Hey guys! Changing the oil in your 2012 Subaru Forester is one of the most important things you can do to keep it running smoothly. Regular oil changes prevent engine wear, improve fuel economy, and extend the life of your car. Luckily, it's a pretty straightforward job you can easily tackle at home. This guide will walk you through each step, so you can save some money and get to know your Forester a little better. Let's dive in!

Why Change Your Own Oil?

Changing your oil at home is not only cost-effective but also gives you a chance to inspect your vehicle closely. Dealerships and auto shops can charge a hefty price for a simple oil change, and you often don't get to see exactly what they're doing. By doing it yourself, you ensure the job is done right and with the quality of oil and filter you prefer. Plus, it's empowering to handle your car's maintenance and understand its needs. Think of it as a bonding experience between you and your trusty Forester! Regular maintenance, including oil changes, keeps your Subaru in tip-top shape, ready for all your adventures, whether you're hitting the trails or just cruising around town. You'll also be contributing to the longevity of your engine, preventing costly repairs down the road. So grab your tools, and let's get started on this essential maintenance task! Trust me; your 2012 Subaru Forester will thank you.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies and tools to make the process smooth and efficient. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure you’re well-prepared:

• New Oil: Consult your owner's manual for the correct type and amount of oil. For the 2012 Subaru Forester, it's typically 5.1 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil. Using the right type of oil is crucial for optimal engine performance and longevity.
• New Oil Filter: Use a high-quality oil filter that's compatible with your 2012 Forester. A good filter ensures that contaminants are effectively removed from the oil, protecting your engine. Subaru OEM filters are a great choice, but there are also many reputable aftermarket brands available.
• Wrench: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug. Make sure you have the correct size to avoid damaging the plug. Typically, a 17mm wrench works well for the 2012 Subaru Forester.
• Oil Filter Wrench: This tool is essential for removing the old oil filter. There are different types of oil filter wrenches, so choose one that fits your filter size.
• Drain Pan: A drain pan is necessary to catch the old oil as it drains from the engine. Make sure it's large enough to hold all the oil (at least 6 quarts) and that it's in good condition to prevent leaks.
• Funnel: A funnel will help you pour the new oil into the engine without spilling. It's a simple tool, but it can save you a lot of mess.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and oil with a pair of disposable gloves. Nitrile gloves are a good option because they're resistant to oil and chemicals.
• Rags or Shop Towels: Keep rags or shop towels handy to wipe up any spills or drips. Cleanliness is key to a successful oil change.
• Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): You'll need to lift the car to access the oil drain plug and filter. Jack stands are essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Ramps can also be used if you have them, making the process even easier.
• Wheel Chocks: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling while it's lifted. Safety first!

Having all these items ready will make the oil change process much smoother and safer. Now that you're prepared, let's move on to the next step!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get down to business! Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful oil change on your 2012 Subaru Forester.

1. Prepare the Car:

   • Park your Forester on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
   • Use a jack to lift the front of the car. Place jack stands securely under the frame rails for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

2. 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 facing downward.

3. Drain the Old Oil:

   • Position the drain pan under the oil drain plug.
   • Use the wrench to loosen the drain plug. Once it's loose, carefully unscrew it by hand, being ready for the oil to start flowing.
   • Let the oil drain completely. This may take 10-15 minutes. Ensure all the old oil has drained out before proceeding.

4. Remove the Old Oil Filter:

   • Locate the oil filter. On the 2012 Forester, it's usually easily accessible from underneath the car.
   • Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the old oil filter. Once it's loose, unscrew it by hand. Be prepared for some oil to spill.
   • Wipe the oil filter mounting surface with a clean rag.

5. Install the New Oil Filter:

   • Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. This helps create a good seal.
   • Screw the new oil filter onto the mounting surface by hand until the gasket makes contact. Then, tighten it an additional ¾ turn, as per the filter's instructions. Do not overtighten.

