2019 Subaru Crosstrek Oil Change: A Simple Guide

Nov 14, 2025 by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey guys! If you're a proud owner of a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, you know how important it is to keep that engine purring like a kitten. And one of the simplest, yet most crucial, maintenance tasks is changing your oil. Don't worry, it's not as daunting as it sounds! This guide will walk you through the entire process, step by step, so you can save some money and gain a little satisfaction from doing it yourself. We'll cover everything from the tools you'll need to the type of oil to use, and even how to dispose of the old oil responsibly. So, grab your wrenches and let's get started!

Why is an Oil Change Important for Your 2019 Crosstrek?

Okay, so before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about why oil changes are so vital for your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. Think of oil as the lifeblood of your engine. It's responsible for lubricating all those moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing them from grinding against each other and causing serious damage. Over time, oil breaks down, gets contaminated with dirt and debris, and loses its ability to do its job effectively. When this happens, your engine has to work harder, which can lead to decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and, in the worst-case scenario, major engine problems that'll cost you a fortune to fix. Regular oil changes ensure that your engine is always running with clean, fresh oil, keeping it protected and extending its lifespan. Ignoring oil changes is like neglecting to brush your teeth – you might get away with it for a while, but eventually, the consequences will catch up to you. The frequency of oil changes depends on various factors, including your driving habits and the type of oil you use. However, a good rule of thumb for the 2019 Crosstrek is to change the oil every 6,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, tow heavy loads, or drive in extreme temperatures, you might need to change it more frequently. Always refer to your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations. Besides lubrication, engine oil also helps to cool the engine by carrying heat away from hot components. As the oil circulates, it absorbs heat and dissipates it through the oil pan. Dirty or degraded oil is less effective at cooling, which can lead to overheating and engine damage. Another critical function of engine oil is to clean the engine. As it flows through the engine, it picks up dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts, preventing them from building up and causing sludge. The oil filter then traps these contaminants, keeping the oil clean. Over time, the filter can become clogged, reducing its effectiveness and allowing contaminants to circulate through the engine. Regular oil and filter changes are essential to keep your engine clean and running smoothly. Finally, using the correct type of oil is crucial for optimal engine performance and longevity. The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek requires a specific type of oil that meets certain industry standards. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, increased wear and tear, and even engine damage. Always check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity. So, as you can see, oil changes are not just a routine maintenance task; they are an essential investment in the health and longevity of your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. By following a regular oil change schedule and using the correct type of oil, you can keep your engine running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Gathering Your Supplies: What You'll Need

Alright, so you're ready to tackle that oil change? Awesome! Before you get your hands dirty, let's make sure you have all the necessary supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process much smoother and prevent any frustrating mid-job runs to the auto parts store. Here's a checklist of what you'll need:

New Oil: This is kind of a no-brainer, right? But it's important to get the right type. For the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, you'll typically need 0W-20 synthetic oil. Double-check your owner's manual to be 100% sure. You'll likely need around 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters), but it's always good to have a little extra on hand.
New Oil Filter: Don't skimp on this! A good quality oil filter will trap dirt and debris, keeping your oil clean and your engine happy. Make sure you get the correct filter for your 2019 Crosstrek. A popular choice is the Subaru OEM oil filter, but there are other reputable brands available as well.
Wrench: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug. The size you need may vary, but a 17mm wrench is a common size for Subaru drain plugs. Make sure you have the right size before you start!
Oil Filter Wrench: This special wrench is designed to grip the oil filter and make it easier to remove. It's a worthwhile investment, especially if you plan on doing your own oil changes regularly.
Drain Pan: You'll need something to catch the old oil as it drains out. A large drain pan with a capacity of at least 6 quarts is recommended.
Funnel: A funnel will help you pour the new oil into the engine without making a mess. Trust me, you'll thank me later.
Gloves: Keep your hands clean and protected with a pair of disposable gloves. Nitrile gloves are a good option.
Rags or Shop Towels: You'll need these to wipe up any spills or drips.
Jack and Jack Stands (Optional): If you need more clearance to get under your car, you can use a jack and jack stands to lift it up. Always use jack stands for safety! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Wheel Chocks (Optional): If you're lifting your car, use wheel chocks to prevent it from rolling.

Having all these supplies ready will make the oil change process much smoother and more efficient. So, take a few minutes to gather everything together before you start. Trust me, it'll be worth it!

Step-by-Step: The Oil Change Process

Okay, so you've got all your supplies, and you're ready to get your hands dirty. Let's walk through the oil change process step-by-step. Remember, safety first! Make sure you're working in a well-ventilated area, and always use jack stands if you're lifting your car.

Warm Up the Engine: Start your car and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the engine. This will help the oil flow more easily. However, don't let it get too hot, or you could burn yourself.
Prepare the Car: If you're using a jack, park your car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Then, carefully jack up the front of the car and place jack stands under the frame rails. Lower the car onto the jack stands, making sure they're securely in place.
Locate the Oil Drain Plug: Crawl under the car and locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. It's usually a large bolt.
Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug.
Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct size wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug. Once it's loose, you can usually unscrew it by hand. Be careful, as the oil may be hot!
Let the Oil Drain: Allow the oil to drain completely into the drain pan. This may take 15-20 minutes.
Remove the Oil Filter: While the oil is draining, locate the oil filter. It's usually near the front of the engine. Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the filter. Once it's loose, unscrew it by hand. Be prepared for some oil to spill out.
Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. This will help it seal properly.
Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact. Then, tighten it another 3/4 turn. Don't overtighten it!
Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once the oil has completely drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer (if applicable). Screw the drain plug back into the oil pan and tighten it to the specified torque (usually around 30 ft-lbs). Don't overtighten it!
Lower the Car (If Applicable): If you lifted the car, carefully raise it off the jack stands and remove the stands. Then, slowly lower the car to the ground.
Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil fill cap. Remove the cap and insert the funnel. Pour in the correct amount of new oil (usually around 5.1 quarts for the 2019 Crosstrek). Use the dipstick to check the oil level and add more if necessary.
Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections as needed.
Reset the Oil Life Monitor: Consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to reset the oil life monitor. This will remind you when it's time for your next oil change.
Dispose of the Old Oil Properly: Take the old oil to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal. Don't pour it down the drain or into the ground!

