2017 Subaru Forester Oil Change: Easy Steps & Tips

Nov 14, 2025 by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey guys! Changing your oil is one of the most important things you can do to keep your 2017 Subaru Forester running smoothly for years to come. It's like giving your engine a refreshing drink and a clean bill of health! So, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of how to change the oil in your 2017 Subaru Forester. Don't worry; it's easier than you think, and I'm here to guide you every step of the way. We'll cover everything from gathering the right tools and materials to the actual draining and refilling process. Plus, I'll throw in some extra tips to make sure you're doing it right and keeping your Forester in tip-top shape. Think of it as a little DIY project that not only saves you money but also gives you a deeper connection to your trusty vehicle. By the end of this article, you'll be a pro at changing your oil, and your Forester will thank you with many more miles of reliable performance. So, grab your tools, put on some comfy clothes, and let's get started!

Why Changing Your Oil Matters

Okay, let's talk about why changing your oil is so crucial. Think of oil as the lifeblood of your engine. It's responsible for lubricating all those moving parts, reducing friction, and keeping things cool. Over time, oil breaks down, gets dirty, and loses its ability to do its job effectively. When that happens, your engine has to work harder, which can lead to increased wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even serious damage down the road. Regular oil changes prevent all these nasty scenarios. By replacing the old, degraded oil with fresh, clean oil, you're ensuring that your engine stays properly lubricated and protected. This helps maintain optimal performance, extends the life of your engine, and keeps your Forester running smoothly for years to come. Plus, it's a relatively simple and inexpensive maintenance task that can save you a ton of money in the long run by preventing costly repairs. It's like giving your engine a regular spa day – a little pampering that pays off big time! So, don't skip those oil changes! Your Forester will thank you for it.

What You'll Need

Alright, before we get our hands dirty, let's make sure we have all the right tools and materials. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and efficient. Here's a checklist of what you'll need:

New Oil: Check your owner's manual to find the correct type and amount of oil for your 2017 Subaru Forester. Usually, it's a synthetic 0W-20 oil, but double-check to be sure. Knowing the right oil ensures peak engine performance and longevity. Using the wrong oil can lead to decreased efficiency or even engine damage.
New Oil Filter: Again, refer to your owner's manual or a trusted auto parts store to get the correct oil filter for your Forester. A high-quality filter will keep your oil clean and protect your engine. The oil filter is vital for trapping contaminants, ensuring the oil remains effective in lubricating and cooling the engine. Skimping on a cheap filter could lead to harmful particles circulating in your engine.
Wrench: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug. Make sure you have the correct size to avoid stripping the plug. A properly sized wrench ensures a secure grip, preventing damage to the drain plug and making the removal process easier. An adjustable wrench can work, but a fixed-size wrench is more reliable.
Oil Filter Wrench: This tool will help you remove the old oil filter. There are different types available, so choose one that fits your filter. An oil filter wrench provides the necessary leverage to remove a tightly secured filter. Without it, you may struggle to remove the old filter, leading to frustration and potential damage.
Drain Pan: You'll need something to catch the old oil as it drains. A good drain pan should be large enough to hold all the oil and have a spout for easy disposal. A quality drain pan prevents spills and makes the disposal process cleaner and more environmentally friendly. Look for one with a wide opening to catch all the oil and a secure lid to prevent leaks during transport.
Funnel: A funnel will help you pour the new oil into the engine without making a mess. A funnel ensures the oil goes exactly where it needs to, preventing spills and keeping your engine bay clean. A clean engine bay makes it easier to spot any potential leaks or issues in the future.
Gloves: Protect your hands from the dirty oil with a pair of gloves. Gloves keep your hands clean and protect your skin from the chemicals in the oil. Nitrile gloves are a good option as they are resistant to oil and other chemicals.
Rags or Shop Towels: You'll need these to wipe up any spills or drips. Rags or shop towels are essential for keeping your work area clean and preventing messes. Having plenty on hand will ensure you can quickly clean up any spills, keeping your garage or driveway free from oil stains.
Jack and Jack Stands (Optional): If you need more clearance to reach the oil drain plug and filter, you can use a jack and jack stands to lift the front of your Forester. Jack and jack stands provide safe and stable access to the underside of your vehicle. Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle to prevent accidents.

Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, folks, with our tools and materials all set, it’s time to dive into the actual oil change! Follow these steps, and you'll have your 2017 Subaru Forester purring like a kitten in no time. Remember to take your time and double-check each step to avoid any mishaps.

Warm Up the Engine: Start your Forester and let it run for a few minutes. Warming up the engine helps the oil flow more easily. However, don't let it get too hot; you want it to be warm, not scalding. Warming the engine slightly thins the oil, allowing it to drain more completely and carry away more contaminants. Aim for about 5 minutes of idling.
Prepare the Vehicle: Park your Forester on a level surface. If you need more room to work, use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding. Level ground ensures all the old oil drains out properly. Jack stands provide a safe and stable working environment, preventing the vehicle from accidentally falling.
Locate the Oil Drain Plug: Crawl under your Forester and find the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. It's usually a large bolt. Familiarizing yourself with its location will make the draining process smoother. The oil pan is typically located at the bottom of the engine. The drain plug is usually the lowest point on the pan.
Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan directly under the oil drain plug to catch the old oil. A well-positioned drain pan prevents spills and makes the cleanup process easier. Ensure the pan is large enough to hold all the oil.
Remove the Drain Plug: Use your wrench to loosen and remove the oil drain plug. Be careful, as the oil may be warm. Let the old oil drain completely into the pan. Removing the drain plug allows the old, contaminated oil to flow out of the engine. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the hot oil.
Remove the Old Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter (usually near the front of the engine). Use your oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill when you remove the filter, and have a rag handy to catch it. Removing the old oil filter is crucial for preventing contaminants from re-entering the engine with the new oil. Tipping the filter upright as you remove it can minimize spills.
Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. This helps create a good seal. Thread the new filter onto the engine by hand until it's snug, then tighten it about ¾ of a turn with your oil filter wrench. Lubricating the gasket ensures a tight seal and prevents leaks. Over-tightening the filter can damage the gasket, so be careful.
Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once all the old oil has drained, clean the oil drain plug and reinstall it. Tighten it securely with your wrench, but don't over-tighten it. Reinstalling the drain plug prevents the new oil from leaking out. Use a new crush washer if you have one to ensure a tight seal.
Add New Oil: Open the hood of your Forester and locate the oil filler cap. Remove the cap and insert a funnel. Pour in the correct amount of new oil as specified in your owner's manual. Adding new oil replenishes the engine's supply of lubricant, ensuring smooth operation. Double-check the amount of oil required to avoid overfilling.
Check the Oil Level: After adding the oil, replace the oil filler cap and start the engine. Let it run for a minute, then turn it off and check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if needed to reach the proper level. Checking the oil level ensures the engine has enough lubricant to function properly. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
Reset the Oil Life Indicator: Consult your owner's manual to learn how to reset the oil life indicator on your Forester's dashboard. Resetting the indicator ensures you'll be reminded when it's time for your next oil change. This helps you stay on top of your maintenance schedule.

Extra Tips for a Smooth Oil Change

Always refer to your owner's manual: Your owner's manual is your best friend when it comes to vehicle maintenance. It provides specific information about the type and amount of oil your Forester needs, as well as other important maintenance recommendations.
Use the right tools: Using the correct tools will make the job easier and prevent damage to your vehicle. Invest in a good set of wrenches, an oil filter wrench, and a quality drain pan. They'll pay for themselves over time.
Don't over-tighten anything: Over-tightening bolts and filters can strip threads and cause damage. Tighten everything securely, but don't go overboard.
Dispose of the old oil properly: Used motor oil is a hazardous waste product. Don't pour it down the drain or into the ground. Take it to a local recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal.
Keep a record: Keep a record of your oil changes, including the date, mileage, and type of oil used. This will help you stay on top of your maintenance schedule and track your vehicle's performance.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Changing the oil in your 2017 Subaru Forester doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right tools, a little know-how, and these easy-to-follow steps, you can keep your engine running smoothly and save some money along the way. Remember, regular oil changes are one of the best things you can do to extend the life of your Forester. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands a little dirty, and give your trusty Subaru the love it deserves. You'll be surprised at how rewarding it feels to take care of your own vehicle. And who knows, you might even discover a newfound passion for DIY car maintenance! Happy oil changing!