Alton Brobst Are you worried about what to do when your Subaru’s oil light comes on? It can be a daunting experience, especially if you don’t know what it means or what to do next. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the Subaru oil light, how much oil is left when it comes on, and what to do next. We’ll also go over the potential risks involved and how to avoid them.
Key Takeaways
- The Subaru oil light indicates that the engine oil level is low.
- The amount of oil left when the light comes on depends on how much oil was in the engine to start with.
- Driving with the oil light on can cause severe engine damage and should be avoided.
- If the oil light comes on, pull over safely and check the oil level immediately.
- Adding oil to the engine is the first step to take when the oil light comes on.
What Does the Subaru Oil Light Mean?
The Subaru oil light is a warning indicator that alerts you when the engine oil level is low. It is a red oil can icon that will appear on your dashboard display. This warning indicates that it’s time to add oil to your engine.
How Much Oil is Left When the Subaru Light Comes On?
The answer to this question varies depending on how much oil was in the engine to start with. However, it’s safe to assume that when the oil light comes on, you have about one quart or less of oil left in your engine. This is because the oil light is designed to come on when the oil level is at a critically low level.
If you continue driving with the oil light on, the oil level will continue to drop, and your engine will start to experience problems. It’s essential to take immediate action when the oil light comes on to avoid severe engine damage.
Risks Involved When the Oil Light Comes On
Driving with the oil light on can cause severe engine damage. When the oil level is low, it can cause the engine to overheat and fail. This can lead to costly repairs or even engine replacement.
It’s important to understand that the engine oil plays a crucial role in keeping your engine running smoothly. It lubricates the moving parts of your engine, reduces friction, and helps to remove heat from the engine.
When the oil level is low, the engine won’t receive the necessary lubrication, which can cause the metal parts to rub against each other. This can cause severe damage to the engine and lead to costly repairs.
What to Do When the Subaru Oil Light Comes On
If the Subaru oil light comes on, it’s important to take immediate action. Here are the steps you should take:
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Pull over safely: When the oil light comes on, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible.
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Check the oil level: Once you’ve pulled over, turn off the engine, and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Then, locate the dipstick, which is usually located near the oil filler cap. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, reinsert it, and then pull it out again. Check the oil level on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, add oil to the engine.
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Add oil to the engine: If the oil level is low, add oil to the engine. Refer to your Subaru owner’s manual to determine the proper type of oil and how much to add. Be sure not to overfill the engine.
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Check for leaks: If the oil level is correct, check for any leaks. Look for oil under the car or around the engine. If you notice any leaks, take your car to a professional mechanic immediately.
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Restart the engine: Once you’ve added oil or checked for leaks, start the engine and check to see if the oil light has turned off. If the light is still on, turn off the engine and repeat the process.
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Schedule an appointment with a mechanic: If the oil light remains on, even after adding oil, it’s essential to take your car to a professional mechanic. There may be an underlying issue with your engine that needs to be addressed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I drive my Subaru with the oil light on?
A: No, you should not drive your Subaru with the oil light on. This warning indicates that your engine oil level is low, which can cause severe engine damage if left unchecked.
Q: How often should I check my Subaru’s oil level?
A: It’s recommended to check your Subaru’s oil level at least once a month or before long road trips. Regular oil changes can help keep your engine running smoothly and reduce the risk of low oil levels.
Q: What type of oil should I use in my Subaru?
A: Refer to your Subaru owner’s manual to determine the proper type of oil for your engine. Subaru recommends using synthetic oil in their vehicles.
Conclusion
The Subaru oil light is a warning indicator that alerts you when the engine oil level is low. When the oil light comes on, it’s essential to take immediate action and add oil to your engine to avoid severe engine damage. Driving with the oil light on can cause costly repairs or even engine replacement. Regular maintenance and oil changes can help keep your engine running smoothly and reduce the risk of low oil levels.
