How much oil does a Subaru Brat take?
The oil capacity of a Subaru Brat depends on the engine and year, but most Brats take around 4 quarts of oil, with slight differences between the 1.6L and 1.8L engines. Below is a breakdown by engine type and practical guidance for topping up.
Oil capacity by engine type
The Brat used two main engine families across its production run. Here are the typical capacities for those engines, noting whether the figure includes the oil filter. Always confirm with the service manual or a technician for your specific VIN.
1.6-liter EA61/EA71 engine (early Brat)
Typical oil fill volumes focus on the 4-quart range, with minor variation depending on whether a filter is included in the change.
- With oil filter: about 4.0 quarts (approximately 3.8 liters)
- Without oil filter: roughly 3.0–3.5 quarts (2.8–3.3 liters)
Bottom line for this engine variant: plan on around four quarts during a standard oil change, and adjust slightly if you have an aftermarket filter or a nonstandard oil pan.
1.8-liter EA82 engine (later Brat)
The larger 1.8-liter variant generally calls for a bit more oil, commonly around 4.5 quarts with the filter in place.
- With oil filter: about 4.5 quarts (roughly 4.3 liters)
- Without oil filter: around 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters)
Important note: Depending on year and market, some vehicles may list slightly different figures; always verify using the dipstick after filling.
Practical steps for oil changes
To ensure you use the right amount and the correct viscosity, follow these steps during a change. The Brat's older design benefits from careful measurement and a thorough dipstick check.
- Prepare the right oil grade for your climate and engine year (commonly 5W-30 or 10W-40 for older Subarus).
- Drain, replace the filter, and refill with the lower end of the capacity first.
- Run the engine briefly, then stop and check the level with the dipstick; top up in small increments to reach the full mark.
Closing thought: With older Subarus, a precise fill helps protect lifters and seals and maintains proper oil pressure as the engine ages.
Summary
In short, a Subaru Brat generally takes about 4 quarts of engine oil, with the exact amount depending on whether it uses the 1.6L EA61/EA71 engine or the 1.8L EA82 engine. Use the dipstick to confirm and adjust as needed, and consult your owner’s manual for the precise figure for your VIN and market.
