Quick answer: the 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy 2.5i takes 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change. The 3.6R six takes 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) of 5W-30.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Oil type |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-cylinder (2.5i) | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) | 0W-20 synthetic |
| 3.6L 6-cylinder (3.6R) | 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) | 5W-30 |
The two engines use different oil. The 2.5i needs 0W-20 synthetic; the 3.6R is designed for 5W-30.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | 2.5i | 3.6R |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) | 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) |
| 2016 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) | 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) |
| 2017 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) | 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) |
| 2018 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) | 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) |
| 2019 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) | 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) |
We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.
Recommended oil type
2.5i: 0W-20 synthetic is the required oil. If it is not available, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used to top up, but change back to 0W-20 synthetic at the next oil change.
3.6L six: Subaru says the engine is designed to use 5W-30 conventional oil, with 5W-30 synthetic allowed for optimum performance (10W-30 or 10W-40 conventional only to top up).
How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy
See also: Oil life reset by brand.
On models with a multi-function display, Subaru’s manuals set the oil reminder in the display’s setting screen: open the maintenance settings, select Engine Oil, set the date and distance of the reminder with the steering-wheel control switches, and select Set; Update returns the notification distance to the default. Older models without this menu have no oil reminder to reset.
Oil change tips
- 2.5i: a 5-quart jug plus a few ounces.
- 3.6R: a 5-quart jug plus two quarts.
- Subaru says each quantity is only a guideline. After refilling, check the level with the dipstick: adding oil from the L to the F mark takes about 1.1 US qt (1.0 L).
Sources and how we checked
All capacities and oil grades on this page come from Subaru’s owner’s manuals, published on Subaru of America’s official Vehicle Resources page (“Specifications” chapter, engine oil table):
- 2015 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
- 2016 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
- 2017 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
- 2018 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
- 2019 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
If your owner’s manual shows something different, follow your manual and tell us.
Last checked: October 26, 2026.
FAQ
How much oil does a 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy take?
5.1 US qt (4.8 L) for the 2.5i and 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) for the 3.6R, with a filter change.
What oil does a 2015–2019 Legacy 2.5i use?
0W-20 synthetic.
What oil does the 3.6R use?
5W-30.
Is a 5-quart jug enough for the 2.5i?
Almost: it takes 5.1 quarts, so keep an extra quart.
How do I reset the oil reminder?
In the multi-function display settings, select Engine Oil and set the reminder date and distance.