Peter Banks Regular oil checks are essential for maintaining the longevity and proper functioning of your vehicle. A 2014 Subaru Crosstrek is a reliable and robust car that requires regular maintenance to make sure it runs smoothly. One of the most vital aspects of car maintenance is checking the engine oil regularly. In this guide, we will go over how to check the oil level on your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek.
Importance of Oil Checks and Maintenance
Before diving into the steps involved in checking the oil level on your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek, let’s understand why oil checks are essential. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts inside the engine and keeps the engine running smoothly, preventing internal damage. Over time, oil gets dirty and breaks down, reducing its effectiveness, potentially damaging your engine and leading to expensive repairs.
Routine oil checks can help you detect issues early on, such as low oil levels or dirty oil. Checking the engine oil level regularly can prevent significant car problems and extend the engine’s life. It’s a simple and quick task that you can perform in minutes.
Equipment Needed for Checking Oil
To check the oil level in a 2014 Subaru Crosstrek, you’ll require a clean paper towel and the dipstick located in the engine bay. The dipstick should be easy to spot as it has a yellow handle and is generally located next to the engine oil filler cap.
Step-by-Step Instructions
The following steps will guide you through how to check the oil level on your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek:
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Park the car on a level surface, turn off the engine, and wait for it to cool down for a few minutes. This step is crucial to ensure accurate measurement of the oil level.
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Open the hood of your vehicle and locate the oil dipstick.
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Take out the dipstick and wipe it clean using a paper towel.
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Reinsert the dipstick back into the holder and pull it out again.
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Observe the dipstick’s oil level against the designated markers, which usually indicate "high" and "low" levels.
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If the oil level is between the two markers, your oil level is fine, and no further action is necessary.
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Suppose the oil level falls below the low marker. In that case, you should add the specified oil type, documented in your owner’s manual, until the oil level reaches the correct level. Note: Please avoid overfilling the oil!
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Once you have completed filling oil, wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert it to confirm the oil level in the car.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Checking Oil Levels
When checking the oil level on your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek, some common mistakes can lead to wrong measurements or potential damage to the engine. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
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Checking the oil level just after turning off the engine. Allow some time for the oil to settle after shutting off the engine.
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Ignoring changes in oil color or consistency. Dirty oil can indicate internal engine issues, and a change in oil color can indicate oil breakdown or contamination.
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Overfilling the engine with oil. Overfilling can cause engine damage and increase oil pressure, which can blow out seals and gaskets.
Conclusion
Checking the oil level on your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek is a straightforward and quick task that should be conducted regularly to help keep your car running smoothly. Regular oil checks can prevent expensive repairs and extend your vehicle’s life. By following these simple steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your car runs smoothly and helps avoid expensive repairs.
FAQs
How often should I check my Subaru Crosstrek’s oil level?
You should check your Subaru Crosstrek’s oil level at least once a month or before a long trip. However, it’s recommended to check it every time you fill up the gas tank or as per the service schedule.
Why does my engine oil level go down between changes?
Oil consumption between oil changes is standard, and different factors contribute to that. For instance, engine oil burning, leakages in oil seals, or oil viscosity can impact the engine oil level between oil changes.
