Subaru oil filters are located on the engine block, usually on the driver's side, and you can replace one yourself with basic tools in about 15 minutes
The oil filter on your Subaru sits directly on the engine and catches metal particles, dirt, and sludge before they circulate through your engine. Over time it clogs and stops working well, which is why Subaru recommends changing it every 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on your model year and driving conditions — check your owner's manual for the exact interval for your vehicle.
You do not need a mechanic to do this job. The filter unscrews by hand, and the replacement screws back on the same way. If you have ever changed a car part before, you can do this. If you have not, this is a good first project because there is almost nothing that can go wrong.
Key Takeaways
- Subaru oil filters thread onto the engine block and can be removed and installed by hand without special tools, though an oil filter wrench makes the job easier.
- The correct filter for your Subaru depends on the engine size and model year, so check your owner's manual or ask a parts store before you buy.
- You will need a drain pan to catch old oil, a wrench or filter socket, and new oil to top off the engine after the filter change.
- The whole job takes 15 to 20 minutes once you locate the filter, and you can dispose of the old filter at any auto parts store or recycling center.
Locating the filter on your Subaru engine
The filter is mounted vertically on the side of the engine block. On most Subarus, it is on the driver's side, but some models position it on the passenger side or underneath the car. Open your hood and look for a cylindrical canister about the size of a soda can with a metal base. That is your filter.
If you cannot find it by looking, your owner's manual has a diagram showing exactly where it sits. You can also call a Subaru dealer parts department with your vehicle identification number (VIN) and they will tell you the location and the correct replacement filter part number for your model.
Getting the right replacement filter
Subaru makes filters for different engine sizes. A 2.5-liter engine takes a different filter than a 3.6-liter engine, and using the wrong one can cause leaks or poor oil flow. The easiest way to find the correct part is to go to an auto parts store with your VIN or your vehicle's year, make, and model. They will look it up and hand you the right filter.
You can also order online from Subaru dealers, Amazon, RockAuto, or other retailers. Common Subaru filters include the Subaru OEM filter (the official Subaru part) and aftermarket brands like Fram, Mobil 1, and Bosch. OEM filters cost a few dollars more but are made to Subaru's exact specifications. Aftermarket filters work fine if they are the correct size for your engine.
Tools and materials you will need
You need an oil drain pan (a shallow rectangular tray that catches spilled oil), a wrench or oil filter socket to loosen the old filter, and new oil to top off the engine after you finish. Most people also use a rag or paper towels to wipe up spills.
The drain pan is the most important item because oil will spill when you unscrew the filter. A 5-quart drain pan costs about $5 at any auto parts store. The oil filter wrench or socket costs $8 to $15 and makes the job much faster, though you can loosen the filter by hand if you wrap a rag around it for grip. You do not need a jack, ramps, or any other equipment.
Step-by-step filter replacement
Step 1: Warm up the engine. Start your Subaru and let it run for two or three minutes, then turn it off. Warm oil flows better and drains faster. Wait a minute for the engine to cool slightly so you do not burn yourself.
Step 2: Position the drain pan. Place the drain pan directly under the filter. Oil will drip down when you unscrew it, so make sure the pan is centered underneath.
Step 3: Loosen and remove the old filter. Use the filter wrench to turn the filter counterclockwise until it is loose enough to unscrew by hand. Finish unscrewing it by hand, turning slowly so oil does not splash out. Once it is off, tip it into the drain pan to empty any remaining oil inside.
Step 4: Clean the filter mounting surface. Wipe the metal base where the filter screws on with a clean rag. Remove any old rubber gasket material or debris. This takes 30 seconds and prevents leaks.
Step 5: Install the new filter. explore a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on the bottom of the new filter — this helps it seal properly. Screw the filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket touches the mounting surface, then turn it another three-quarter turn. Do not use the wrench to tighten it. Hand-tight is correct.
Step 6: Add new oil. Check your owner's manual for the correct oil type and viscosity (usually 0W-20 or 5W-30 for Subarus). Pour in the amount listed in your manual, then wait a minute for the oil to settle. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then turn it off and wait another minute. Check the dipstick or digital oil level display and add more oil if needed to reach the full mark.
Step 7: Dispose of the old filter. Take the old filter to any auto parts store — most will take it for free. Some recycling centers also accept oil filters. Do not throw it in the trash.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common error is over-tightening the new filter. If you use a wrench to screw it on tight, you will damage the gasket and create a leak. Hand-tight plus three-quarter turn is the correct tension. The second mistake is forgetting to oil the gasket on the new filter before installation, which can cause it to stick and leak. The third is not checking the oil level after the filter change — you may need to add a quart or more depending on how much oil was in the old filter.
Some people also install the wrong filter size. Always verify the part number against your VIN before you buy. If you install the wrong filter and notice oil leaking or the check engine light comes on, remove it when ready and install the correct one.
When to change your Subaru's oil filter
Subaru recommends changing the oil filter every time you change the engine oil. Some owners change oil every 3,000 miles, others every 5,000 or 10,000 miles depending on the model year and driving conditions. Newer Subarus with synthetic oil can often go longer between changes than older models with conventional oil.
Check your owner's manual for the recommended interval for your specific vehicle. If you drive in dusty conditions, tow a trailer, or do a lot of short trips, you may need to change the filter more often. If you drive mostly highway miles in clean conditions, you may be able to go longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change just the filter without changing the oil?
Technically yes, but it defeats the purpose. The filter catches particles, but the oil itself breaks down over time and loses its ability to protect the engine. Most mechanics recommend changing both together. If you change the oil, you should always change the filter at the same time.
What if the old filter is stuck and will not unscrew?
Use the filter wrench and turn slowly with steady pressure. If it still will not budge, wrap a rubber band or old inner tube around the filter for extra grip, or tap the wrench handle gently with a hammer to break the seal. Do not use excessive force or you may strip the threads on the engine block.
How much does a Subaru oil filter cost?
OEM Subaru filters typically cost $8 to $15 depending on the model. Aftermarket filters from brands like Fram or Mobil 1 usually cost $5 to $12. Prices vary by retailer and whether you order online or buy in-store.
Do I need to reset anything after changing the filter?
No. The oil filter change does not trigger any warning lights or require any computer reset. Some Subarus have an oil change reminder that you can reset manually through the dashboard menu, but this is separate from the filter change itself. Check your owner's manual for instructions if your model has this feature.
What should I do with the old oil that drains out?
Do not pour it down the drain or throw it away. Take it to an auto parts store, recycling center, or quick-lube shop — most accept used oil for free. Some municipalities also have hazardous waste collection days where you can drop it off. Used oil can be recycled indefinitely and is valuable to refineries.