Factory Oil Filter Model USA vs Japanese Subaru

[Jim]

Non-Turbo subaru models call for the same replacement filter regardless if
the car was manufactured in Japan (Forester) or USA (outback) Does anybody
know what model filter is installed in a non-turbo forester from the
factory? If it the same model as the recommended USA replacement filter?

 

[Steve]

Does anybody know what model filter is installed in a non-turbo
forester from the factory? If it the same model as the recommended USA
replacement filter?

Just changed my oil yesterday. My built-in-Japan US 2005 Forester 2.5 X
(not turbo) came from the factory with filter PN 15208AA100. This filter
is black and is made in Japan.

There is a bit of confusion over the various filters. My owner's manual
lists filters PN 15208AA080 (black) and PN 15208AA09A (white) with no
distinction mentioned. When I looked up the number for a non-turbo
Forester, I got 15208AA060 while turbo gave 15208AA080 or 15208AA100.
(No reference at all to the -09A.) Supposedly, turbo and non-turbo
engines can use the same filter, but the -080 / -100 are preferred for
the turbo. Moreover, the -080 and -100 are suppose to be identical.

I chose to install the same filter as was on it originally
(15208AA100). This filter cost about $1 more then the -060.