Change engine oil quickly, safely and correctly for a Subaru
Change engine oil quickly, safely and correctly for a Subaru
Overview
Did you know if you have your oil changed at a non-dealer garage, they might install the wrong oil filter? Last time I had my Subaru oil changed at a non-dealer garage, they installed a wrong filter because it has the wrong bypass pressure for a Subaru. So it is important that you use a correct filter.
Most of the time going to a dealer for service is more expensive. So in this video I am showing you the easiest way to change your oil in under 20 minutes. You want it to be quick, but also safe. For a Subaru Forester, there is no need to jack up the car, the SUV is high enough, and the oil drain plug is within arm’s reach from the front. If your head is too large or your car’s clearance is too low, watch my other video on how to raise your car safely without a jack:
You need to loosen the drain plug first. If your arm is not strong enough, watch my other video on how to use your foot to loosen it:
https://youtu.be/C074os54sQM?t=97
I put an oil pan in a box. The box will catch oil splashes and it also lets me adjust the pan under the car more easily. If you don’t have an oil pan, watch this video about how to make a zero cost oil pan:
https://youtu.be/aPYtICiotEc?t=26
My oil filter socket fits the correct oil filter from Subaru, but it is too small for the Metrostreet filter. If you don’t have an oil filter wrench, watch my other video on how to remove the filter without purchasing a filter wrench:
Lastly, when you pour oil, there are various ways to do it without using an oil funnel:
Alternative Methods
There is more than one way to approach this task. Here are the most common methods, ranked by difficulty and cost.
Traditional Drain Method
Drive onto ramps or use jack stands, locate the drain plug, remove it, drain oil into a catch pan, replace filter, refill.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Estimated Cost: $25-$50 for oil and filter
- Notes: Most thorough drain; requires getting under the car
Oil Extractor/Vacuum Method
Use a hand pump or electric extractor to pull oil through the dipstick tube without getting under the vehicle.
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Estimated Cost: $30-$60 for extractor + oil
- Notes: No need to lift the car; slightly less complete drain
Quick Lube Service
Drive into a quick-lube shop for a full-service oil change completed in 15-30 minutes.
- Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
- Estimated Cost: $40-$100
- Notes: Fast and convenient; may upsell unnecessary services
Tips and Common Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls and use these tips to get the job done right the first time.
- Always warm the engine for 2-3 minutes before draining — warm oil flows out more completely.
- Use the oil weight and type specified in your owner’s manual, not what is cheapest on the shelf.
- Hand-tighten the oil filter — over-tightening makes it nearly impossible to remove next time.
- Double-check the drain plug torque after refilling to prevent leaks.
- Run the engine for 30 seconds after refilling, then recheck the oil level — it will drop as the filter fills.
- Never mix conventional and synthetic oil types unless your manual specifically allows it.
- Keep a drain pan under the vehicle for 10 extra minutes — the last drops always come out slowly.
- Dispose of used oil properly at any auto parts store — they accept it for free.
Tools and Materials
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Engine oil (4-6 quarts) | $20-$40 |
| Oil filter | $5-$15 |
| Oil drain pan | $8-$15 |
| Socket wrench or oil filter wrench | $5-$20 |
| Funnel | $3-$5 |
| Rags or shop towels | $5-$10 |
| Ramps or jack and jack stands | $25-$80 |
| Nitrile gloves | $5-$10 |
When to Take It to a Mechanic
While oil changes are one of the simplest DIY maintenance tasks, consult a mechanic if:
- The oil looks milky or foamy — this can indicate coolant mixing with oil due to a blown head gasket.
- You find metal shavings on the drain plug — internal engine wear may be occurring and needs investigation.
- The oil pressure light comes on even after a fresh change — the oil pump, pressure sensor, or internal passages may be failing.
- You cannot locate or access the drain plug — some modern vehicles have underbody panels that require special tools.
- The vehicle burns oil rapidly (needing top-offs between changes) — piston rings or valve seals may need attention.
Related Articles
Continue learning with these related guides:
- Car Maintenance Complete Guide
- EV Buying Guide 2026
- Dodge Caravan Changing the Oil Pressure Switch
- How to Change Engine Oil For Honda Accord
- 4 Ways To Make An Engine Oil Funnel & 2 Ways To Pour Oil
This article was originally published on cartrek.com on 2019-09-20. Content has been updated and expanded for 2026.