04/03/2020
Subaru Impreza: Keeping Your Boxer Engine Happy
The Subaru Impreza, a name synonymous with rally heritage and reliable all-wheel drive, has been a popular choice for drivers seeking a blend of performance and practicality since its introduction in 1992. Whether you own a nimble sedan, a versatile hatchback, or the iconic WRX variant, regular maintenance is key to ensuring your Impreza continues to deliver that signature Subaru driving experience for years to come. One of the most common and crucial maintenance tasks is managing your engine oil and keeping your service reminders up-to-date. This guide will walk you through the process of resetting the oil service maintenance reminder light on your Subaru Impreza, covering models from 2012 to 2020, and offer insights into other essential maintenance aspects.
Understanding the Subaru Impreza
Subaru has a rich history of producing robust and capable vehicles, and the Impreza is no exception. Initially replacing the Leone, the Impreza has evolved through five generations, consistently offering the distinctive 'boxer' flat-four engine known for its low centre of gravity and smooth operation. From economical 1.5-litre units to the potent turbocharged 2.5-litre engines found in the WRX and WRX STI models, the Impreza range caters to a wide spectrum of drivers. Body styles have varied over the years, including 4-door sedans, 5-door hatchbacks, and even coupes, with the Outback Sport and XV (Crosstrek) variants adding a touch of ruggedness. A notable characteristic of the Impreza is Subaru's commitment to all-wheel drive (AWD), a feature that sets it apart in its class and contributes to its renowned handling capabilities, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The Impreza has even earned accolades for its low depreciation, making it a sound investment.
The Importance of Regular Oil Changes
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, dissipates heat, cleans the engine, and protects against corrosion. Over time, oil degrades, becoming contaminated with dirt, metal particles, and combustion by-products. This degradation reduces its effectiveness, leading to increased wear and potential engine damage. Regular oil changes, as indicated by your service reminder or manufacturer recommendations, are vital for maintaining optimal engine performance and longevity. Ignoring these reminders can lead to premature wear on critical engine components, reduced fuel efficiency, and ultimately, costly repairs.
Resetting the Oil Service Maintenance Reminder Light (2012-2020 Models)
Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated systems to help owners keep track of essential maintenance. The oil service reminder light is one such feature. If you've recently had your oil changed or are performing the service yourself, you'll need to reset this indicator. Follow these steps carefully:
- Preparation: Ensure all vehicle doors are closed. Place the gear selector into the 'Park' (P) position if you have an automatic transmission, or neutral with the handbrake firmly applied if you have a manual.
- Ignition On: Turn the ignition key to the 'ON' (or 'RUN') position. Do not start the engine. The dashboard lights should illuminate.
- Accessing Settings:
- On many Impreza models, you'll need to press and hold the 'INFO' button on your steering wheel or dashboard. This will typically bring up a menu.
- Navigate through the menu using the 'INFO' or 'SET' button (or similar controls) until you find 'SETTING' or a similar option.
- Once in 'SETTING', scroll to 'MAINTENANCE' and press the 'SET' button to confirm your selection.
- For some specific Impreza models, the process might slightly differ. You may need to press and hold the 'SET' button initially to access the 'SETTINGS' menu.
- Selecting Engine Oil: Within the 'MAINTENANCE' menu, you should find an option for 'ENGINE OIL'. Select this by pressing the 'SET' button.
- Updating the Service Interval:
- You will likely see an option to 'UPDATE' the service interval. Press the 'SET' button to select this.
- In some cases, particularly if you're manually setting the interval after a service, you might need to manually input the mileage (e.g., 10000 km or 6000 miles). Use the scrolling function to adjust the value and then press 'SET' to confirm.
- Confirmation: The system should confirm that the ENGINE OIL service interval has been reset. Often, it will display the new interval, typically 15000 km (or approximately 6000-7500 miles, depending on regional settings).
- Final Check: Turn the ignition OFF. Wait a few seconds, then start the engine. The 'OIL SERVICE REMINDER' light should now be off. If it persists, repeat the steps carefully.
Important Note: The exact button names and menu layout can vary slightly between model years and trim levels. Always refer to your Subaru Impreza's owner's manual for the most precise instructions for your specific vehicle.
Gear Oil Change: A Deeper Dive
While engine oil is crucial, the transmission and differential fluids (often referred to as gear oil) are equally important for the smooth operation of your Impreza's drivetrain, especially its AWD system. Changing gear oil is a more involved process than a standard engine oil change, but it's a manageable task for the home mechanic with the right tools and knowledge. Here's a general overview, though specific procedures can vary.
