2019 Subaru Forester Oil Capacity & Filter Specs

The 2019 Subaru Forester takes 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of 0W-20 fully synthetic oil when replacing both the oil and the oil filter.

As an ASE-certified master technician, I always see these 5th-generation Foresters rolling into the shop. Subaru redesigned the 2.5L Boxer engine for this year, adding direct injection, but the oil change process remains incredibly DIY-friendly thanks to the top-mounted oil filter and easy access underneath.

Quick Answer: Oil Specs & Filters

If you are just looking for the hard specs for your next oil change, here is what you need for the 2019 Subaru Forester:

• Oil Capacity: 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change.
• Recommended Weight / Viscosity: 0W-20 (Fully Synthetic).
• Oil Specification: API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6.
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number: Subaru 15208AA15A (Black Tokyo Roki filter).
• Aftermarket Filter Cross-Reference: Fram XG7317 (Ultra Synthetic), Wix 57055, or Mobil 1 M1-110A.

Capacity by Engine Option

For the 2019 model year, Subaru dropped the 2.0L turbocharged XT model. Therefore, all 2019 Foresters in the US market come equipped with a single engine option: the naturally aspirated 2.5L flat-four (FB25D).

Note: Always verify your oil level using the dipstick after refilling and running the engine for a few minutes. The Boxer engine can sometimes hide a little oil in the horizontal cylinders.

Oil Change Interval

Subaru’s maintenance schedule for the 2019 Forester is highly dependent on your driving habits. Because 0W-20 is a thin, fully synthetic oil, it lasts longer than conventional oil, but it still breaks down under severe heat and stress.

• Normal Duty: Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first). This applies to highway driving in moderate climates.
• Severe Duty: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months. You fall into this category if you frequently make short trips (under 5 miles) where the engine doesn't reach operating temperature, drive in dusty/muddy conditions, tow a small trailer, or drive in extreme heat or cold.

Drain Plug Torque & Crush Washer

• Drain Plug Torque: 31 ft-lbs (41.7 Nm).
• Drain Plug Socket Size: 14mm.
• Crush Washer: Subaru uses a single-use crush washer (OEM Part #803916010). Do not reuse the old crush washer. The factory drain plug requires this specific washer to prevent leaks. The flat side of the washer should face the oil pan, and the rounded/crush side should face the head of the drain bolt.

How to Change the Oil

The 2019 Forester is one of the easiest vehicles on the road to service. Here is a quick step-by-step guide:

1. Warm up the engine: Let the vehicle run for about 5 minutes to warm up the oil, then shut it off.
2. Access the drain plug: Jack up the front of the vehicle and support it with jack stands, or use drive-on ramps.
3. Drain the oil: Locate the 14mm drain plug on the oil pan. Place a drain pan underneath and remove the plug. Let the oil drain completely.
4. Replace the filter: While the oil is draining, open the hood. The oil filter is conveniently mounted right on top of the engine. Unscrew the old filter. Wipe the mounting surface clean, apply a dab of fresh oil to the rubber O-ring on your new filter, and screw it on hand-tight (about 3/4 of a turn after the gasket makes contact).
5. Reinstall drain plug: Wipe the drain hole clean. Install a brand-new crush washer onto the drain plug, thread it in by hand, and torque it to 31 ft-lbs.
6. Refill: Remove the yellow oil filler cap and pour in 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil.
7. Check level: Reinstall the cap, start the engine, and let it idle for 30 seconds to fill the new filter. Shut it off, wait two minutes, and check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is at the "Full" mark.

Common Issues & Tips for the 2019 Forester

• Oil Consumption: While earlier FB25 engines (2011-2015) were notorious for oil consumption, the redesigned direct-injected engine in the 2019 model is vastly improved. However, it is still a flat-four engine utilizing thin 0W-20 oil. It is highly recommended to check your oil level every other gas station fill-up to catch any minor consumption early.
• Fumoto Valve Upgrade: Because the oil filter is on top, installing a Fumoto drain valve (model F108N or similar) makes future oil changes completely tool-less. You won't even need a 14mm wrench.
• Over-tightening the Drain Plug: Subaru oil pans are made of stamped steel, but the threads can still strip if you go completely gorilla-mode on the drain plug. Always use a torque wrench or stick strictly to snugging it up until the crush washer collapses.

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