Where is the oil drain plug on a Subaru Forester?
Changing the oil in your Subaru Forester is a crucial part of routine maintenance that ensures your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. One of the first steps in this process is locating the oil drain plug. In this article, we’ll guide you through where to find the oil drain plug on a Subaru Forester and provide some helpful tips for a successful oil change.
Locating the Oil Drain Plug
The oil drain plug on a Subaru Forester is located on the underside of the engine oil pan. This is the lowest point of the engine, designed to allow oil to drain completely during an oil change. Here’s how you can find it:
- First, ensure your Subaru Forester is parked on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake for safety.
- Slide under the front of the vehicle or use a jack and jack stands to lift the car for better access. Always follow proper safety procedures when lifting a vehicle.
- Look for the engine oil pan, which is a metal pan located at the bottom of the engine. It’s typically rectangular in shape.
- The oil drain plug is a bolt located at the lowest point of the oil pan. It is usually a hexagonal bolt and may have a washer attached to it.
Once you’ve located the oil drain plug, you’re ready to proceed with draining the oil. Make sure you have an oil catch pan ready to collect the used oil.
Tips for a Successful Oil Change
To make your oil change process smoother, keep these tips in mind:
- Warm up the engine for a few minutes before starting. Warm oil flows more easily, making it easier to drain.
- Use the correct size wrench or socket to avoid stripping the drain plug.
- Inspect the drain plug washer and replace it if it’s worn or damaged. A faulty washer can lead to oil leaks.
- Dispose of the used oil responsibly by taking it to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil.
By following these tips, you can ensure a clean and efficient oil change process while maintaining the health of your Subaru Forester’s engine.
Conclusion
Locating the oil drain plug on your Subaru Forester is a straightforward task once you know where to look. It’s positioned on the underside of the engine oil pan, making it easy to access for routine oil changes. Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your vehicle in top condition, so don’t hesitate to tackle this maintenance task or consult a professional if needed. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re always here to help with your car maintenance needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all cars have the same size oil drain plug?
Different oil drain plugs and Gaskets are required for different vehicles.
Where is the drain plug located?
Look under your car for the oil drain plug location. It is often rectangular and has a drain plug at the bottom. This plug drains the oil when it needs to be changed. Knowing where the oil pan is located allows you to check it when you do your routine maintenance.
What socket is needed for an oil change?
Most common sizes you need are 7, 8, 10, 12, 18 and 19. Well I did a full PDI (obviously didn't change fluid yet), and didn't need more than 16. You need an 18 for the spark plug and the 19 for the oil. Pretty much everything else can use the smaller sockets.
Where is the oil drain on a Subaru Forester?
Up. Take the drain plug out you're going to want to make sure you have a drain bucket underneath. We spilled a lot of fluid when we pulled that up I didn't realize how short the drain plug was.
Where can I find an oil plug?
The oil drain plug is at the bottom of the oil pan so that it can be opened to drain out the old oil.
Can you change Subaru oil yourself?
You can definitely change the oil yourself. It is the best way to be sure you have the right stuff going in your car. I have been doing this since I got my Outback, 110k miles ago.
What size is the oil drain plug on a Subaru Forester?
16X17
Plug 16X17. Engine Oil Drain Plug. Depending on the production date of your vehicle, you may need a different part.
Where is my drain located?
Most of the time, the sewer line will be sticking out of the ground and easy to spot; however, overgrown landscaping or objects close to the house could hide the cap. Or, you could have a buried sewer cleanout. Try searching on the side of the home that is closest to the main floor bathroom.
How to find oil drain plug size?
Measure Diameter
Measure the width of the plug at the widest part of the threads. If your plug measures 12mm you will need to start looking at plugs in the size range of “M12 x 1.25 to M12 x 1.75″. The “M12” refers to the diameter you measure from the widest part of the threads on your OEM sump plug.
What size socket to remove oil pan plug?
3/8-inch
Place a 3/8-inch (0.9 centimeters) socket in the socket wrench, fit it over the drain plug's nut and turn it counterclockwise. The oil drain plug should open easily, draining the used oil from the engine. Make sure to place a bucket and some newspaper under the car's engine to catch all the draining oil.
