter from draining back to the oil pan after shutting off the engine, when there is no oil pressure.

There are also some oil filters that does not have this check valve, where the filter loses oil when the engine is off, so when the engine is restarted, it takes a while for the pressure to build up, hence the rough sound.

Oil filter WITH check valve --- PROS: Minimal "dry starts"; CONS: If the filter gets clogged, there is no bypass and the oil channels becomes restricted, and oil pump and the whole engine will starve with oil.

Oil filter WITHOUT check valve --- PROS: If the filter media/element becomes clogged, there is a bypass channel where the oil can still pass through and the oil pump and engine will not starve with oil; CONS: "Dry starts" each time the engine is started. "Dry starts" is when the engine wears out the most.

Preference: Although the filter WITHOUT a check valve is safe in the event of a clogged filter, I'd still prefer the filter WITH a check valve to minimize "dry starts", as long as the filter is changed periodically, 3750-5000 miles.

So, in my case, all I can think about the difference after the oil change, is that the new K&N oil filter has that check valve and the old CarQuest oil filter does not.

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

I went ahead and changed the oil and filter with Castrol Edge (Titanium - Gold Jug) and K&N oil filter.

One thing I noticed:

Before (w/ CarQuest oil filter and 5W-30 Pennzoil Full Synthetic): When I first start the engine, regardless of the water temparature or how long it was sitting, the engine sound is rough for about 3 - 5 seconds, as if the engine is dry, then after 5 seconds, the engine sound smooths up with its normal sound after the oil pressure builds up.

After (w/ K&N oil filter and 5W-30 Castrol Edge) - The engine sound is silky smooth right away after the turn of the key. But haven't tried yet after it sat overnight.


Rationale: Somebody please correct me if I'm wrong but I'm thinking it must be the oil filter. I remember, I've read somewhere (sorry, can't remember where, so, I can't cite) that oil filters are built differently. There are filters that have a check valve, which prevents the oil in the filter from draining back to the oil pan after shutting off the engine, when there is no oil pressure.

There are also some oil filters that does not have this check valve, where the filter loses oil when the engine is off, so when the engine is restarted, it takes a while for the pressure to build up, hence the rough sound.

Oil filter WITH check valve --- PROS: Minimal "dry starts"; CONS: If the filter gets clogged, there is no bypass and the oil channels becomes restricted, and oil pump and the whole engine will starve with oil.

Oil filter WITHOUT check valve --- PROS: If the filter media/element becomes clogged, there is a bypass channel where the oil can still pass through and the oil pump and engine will not starve with oil; CONS: "Dry starts" each time the engine is started. "Dry starts" is when the engine wears out the most.

Preference: Although the filter WITHOUT a check valve is safe in the event of a clogged filter, I'd still prefer the filter WITH a check valve to minimize "dry starts", as long as the filter is changed periodically, 3750-5000 miles.

So, in my case, all I can think about the difference after the oil change, is that the new K&N oil filter has that check valve and the old CarQuest oil filter does not.

The anti-drain back valve doesn't really matter due to the oil filter being on the bottom of the engine unlike other engine types. The K&N supposedly has a higher flowing filter element than your typical oil filter, that could be the case with your current set up. The only unique difference is that Subaru's high volume oil pump specs an oil filter to have 23.2 psi bypass valve. Most off the shelf filters do not meet this requirement as they are around 10-18 psi bypass. The only one I can think of is Purolator 14460 which is built specifically for the Subaru market.

[sb9tango]

Thanks for the info!
So, by any chance you know if the high-flow K&N is good or bad for Subaru H6 since Purolator 14460 is the only off the shelf filter built specifically for Subaru which I assume meets the Subaru spec requirements of 23.2 psi bypass pressure.
I'm asking so that I will know whether to use or not to use K&N on my Subaru on my next oil change and I want to learn something new....:)

The anti-drain back valve doesn't really matter due to the oil filter being on the bottom of the engine unlike other engine types. The K&N supposedly has a higher flowing filter element than your typical oil filter, that could be the case with your current set up. The only unique difference is that Subaru's high volume oil pump specs an oil filter to have 23.2 psi bypass valve. Most off the shelf filters do not meet this requirement as they are around 10-18 psi bypass. The only one I can think of is Purolator 14460 which is built specifically for the Subaru market.

