Subaru oil filters are engine-specific and vary by model year, engine type, and whether your vehicle uses a cartridge or spin-on design

Subaru does not use a one-size-fits-all oil filter across its lineup. The filter you need depends on your specific model, engine displacement, and production year. A 2015 Subaru Outback with a 2.5-liter engine uses a different filter than a 2020 Crosstrek with the same displacement, and both differ from Subaru's turbocharged models. Using the wrong filter can restrict oil flow, cause leaks, or fail to seal properly under pressure.

Most Subaru vehicles use a spin-on filter — a cylindrical cartridge that screws onto a mounting head on the engine block. Some older models and certain Subaru engines use a cartridge filter housed in a plastic or metal canister that requires you to remove the top cap and replace the filter element inside. Knowing which type your vehicle has is the first step to ordering the correct part.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Subaru's VIN or owner's manual tells you the exact filter part number; do not guess based on model name alone because engine type and year matter.
  • Subaru OEM filters are available through Subaru dealerships, online retailers, and some auto parts stores, though aftermarket filters from Bosch, Fram, and Mobil are also compatible with most models.
  • Spin-on filters typically cost between $8 and $18, while cartridge filters run $12 to $25 depending on the model and whether you buy OEM or aftermarket.
  • The filter location varies: most Subaru engines mount the filter on top of the engine block, but some models place it on the side or underneath, affecting how difficult the replacement is.

How to identify your Subaru's correct filter part number

The most reliable way to find your filter is to look up your vehicle's VIN on Subaru's parts website or provide it to a dealership parts department. The VIN encodes your model year, engine type, and transmission, which all affect filter compatibility. You can also consult your owner's manual, which lists the OEM filter part number in the maintenance section.

If you do not have the manual, you can search online using your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size. Subaru's official parts catalog (parts.subaru.com) allows you to enter your VIN and displays the exact filter and other maintenance items. Auto parts retailers like AutoZone, O'Reilly, and NAPA also have lookup tools that cross-reference your vehicle to compatible filters.

Write down the part number before you shop. Common Subaru OEM filter part numbers include 16097-AA051 (used in many 2.5-liter models), 16097-AA100 (turbocharged engines), and 16097-AA160 (some newer models), but these are examples only — your specific vehicle may use a different number.

OEM versus aftermarket filters for Subaru vehicles

Subaru original equipment manufacturer (OEM) filters are made to Subaru's specifications and carry the Subaru part number. They are available through Subaru dealerships and online retailers that stock genuine Subaru parts. OEM filters typically cost more than aftermarket options but come with the assurance that they meet Subaru's exact standards for flow rate, bypass valve pressure, and media composition.

Aftermarket filters from manufacturers like Bosch, Fram, Mobil, and Purolator are designed to fit Subaru engines and meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are usually cheaper — sometimes by $5 to $10 per filter — and are widely available at auto parts stores and online. Many owners use aftermarket filters without issue, though some prefer OEM filters for warranty peace of mind or because they trust Subaru's engineering.

The choice between OEM and aftermarket does not affect your vehicle's warranty as long as you follow the manufacturer's recommended oil change interval and use the correct filter type for your engine. If your Subaru is still under warranty and you want to avoid any potential dispute, OEM filters eliminate that risk entirely.

Where to buy Subaru oil filters and typical pricing

Subaru dealerships stock OEM filters and can order any part number within one to three business days. Dealership prices are usually higher than retail, but you get the certainty of genuine parts and informed installation if you use their service department.

Online retailers like Amazon, RockAuto, and eBay carry both OEM and aftermarket Subaru filters. Prices vary, but spin-on filters typically range from $8 to $18 for aftermarket and $12 to $22 for OEM, while cartridge filters run $12 to $25. Shipping is often free on orders over a certain amount, though delivery takes three to seven days.

Local auto parts stores — AutoZone, O'Reilly, NAPA, and Advance Auto Parts — stock aftermarket filters in-store and can order OEM filters. Many offer same-day or next-day pickup. Prices at these retailers are competitive with online options, and you can inspect the filter before you buy.

Spin-on versus cartridge filter design in Subaru engines

Most modern Subaru vehicles use a spin-on filter, which is a sealed canister with a threaded base that screws directly onto the engine block. To replace it, you unscrew the old filter by hand (or with a filter wrench if it is tight), wipe the mounting surface clean, and screw the new filter on until the rubber gasket contacts the block, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Spin-on filters are straightforward to replace and produce minimal spillage if you drain the old oil first.

Some Subaru models, particularly older vehicles and certain engine configurations, use a cartridge filter housed in a plastic or metal canister on top of the engine. To replace it, you unscrew the canister cap, remove the old filter element and O-ring, clean the inside of the canister, install the new element and O-ring, and screw the cap back on. Cartridge filters require more steps and are more prone to leaks if the O-ring is not seated correctly, but they are less messy because the filter element stays inside the housing.

Your owner's manual or the parts diagram will show which type your Subaru uses. If you are unsure, look at the engine block: a cylindrical object that screws on is a spin-on; a canister with a removable cap is a cartridge.

Filter location and difficulty of replacement by Subaru model

Filter location varies across Subaru's lineup and affects how straightforward the replacement is. In most Subaru models — including the Outback, Legacy, Forester, and Crosstrek — the filter mounts on top of the engine block, making it accessible from above without lifting the vehicle. You can usually reach it by opening the hood and working from the engine bay.

In some models, the filter is mounted on the side of the engine block or underneath the vehicle near the oil pan. Side-mounted filters may require you to remove a plastic engine cover or wheel well liner. Underneath-mounted filters typically require you to lift the vehicle on a jack and remove the undercarriage splash guard. Check your owner's manual or a repair guide for your specific model to know what you are dealing with before you start.

If the filter is difficult to reach or you are not comfortable working under the vehicle, a Subaru dealership or independent shop can replace it during a routine oil change for a labor fee, usually $30 to $75 depending on location and complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any spin-on filter on my Subaru, or does it have to be the exact part number?

The filter must be designed for your specific engine size and year. Using a filter with the wrong flow rate or bypass valve setting can damage the engine. Always match the part number to your VIN or consult your owner's manual. Aftermarket filters that are cross-referenced to your vehicle are safe, but guessing based on appearance alone is risky.

How often should I replace my Subaru oil filter?

Subaru recommends replacing the oil filter every time you change the oil. For most Subaru vehicles, that is every 6,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Some newer models with synthetic oil may go longer — check your owner's manual for your vehicle's specific interval.

What happens if I install the oil filter upside down or too tight?

Installing a spin-on filter upside down prevents oil from flowing through it, which can starve the engine of lubrication and cause damage within minutes of starting. Tightening it too much can damage the gasket and cause leaks. Hand-tighten only: screw it on until the rubber gasket touches the block, then turn it three-quarter turn more. Do not use a wrench to tighten it.

Is it worth buying a Subaru OEM filter instead of an aftermarket one?

OEM filters cost a few dollars more but may provide compatibility and meet Subaru's exact specifications. Aftermarket filters from reputable brands are also reliable and cheaper. If your vehicle is under warranty and you want to avoid any potential dispute, OEM is the safer choice. Otherwise, either option works.

Where is the oil filter on my Subaru if I cannot find it?

Check your owner's manual for a diagram showing the filter location for your model. If you do not have the manual, search online for "[your year and model] oil filter location" or contact a Subaru dealership parts department with your VIN. They can tell you exactly where it is and whether you need any special tools to access it.