Hey guys! Changing your own oil on your Subaru Legacy might seem intimidating, but trust me, it's totally doable and can save you some serious cash. Plus, there's a certain satisfaction that comes with knowing you're taking good care of your ride. This guide will walk you through each step, making the process smooth and straightforward. Let's dive in!

Gather Your Supplies

Before you even think about touching your Subaru Legacy, make sure you've got all the necessary supplies. Running to the store mid-oil change is a pain, trust me, I've been there! Here’s a comprehensive list to get you started:

• New Oil Filter: Make sure you get the correct oil filter for your specific Subaru Legacy model and year. Check your owner's manual or a reliable auto parts store to confirm. Using the right filter is crucial for proper oil filtration and engine health. Don't skimp on this!
• New Engine Oil: Again, refer to your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and quantity. Subaru engines often use synthetic or semi-synthetic oil, so be sure to get the right stuff. The amount you need typically ranges from 4.5 to 5.5 quarts, but double-check to be sure. Using the correct oil viscosity is vital for optimal engine performance and longevity.
• Wrench Set: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug and potentially the oil filter (if you don't have an oil filter wrench). Make sure you have the correct size socket for your drain plug to avoid stripping it. A socket wrench set with various sizes is a great investment for any DIY car enthusiast.
• Oil Filter Wrench: This tool makes removing the old oil filter much easier. There are several types available, so choose one that fits your oil filter. An oil filter wrench will save you a lot of frustration and knuckle-busting.
• Drain Pan: A pan to catch the old oil as it drains. Make sure it's large enough to hold all the oil from your engine (at least 6 quarts). Using a drain pan prevents a messy spill and makes disposal easier.
• Funnel: For pouring the new oil into the engine without making a mess. A funnel ensures that you get all the new oil into the engine without any spills.
• Gloves: To keep your hands clean. Mechanic gloves protect your hands from dirt, grime, and chemicals.
• Rags or Shop Towels: For wiping up any spills. Having plenty of rags or shop towels on hand is essential for a clean and efficient oil change.
• Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): To safely lift your car and provide access to the drain plug and oil filter. Safety is paramount! Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands.
• Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling while it's lifted. Wheel chocks add an extra layer of safety when working under your car.
• Torque Wrench: To tighten the drain plug to the correct torque specification. Using a torque wrench prevents overtightening and damaging the drain plug or oil pan.

Having everything prepared beforehand will make the entire process much smoother and faster. Trust me, organization is key!

Prepare Your Subaru Legacy

Okay, now that you've gathered all your supplies, let's get your Subaru Legacy ready for its oil change. This involves a few crucial steps to ensure safety and make the process easier:

1. Warm Up the Engine: Start your car and let it run for a few minutes (2-3 minutes is usually sufficient). This warms up the oil, making it flow more easily and carry away more contaminants when you drain it. However, be careful not to overheat the engine, as hot oil can be dangerous. Warming the engine slightly helps the oil drain more completely.
2. Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your car is parked on a level surface to ensure accurate oil drainage. This is important for getting as much of the old oil out as possible. A level surface ensures that the oil drains evenly and completely.
3. Engage the Parking Brake: Engage the parking brake firmly to prevent the car from rolling. This is a critical safety precaution. Always engage the parking brake before lifting your car.
4. Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to provide an extra layer of security. Wheel chocks prevent accidental rolling while you're working.
5. Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front of your Subaru Legacy. Consult your owner's manual for the correct jacking points. Always use the designated jacking points to avoid damaging the car's frame or undercarriage.
6. Secure with Jack Stands: Once the car is lifted to the desired height, place jack stands securely under the frame rails. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Jack stands are essential for safety.

Safety First! Double-check that the car is stable on the jack stands before proceeding. It's always better to be overly cautious when working under a vehicle.

Drain the Old Oil

Alright, with your Subaru Legacy safely lifted and secured, it's time to drain the old, dirty oil. This is where things can get a little messy, so be prepared!