[sb9tango]

It really makes sense that the anti-drain valve in oil filter is necessary for filters that are installed at a higher point, like in my MB 190E 2.6 (in-line 6)where the oil filter is installed at the level of the Cylinder head and the filter is even installed upside-down (threads and gasket down) hence the need of an anti-drain valve, unlike in Subaru, which is at the bottom of the engine and installed in horizontal orientation. Thanks for the info!

The anti-drain back valve doesn't really matter due to the oil filter being on the bottom of the engine unlike other engine types. The K&N supposedly has a higher flowing filter element than your typical oil filter, that could be the case with your current set up. The only unique difference is that Subaru's high volume oil pump specs an oil filter to have 23.2 psi bypass valve. Most off the shelf filters do not meet this requirement as they are around 10-18 psi bypass. The only one I can think of is Purolator 14460 which is built specifically for the Subaru market.

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

you'll be ok with the K&N but I'd rather use something within specs. K&N's are usually more expensive and you could save a few bucks using a Purolator or even OEM which are both considered the best (WIX is good too but it doesn't meet specs).

[sb9tango]

Yea, K&Ns are expensive.... but the only reason I am using a K&N right now is because it was on sale and a part of a package deal with 5qts Castrol Edge for $26 after 5$ rebate, otherwise I'm really planning to put a Subaru OE filter. But in the future, I'll bear in mind to use filters that are within Subaru specs.
But honestly, I kind of like the smooth idle sound at first start-up that the engine is having right now as compared to the CarQuest filter that it used to have which waits a few seconds before smoothing out.
Thanks for the advice, Stigr!

you'll be ok with the K&N but I'd rather use something within specs. K&N's are usually more expensive and you could save a few bucks using a Purolator or even OEM which are both considered the best (WIX is good too but it doesn't meet specs).

[LORE BECA]

I am burning about 3/4 quart in 1200 miles.

This is not good, cant imagine adding 2-3 quarts of oil between the 3-4,000 mile oil changes.

[cowboy]

Don't know if there is any way that you could contact the previous owner and see if he was having this same problem......might be the reason he traded it in....I would think you have a leak somewhere; I would put it on a lift or put it on jack stands and pull the bottom cover off and see if you can find any leaks........see if the dealer, if you still have warranty, will pull the plugs and see if you have oil burn and while they pulling the plugs, run a compression test on each cylinder.......don't care what they say, if you are losing 3/4 qt per 1200 miles, something is not right.....if you don't have warranty, go to someone you trust to do this....might cost you a couple hundred bucks, but you just might find your problem......also, depending on the mileage, if you do pull the plugs, this would be a good time to replace them if needed......finally, if your PCV valve is not working right, it could be pulling oil instead of vapors from your crankcase.....just my 2 cents worth

[LORE BECA]

Cowboy I have 7/100,000 warranty on this vehicle AT 27,000 MILES and I agree with you.
Going by their rules of 4 consecutive oil consumption tests. I was already told that SUBARU MIGHT CLEAR a tear down of engine if needed, but no new motor. I WAS QUOTED THE 1 QUART IS NORMAL IN 1,200 MILES.:confused:

I think even new motor would do the same.:cool:
I think these 3.6 motors have an issue, just not enough people checking their own oil on a new engine!

IF THEY DON'T CHECK PLUGS i HAVE INDY WHO WILL.

AS I HAVE been told from more experienced person then me below:

An engine that burns oil will usually foul the spark plugs. That, in turn will cause ignition misfire, higher emissions and likely damage the catalytic converter. Also, an engine that is burning oil usually won't pass an emissions test because of elevated hydrocarbon (HC) emissions.

