Driving a 2016 Subaru Legacy means you own a vehicle engineered for all-weather confidence and enduring performance. To keep the horizontally-opposed engine running smoothly for hundreds of thousands of miles, consistent maintenance is essential, and the oil change is the single most critical service item. This guide breaks down the specific requirements, costs, and best practices for the 2016 model year, ensuring you protect your investment.
Understanding the 2016 Legacy's Oil Requirements
The first step in proper maintenance is using the correct specification. Subaru specifies 0W-20 synthetic oil for the 2016 Legacy's FB20 boxer engine. This low-viscosity oil is designed to provide superior protection during cold starts, reduce friction for better fuel economy, and ensure optimal performance in the turbocharged models. Always verify the API resource designation on the oil container matches the requirements listed in your owner’s manual, typically API SN or the newer API SP rating.
Oil Filter and Capacity
The 2016 Legacy uses a full-flow oil filter that traps contaminants before they can circulate through the engine. When performing an oil change, this filter must be replaced. The total oil capacity for the engine is approximately 4.5 quarts. While this is the technical capacity, most DIY changes will require between 4 and 4.5 quarts to refill correctly, as the oil drain plug and filter will hold a small residual amount.
Use only genuine Subaru Oil Filter or a high-quality aftermarket equivalent.
Apply a small amount of fresh oil to the new filter's gasket before installation.
Torque the oil drain plug to the manufacturer's specification to prevent stripping the drain pan.
The DIY Oil Change Process
Performing the oil change yourself is a rewarding task that ensures the job is done right. Begin by warming up the engine for five to ten minutes. This warms the oil to a thin, consistent state, allowing it to drain more completely and safely. Lift the vehicle securely using a jack and jack stands, or drive it onto ramps if you prefer. Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine pan and place a large catch basin beneath it.
Remove the drain plug carefully, as the oil will be hot and under pressure. Allow the oil to drain fully before removing the old oil filter. Once both are removed, clean the mounting surface on the engine. Before installing the new filter, apply a fresh bead of clean oil to the gasket. Screw the new filter on by hand, tightening it snugly—usually about 3/4 turn past hand-tight. Finally, remove the oil filler cap under the hood, insert a new funnel, and pour in the recommended 0W-20 oil.
Resetting the Maintenance Light
After the oil and filter are replaced, you must reset the maintenance reminder system in the dashboard. For the 2016 Legacy, the process is straightforward: turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine. Press and hold the odometer reset button, then turn the ignition to the "OFF" position. Release the button, turn the key back to "ON," and hold the button again until the maintenance indicator blinks, then resets to zero.