6. Reinstall the Oil Drain Plug:

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   • Clean the oil drain plug and install a new crush washer if necessary. The crush washer ensures a tight seal.
   • Screw the drain plug back into the oil pan by hand until it's snug. Then, use the wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer's recommended torque specification (usually around 30 ft-lbs). Do not overtighten.

7. Lower the Car:

   • Carefully lower the car from the jack stands back to the ground.

8. Add New Oil:

   • Open the hood and locate the oil filler cap. Remove the cap.
   • Insert the funnel into the oil filler neck.
   • Pour in the correct amount of new oil (5.1 quarts for the 2012 Subaru Forester). Check your owner's manual to confirm the exact amount.

9. Check the Oil Level:

   • Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully. Then, remove it again to check the oil level. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
   • Add more oil if necessary to reach the correct level. Be careful not to overfill.

10. Start the Engine:

    • Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter.
    • Turn off the engine and check the oil level again after a few minutes. Add more oil if needed.

11. Reset the Maintenance Reminder:

    • Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to reset the maintenance reminder light. This will ensure you get timely reminders for future oil changes.

Congrats! You've successfully changed the oil in your 2012 Subaru Forester. It's a great feeling, right? Now you can drive with confidence knowing your engine is well-lubricated and protected.

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Oil Change

To make your oil change even easier and more efficient, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

• Warm Up the Engine: Before draining the oil, run the engine for a few minutes to warm it up. Warm oil flows more easily, ensuring that more of the old oil is drained.
• Use the Right Tools: Invest in quality tools that fit properly. Using the wrong tools can damage the drain plug or oil filter housing.
• Pre-Soak the Oil Filter: Before installing the new oil filter, pour a small amount of fresh oil into it. This helps to prime the filter and ensures that the engine is immediately lubricated when you start it.
• Check for Leaks: After starting the engine, carefully inspect the oil drain plug and oil filter for any leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections slightly. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the threads.
• 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 the performance of your engine.
• Dispose of Old Oil Properly: Don't pour used oil down the drain or into the ground. Instead, take it to a local recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal. Many auto parts stores will accept used oil for free.
• Use a Magnetic Drain Plug: Consider using a magnetic drain plug. These plugs have a magnet that attracts metal particles in the oil, helping to keep your engine clean. They're a small investment that can provide long-term benefits.

By following these tips, you can make the oil change process even smoother and ensure that your 2012 Subaru Forester stays in top condition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful preparation, you might encounter a few common issues during your oil change. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

• Stripped Drain Plug: If the drain plug is stripped, it won't tighten properly, and oil will leak. You can try using a slightly larger drain plug or a self-tapping drain plug. In severe cases, you may need to replace the oil pan.
• Stuck Oil Filter: If the oil filter is stuck, make sure you're using the correct oil filter wrench and applying enough force. You can also try using a screwdriver to puncture the filter and twist it off, but be careful not to damage the filter housing.
• Oil Leak After Change: If you notice an oil leak after the oil change, check the drain plug and oil filter to make sure they're properly tightened. Also, inspect the crush washer on the drain plug to ensure it's in good condition. If the leak persists, there may be a problem with the oil pan or filter housing.
• Difficulty Removing Old Oil Filter: Sometimes, the old oil filter can be difficult to remove due to being overtightened or stuck. Using a penetrating oil can help loosen it. Let the oil sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove the filter again.

By knowing how to troubleshoot these common issues, you can handle unexpected problems with confidence and keep your 2012 Subaru Forester running smoothly.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Changing the oil in your 2012 Subaru Forester is a straightforward task that you can easily accomplish at home with the right tools and a bit of know-how. Not only will you save money, but you'll also gain a better understanding of your car's maintenance needs. Remember to always follow safety precautions and dispose of used oil properly. With regular oil changes, you'll keep your Forester running smoothly for years to come. Happy driving, and keep those engines purring!