A 2013 Subaru Crosstrek has a total engine oil capacity of 5.1 quarts, which is roughly 4.8 liters. This model requires full-synthetic 0W-20 motor oil.

Regularly changing your Subaru’s oil is the simplest way to keep your engine running in good health, but paying someone else to do it can put a strain on your wallet. Fortunately, changing your engine oil yourself is one of the easier aspects of car maintenance and can help you save a few hundred dollars a year on vehicle-related expenses.

Of course, you’ll need to know how much oil is required to fill the reservoir before you can actually change the oil—that’s why licensed broker and

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2013 Subaru Crosstrek engine oil capacity

To avoid over- or under-filling your Subaru’s oil reservoir, you’ll need to know what its oil capacity is. A 2013 Subaru Crosstrek’s 2.0L 4-cylinder engine has a total oil capacity of 5.1 quarts, which comes out to roughly 4.8 liters.

As you can see, this number is not the same as the engine displacement, or the 2.0L space occupied by the engine’s cylinders—so take care not to confuse them. Adding only two liters of oil can lead to severe engine damage!

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What kind of oil does the 2013 Subaru Crosstrek need?

A 2013 Subaru Crosstrek needs full-synthetic motor oil with a 0W-20 rating—a rating that tells us a good deal about the oil’s viscosity in certain temperatures.

The first number—in this case, “0”—refers to the oil’s winter rating, or how the oil reacts when exposed to very low temperatures. The lower the number, the lower the oil’s viscosity will be.

The “20,” on the other hand, refers to how the oil reacts when exposed to very high temperatures of at least 212°F, or the average operating temperature of an engine. Any oil rated as “20” will still be quite thin even at these extremely high temps.

If you need help picking a brand of oil rated as 0W-20, consider trying one of the options listed below:

What’s recommended: Subaru Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20 Motor Oil

Second-best: MOPAR® Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil

For older vehicles with more miles on them: Mobil 1 - Extended Performance High Mileage 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil

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How often to change the oil on a 2013 Subaru Crosstrek

To keep your engine running smoothly, Subaru advises changing your motor oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or roughly twice a year.

This advice is based on typical driving conditions, so if you drive more than the average person, frequently take short trips, or frequently travel on dirt roads, you might need to change your oil more frequently.

To lessen the likelihood of unintentionally damaging your engine, you should also be checking your oil once or twice a month before you reach the suggested intervals.

There are some signs to look out for that indicate your oil may need a change early. They include:

Your oil is grainy or becomes gritty in texture

Your oil is no longer amber, but a dark brown or black

Your Subaru’s performance noticeably worsens

The engine produces a smoky, oily, or burning smell

The engine starts to make unusual noises

How to change your oil and oil filter

If you’ve decided to change your oil and oil filter at home, you will need the following tools: an oil drain pan, socket wrench, and filter wrench.

It goes without saying that you’ll also need to purchase a new filter and five quarts of full-synthetic 0W-20 motor oil.

Once you have all the required equipment, start your car by turning the key in the ignition and letting it run for a few minutes until the engine reaches normal operating temperatures. This shouldn't take more than four to five minutes under regular conditions.

Once the engine has reached the proper temperature, shut it off, open the hood, and follow these steps:

Locate the oil reservoir, then remove the cap.

Put your drain pan in position directly below the oil reservoir drain hole. The drain bolt and washer can be removed using the socket wrench. Let the oil drip into the pan.

Use the filter wrench to remove the old oil filter while you wait for the oil to completely drain.

Install a new oil filter.

Replace the bolt and install a new washer after the oil has completely drained. To determine the suggested tightness, consult your owner's manual.

Fill your engine with clean oil and screw the oil cap back into place.

After adding fresh oil to the reservoir, check to see if there is enough by using a dipstick. Turn on your car and let it run for a while if the level is good. Check for leaks once the engine has warmed up.

As long as you follow all instructions carefully, your Subaru’s oil pressure/warning light should turn off.

One more thing—make sure you properly dispose of the old engine oil. Never just dump old oil on the ground or in the garbage. Instead, seal it up in a container and bring it to a participating auto parts store or recycling center.

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