Don't know if there is any way that you could contact the previous owner and see if he was having this same problem......might be the reason he traded it in....I would think you have a leak somewhere; I would put it on a lift or put it on jack stands and pull the bottom cover off and see if you can find any leaks........see if the dealer, if you still have warranty, will pull the plugs and see if you have oil burn and while they pulling the plugs, run a compression test on each cylinder.......don't care what they say, if you are losing 3/4 qt per 1200 miles, something is not right.....if you don't have warranty, go to someone you trust to do this....might cost you a couple hundred bucks, but you just might find your problem......also, depending on the mileage, if you do pull the plugs, this would be a good time to replace them if needed......finally, if your PCV valve is not working right, it could be pulling oil instead of vapors from your crankcase.....just my 2 cents worth

[cowboy]

Lore Beca, I know you are frustrated and pretty P's Off, but you do have your extended warranty that is bought and paid for, which is your insurance..........if you haven't found any leaks, does your car smoke when you first start it up in the morning???? If it does, that is a good indicator of a valve guide or guides......I would also have a friend follow me on the interstate or when you can get the car up to a good operating speed and let off on the gas for 5 seconds and then gas it to see if you have blue/purple color smoke.....if you do, then you probably have a ring and valve guide problem.......I talked to my service manager regarding this issue again, and he agreed with me on things to do, as mentioned in my reply yesterday and today......these are great cars and the 3.6 is a great engine....if the previous owner did not break this engine in right, you could have problems; I really don't believe that Subaru has a true issue with this engine......mine used a quart of oil ever 3000 miles or so until it reached 13/14K miles.......just had it serviced, and at 4000 miles, it used maybe a pint.......also get an oil analysis done and explain to them what is going on, and they can tell you if you have excess metal issues that has caused damage, etc.....I use Blackstone ever oil change with both of my cars.....keep working on this, the problem will come out eventually.........

[LORE BECA]

I am the original owner and drove it as they discussed the first 1000 miles I think it was. I park it in reverse in garage and if it had smoke it would be obvious I would think.
I like the SUBARU dealer and the service guys are great, better then the SERVICES guys at the TOYOTA dealerships when I take my truck in. I just don't want to have a problem and be told that 1 quart every 1,200 miles is normal as I have heard already. Can't imagine putting in not one but 2-3 quarts between oil changes on a motor with less then 30,000 and babied at that. yOU KNOW THAT OIL CONSUMPTION increases as motor ages, if it ever happens.
My truck has 50,000 miles and oil changes every 5000 with syn MO1, not a measurable loss at all.

Lore Beca, I know you are frustrated and pretty P's Off, but you do have your extended warranty that is bought and paid for, which is your insurance..........if you haven't found any leaks, does your car smoke when you first start it up in the morning???? If it does, that is a good indicator of a valve guide or guides......I would also have a friend follow me on the interstate or when you can get the car up to a good operating speed and let off on the gas for 5 seconds and then gas it to see if you have blue/purple color smoke.....if you do, then you probably have a ring and valve guide problem.......I talked to my service manager regarding this issue again, and he agreed with me on things to do, as mentioned in my reply yesterday and today......these are great cars and the 3.6 is a great engine....if the previous owner did not break this engine in right, you could have problems; I really don't believe that Subaru has a true issue with this engine......mine used a quart of oil ever 3000 miles or so until it reached 13/14K miles.......just had it serviced, and at 4000 miles, it used maybe a pint.......also get an oil analysis done and explain to them what is going on, and they can tell you if you have excess metal issues that has caused damage, etc.....I use Blackstone ever oil change with both of my cars.....keep working on this, the problem will come out eventually.........

[cowboy]

just curious..........did you ever get your oil consumption resolved????

