2017 Subaru Outback — Oil Capacity & Filter

Quick answer

• Oil capacity (with filter): 2.5i = 5.1 qt (4.8 L); 3.6R = 6.9 qt (6.5 L)
• Recommended oil weight: 2.5i — 0W‑20 full synthetic; 3.6R — 5W‑30 full synthetic
• Oil type/spec: API SN Resource Conserving or ILSAC GF‑5 (newer API SP/GF‑6A oils are backward‑compatible)
• Oil filter (OEM): Subaru 15208AA15A (superseded numbers may apply; verify by VIN)
  • Popular aftermarket cross‑refs: Fram PH7317 or XG7317; Mobil 1 M1‑110A; WIX 57356

The 2017 Subaru Outback takes 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of 0W‑20 in the 2.5i engine and 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) of 5W‑30 in the 3.6R engine when changing oil and filter.

Capacity by engine option

Note: Subaru’s filter part numbers are periodically superseded. 15208AA15A is commonly specified for this model year; confirm by VIN with a dealer if unsure.

Oil change interval

• Normal service: Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using the specified synthetic oil.
• Severe service: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months is prudent if you frequently tow, idle extensively, make repeated short trips in cold weather, drive in very dusty conditions, or operate in extreme heat.

Always follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual if it differs based on market or driving profile.

Drain plug torque

• Drain plug torque: 31 ft‑lb (42 N·m)
• Crush washer: Replace the aluminum crush washer at every oil change to prevent seepage (common 16 mm washer size; consult dealer for exact part number for your VIN).

Tip: Subaru’s aluminum oil pans can strip if over‑torqued. Use a torque wrench and a fresh washer.

How to change the oil

1. Warm the engine briefly, then shut off and safely raise/support the vehicle on stands. Remove the undertray access panel.
2. Place a drain pan, remove the 17 mm drain plug, and allow oil to drain completely. Replace the crush washer and reinstall the plug to 31 ft‑lb.
3. Spin off the oil filter (front underside of engine on this model). Lightly oil the new filter’s gasket and pre‑fill it about half full if space allows.
4. Install the new filter by hand until the gasket contacts, then tighten 3/4–1 turn more (or to filter‑maker spec, typically ~12–16 ft‑lb). Do not over‑tighten.
5. Add the correct amount of oil: 2.5i — start with ~4.8 qt, 3.6R — start with ~6.5 qt. Refit the oil fill cap.
6. Start the engine, idle 30 seconds, and check for leaks at the plug and filter. Shut off, wait a few minutes, then check the dipstick and top off to the full mark (usually ends at 5.1 qt for 2.5i; 6.9 qt for 3.6R).
7. Reinstall the undertray. Dispose of used oil and the filter properly.
8. Reset the maintenance reminder in the vehicle’s menu (Settings > Maintenance > Engine Oil > Reset).

Common issues / tips for this generation (2015–2019 Outback)

• Undertray fasteners: The plastic push‑clips can get brittle. Pry gently and have a few spares on hand.
• Crush washer leaks: A weeping drain plug is almost always a flattened/reused washer. Replace every service.
• Oil cooler gasket seep (2.5i): The water‑to‑oil cooler O‑ring at the filter base can seep with age; if you notice oil around the filter base after a proper filter change, inspect that gasket.
• Correct viscosity matters: 2.5i is designed for 0W‑20. If you must top up with 5W‑30 in a pinch, return to 0W‑20 at the next change. The 3.6R is specified for 5W‑30.
• Filter orientation: The spin‑on filter faces downward; expect some spillage. A foil shield over the subframe helps keep mess off bushings and sensors.
• Aluminum pan threads: If threads feel rough or the plug won’t torque smoothly, stop and inspect. Time‑sert/Heli‑Coil repairs are preferable to oversize plugs.

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