Alton Brobst If you are the proud owner of a 2014 Subaru Legacy, you know that it makes for a great ride, all year round. However, to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently, you need to ensure that it is properly maintained – starting with its oil.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the importance of oil in a 2014 Subaru Legacy, the types of oil suitable for it, how often it should be changed, its environmental impact and most importantly, how to check and add oil to your car. By the end of this article, you will be equipped to choose the best oil for your Subaru Legacy and feel confident about its maintenance.
The Importance of Regularly Changing Oil in a 2014 Subaru Legacy
Oil acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between the moving parts of your car’s engine. Without it, your car’s engine would seize up and stalling. Moreover, keeping up with regular oil change is integral in extending the engine’s lifespan, improving fuel economy, and maintaining optimal performance.
Types of Oil Suitable for a 2014 Subaru Legacy
Subaru recommends using synthetic oil for the 2014 Subaru Legacy. Synthetic oil has fewer impurities, allowing it to perform better in extreme temperatures and protecting the engine better over long intervals of usage. Other alternative oils include conventional oil, synthetic blends, and high mileage oils.
Conventional oil
Conventional oil is the cheapest oil type on the market but comes at the cost of reduced performance and needing to be replaced more frequently.
Synthetic blends
Synthetic blends mix conventional and synthetic oils. They have better performance than conventional oil and come at an affordable price.
High Mileage oil
High mileage oil is suitable for cars with over 75,000 miles. It has more additives to compensate for engine wear and tear.
Synthetic oil
Synthetic oil can last longer and perform better in extreme temperatures and is Subaru’s first choice in the 2014 Subaru Legacy. However, it comes with a higher price tag compared to conventional oil, and you may have to balance the cost in relation to the difference in performance.
Characteristics of Different Types of Oil
Different types of oil have added supplements that can have an impact on your car’s overall performance. For instance, synthetic oil, being the most expensive, encourages the engine’s efficiency, decreases the engine’s temperature during extreme weather and improves fuel economy than the rest.
On the other hand, Conventional oil’s lower price tag and short lifespan may make it feel like a good deal in the moment, but it won’t be long before you notice a drag in car’s performance.
Interval for Oil Change
According to Subaru’s recommendations, the 2014 Subaru Legacy should have its oil changed every 6,000 miles, whereas high mileage oils should be changed every 3,000 miles.
However, it is best to keep in mind that there may be unique cases to your car that would require you to take it to an expert.
Environmental Impact of Oil Usage in Cars
Oil products have a devastating impact on the environment. Synthetic oil is environmentally friendly, but at the same time, its manufacturer and disposal process adversely affect the environment. On the other hand, conventional oil can have adverse effects due to its pollutants in the air, water, and soil.
Tips for Checking Oil and Adding Oil to the Car
Checking your car’s oil and adding oil to it is an easy process. You should routinely check your oil levels to avoid a reduction in engine life, accelerated wear, and tear of engine parts. Keep an eye on the oil’s color to make sure it’s not too dirty or low, and change it when necessary.
To check your oil levels:
- Make sure your engine is off and has cooled down.
- Open the hood of your car and locate the oil dipstick. Usually distinguished by a yellow handle or color.
- Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth
- Replace the dipstick back in the engine and pull out to measure the level of oil.
To add oil to your engine:
- Get the recommended oil for your vehicle.
- Remove the oil filler cap on top of the engine.
- Use a funnel to pour the oil into the engine.
- Verify the oil level using the dipstick, recommended oil volume, and oil levels in the car manual, then place the oil filler cap back in position.
FAQ
Q. Can I use any oil in my 2014 Subaru Legacy?
A. No, not all oils are suitable for your 2014 Subaru Legacy. It is best to use oils recommended by the manufacturer, like synthetic, conventional, synthetic blend, and high mileage oils.
Q. Can I drive with low oil?
A. No, low oil levels can have significant engine effects like accelerated wearing and tearing of engine parts.
Q. What oil type is best for my 2014 Subaru Legacy?
A. Synthetic oil is Subaru’s recommended oil for the 2014 Subaru Legacy.
Q. Is changing oil filter necessary?
A. Yes, changing oil filters in every oil change is crucial in removing solid particles and contaminants that can accumulate in the oil and cause engine damage.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have learned all about oil change maintenance and what kind of oil is suitable for your 2014 Subaru Legacy engine. By choosing only the necessary oil for your car, you will extend its lifespan, improve its fuel efficiency, and make a significant contribution to the environment.
When changing your car’s oil, it’s always best to consult a professional to ensure that you are using the right filter and oil type for your car. With this guide, you can make a well-informed decision about your car’s maintenance and keep it running efficiently for the years to come.