[LORE BECA]

No,
On second 1200 miles of 4 attempts and am seeing reduction on dipstick at 700 miles of closeto 1/2 quart.
I AM estimating about 3/4 t quart at every 1200 miles. Just isn't right for a vehicle with under 30,000. IT isn't right for 1 quart every 3000 miles with such low miles much less every 1200. IF this is industry standard, I've never seen it before. I have seen it in the vehicles I've driven that were over 150,000 miles with about 3/4 of a QUART EVERY 3000 which, I'll accept that with that mileage!


just curious..........did you ever get your oil consumption resolved????

[mstow42]

I'm having similar consumption on my 08 Tribeca and its kinda of frustrating. I had an 90 and 00 Legacy that did not drink oil. The 90 had over 180k miles on it and only thing it lost was coolant. The 00 had less than 36k last time I had it and it wasn't burning a drop. My 00 Chevy Metro with 221k miles is only using about half quart every 3000 miles. Also I have noticed a faint coolant smell after some trips around town. Level is stable, just faint smell. If the oil level is low again this oil change I'm going to atleast take to dealership for a mark on record for warranty.

[LORE BECA]

I was checking oil yesterday and also noticed faint coolant smell. Hope there is no coolant going into motor.
Hope this oil consumption thing is not something that Subaru knows about and is making us go through hoops before they come out with TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN to get it fixed, like some 4 cylinder Foresters have. I have been searching on the forester and outback forums to see if it is a concern there as well.
WONDER IF PORSCHE motors suffer from oil consumption due to same type of engine configuration?

I'm having similar consumption on my 08 Tribeca and its kinda of frustrating. I had an 90 and 00 Legacy that did not drink oil. The 90 had over 180k miles on it and only thing it lost was coolant. The 00 had less than 36k last time I had it and it wasn't burning a drop. My 00 Chevy Metro with 221k miles is only using about half quart every 3000 miles. Also I have noticed a faint coolant smell after some trips around town. Level is stable, just faint smell. If the oil level is low again this oil change I'm going to atleast take to dealership for a mark on record for warranty.

[LORE BECA]

How many miles do you have on your 08?

I'm having similar consumption on my 08 Tribeca and its kinda of frustrating. I had an 90 and 00 Legacy that did not drink oil. The 90 had over 180k miles on it and only thing it lost was coolant. The 00 had less than 36k last time I had it and it wasn't burning a drop. My 00 Chevy Metro with 221k miles is only using about half quart every 3000 miles. Also I have noticed a faint coolant smell after some trips around town. Level is stable, just faint smell. If the oil level is low again this oil change I'm going to atleast take to dealership for a mark on record for warranty.

[mstow42]

37k miles.

[LORE BECA]

Too low of miles to be burning oil.
I read in the Outback forum that they have 3.6 motors that are consuming 2 quarts between oil changes, same experience as I have with the Tribeca. Some feel as if they made a mistake in buying a vehicle that consumes that much oil with such low miles. I understand what they feel. If it is a ring problem, then Subaru should get TSB going that motors having this should be fixed and not just having the dealerships jump through hoops and frustrate customers to the point of selling vehicles or trade them in thinking they got a lemon. Dealerships can only do what car manufacturer says, even if SERVICE MANAGERS know there is a concern. I read where turbo models burn like a quart between oil changes. THE 3.6 HAS NO TURBO!

37k miles.

[LORE BECA]

The sad thing is that this is a delightful car to drive and its unique appearance turns heads. Even though Subaru will end the Tribeca frame, the power train will still be there in the outback. So if there is a concern, it will continue.
Subaru needs to come out and say that these motors will consume 1-2 quarts of oil between the 3,700 oil change intervals so customers know that it is part of the vehicle characteristics. In my opinion a new motor's dipstick should not be in the low line after 3000 miles between oil changes with under 40,000 miles.

[LORE BECA]

Car and a Driver MAGAZINE had a 3.6 Legacy for 40,000 miles and they had to add 7.5 quarts to keep oil level between the lines for that time period. They took vehicle in for oil consumption test as well and it was burning less then a quart in 1000 miles so Subaru called it "normal".
A little disheartening to find this info.

