2016 Subaru Outback Oil Capacity & Filter Reference Guide

The 2016 Subaru Outback takes 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic engine oil for both the 2.5L 4-cylinder and 3.6L 6-cylinder engines.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 5.1 US Quarts (4.8 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20 Synthetic
• Oil Type Specification: API SN or later, or ILSAC GF-5 or later
• **Oil Filter (2.5L & 3.6L):
  • OEM: Subaru PN 15208AA15A
  • Fram Cross-Reference: PH6607
  • Wix Cross-Reference: 57055
  • Mobil 1 Cross-Reference: M1-108A

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

Subaru recommends the following oil change intervals for the 2016 Outback:

• Normal Duty: Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.

Driving conditions considered "severe" include frequent short trips, driving in extremely hot or cold weather, dusty conditions, towing, or extensive idling.

Drain plug torque

The oil drain plug for both 2016 Subaru Outback engines should be torqued to 31 ft-lbs (42 Nm). Always use a new crush washer when changing the oil to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The OEM crush washer part number is 803916010.

How to change the oil

1. Warm up the engine to operating temperature, then turn it off.
2. Locate the drain plug on the oil pan beneath the vehicle. Place a drain pan underneath.
3. Remove the drain plug with the appropriate wrench (typically a 17mm or 19mm).
4. Allow all old oil to drain completely.
5. Replace the crush washer on the drain plug and reinstall, torquing to 31 ft-lbs.
6. Locate the oil filter (typically on the top of the engine near the front for the 2.5L, and on the bottom for the 3.6L) and remove it using an oil filter wrench.
7. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
8. Install the new oil filter, tightening by hand until snug, then an additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn. Do not overtighten.
9. Locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine and add 5.1 quarts of new 0W-20 synthetic oil.
10. Replace the oil filler cap and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
11. Shut off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the oil level on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to reach the "full" mark.
12. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
13. Reset the oil maintenance reminder on your dashboard.

Common issues / tips

• Oil Consumption (2.5L Engine): Some 2016 2.5L Subaru Outbacks may exhibit higher-than-normal oil consumption. Regularly check your oil level, especially between oil changes, and top off as needed. Using the correct 0W-20 synthetic oil is crucial.
• Access to Oil Filter (3.6L Engine): The oil filter on the 3.6L engine is located on the bottom of the engine, which can be a bit messy to access without spilling oil. Have plenty of rags and a good drain pan ready.
• CVT Fluid Check: While not directly related to engine oil, remember that the 2016 Outback uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Unlike some older automatics, the CVT fluid rarely needs changing under normal conditions and should typically be serviced by a Subaru dealer. There is no dipstick for the CVT fluid for owners to check easily.
• Always Use Synthetic: Subaru specifically recommends 0W-20 synthetic oil for the 2016 Outback for optimal engine protection and fuel economy.

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