2016 Subaru Forester Oil Change Guide

Changing the oil in your 2016 Subaru Forester requires 5.4 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil and a fresh filter. You'll finish the job in about thirty minutes with basic hand tools.

Performing this routine maintenance at home saves money and lets you inspect the undercarriage for leaks or worn components. Let's walk through the exact process to get it done cleanly and correctly.

Tools and Supplies Needed

Gathering your gear beforehand prevents messy mid-job trips to the auto parts store. You don't want to crawl out from under the car with oil-covered hands because you forgot a socket.

1. 5.4 Quarts of 0W-20 Full Synthetic Oil: Check the label for API certification. Brands like Mobil 1 offer reliable options that meet Subaru specifications.
2. Oil Filter: Use a genuine Subaru filter (part number 15208AA160) or a reputable equivalent.
3. Drain Plug Washer: Always install a new crush washer to prevent oil leaks.
4. Tools: 14mm socket and ratchet, oil filter wrench, torque wrench, and a drain pan.
5. Safety Equipment: Wheel chocks, sturdy ramps or a hydraulic jack with jack stands, and safety glasses. Ramps make this specific generation much easier to service.

Locating Key Components

The layout of the 2016 Forester makes maintenance straightforward. Pop the hood and locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine, marked clearly with 0W-20. Pull the dipstick to check your baseline level before starting.

Crawl underneath the front bumper to find the oil pan. Unlike older models where the filter sat underneath the car near the exhaust, this engine features a top-mounted oil filter. It sits right on top of the engine block near the front passenger side, hidden under a small plastic flap or easily visible depending on your exact trim. This clever design means zero mess when removing the filter.

Draining the Old Oil

Safety comes first. Never crawl under a car supported only by a hydraulic jack. Always use solid jack stands or drive onto reliable service ramps, then set the parking brake and block the rear wheels.

1. Run the engine for three minutes to warm the oil so it flows more freely. Turn it off.
2. Position your drain pan directly beneath the oil pan drain plug at the back of the engine oil pan.
3. Loosen the 14mm drain plug counterclockwise with your ratchet.
4. Remove the plug by hand while pulling it away quickly to keep your fingers clean as the hot oil surges out.
5. Let the oil drain completely until it slows to an occasional drip. This usually takes about ten minutes.
6. Clean the drain plug threads with a rag. Install a brand-new crush washer with the tapered side facing the oil pan.
7. Thread the plug back in by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it with your wrench to about 30 foot-pounds.

Replacing the Filter and Refilling

Since your 2016 Forester uses a top-mounted filter cartridge style or spin-on filter right up top, the process stays remarkably tidy.

1. Place a small rag around the filter base to catch any minor residual drops.
2. Twist the old filter counterclockwise using your filter wrench if it's stubborn.
3. Dip a clean finger into a tiny bit of fresh oil and smear a thin layer across the rubber gasket of the new filter. This ensures a proper seal and makes future removal easier.
4. Screw the new filter on by hand until you feel the gasket seat firmly against the mounting base, then turn it another three-quarters turn. Do not over tighten it with tools.
5. Remove the oil filler cap on top of the engine and insert a clean funnel.
6. Pour in 5.0 quarts of fresh 0W-20 synthetic oil first.
7. Wait two minutes for the oil to settle into the pan, then check the dipstick. Add the remaining fluid slowly, aiming for the 5.4-quart total while monitoring the dipstick level between the low and full dots.

Testing and Cleanup

Start the engine and let it idle for thirty seconds. Watch the oil pressure dashboard light; it should turn off almost immediately. Look underneath the vehicle with a flashlight to verify that neither the drain plug nor the filter area shows any signs of leaking.

Turn off the engine, wait five minutes for the oil to drain back down, and verify the final level on the dipstick one last time. Pour your old oil into a sealed container and take it to a local auto parts store or recycling center for proper disposal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in a 2016 Subaru Forester?

Subaru recommends changing the oil every 6,000 miles or six months under normal driving conditions. If you frequently drive in dusty areas, make short trips in freezing weather, or sit in heavy city traffic, change it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Why does my Forester use 0W-20 oil?

Engine tolerances in this model year are exceptionally tight to maximize fuel efficiency and cold-weather protection. Using heavier conventional oils will reduce fuel economy and can damage variable valve timing components.

What happens if I accidentally overfill the oil?

Adding a fraction of a quart over the line usually causes no harm. If you added a full extra quart or more, the excessive crankcase pressure can foam the oil, reduce lubrication effectiveness, and blow out your engine seals. Drain the excess amount using a fluid extractor or loosen the drain plug briefly.