2016 Subaru Crosstrek Oil Capacity & Filter Reference

The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek takes 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of 0W-20 engine oil.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 5.1 US Quarts (4.8 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20
• Oil Type Specification: API SN or later, or ILSAC GF-5 or later. Subaru recommends Subaru Genuine Motor Oil, but any oil meeting these specifications is acceptable.
• Oil Filter (OEM Part Number): 15208AA15A
  • Aftermarket Cross-references:
    • Fram: PH6607
    • Wix: 57055
    • Mobil 1: M1-108

Capacity by engine option

The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek was primarily offered with one engine option in most markets, the 2.0L FB20 DOHC 16-valve horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder engine. All models equipped with this engine share the same oil capacity.

Oil change interval

The recommended oil change interval depends on your driving conditions:

• Normal Duty: Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Severe duty conditions include frequent short trips, driving in dusty conditions, towing, or extensive idling.

Drain plug torque

The oil drain plug for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek should be torqued to 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm). Always replace the crush washer with a new one during every oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The OEM crush washer part number is 803916010.

How to change the oil

Changing the oil on your 2016 Subaru Crosstrek is a straightforward process:

1. Warm up the engine slightly, then park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Locate the drain plug on the oil pan and the oil filter, accessible from underneath the vehicle.
3. Place a drain pan large enough to hold over 5 quarts of oil directly below the drain plug.
4. Using a 17mm wrench, carefully remove the drain plug, allowing the old oil to drain completely. Be cautious as the oil may be hot.
5. Once the oil has drained, replace the crush washer and reinstall the drain plug, tightening it to 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm).
6. Carefully remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench. Be prepared for a small amount of oil to spill.
7. Apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
8. Screw on the new oil filter by hand until snug, then tighten an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn with an oil filter wrench (refer to filter manufacturer instructions for specific tightening procedures).
9. Lower the vehicle and remove the oil filler cap on top of the engine.
10. Add approximately 4.5 quarts of fresh 0W-20 oil. Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
11. Check the oil level using the dipstick. Add oil in small increments (0.1 - 0.2 quarts) until the level is between the "low" and "full" marks.
12. Replace the oil filler cap. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, checking for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
13. Shut off the engine, wait a few minutes, then recheck the oil level and top off if necessary.
14. Properly dispose of the used oil and filter at an approved recycling center.

Common issues / tips

• Oil Consumption: Some Subaru FB series engines, including the 2.0L in the 2016 Crosstrek, have been known to exhibit some oil consumption. It's a good practice to check your oil level regularly (every 1,000 to 2,000 miles) between oil changes, especially if you drive in severe conditions or take long trips. This helps prevent low oil levels, which can lead to engine damage.
• CVT Fluid Check: If your Crosstrek has a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), remember that checking and changing CVT fluid is a separate maintenance item. Consult your owner's manual or a Subaru dealer for CVT fluid service intervals and procedures, as it