Congratulations! You've successfully changed the oil in your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. Give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you're taking good care of your engine.

Choosing the Right Oil for Your 2019 Crosstrek

Selecting the correct oil for your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is paramount for ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. Subaru specifically recommends using 0W-20 synthetic oil for this model. This recommendation isn't just a suggestion; it's based on the engine's design and the specific demands placed upon it. Synthetic oils, unlike conventional oils, are engineered to provide superior lubrication, better resistance to breakdown under high temperatures, and improved cold-start performance. These characteristics are particularly beneficial for Subaru's boxer engine, which operates with tight tolerances and requires consistent lubrication across a wide range of conditions.

The 0W-20 designation refers to the oil's viscosity, which is a measure of its resistance to flow. The '0W' indicates the oil's viscosity at low temperatures (W stands for winter), while the '20' indicates its viscosity at high temperatures. A 0W-20 oil is designed to flow easily at startup, even in cold weather, ensuring that critical engine components are quickly lubricated. This is crucial for minimizing wear and tear during the initial moments of engine operation, which is when most engine wear occurs.

While synthetic oil may be slightly more expensive than conventional oil, the benefits it provides far outweigh the cost. Synthetic oils offer superior protection against wear, reduce friction, and help to keep the engine cleaner. They also tend to last longer than conventional oils, which means you may be able to extend your oil change intervals. However, it's essential to follow Subaru's recommended oil change schedule, regardless of the type of oil you use.

In addition to the viscosity grade, it's also important to choose an oil that meets the API (American Petroleum Institute) SN or ILSAC GF-5 standards. These standards ensure that the oil has been tested and certified to meet certain performance requirements. Look for the API starburst symbol on the oil container, which indicates that the oil meets these standards.

Some owners may be tempted to use a different viscosity grade of oil, such as 5W-30, especially if they live in a warmer climate or if their engine has higher mileage. However, Subaru specifically recommends 0W-20 for the 2019 Crosstrek, and deviating from this recommendation could potentially harm the engine. Using a thicker oil could impede its ability to flow quickly at startup, leading to increased wear. It could also affect the engine's fuel efficiency.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the correct oil for your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is to consult your owner's manual. The manual provides detailed information on the recommended oil type, viscosity, and API standards. Following these recommendations will help to ensure that your engine receives the proper lubrication and protection it needs to perform optimally for years to come. Remember, using the right oil is an investment in the long-term health and reliability of your vehicle.

Disposing of Used Oil Responsibly

So, you've successfully changed your oil, and now you're left with a drain pan full of used oil. Don't just dump it down the drain or into the backyard! Used oil is a hazardous waste that can contaminate soil and water, harming the environment. Responsible disposal is crucial for protecting our planet. Fortunately, there are several easy and convenient ways to get rid of your used oil properly.

The most common and recommended method is to take your used oil to a local recycling center or auto parts store. Many auto parts stores, such as AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts, offer free oil recycling programs. Simply pour the used oil into a clean, sealed container (the empty oil bottles work great) and take it to the store. They will typically have a designated area for collecting used oil. Recycling centers also accept used oil, and some may even pay you a small amount for it. Check with your local municipality or waste management company for information on recycling centers in your area.

Before transporting the used oil, make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent any leaks or spills. Place the container in a sturdy box or tray to further protect against spills. If you're transporting the oil in your car, cover the area with a plastic sheet or old towel to prevent any damage. When you arrive at the recycling center or auto parts store, follow their instructions for disposing of the oil. They may have specific procedures or containers for you to use.

In addition to recycling the oil, it's also important to dispose of the used oil filter properly. Oil filters contain residual oil and metal, which can also be harmful to the environment. Many auto parts stores that accept used oil also accept used oil filters. They may have a special container for collecting filters. If not, you can usually dispose of the filter with your regular trash, but it's best to check with your local waste management company for their specific guidelines.

Some communities may also offer curbside pickup of used oil and filters. Check with your local municipality to see if this service is available in your area. If so, they will typically provide you with special containers for the oil and filters, and they will collect them on a designated day. Proper disposal of used oil is not only environmentally responsible, but it's also the law in many areas. Improper disposal can result in fines and penalties. So, take a few extra minutes to dispose of your used oil properly and help protect our planet. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your used oil is recycled or disposed of safely, preventing pollution and protecting our environment for future generations. Remember, every little bit helps!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! Changing the oil in your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek isn't as mysterious or difficult as it might seem at first. With a little preparation, the right tools, and a step-by-step guide, you can easily tackle this maintenance task yourself. Not only will you save some money, but you'll also gain a better understanding of your car and its inner workings. Remember to always prioritize safety, use the correct type of oil, and dispose of the used oil responsibly. By following these guidelines, you can keep your 2019 Crosstrek running smoothly and reliably for many years to come. And who knows, you might even discover a newfound passion for DIY car maintenance! Now go out there and get wrenching!