[LORE BECA]

Car and a Driver MAGAZINE had a 3.6 Legacy for 40,000 miles and they had to add 7.5 quarts to keep oil level between the lines for that time period. They took vehicle in for oil consumption test as well and it was burning less then a quart in 1000 miles so Subaru called it "normal".
A little disheartening to find this info.

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

On BITOG, everyone is saying that a all of 0W30 and 5W30 that are resource/energy conserving shears down to a 20 weight by it's formulation. Subaru specs 5W30 and consumption of 1 quart/1000miles, sounds about right with the spec'd oil. Also, Subaru also mentions the use of heavier oils is recommended for severe conditions. I would switch to a oil that is not resource/energy conserving like Shell Rotella T6 5W40 or German Castrol 0W30.

[LORE BECA]

Went in for oil consumption test again and tech stated that he uses 5w30 mobil 1 without any issues to burning with his Sub. They say nothing about 5w40, especially in an non turbo at dealership.

On BITOG, everyone is saying that a all of 0W30 and 5W30 that are resource/energy conserving shears down to a 20 weight by it's formulation. Subaru specs 5W30 and consumption of 1 quart/1000miles, sounds about right with the spec'd oil. Also, Subaru also mentions the use of heavier oils is recommended for severe conditions. I would switch to a oil that is not resource/energy conserving like Shell Rotella T6 5W40 or German Castrol 0W30.

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

straight from the book. Subaru's way of words to confuse the end user.
i have never seen a 10W50 or 20W40. you can use 5W40 oil.
NOTE:
If the vehicle is used in areas with very high temperatures or for other heavy duty applications, the following
viscosity oils must be used: API standard: SM or SL
SAE viscosity No.: 30, 40, 10W-50, 20W-40, 20W-50

also note that it says the same thing in my sti service manual.

[LORE BECA]

Tech never mentioned 5w40 oil only 5w30, but did mention the synthetic.
What brand 5w40 are you using in your vehicles?

straight from the book. Subaru's way of words to confuse the end user.
i have never seen a 10W50 or 20W40. you can use 5W40 oil.
NOTE:
If the vehicle is used in areas with very high temperatures or for other heavy duty applications, the following
viscosity oils must be used: API standard: SM or SL
SAE viscosity No.: 30, 40, 10W-50, 20W-40, 20W-50

also note that it says the same thing in my sti service manual.

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

I use Mobil 1 0W40 and it looks to be the standard to measure up to on BITOG. A lot of people use Shell Rotella T6 5W40 especially in the STI's because it's cheap, readily available at walmart, and it does well in oil analysis when used in daily driving and racing. Some STI's have gone up to 6k miles oil changes with success. Plus you'll read plenty of good reviews on the net. I would buy some T6 but it's not available in Guam, but I can get the Mobil 1. It's a good choice for me as Guam's temps are in the 90's and high humidity year round, a lot of stop and go with plenty of hills.

[LORE BECA]

Our weather in Summer also runs high 90's to 100 and humidity is 87-90%. is Mobil 1 40 weight about the same a Rotella or is MO 1 SYNTHETIC BETTER?

I use Mobil 1 0W40 and it looks to be the standard to measure up to on BITOG. A lot of people use Shell Rotella T6 5W40 especially in the STI's because it's cheap, readily available at walmart, and it does well in oil analysis when used in daily driving and racing. Some STI's have gone up to 6k miles oil changes with success. Plus you'll read plenty of good reviews on the net. I would buy some T6 but it's not available in Guam, but I can get the Mobil 1. It's a good choice for me as Guam's temps are in the 90's and high humidity year round, a lot of stop and go with plenty of hills.

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

Our weather in Summer also runs high 90's to 100 and humidity is 87-90%. is Mobil 1 40 weight about the same a Rotella or is MO 1 SYNTHETIC BETTER?