1. Locate the Oil Drain Plug: The oil drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the oil pan. Refer to your owner's manual if you're unsure of its exact location. Knowing the exact location of the drain plug will save you time and prevent confusion.
2. Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug. Make sure it's positioned to catch the oil as it flows out. Proper placement of the drain pan is crucial for avoiding spills.
3. Loosen the Drain Plug: Use the correct size wrench or socket to loosen the drain plug. Be careful not to strip the plug by using the wrong size or applying too much force. Use the correct size wrench to avoid damaging the drain plug.
4. Remove the Drain Plug: Once the drain plug is loosened, carefully remove it by hand. Be prepared for the oil to start flowing out quickly. Hot oil can cause burns, so be careful when removing the drain plug.
5. Allow the Oil to Drain Completely: Let the oil drain completely from the engine. This may take 15-20 minutes. You can use this time to inspect the drain plug and prepare the new oil filter. Allowing the oil to drain completely ensures that you remove as much of the old, contaminated oil as possible.
6. Inspect the Drain Plug: Check the drain plug for any damage or wear. If the threads are damaged, replace the drain plug with a new one. Consider replacing the drain plug washer as well. A damaged drain plug can leak, leading to oil loss and potential engine damage.

While the oil is draining, it's a good time to move on to the next step: replacing the oil filter.

Replace the Oil Filter

The oil filter is a crucial component that removes contaminants from your engine oil. Replacing it regularly ensures that your engine is running with clean oil. Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate the Oil Filter: The oil filter location can vary depending on the Subaru Legacy model year. It's usually located on the engine block, near the front or side. Consult your owner's manual if you're unsure. Identifying the oil filter's location is the first step in replacing it.
2. Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan underneath the oil filter to catch any oil that spills when you remove the old filter. Changing the oil filter can be messy, so be prepared for some spillage.
3. Loosen the Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old oil filter. You may need to apply some force to break it free. An oil filter wrench provides the necessary grip to remove a tightly secured oil filter.
4. Remove the Oil Filter: Once the filter is loose, carefully unscrew it by hand. Be prepared for some oil to spill out. Be careful when removing the oil filter, as it will likely contain hot oil.
5. Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh engine oil. This helps create a good seal and prevents the gasket from sticking. Lubricating the gasket ensures a proper seal and prevents leaks.
6. Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block. Then, tighten it another ¾ to 1 full turn. Do not overtighten the oil filter, as this can damage the gasket or the filter itself.

With the new oil filter securely in place, you're ready to move on to the final step: adding the new oil.

Add New Oil

You're almost there! Now it's time to replenish your Subaru Legacy with fresh, clean oil. This is the most rewarding part of the process, knowing you're giving your engine the lifeblood it needs.

1. Replace the Drain Plug: After the old oil has completely drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer if necessary. Tighten the drain plug by hand until it's snug. A new crush washer ensures a tight seal and prevents leaks.
2. Torque the Drain Plug: Use a torque wrench to tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque. This is crucial to prevent overtightening and damaging the oil pan. Using a torque wrench ensures that the drain plug is tightened to the correct specification.
3. Locate the Oil Fill Cap: The oil fill cap is usually located on the top of the engine. It's often marked with an oil can symbol. The oil fill cap is where you add new oil to the engine.
4. Remove the Oil Fill Cap: Unscrew and remove the oil fill cap. Removing the oil fill cap allows you to pour in the new oil.
5. Add New Oil: Using a funnel, carefully pour the correct amount of new oil into the engine. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended oil capacity. Adding the correct amount of oil is crucial for proper engine lubrication.
6. Check the Oil Level: After adding the oil, wait a few minutes for it to settle. Then, check the oil level using the dipstick. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. Checking the oil level ensures that you have added the correct amount of oil.
7. Replace the Oil Fill Cap: Screw the oil fill cap back on tightly. Replacing the oil fill cap prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine.

Final Checks and Cleanup

Congratulations! You've successfully changed the oil in your Subaru Legacy. But before you pat yourself on the back, there are a few final checks and cleanup tasks to complete:

1. Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Checking for leaks is essential to ensure that the oil change was performed correctly.
2. Check the Oil Level Again: After running the engine, turn it off and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, check the oil level again using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to bring it to the correct level. Checking the oil level after running the engine ensures that the oil has circulated properly.
3. Reset the Oil Life Monitor: If your Subaru Legacy has an oil life monitor, reset it according to the instructions in your owner's manual. Resetting the oil life monitor reminds you when it's time for your next oil change.
4. Dispose of the Old Oil Properly: Take the used oil to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal. Disposing of used oil properly protects the environment.
5. Clean Up: Clean up any spills and dispose of used rags and gloves. Cleaning up ensures a safe and tidy work area.

And that's it! You've successfully changed the oil in your Subaru Legacy. Give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy the peace of mind knowing you've taken good care of your car. Happy driving!