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How big is my gas tank on my Subaru?

It depends on your Subaru's model and year, but most Subarus have tanks in the 13–19 gallon range. To know your exact size, check your owner's manual or the fuel-door placard for the official specification.


Understanding the exact capacity


Subaru designs fuel tank sizes to match body style, drivetrain, and market requirements. While many models share similar ranges, even within a model line the capacity can vary by year and trim. For the exact figure that applies to your car, consult official documentation or the vehicle’s spec sheet for your exact year and trim.


Why model year and trim matter


Between generations and trims, manufacturers may adjust tank geometry or reserve space, which can alter capacity by a small amount. Always confirm the precise figure using the specific year/model of your Subaru.


How to find the exact tank size


Use these steps to verify the exact capacity for your vehicle and avoid relying on approximate figures.



  • Check the owner's manual: The specifications or technical data section usually lists the fuel tank capacity in gallons and liters.

  • Look at the door jamb placard or fuel filler door: Some Subaru vehicles display "Fuel tank capacity" on a label near the driver's door edge or inside the fuel door area.

  • Visit Subaru's official site or the vehicle's spec sheet: Enter your year/model to pull the exact capacity from the manufacturer.

  • Call a dealer or Subaru customer service if you are unsure: They can pull the correct specification from the VIN or official databases.


Knowing the exact tank size helps with trip planning and calculating expected range more accurately. Always rely on official sources for the definitive figure.


Typical tank sizes for common Subaru models


Below are representative capacity figures for popular Subaru models, shown as approximate values. They can vary by trim and year, so confirm with official specs.



  • Crosstrek: about 16.6 gallons (63 L)

  • Forester: about 16.9 gallons (64 L)

  • Outback: about 18.5 gallons (70 L)

  • Ascent: about 19.3 gallons (73 L)

  • Legacy: about 16.6 gallons (63 L)

  • WRX: about 15.9 gallons (60 L)

  • BRZ: about 13.2 gallons (50 L)


These figures are approximate and can vary by year and trim. For exact values, verify with the official Subaru specifications for your specific vehicle.


Practical tips for planning around fuel range


To plan trips effectively and minimize unnecessary fuel stops, consider how tank size translates to real-world range. The fuel gauge, EPA-rated range, and driving conditions all influence how far you can go on a tank.


To help you plan fueling stops and maximize efficiency, keep these habits in mind.



  • Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure; under-inflation hurts fuel economy.

  • Drive smoothly with gradual acceleration and deceleration to improve mpg.

  • Use cruise control on highways to maintain steady speeds when appropriate.

  • Minimize roof load and avoid unnecessary weight to reduce drag and consumption.

  • Plan fueling stops when you’re around a quarter tank to avoid running into low-fuel situations.


Adopting these practices can help you maximize range between fill-ups across different Subaru models.


Summary


Gas tank sizes in Subarus vary by model and year, typically spanning from about 13 to 19 gallons. For your precise figure, consult the owner's manual, the vehicle’s official spec sheet for your year and trim, or the door jamb/fuel door placard. Use the official capacity in combination with real-world fuel economy data to estimate range, and plan trips accordingly.

How can I tell what size fuel tank I have?


You can find your fuel tank size by checking the owner's manual, which lists the capacity in the "Specifications" or "Capacities" section. Alternatively, look for a sticker inside the fuel door, or a sticker on the vehicle itself, or check the manufacturer's website for your specific model. 
Where to find your fuel tank size

  • Owner's Manual: This is the most reliable source. Look for a "Specifications" or "Capacities" section for your fuel tank's size in gallons or liters. 
  • Sticker on the vehicle: Check for a sticker with vehicle specifications, which might include the fuel tank capacity. This could be inside the fuel door. 
  • Manufacturer's website: Many manufacturers have a support or "Owner's Resources" section where you can find specifications for your exact model. 
  • Dealership: Contact a dealership for information on your specific vehicle. 
  • Fill it up: Another method is to reset your trip odometer and fill the tank from empty. The number of gallons or liters on the pump will be the tank's capacity. 



How big is the gas tank on a 2018 Subaru Outback?


The 2018 Subaru Outback has a fuel tank capacity of 18.5 U.S. gallons across all its engine configurations. For those in Canada, the capacity is 70 liters, which is about 18.5 U.S. gallons. 

  • Fuel tank capacity: 18.5 U.S. gallons (or 70 liters for Canadian models) 
  • Fuel type: The Outback runs on regular unleaded fuel. 



How big is the gas tank on a Subaru?


The fuel tank size for most Subaru models is typically between 16.6 and 18.5 gallons, but this can vary by model and trim. For example, many Outback and Legacy models have an 18.5-gallon tank, while the Forester and gasoline-powered Crosstrek models have a 16.6-gallon tank. Hybrid versions of some models may have smaller tanks. 

  • Outback and Legacy: Most recent models have an 18.5-gallon fuel tank. 
  • Forester: The 2023 Subaru Forester has a 16.6-gallon fuel tank. 
  • Crosstrek: Gasoline-powered versions of the 2023 Crosstrek have a 16.6-gallon tank, while the hybrid has a 13.2-gallon tank. 
  • Ascent: Some sources indicate the Ascent has a tank size around 19.2 to 19.3 gallons, though it can be tricky to fill completely. 



How big is the gas tank on a 2014 Subaru Outback?


The 2014 Subaru Outback has a fuel tank capacity of 18.5 gallons, which is consistent across all engine types and trims for that model year. 

  • Fuel tank size: 18.5 US gallons
  • Fuel type: Regular gasoline


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.