From the all the data I've read on BITOG, M1 has the slight edge in additives, Rotella has the advantage in price. Rotella is definitely bang for the buck.

[cowboy]

Rotella T-6 is a great product.....the STI guys I know who use it, love it, ones out of warranty are going 5000K mile changes with good Blackstone reports.....bang for the buck, I have seen it on sale at Wally World for $18.00 for 5qt jug....can't beat that price for a full synthetic....

[LORE BECA]

With German CASTROL 0W30, not quart in 1200 miles but definitely consuming it still. Maybe about 1/4 quart in 1200 miles.

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

give it some time. you'll still burn a little but i'm predicting it'll go away by the next oil change. usually, you'll experience a little consumption due to the difference in formulation. i was consuming oil too and it went away when i switch from mobil 1 5w30.

[cowboy]

STIGR is right.......it will take a couple oil changes for your engine to get accustomed to the German Castrol.......and it seems that you are better off now with 1/4 quart vs 1 quart that you were stating....also, I found that GC expands as it gets hot like transmission fluid, so always check your oil when the engine is hot; you really might not be low on oil....

[LORE BECA]

When hot it shows lower between high and low lines.
I always check it in A.M. at same place in garage to keep it same environment.
STIGR is right.......it will take a couple oil changes for your engine to get accustomed to the German Castrol.......and it seems that you are better off now with 1/4 quart vs 1 quart that you were stating....also, I found that GC expands as it gets hot like transmission fluid, so always check your oil when the engine is hot; you really might not be low on oil....

[LORE BECA]

IT JUST ISN'T RIGHT FOR NEW ENGINE TO BURN OFF ANY OIL even if it is below the 1 quart and 1,200 mile cut off.

But I will follow your directions and see what happens over next 2 oil changes with the German Castrol.

[maxse03]

My 05 STi used about 1 quart every 1000 miles and so does my 08 Tribeca on 5w-30. After switching both to Royal Purple 10W-40, the problem pretty much went away. At least I don't have to add between oil changes.

Just some reading: http://allwheeldriveauto.com/why-does-my-subaru-use-oil/

[LORE BECA]

Nice read.
I have a 5.7 liter motor in my Toyota truck that runs on thin 5w20 mobil 1 with no NOTICEABLE burn off of oil. I ran the Tribeca for 3 months on the same commute and oil went from 5mm above top of TOP line which is 7 quarts to 3mm above top of low line in 3,500 miles on the TRIBECA. I RUN TRUCK EVERY 5,000 MILE OIL CHANGE INTERVALS. THESE 3.6 MOTORS seem to burn what seems to non SUBARU people excessive oil as noted on MOTOR TREND evaluation of 3.6 LEGACY. They added to maintain topping off motor almost 8 quarts in 40,000 miles of long term evaluation. If I take 5w 40 to SUBARU dealer for oil change they are liable to tell me they wont do oil change due to thick oil. Thus the reason I am trying the thicker 0W30 castrol synthetic. There has to be something they can do to beef up pistons.....to stop this much oil burn off.

Instead of SUBARU going thicker, they are recommending thinner oil of the 5w20 for M.P.G. reasons for their new motors. Not a good formula to reduce burn-off, quite the opposite I.M.O.

I don't mind running thick oil or adding oil but SUBARU has to come out and say these non turbo motors ARE known to burn!
We will see what happens on people going longer O.C. intervals of 5000 miles with 5w20 on 2011-12 SUBARU models, and you know not everyone checks oil every 3-4 oil change or ones a month even. Tribeca is still 5w30.

My 05 STi used about 1 quart every 1000 miles and so does my 08 Tribeca on 5w-30. After switching both to Royal Purple 10W-40, the problem pretty much went away. At least I don't have to add between oil changes.

Just some reading: http://allwheeldriveauto.com/why-does-my-subaru-use-oil/

[STIGR-Wagon-Dad]

Boxer engines are just tough on oil. look at Porsche, they have their own criteria on oil-Porsche A40 specification. The new CAFE requirements for emissions and improved fuel economy are forcing Subaru to go with oils that are "good enough" just as long as you keep checking your oil at every fill-up.

