What To Know
- Regularly changing the oil is a key part of this maintenance routine, and it’s a task that you can easily do yourself with the right tools and instructions.
- Hand-tighten the new oil filter onto the housing and then use the oil filter wrench to further tighten it by about 3/4 of a turn.
- Start your Forester and let it idle for a few minutes to check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter.
Maintaining your Subaru Forester’s engine health is crucial for its longevity and performance. Regularly changing the oil is a key part of this maintenance routine, and it’s a task that you can easily do yourself with the right tools and instructions. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to change the oil in your Subaru Forester.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- New engine oil (check your owner’s manual for the recommended type and capacity)
- New oil filter
- Oil filter wrench
- 17mm socket wrench
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Rags or gloves
Safety Precautions:
- Park your Forester on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Allow the engine to cool down for at least 30 minutes before starting any work.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from hot oil and fluids.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Locate the Oil Drain Plug and Oil Filter
- Crawl under the front of your Forester and locate the oil drain plug at the bottom of the oil pan.
- Behind the engine, you’ll find the oil filter housing.
2. Drain the Old Oil
- Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug.
- Using the 17mm socket wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely.
3. Replace the Oil Filter
- Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter.
- Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
- Hand-tighten the new oil filter onto the housing and then use the oil filter wrench to further tighten it by about 3/4 of a turn.
4. Tighten the Oil Drain Plug
- Clean the oil drain plug and apply a new washer if necessary.
- Hand-tighten the oil drain plug into the oil pan.
- Use the 17mm socket wrench to further tighten it by about 1/4 of a turn.
5. Add New Engine Oil
- Using a funnel, pour the recommended amount of new engine oil into the oil filler hole on top of the engine.
- Check the oil level dipstick to ensure that the oil level is between the “low” and “full” marks.
6. Reset the Oil Life Monitor
- Start your Forester and let it idle for a few minutes.
- Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
- Check the oil level dipstick again to verify the oil level.
- Turn the ignition on (without starting the engine) and press the trip reset button on the instrument cluster until the oil life monitor resets to 100%.
7. Clean Up and Check for Leaks
- Dispose of the old oil and filter properly.
- Wipe up any spilled oil from the engine and undercarriage.
- Start your Forester and let it idle for a few minutes to check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter.
Wrapping Up: A Smooth-Running Forester
Changing the oil in your Subaru Forester is a simple and essential maintenance task that you can easily perform yourself. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll keep your Forester’s engine running smoothly and extend its lifespan. Remember to check your owner’s manual for specific oil and filter recommendations and consult a qualified mechanic if you encounter any difficulties.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How often should I change my Forester’s oil?
A: Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval, which typically ranges from 6,000 to 10,000 miles.
Q: What type of oil should I use in my Forester?
A: Use the type of oil recommended in your owner’s manual, which typically specifies a low-viscosity synthetic oil.
Q: Can I use a different oil filter than the one recommended?
A: Yes, you can use an equivalent oil filter from a reputable brand. Ensure that the filter is the correct size and has the same thread pattern.
Q: Is it necessary to replace the oil drain plug washer each time I change the oil?
A: It is recommended to replace the oil drain plug washer every other oil change or as specified in your owner’s manual.
Q: How do I know if I’m overfilling my Forester with oil?
A: Check the oil level dipstick after adding oil. If the oil level is above the “full” mark, you have overfilled the engine. Drain some oil until the level is correct.