Tools and Parts Needed:
Before you begin, gather the necessary items:
- Jack and jack stands (ensure they are rated for your vehicle's weight)
- Wheel chocks
- Drain pan
- Socket set (typically including 14mm and 21mm sockets)
- Torque wrench
- New copper crush washers for drain and fill plugs (essential for a proper seal)
- Appropriate gear oil (check your owner's manual for the correct specification, typically 75W-90 GL-5 for many Subaru models)
- Gloves and safety glasses
Step-by-Step Gear Oil Change (General Guide):
- Safety First: Park your Impreza on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
- Lift the Vehicle: Safely jack up the front (for transmission) or rear (for differential) of the vehicle. Support it securely on jack stands. Ensure you have adequate clearance to work underneath.
- Locate Drain Plugs: Get under the vehicle and locate the drain plugs for the transmission and/or differential. The transmission typically has two plugs: a drain plug and a fill plug. The differential usually has similar plugs.
- Drain the Old Fluid:
- Position your drain pan beneath the transmission drain plug (often a larger bolt, like 21mm). Remove the plug and allow the old fluid to drain completely.
- Once draining slows, move the pan to the fill plug location (often a smaller bolt, like 14mm) and remove it. Allow any remaining fluid to drain.
- If changing differential fluid, repeat this process for the differential drain and fill plugs.
- Replace Plugs and Washers:
- Clean the drain and fill plugs thoroughly. Remove the old crush washers and install new ones on both plugs. This is a critical step to prevent leaks.
- Reinstall the drain and fill plugs, tightening them finger-tight initially.
- Torque the Plugs: Using a torque wrench, tighten the plugs to the manufacturer's specified torque. For example, a 14mm plug might require around 30-35 ft-lbs, and a 21mm plug might need around 50-60 ft-lbs. Always consult your service manual for the exact torque specifications.
- Refill with New Fluid:
- Locate the fill plug. Remove it.
- Using a fluid pump or a suitable funnel, carefully add the correct amount and type of gear oil specified in your owner's manual. For many Impreza transmissions, this is around 4.3 quarts of 75W-90 GL-5.
- The correct level is typically when the fluid starts to seep out of the fill hole.
- Reinstall and torque the fill plug with a new crush washer.
- Final Checks: Lower the vehicle. Check for any leaks around the drain and fill plugs. Take the car for a short drive and then re-check for leaks.
Comparative Table: Engine Oil vs. Gear Oil
It's important to understand the differences between the fluids your Impreza uses:
| Feature | Engine Oil | Gear Oil (Transmission/Differential) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Lubricates engine components, reduces friction, cools engine | Lubricates gears, bearings, and synchronizers in transmission/differential |
| Viscosity Grade | Typically multi-grade, e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30 (check manual) | Typically single or multi-grade, e.g., 75W-90, 75W-140 (check manual) |
| Additives | Detergents, dispersants, anti-wear agents, viscosity index improvers | Extreme pressure (EP) additives, anti-wear agents, friction modifiers |
| Change Interval | Generally every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months | Significantly longer, often 30,000-60,000 miles or more (check manual) |
| Typical Capacity | 4-5 quarts | Transmission: 4-5 quarts; Differential: 1-2 quarts (varies greatly) |
| API Service Classification | API SN, SP, or ILSAC GF-5, GF-6 (check manual) | API GL-4 or GL-5 (crucial to use the correct one) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How often should I change the engine oil in my Subaru Impreza?
Refer to your owner's manual. Generally, it's recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. Driving in harsh conditions (stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, towing) may necessitate more frequent changes.
Q2: What type of oil is best for my Impreza?
Always use the oil viscosity and specification recommended in your Subaru Impreza's owner's manual. For most modern Imprezas, this is typically a 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil that meets specific API or ILSAC standards.
Q3: Can I use conventional oil instead of synthetic?
While conventional oil can be used if specified, synthetic oil generally offers superior protection, better performance in extreme temperatures, and longer intervals between changes. It's highly recommended for the Boxer engine.
Q4: What happens if I don't reset the oil service light?
The light is a reminder. If not reset, it will continue to illuminate after your maintenance is due, potentially serving as a constant reminder. It does not typically affect the car's operation, but it means the system isn't accurately tracking your maintenance schedule.
Q5: Is it difficult to change the gear oil myself?
Changing gear oil requires safely lifting the vehicle and working underneath it. If you are not comfortable with this or lack the proper tools (especially a torque wrench), it's best to have a qualified mechanic perform the service. Using the correct fluid and torque specifications is crucial.
Conclusion
Maintaining your Subaru Impreza is a rewarding experience that ensures its longevity and performance. By understanding how to reset your oil service reminder and being aware of other vital maintenance tasks like gear oil changes, you can keep your 'Scooby' running reliably on all four wheels. Always prioritise safety and consult your owner's manual for vehicle-specific details. Regular care will ensure your Impreza continues to provide driving enjoyment for many miles to come.
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