Based on the information gathered, I’ll now create a comprehensive, SEO-optimized article about the Subaru Legacy engine oil specifications.
The Subaru Legacy has been in production since 1989, offering a range of four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines across multiple generations. Using the correct engine oil capacity, viscosity, and type is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and longevity. This guide provides detailed oil specifications for all model years with complete maintenance recommendations.
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2025 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A, K&N HP-1008 |
The 2025 Subaru Legacy uses a 2.5L horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine that requires 4.4 quarts of full synthetic oil. Using SAE 0W-20 viscosity oil provides optimal protection and fuel efficiency under normal driving conditions.
2024 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A, K&N HP-1008 |
The 2024 Subaru Legacy operates with a 2.5L FB25D engine requiring 4.4 quarts of synthetic oil with filter. The 0W-20 viscosity rating ensures proper lubrication across all temperature ranges.
2023 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A, K&N HP-1008 |
The 2023 Subaru Legacy with the FB25D engine requires 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil. This specification maintains engine efficiency and reduces wear during cold starts.
2022 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A, K&N HP-1008 |
The 2022 Subaru Legacy uses the FB25D 2.5L engine with a 4.4-quart oil capacity including filter. Full synthetic 0W-20 oil is required for optimal engine protection and performance.
2021 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A, K&N HP-1008 |
The 2021 Subaru Legacy requires 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil for the 2.5L boxer engine. Regular oil changes at 6,000-mile intervals help maintain engine health.
2020 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A, K&N HP-1008 |
The 2020 Subaru Legacy with FB25D engine uses 4.4 quarts of synthetic 0W-20 motor oil. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 31 lb-ft with a new crush washer.
2019 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 for 2.5L / SAE 5W-30 for 3.6L |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | 2.5L: Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607 / 3.6L: Subaru 15208AA15A, FRAM XG7317 |
The 2019 Subaru Legacy offered two engine options with different oil requirements. The 2.5L engine uses 4.4 quarts of 0W-20, while the 3.6L six-cylinder requires 6.9 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil.
2018 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 for 2.5L / SAE 5W-30 for 3.6L |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | 2.5L: Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607 / 3.6L: Subaru 15208AA15A, FRAM XG7317 |
The 2018 Subaru Legacy features either the 2.5L four-cylinder or 3.6L six-cylinder engine. The four-cylinder uses 0W-20 synthetic oil, while the six-cylinder requires 5W-30.
2017 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 for 2.5L / SAE 5W-30 for 3.6L |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | 2.5L: Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607 / 3.6L: Subaru 15208AA15A, FRAM XG7317 |
The 2017 Subaru Legacy 2.5L engine requires 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 oil, while the 3.6L option needs 6.9 quarts of 5W-30. Both engines benefit from full synthetic oil formulations.
2016 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 for 2.5L / SAE 5W-30 for 3.6L |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | 2.5L: Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607 / 3.6L: Subaru 15208AA15A, FRAM XG7317 |
The 2016 Subaru Legacy with the FB25D engine holds 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 oil with filter replacement. The EZ36D six-cylinder engine requires 6.9 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil.
2015 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 for 2.5L / SAE 5W-30 for 3.6L |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | 2.5L: Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607 / 3.6L: Subaru 15208AA15A, FRAM XG7317 |
The 2015 Subaru Legacy uses 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil for the 2.5L engine. The larger 3.6L engine requires significantly more oil at 6.9 quarts of 5W-30.
2014 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 for 2.5L / SAE 5W-30 for 3.6L |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | 2.5L: Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607 / 3.6L: Subaru 15208AA15A, FRAM XG7317 |
The 2014 Subaru Legacy requires 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 oil for the four-cylinder model. Models equipped with the 3.6L six-cylinder engine need 6.9 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil.
2013 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (FB25D) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 for 2.5L / SAE 5W-30 for 3.6L |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | 2.5L: Subaru 15208AA170, FRAM XG6607 / 3.6L: Subaru 15208AA15A, FRAM XG7317 |
The 2013 Subaru Legacy marked the transition to the FB25D engine requiring 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 oil. The 3.6L engine option maintains the 6.9-quart capacity with 5W-30 viscosity.
2012 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2012 Subaru Legacy uses the EJ253 engine requiring 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil. Turbocharged models with the EJ255 engine require slightly more at 4.5 quarts.
2011 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2011 Subaru Legacy with the EJ253 naturally aspirated engine uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The turbocharged GT model requires 4.5 quarts for optimal performance.
2010 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.6L H-6 (EZ36D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.9 qt (6.5 L) for 3.6L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 6.5 qt (6.2 L) for 3.6L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2010 Subaru Legacy requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the standard 2.5L engine. The introduction of the 3.6L six-cylinder required 6.9 quarts of oil.
2009 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2009 Subaru Legacy with the EJ253 engine uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 motor oil. The 3.0L six-cylinder model requires 6.0 quarts for complete oil system capacity.
2008 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2008 Subaru Legacy requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for non-turbocharged models. Turbocharged variants need 4.5 quarts to ensure adequate lubrication.
