Do subarus need a special oil filter?
Subarus generally do not require a proprietary or unusual oil filter. They use standard spin-on filters or cartridge-style filters that fit the engine family, and you can choose either an OEM Subaru filter or a high-quality aftermarket option that meets the engine’s specifications.
Overview of Subaru oil filter types
Subaru engines have evolved between generations, with some using traditional spin-on oil filters and others adopting cartridge-style filters inside a housing. The key is to match the filter type to your specific engine and model year to ensure proper oil flow and filtration.
- Spin-on oil filters: These are the conventional, full-canister filters that screw onto a threaded mount on the engine. They’re common on many older Subaru engines and many current non-turbo configurations.
- Cartridge-style filters: Some newer Subaru engines use a cartridge element inside a housing, where only the filter element is replaced at maintenance rather than the entire canister.
- OEM vs aftermarket: You can use Subaru's OEM filters or reputable aftermarket options, as long as they are compatible with your engine’s filter type and meet the required oil specifications (such as grade and API/ILSAC standards).
In practice, the right choice depends on your model year and engine code. Always verify the exact filter type for your vehicle before purchasing to ensure proper fitment and filtration performance.
How to determine which filter your Subaru uses
To identify the correct oil filter for your Subaru, follow these steps:
- Check the owner's manual or service manual for the filter type specified for your model and year.
- Note the engine code (for example, EJ, FA, or FB) and the model year, as filter designs can change between families.
- Inspect the current filter to determine whether it is a spin-on canister or a cartridge inside a housing.
- Cross-reference the engine code and filter type with Subaru’s official parts catalog or a trusted parts retailer to confirm compatible filter options.
- When shopping, ensure the product listing clearly states Subaru compatibility and lists the correct filter type for your engine.
With the correct filter type identified, you can choose either an OEM Subaru filter or a high-quality aftermarket option that matches the engine’s specifications and the recommended oil grade for your climate and driving conditions.
Additional considerations
If your Subaru uses a cartridge-style filter, plan for the cartridge replacement process, which may involve removing the housing and replacing the internal element. If you have a spin-on filter, you’ll replace the entire canister. Regardless of type, always use the correct oil grade for your model (commonly 0W-20 or 5W-30 in many modern Subarus) and follow torque guidelines and gasket replacement recommendations from the manual.
Summary
In short, Subarus do not require a special, proprietary oil filter beyond ensuring you use the correct type for your engine. Whether you have a traditional spin-on or a cartridge-style filter, the important factors are choosing a compatible filter (OEM or trusted aftermarket), matching the engine’s oil specifications, and following the service procedures outlined by Subaru for your model year.
