DIY Subaru Oil Change: A Comprehensive Guide

Performing your own oil change on a Subaru can be a deeply satisfying and cost-effective way to maintain your vehicle. It’s a fundamental task that, once mastered, empowers you to keep your Subaru running smoothly and efficiently. While it might seem daunting at first, with the right tools, a bit of patience, and this comprehensive guide, you’ll be changing your oil like a seasoned mechanic in no time. This article will walk you through every step, ensuring you understand the process, the necessary precautions, and how to achieve a professional-grade result right from your home garage or driveway.

Why DIY Your Subaru Oil Change?

Aside from the obvious cost savings compared to dealership or independent garage services, changing your own oil offers several benefits. It allows you to choose the exact oil and filter you prefer, ensures the job is done to your satisfaction, and provides a valuable opportunity to inspect other components of your vehicle while you’re under it. It’s also a fantastic way to develop a deeper understanding and connection with your Subaru.

Essential Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you begin, gather all the necessary items. Having everything to hand will make the process much smoother and prevent frustrating interruptions.

• New Engine Oil: Crucially, this must match the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific Subaru model and year. Check your owner's manual for the correct viscosity (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30) and oil type (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic).
• Replacement Oil Filter: Ensure it's the correct one for your Subaru. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) filters are often recommended for their quality and fit.
• Oil Filter Wrench: There are various types (cup, strap, claw), but a cup-style wrench that fits your filter perfectly is usually the easiest to use.
• Drain Plug Wrench/Socket: The size varies by model, but common sizes include 14mm, 17mm, or 19mm. A 6-point socket is preferred to prevent rounding the drain plug.
• Drain Pan: Large enough to hold all the old oil (typically 4-6 litres for most Subarus).
• Funnel: Essential for pouring new oil without spills.
• Rubber Gloves: To keep your hands clean and protected from hot oil and contaminants.
• Rag or Shop Towels: For cleaning up spills and wiping components.
• Jack and Jack Stands OR Car Ramps: For safely elevating the vehicle. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
• Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
• Torque Wrench: Highly recommended for tightening the drain plug and oil filter to the correct specifications, preventing leaks or damage.
• New Drain Plug Gasket/Crush Washer: It’s good practice to replace this every time to ensure a leak-free seal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Subaru's Oil

1. Prepare Your Subaru and Gather Tools

Park your Subaru on a flat, level surface. It's often best to run the engine for 5-10 minutes before starting, as warm oil flows more easily, carrying more contaminants with it. However, be cautious as the oil will be hot. Engage the parking brake. If using a jack, lift the front of the car and place it securely on jack stands. If using ramps, drive carefully onto them. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety. Open the bonnet and locate the oil fill cap and dipstick.

2. Locate and Prepare the Drain Plug

Slide your drain pan under the oil pan, positioned directly beneath the drain plug. The oil pan is typically a large, flat metal pan located at the bottom of the engine. The drain plug is a bolt usually found on the lowest point of this pan.

3. Drain the Old Oil

Using your drain plug wrench or socket, carefully loosen the drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to start flowing immediately once the plug is loose. Once it’s loose enough to turn by hand, quickly remove the plug while pulling it away from the stream of oil to avoid getting hot oil on your hand. Let the oil drain completely into the pan. This can take 10-20 minutes. While the oil is draining, inspect the drain plug and replace the old crush washer with a new one.

4. Replace the Oil Filter

Locate the oil filter. Its position varies by Subaru model; some are easily accessible from underneath, while others (like those on some Forester/Outback models) are on top of the engine. Place a smaller drip pan or some rags underneath the filter housing to catch any drips. Use your oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter. Once loose, unscrew it by hand. Be aware that oil will spill out as you remove it. Wipe the mounting surface clean.

Before installing the new filter, apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter. This helps create a good seal and prevents it from sticking. Screw on the new filter by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block, then tighten it an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn, or according to the filter manufacturer’s specifications. If using a torque wrench, consult your owner's manual for the correct specification (typically around 12-14 ft-lbs, but always verify).

5. Replace the Drain Plug

Once all the old oil has drained, clean the area around the drain plug hole. Reinstall the drain plug with the new crush washer. Tighten it securely with your wrench. Again, using a torque wrench is highly recommended to prevent over-tightening (which can strip the threads) or under-tightening (which can cause leaks). Consult your owner's manual for the correct torque specification for the drain plug (often between 29-30 ft-lbs).

