How To Change Engine Oil In A Subaru Car

Unlike other car maintenance tasks, changing your engine oil is something you can do on your own. If you are new to this process, it can take around an hour but subsequently, you should be able to manage in half an hour. It’s also an opportunity to check out how things are underneath your car and see if there are any problems that require your attention. In this guide, we show you how to change the engine oil in your Subaru car.

Before You Start

Below is a list of tools you will need before getting started:

  • New oil filter and wrench
  • Replacement oil
  • Latex gloves
  • Oil drain pan
  • Drain plug washer
  • Ramps or jack stands
  • Socket wrench
  • Funnel

When purchasing replacement oil for your Subaru car engine, always consult your owner’s manual to determine the type and quantity of oil you need. There are two things to take note of: capacity and oil viscosity. Two numbers will define oil viscosity: the first ends with a “W” and is an indication of how oil will flow under low temperatures, whereas the second indicates how it will flow at high temperatures.

The Process of Changing Your Subaru Car Engine Oil

With all the tools you need on hand, you can now get started with changing your Subaru car engine oil by following the steps below:

  • With the help of jack stands or ramps, hoist up your car and ensure that you have enough space to work underneath it. Always make sure it’s absolutely safe before doing so.
  • Unscrew the undertray at the bottom of your vehicle to gain access to the oil pan and filter.
  • Loosen the drain plug and let the oil flow into an oil drain pan you have prepared beforehand. This should continue until the flow slows down to a trickle.
  • Remove the oil filter and gasket after the flow has completely subsided. Install the new filter in its place.
  • Reinstall the drain plug back into place, ensuring that it is neither too tight nor too loose.
  • Apply a coating of oil on the gasket of your new oil filter. You can now slide the undertray back into place and lower your car.
  • Now, you can open your hood and start pouring in the new oil with the help of a funnel.
  • After giving the replacement oil a few minutes to settle, use a dipstick to check that it’s at the proper level.

Find Your Next Subaru Car in Our Inventory

If you are looking for your next Subaru ride, our inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles at Competition Subaru is the best place to start your search. Since our inception in 1962, we have been treating our customers like family and you can expect to receive friendly service when you get in touch with us. Our focus is on building long-lasting client relationships and we would love to help you find your next new ride.