How to Read the Oil Dipstick in a Subaru Outback

Checking your oil on a regular basis keeps your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. An engine needs oil to work properly so it's critical to do regular checks to make sure you have enough oil. If an oil warning light comes on in your message center, you need to check the engine oil level immediately. The Subaru Outback uses markings on the dipstick to help owners check their oil levels with ease.

Instructions

1

Park your Subaru Outback on a level surface and wait a few minutes but not too long. You want to avoid waiting too long after the engine is shut off because the oil needs to be warm for accurate readings.

2

Find the engine oil dipstick on the passenger side of the engine. It has an easy-to-grasp handle. Grasp the handle at the top and gently pull the Subaru Outback dipstick out of the sheath. Wipe it off with a rag or tissue to clean it.

3

Observe the markings on the dipstick. These mark the safety zone for the safe running of your engine, and the oil should measure somewhere between these marks.

4

Slip the dipstick back into the sheath and pull it out immediately to get a clear reading. Keep the dipstick pointing down toward the ground and check the oil level on the dipstick without wiping it off.

5

Take some oil out if your reading is above top marking. Add one quart of oil if your reading is below the bottom markings and check again until it lies within the safe zone. The car should never need more than 4 quarts of oil added.