6. Add New Engine Oil

Lower your Subaru off the jack stands or ramps. Open the oil fill cap on top of the engine. Place your funnel into the oil fill neck. Slowly pour in the new oil. Refer to your owner's manual for the precise oil capacity of your Subaru. Most 4-cylinder Subarus hold around 4.2-5 litres, while 6-cylinder models might hold more. It’s always better to add slightly less than the full amount initially, then top up as needed.

7. Check Oil Level and Inspect for Leaks

Once you’ve poured in most of the new oil, remove the funnel and replace the oil fill cap. Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two. This allows the new oil to circulate throughout the engine and fill the new oil filter. Turn off the engine and wait for 5-10 minutes to allow the oil to settle back into the oil pan. Now, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the oil level. It should be between the 'low' and 'full' marks. Add more oil in small increments if necessary until it reaches the 'full' mark.

While the engine is running and after you've turned it off, carefully check underneath the car for any signs of leaks around the drain plug and the oil filter. A small drip can quickly become a big problem.

8. Reset the Maintenance Reminder

Many modern Subarus have an oil change reminder light or message. Consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to reset this. The process usually involves navigating through the multi-information display using steering wheel buttons.

9. Proper Disposal of Used Oil

Never pour used engine oil down drains or dispose of it in household rubbish. Used oil is a hazardous waste. Pour the old oil from your drain pan into the empty new oil containers or other sealed plastic containers. Most auto parts stores, service stations, and local council recycling centres accept used engine oil for recycling. Call ahead to confirm their policy.

Choosing the Right Oil for Your Subaru

Subaru engines, particularly the Boxer engines, have specific requirements. Always refer to your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity. Many modern Subarus require synthetic oil, especially those with turbochargers or direct injection. Using the wrong oil can lead to premature engine wear and reduced performance.

Oil Type Comparison

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not using jack stands: Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Safety is paramount.
• Overtightening the drain plug or filter: This can strip threads or damage the filter housing, leading to costly repairs. Use a torque wrench.
• Forgetting the new crush washer: This small part is crucial for preventing leaks from the drain plug.
• Using the wrong oil: Always refer to your owner's manual for the correct type and viscosity.
• Not checking for leaks: After refilling, always double-check the drain plug and filter for any drips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I change my Subaru's oil?

This depends on your Subaru model, the type of oil used, and your driving conditions. Generally, modern Subarus using full synthetic oil have service intervals of 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or every 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Always consult your owner's manual for precise recommendations.

What happens if I don't change my oil regularly?

Old, dirty oil loses its lubricating properties, leading to increased friction, heat, and wear on engine components. This can result in reduced fuel efficiency, decreased performance, and ultimately, severe engine damage or failure.

Can I use any brand of oil filter?

While many aftermarket filters are available, it's generally recommended to use genuine Subaru OEM oil filters or high-quality aftermarket filters from reputable brands. Cheaper filters may not offer the same level of filtration or may not fit as precisely, potentially leading to issues.

My dipstick shows the oil is black. Does that mean it's bad?

Not necessarily. New oil can turn dark fairly quickly, especially in diesel engines or older petrol engines, as it picks up combustion byproducts and cleans the engine. The colour alone isn't the best indicator; mileage and time since the last change are more reliable. However, if it's thick and sludgy, it's definitely past its prime.

What should I do if I spill oil during the change?

Immediately clean up any spills using absorbent materials like cat litter or specialised oil absorbent granules. Dispose of these materials properly with other hazardous waste. Oil is harmful to the environment and can create a slip hazard.

Is it necessary to replace the drain plug gasket/crush washer every time?

Yes, it is highly recommended. The crush washer is designed to deform and create a tight seal when the drain plug is tightened. Reusing an old one significantly increases the risk of oil leaks, which can be messy and dangerous.

Changing your Subaru’s oil at home is a rewarding task that contributes significantly to the longevity and performance of your vehicle. By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can confidently perform this essential maintenance, saving money and gaining valuable experience. Remember, safety first, and always refer to your Subaru’s owner’s manual for model-specific information.

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