[austin]

I tend to respectfully disagree with the "boxer engines are tough on oil" thing.

I have two other boxer 6 engines that basically don't burn any oil at all. Both are OLDER boxers, so maybe there's a difference, but if anything you'd think Subaru would have improved leak issues with each generation of engine... then again... :rolleyes:

My ER27, 2.7 liter six developed leaks over time, but it's a 23 year old car so that WILL happen eventually. With the leaks sealed it's perfectly fine, and even when it was leaking it didn't use too much oil (half liter/quart a month maybe).

My EG33, 3.3 liter six doesn't burn oil at all, but I've only had the car for a year. The car does have OTHER leaks (power steering, brake fluid :eek:, etc.,) most likely due to it's being in an accident before I owned it, but the oil is fine.

Now - I HAVE noticed my wife's '06 EZ30, 3.0 liter six does seem to burn oil. This has always troubled me. I'm very new to this forum so I'm just now learning that this is "normal" for Tribecas apparently. So I'll have to keep my eye on it.

Bottom line: from my own personal experience, I think ANY older engine could burn/use a lot of oil, but I don't think boxer engines are any more prone to it than any other configuration of cylinders. NEWER boxer engines, however, might be more prone for some reason.

"your results may vary,
sorry Tennessee"


EDIT: I have no idea how/why the hyperlink for "power st33ring" got in there - I'm new to this forum so maybe it's some feature I need to disable?

[IK99]

Just personal expirience with 2008 (3.6) Valvoline ss- burn ; Castrol ss- not burning oil a t all. My choice - Castrol

[LORE BECA]

I see less burn with the 0w30 Castrol German Formula but it still does.
This is the first oil change with the German castrol.
I will try this one more time on next oil change WITH 0W30.

Wonder if the 5w30 full synthetic nongerman formula is the same IK99?

5w30 CASROL FULL SYNTHETIC IS LESS EXPENSIVE is why I am asking due to it being in 5 quart jugs.

[IK99]

Not sure if it German or not I’m getting it from Wal-Mart in 5 quart jugs for my 2 Triba's I taking 3 jugs (5 quart each).
5w-30 SS Castrol around 17$ for 5 quart jug in Wal-Mart last time 3.0 not burning ; 3.6 not burning at all. ( After was using Valvoline ss 5w-30 - burn only 3.6)
Where did you get yours "German" ?

[LORE BECA]

I GOT IT AT AUTOZONE per quart at 9 dollars a quart, 63 bucks for oil only and that's steep for 7 quarts. IT says mae in GERMANY in the back!
I GET MY TRUCKS 5W20 MOBIL 1 AT WALMART and that TOYOTA DOES NOT BURN AT ALL. I heard that Tribeca Burns the mobil one at this forum.
Are you using the semi-synthetic or full on the CASTROL?
THE FULL IS LIKE 26 A 5 QUART JUG AT WMART WHICH is great.

Not sure if it German or not I’m getting it from Wal-Mart in 5 quart jugs for my 2 Triba's I taking 3 jugs (5 quart each).
5w-30 SS Castrol around 17$ for 5 quart jug in Wal-Mart last time 3.0 not burning ; 3.6 not burning at all. ( After was using Valvoline ss 5w-30 - burn only 3.6)
Where did you get yours "German" ?

[IK99]

I'm using semi synthetic.

[LORE BECA]

Not bad cause with full synthetic I am down about 1/2-3/4 a quart in 3,500 miles with the Castrol 0w30 and at 32,000 miles.
I read on the Legacy review review with the 3.6 for 40,000 miles they had to be topping it off and was a total of 8 quarts of TOPPING OFF.

I will go with 0w30 one more time and if not better will go with 5w30 syn from wall mart being less expensive.

I'm using semi synthetic.