MikeGS

Agreed. That is exactly what I plan on doing at least for the duration of the extended warranty.

Recommended yes, required, not necessarily. Page 12-5 of my owners manual states: 0W-20 synthetic is the recommended oil for optimum engine performance. *: 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil my be used if replacement is needed but should be changed to 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. I raised the question because I asked about oil at the dealer and was told the car had plain old dino-juice and I could change to synthetic after the break in. That did sound kind of odd. In any event I'll call Subaru tomorrow and ask the question, what type of oil is in my engine?? With all of this said I just looked at the maintenance schedule - states the first oil change is at 7,500 miles and thereafter every 7,500 miles. Must be synthetic. Guess the sales guy was not up to speed on the more technical side of the car.

Did you move to synthetic after the break in? I talked to two mechanics last night; split decision with them.

And the verdict: 2011 Forester XT Touring. All smiles here.

Hi, New to the board and to new Subaru's. Tomorrow night I will be purchasing a 2011 Forester. My only decision is turbo or not. I am aware of all the typical pro's and con's regarding fuel economy, premium fuel vs not, insurance costs, ect. I'd like to know the opinion of the real gear heads out here. I need this car to last 7 + years. It will see 14K miles of commuting yearly plus twice monthly runs from the Sacramento valley up to Lake Tahoe year round. Any thoughts to a non-gear head are much appreciated.