Joseph Weaver If you own a 2017 Subaru Legacy, changing the oil is one maintenance task you can do on your own to ensure that your car runs smoothly. Regular oil changes can help prevent expensive repairs and keep your engine in excellent condition. In this article, we’ll explore the steps for changing oil on your Subaru Legacy and everything you need to know to do so successfully.
Why Changing Oil is Important for Your 2017 Subaru Legacy?
Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine, lubricating various parts to reduce friction and prevent wear and tear. Over time, automotive oils break down, lose their effectiveness and become contaminated with dirt and debris from daily driving. Changing the oil regularly keeps the engine running at optimal levels, delivers better fuel efficiency and extends the life of your car.
Tools Required for Changing Oil on a 2017 Subaru Legacy
Before you start changing oil on your 2017 Subaru Legacy, you’ll need a few tools, including:
- Drain pan
- Socket wrench and socket set
- Oil filter wrench
- Funnel
- New oil filter and engine oil
Make sure you have all the required tools before you begin the oil change process.
Choosing the Right Type of Oil
Choosing the right type of engine oil is vital to the performance of your 2017 Subaru Legacy. Subaru recommends using synthetic oil with a viscosity of 0W-20 to ensure the best protection and performance of your engine. While purchasing the oil, make sure that you buy enough oil as per the specifications of your car’s engine. Keep in mind that your car takes about five quarts of engine oil.
Steps for Changing Oil on a 2017 Subaru Legacy
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Take the car for a drive: Before changing the oil, take your car for a short drive to warm up the engine, helping to get the oil flowing and making it easier to drain.
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Locate the oil filter and drain plug: Using a socket wrench, locate the drain plug and the oil filter under the car. You may need to jack up the car to locate these parts.
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Drain the oil: Place the oil drain pan beneath the drain plug and loosen the plug using the socket wrench. Once the oil has drained out, reattach the drain plug.
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Replace the oil filter: Using an oil filter wrench, remove the old filter and replace it with a new one. Install the new filter by turning it clockwise by hand. Do not use a wrench to tighten the oil filter.
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Add the new oil: Using a funnel, slowly pour the new engine oil into the opening where the oil cap is usually located. Ensure the oil level is within the correct range. You can check the oil level using a dipstick.
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Check oil level: After adding the oil, let it settle for a minute before checking the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if needed.
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Start the engine: Start your 2017 Subaru Legacy and let it run for a few minutes while you check for any oil leaks, and ensure that the oil pressure warning light is off.
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Dispose of the used oil: Drain the old engine oil into a container and take it to a recycling center for proper disposal.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed the oil on your 2017 Subaru Legacy.
Tips for a Successful Oil Change
- Follow the recommended oil change interval of every 6,000 miles or six months.
- Wear gloves to prevent skin irritation from the oil.
- Always use a high-quality oil filter and engine oil that meets the designed specifications.
- Change the oil in a clean and dry area to avoid contamination of the new oil.
- Check for oil leaks and proper oil pressure before driving the car.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How often should I change the oil in a 2017 Subaru Legacy?
A. Subaru recommends changing the engine oil in a 2017 Subaru Legacy every 6,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first.
Q. Can I use conventional engine oil in my 2017 Subaru Legacy?
A. Subaru recommends using synthetic oil with a viscosity of 0W-20 to ensure optimal engine performance and protection.
Q. Why is it crucial to change the oil filter when changing the oil?
A. The oil filter is responsible for removing contaminants from the oil as it circulates through the engine. Over time, the filter can become clogged with dirt and debris, making it less effective. Changing the oil filter during an oil change ensures that your engine receives clean oil and helps to extend the life of your engine.
Conclusion
Changing oil on your 2017 Subaru Legacy is vital to the maintenance of your car; it’s a simple task that can save you money in the long run. Following the steps mentioned in this article will help ensure that your car runs smoothly, delivers better fuel efficiency, and lasts longer. Remember to always follow the recommended oil change interval and use high-quality engine oil and oil filters. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to changing the oil like a pro on your 2017 Subaru Legacy.
