How much oil does a 2.5 L Subaru take?
Most 2.5-liter Subarus need about 4.2 to 4.5 quarts of engine oil when performing a full oil change with a new filter. The exact amount depends on the engine family and year, so check the owner’s manual or the under-hood oil-cap sticker and verify the level with the dipstick after filling.
Oil capacity by engine family
This section summarizes the typical oil capacities for Subaru’s two main 2.5-liter boxer engine families used in recent models. Variations exist by model year and specific engine code, so use the manual for precision.
- EJ25 2.5L (older generation, common in late 1990s to around 2010s models): about 4.2 quarts (approximately 4.0 L) with a new filter.
- FA/FB25 2.5L (modern 2.5L engines used from the early 2010s onward): about 4.4–4.5 quarts (approximately 4.2–4.3 L) with a new filter.
Concluding: For the majority of 2.5L Subarus, plan for roughly 4.2 to 4.5 quarts when changing oil with a filter. Always verify the exact figure for your model and year and confirm with the dipstick after filling.
How to check and top up oil safely
To ensure you add the correct amount and avoid overfilling, follow these steps.
- Park on level ground and run the engine briefly, then turn it off and wait 5–10 minutes for the oil to settle.
- Open the hood and locate the dipstick; wipe it clean, reinsert, then pull it out to check the level.
- If the level is below the MIN mark, add oil in small increments (about a half-quart) and recheck.
- Continue until the dipstick shows level between the MIN and MAX marks, ideally near the FULL line when the engine is warm.
- Avoid overfilling; excessive oil can cause increased pressure and potential damage.
Concluding: After topping up, recheck the level with the engine warmed up and running, ensuring it sits at the full mark at operating temperature.
Model-year caveats
Oil capacity can vary by engine code and model. Some unusual configurations or installations (such as engines with oil coolers or specific aftermarket setups) may have slightly different requirements. When in doubt, consult the exact specification for your VIN in the owner's manual or a Subaru service bulletin.
Summary
In practical terms, most Subaru 2.5-liter engines require about 4.2 to 4.5 quarts of oil for a full change with a new filter. The precise capacity depends on whether the engine is from the EJ25 family or the newer FA/FB25 lineup, so always verify with the official manual and confirm the level on the dipstick after filling.
How much oil does a 2.5 L Subaru engine take?
2.5L 4-cylinder engine (FB25):
Recommended oil: 0W-20 synthetic oil. Oil capacity: Approximately 5.1 quarts (with filter)
How much oil does a 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5 L 4 cylinder take?
Engine Oil
5.1 quarts (with filter).
How much oil does a 2.5 L 4 cylinder engine take?
Capacities and Specifications - 2.5L
| Item | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine oil fill capacity including the oil filter. | 5 L (1.1 gal) |
| Engine oil fill capacity excluding the oil filter. | 4.6 L (1.0 gal) |
| Engine coolant fill capacity. | 6.8 L (1.5 gal) |
| Fuel tank fill capacity. | 60 L (13.2 gal) |
How much oil does a 2012 Subaru Outback 2.5 take?
The oil capacity for a 2012 Subaru Outback 2.5L engine is approximately 4.4 quarts (4.2 liters) when replacing the filter. It is recommended to use 0W-20 synthetic oil for this engine.
- Capacity: 4.4 quarts (with filter change)
- Recommended Oil: 0W-20 synthetic
- Important: Always check the dipstick after refilling to ensure the correct level, as some sources suggest slightly different capacities or have noted the factory fill level may vary.