2007 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2007 Subaru Legacy uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the base 2.5L engine. The 3.0L six-cylinder engine holds 6.0 quarts of oil with filter replacement.
2006 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2006 Subaru Legacy with EJ253 engine requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 motor oil. Models with the turbocharged EJ255 engine use 4.5 quarts.
2005 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 2.5L Turbo (EJ255) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for Turbo / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 4.2 qt (4.0 L) for Turbo / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2005 Subaru Legacy uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for naturally aspirated models. The turbocharged Legacy GT model requires 4.5 quarts of oil.
2004 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2004 Subaru Legacy requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the 2.5L four-cylinder engine. Six-cylinder models with the EZ30D engine need 6.0 quarts.
2003 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2003 Subaru Legacy with the EJ253 engine holds 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 motor oil. The 3.0L six-cylinder option requires 6.0 quarts for proper lubrication.
2002 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2002 Subaru Legacy uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the four-cylinder engine. Models equipped with the 3.0L H-6 engine require 6.0 quarts.
2001 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2001 Subaru Legacy requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the 2.5L engine. The introduction of the 3.0L six-cylinder engine required 6.0 quarts of oil capacity.
2000 Subaru Legacy Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ253) / 3.0L H-6 (EZ30D) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for 2.5L / 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for 3.0L |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) for 2.5L / 5.7 qt (5.4 L) for 3.0L |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend or Conventional |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 6,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 31 lb-ft (42 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Subaru 15208AA12A, FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A |
The 2000 Subaru Legacy with EJ253 engine uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 motor oil. This generation established the oil capacity standard that continued through 2012.
Oil Maintenance and Service Tips
Regular oil changes are critical for maintaining engine performance and preventing premature wear in Subaru Legacy engines. The boxer engine design requires proper oil levels to ensure adequate lubrication of horizontally opposed pistons.
Check engine oil levels at least monthly using the dipstick when the engine is cold and on level ground. Always use the recommended viscosity for your specific model year, as newer models require lighter weight oils like 0W-20 for improved fuel efficiency.
Replace the oil filter with every oil change to maintain proper filtration and oil flow. Use OEM Subaru filters or quality aftermarket equivalents like FRAM, Mobil 1, or K&N that meet manufacturer specifications.
Torque the oil drain plug to 31 lb-ft and replace the crush washer each time to prevent leaks. For severe driving conditions including frequent short trips, towing, or extreme temperatures, consider reducing the oil change interval to 5,000 miles.
Full synthetic oil provides superior protection compared to conventional oil, especially in turbocharged engines that generate higher operating temperatures. Monitor oil consumption between changes, as some older Subaru engines may consume up to one quart per 1,200 miles under normal operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of oil does a Subaru Legacy use?
The Subaru Legacy uses either 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil depending on the model year and engine type. Models from 2013 to 2025 with the FB25D engine require 0W-20, while older models from 2000 to 2012 with EJ-series engines use 5W-30. Always verify your specific vehicle’s requirements in the owner’s manual.
How much oil does a Subaru Legacy take?
The Subaru Legacy requires between 4.4 and 6.9 quarts of oil depending on the engine size. Four-cylinder engines typically hold 4.4 to 4.5 quarts, while six-cylinder engines require 6.0 to 6.9 quarts with filter replacement. The exact capacity is listed on the oil filler cap and in the owner’s manual.
What is the recommended oil type for a Subaru Legacy?
Full synthetic motor oil is recommended for all Subaru Legacy models, particularly those from 2013 onward. Synthetic oil provides better protection at extreme temperatures, reduces engine wear, and maintains viscosity throughout the oil change interval. Older models may use synthetic blend or conventional oil, though synthetic offers superior performance.
What is the oil change interval for a Subaru Legacy?
The standard oil change interval for Subaru Legacy vehicles is 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Under severe driving conditions such as frequent short trips, dusty environments, or towing, the interval should be reduced to 5,000 miles. Some owners perform a break-in oil change at 1,000 miles on new vehicles to remove initial wear particles.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 in my Subaru Legacy?
Using 5W-30 instead of the recommended 0W-20 is acceptable in emergency situations, but prolonged use is not advised. The thicker 5W-30 oil may reduce fuel efficiency and affect cold-start lubrication in engines designed for 0W-20. Always return to the manufacturer-specified viscosity for optimal engine performance and warranty compliance.
What oil filter does a Subaru Legacy use?
The Subaru Legacy uses different oil filters depending on the engine type. Common OEM part numbers include 15208AA170 for FB25D engines and 15208AA12A for EJ-series engines. Quality aftermarket alternatives include FRAM XG6607, Mobil 1 M1-108A, and K&N HP-1008. Always verify fitment for your specific model year and engine configuration.
Conclusion
Maintaining proper engine oil capacity, viscosity, and type is essential for Subaru Legacy longevity and performance across all model years. Four-cylinder models typically require 4.4 to 4.5 quarts, while six-cylinder engines need 6.0 to 6.9 quarts of oil.
Using manufacturer-approved full synthetic oil at the correct viscosity ensures optimal lubrication, engine protection, and fuel efficiency. Follow the recommended 6,000-mile oil change interval and always replace the oil filter with each service.
