Unleash Your Subaru Legacy’s Full Potential: Learn How to Change Oil Like a Pro

Maintaining your Subaru Legacy is crucial for its longevity and performance. One of the most essential tasks is changing the engine oil regularly. This guide will walk you through the process of changing oil in your Subaru Legacy, ensuring you can keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.

Why Change Oil Regularly?

Engine oil acts as the lifeblood of your Subaru Legacy, lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing wear and tear. Over time, oil degrades, losing its lubricating properties and accumulating contaminants, such as dirt and metal shavings. This can lead to engine damage and costly repairs.

Regular oil changes ensure that your engine is constantly lubricated with fresh, clean oil, promoting optimal performance and extending its lifespan. Subaru recommends oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, driving conditions and your specific model may necessitate more frequent changes.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies:

• New Engine Oil: Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity for your Subaru Legacy.
• Oil Filter: Again, refer to your owner’s manual for the correct oil filter.
• Oil Drain Pan: This will collect the used oil.
• Wrench: A 17mm wrench is typically required to remove the oil drain plug.
• Oil Filter Wrench: This tool is necessary to remove the oil filter.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from oil and grime.
• Clean Rags: For wiping up spills and cleaning tools.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from splashes.
• Funnel: For safely pouring new oil into the engine.
• Jack and Jack Stands: If you are not comfortable working under the car, you can use a jack and jack stands to lift it safely.

Prepare Your Subaru Legacy

1. Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your Subaru Legacy is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the oil to warm up and become more fluid. This will make it easier to drain.
3. Locate the Oil Drain Plug: The oil drain plug is located on the bottom of the engine oil pan.
4. Place the Drain Pan: Position the oil drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug.

Drain the Old Oil

1. Loosen the Drain Plug: Use the 17mm wrench to loosen the oil drain plug. Be careful not to drop it into the drain pan.
2. Remove the Drain Plug: Once the plug is loosened, carefully remove it by hand. Allow the oil to drain completely into the drain pan.
3. Inspect the Drain Plug: Check the drain plug for any signs of damage or wear. Replace it if necessary.
4. Replace the Drain Plug: Once the oil has completely drained, re-install the drain plug and tighten it securely. Do not overtighten.

Change the Oil Filter

1. Locate the Oil Filter: The oil filter is usually located on the side of the engine.
2. Remove the Old Filter: Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter.
3. Clean the Filter Housing: Wipe the oil filter housing clean with a rag.
4. Install the New Filter: Install the new oil filter by hand. Do not overtighten.
5. Lube the Filter Gasket: Apply a thin coat of clean engine oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter to ensure a proper seal.

Add New Oil

1. Pour New Oil: Carefully pour the recommended amount of new engine oil into the engine oil filler cap. Check your owner’s manual for the exact amount.
2. Check the Oil Level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level and add more oil if necessary.
3. Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
4. Check for Leaks: Once the engine is running, check for any oil leaks.
5. Recheck Oil Level: After the engine has warmed up, shut it off and recheck the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if needed.

Cleaning Up

1. Dispose of Used Oil Properly: Dispose of the used oil in a designated container, such as a used oil collection center.
2. Clean Up Spills: Clean up any oil spills with absorbent materials.
3. Clean Tools and Hands: Wash your hands and clean tools thoroughly with soap and water.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Basics of How to Change Oil Subaru Legacy

Changing your Subaru Legacy‘s oil is a relatively simple procedure that can be done by most DIYers. However, if you are unsure about any aspect of the process, it is always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Common Questions and Answers

1. How often should I change the oil in my Subaru Legacy?

Subaru recommends changing the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, driving conditions and your specific model may necessitate more frequent changes. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

2. What type of oil should I use in my Subaru Legacy?

The type of oil you should use depends on your Subaru Legacy‘s year, engine size, and driving conditions. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity.

3. What happens if I don’t change my oil regularly?

If you don’t change your oil regularly, it can degrade and lose its lubricating properties, leading to increased wear and tear on your engine. This can result in engine damage, reduced performance, and costly repairs.

4. Can I use synthetic oil in my Subaru Legacy?

Yes, you can use synthetic oil in your Subaru Legacy. Synthetic oil offers several advantages over conventional oil, including improved performance, longer life, and better protection at high temperatures.

5. Can I change the oil filter myself?

Yes, you can change the oil filter yourself. However, it is important to use the correct oil filter for your Subaru Legacy model. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil filter.