Hey guys! Maintaining your 2018 Subaru Forester with regular oil changes is super important for keeping it running smoothly. It's one of those things you really shouldn't skip. Think of it like this: oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It keeps everything lubricated, cool, and clean. Over time, that oil breaks down and gets dirty, which can lead to some serious problems down the road. So, let's dive into how to do an oil change on your 2018 Subaru Forester. I'll break it down into simple steps, so even if you're not a seasoned mechanic, you can totally handle this. Trust me, it's easier than you think, and your Forester will thank you for it!

Why Regular Oil Changes Matter

Okay, let's talk about why you should care about oil changes in the first place. Your engine has a bunch of moving parts that are constantly rubbing against each other. Without oil, those parts would create a ton of friction, which means heat and wear. Oil keeps everything slick and sliding smoothly, preventing those parts from grinding each other into dust. But here's the thing: oil doesn't stay clean forever. It picks up dirt, debris, and even tiny metal particles as it circulates through the engine. Over time, all that gunk turns the oil into a thick, sludgy mess that doesn't lubricate very well. That's where regular oil changes come in.

By changing your oil regularly, you're getting rid of all that nasty stuff and replacing it with fresh, clean oil. This keeps your engine running cooler, reduces wear and tear, and can even improve your gas mileage. Plus, clean oil helps to prevent those expensive engine repairs down the road. Think of it as a small investment that pays off big time in the long run. For your 2018 Subaru Forester, following the recommended oil change schedule is key to keeping it running like a champ for years to come. Usually, it's recommended to change your oil every 6,000 miles or every 6 months, but always double-check your owner's manual for the specific recommendations for your vehicle. Believe me, sticking to that schedule is one of the best things you can do for your Forester's longevity.

Gathering Your Supplies

Alright, so you're convinced that oil changes are important, right? Great! Now, let's get down to business and gather everything you'll need for the job. Having all your supplies ready before you start will make the whole process a lot smoother and less stressful. First off, you're going to need the right type of oil. For the 2018 Subaru Forester, the recommended oil is usually a synthetic 0W-20. Always double-check your owner's manual to be absolutely sure, but that's the most common type. You'll also need an oil filter that's specifically designed for your Forester. Again, your local auto parts store can help you find the right one.

Next up, you'll need a wrench to remove the oil filter and another wrench to remove the drain plug. Make sure you have the right sizes for both – usually, a standard socket set will do the trick. You'll also want an oil drain pan to catch the old oil as it comes out. A funnel is super helpful for pouring the new oil into the engine without making a mess. And don't forget some gloves to keep your hands clean and a rag or two to wipe up any spills. Finally, it's a good idea to have some wheel chocks to keep your car from rolling and a jack and jack stands to safely lift the car. Safety first, always! With all these supplies in hand, you'll be well-prepared to tackle that oil change like a pro.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil

Okay, let's get our hands dirty! Here's a step-by-step guide to changing the oil in your 2018 Subaru Forester. Follow these instructions carefully, and you'll be cruising in no time. First things first, warm up your engine. Run it for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the oil flow more easily. Then, park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. For extra safety, put those wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.

Next, use your jack to lift the front of the car. Make sure you're lifting it at the designated jack points – check your owner's manual if you're not sure where they are. Once the car is lifted, place those jack stands securely under the frame. Never, ever work under a car that's only supported by a jack! Now, crawl under the car and locate the oil drain plug. It's usually on the bottom of the oil pan. Place your oil drain pan underneath the drain plug and use your wrench to loosen the plug. Be careful, the oil might be hot! Once the plug is loose, unscrew it the rest of the way by hand, letting the old oil drain into the pan. While the oil is draining, you can move on to the oil filter.

Locate the oil filter (it's usually pretty easy to spot) and use your oil filter wrench to loosen it. Once it's loose, unscrew it by hand, being careful not to spill any oil. Before you install the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the rubber gasket with some fresh oil. This helps to create a good seal. Then, screw the new filter on by hand until it's snug. Don't overtighten it with the wrench! Once the old oil has completely drained, replace the drain plug with a new crush washer (if you have one) and tighten it securely with your wrench. Now, lower the car back down to the ground and open the hood. Locate the oil fill cap and remove it. Insert your funnel and pour in the recommended amount of new oil. Check your owner's manual for the exact amount, but it's usually around 5 quarts. Replace the oil fill cap and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if needed until it reaches the full mark. And that's it! You've successfully changed the oil in your 2018 Subaru Forester.

Choosing the Right Oil and Filter

Alright, let's dig a little deeper into choosing the right oil and filter for your 2018 Subaru Forester. This is actually a pretty important step, as using the wrong type of oil or a low-quality filter can actually do more harm than good. As I mentioned earlier, the recommended oil for your Forester is typically a synthetic 0W-20. But what does that even mean? The "0W" refers to the oil's viscosity at low temperatures, and the "20" refers to its viscosity at high temperatures. Basically, it means that the oil is designed to flow easily in cold weather and maintain its thickness when the engine is hot. Synthetic oil is a must because it provides better protection and lasts longer than conventional oil. It's more resistant to breakdown and can withstand higher temperatures, which is especially important for a high-performance engine like the one in your Forester.

When it comes to choosing an oil filter, don't skimp! A good quality oil filter is designed to trap dirt, debris, and other contaminants, preventing them from circulating through your engine and causing damage. Look for a filter that's specifically designed for synthetic oil and has a good reputation for filtration efficiency. Some popular brands include Mobil 1, K&N, and Bosch. Avoid the cheap, generic filters – they might save you a few bucks upfront, but they could end up costing you a lot more in the long run. And remember, always double-check your owner's manual for the specific oil and filter recommendations for your 2018 Subaru Forester. It's the best way to ensure that you're using the right products for your vehicle.

Disposing of Used Oil Properly

Okay, so you've successfully changed your oil – awesome! But what do you do with that nasty, used oil? Whatever you do, don't just dump it down the drain or into the backyard! Used oil is a major pollutant, and it can contaminate the soil and water supply. Plus, it's actually illegal to dispose of it improperly in many areas. So, what's the right way to get rid of it? The easiest and most responsible way is to take it to a local auto parts store or recycling center. Most auto parts stores will accept used oil for free, and they'll make sure it's properly recycled. Just pour the used oil into a sealed container (like the empty oil bottles) and take it to the store. They'll usually have a designated drop-off area for used oil.

You can also check with your local government or waste management company to see if they have any special programs for recycling used oil. Some communities even have curbside pickup for used oil. Whatever method you choose, make sure you're disposing of your used oil properly. It's a small effort that makes a big difference in protecting the environment. And while you're at it, don't forget to recycle your used oil filter too! Many auto parts stores will also accept used oil filters for recycling. Just make sure you drain as much of the oil out of the filter as possible before you drop it off. By recycling your used oil and filter, you're doing your part to keep our planet clean and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Alright, before you pat yourself on the back and call it a day, let's talk about some common mistakes that people make when changing their oil. Avoiding these pitfalls can save you a lot of headaches and prevent potential damage to your engine. One of the biggest mistakes is using the wrong type of oil. As I mentioned earlier, your 2018 Subaru Forester requires synthetic 0W-20 oil. Using a different viscosity or a conventional oil can negatively impact your engine's performance and longevity. Always double-check your owner's manual to confirm the correct oil type. Another common mistake is over-tightening the oil filter or drain plug. Overtightening can damage the threads and make it difficult to remove them the next time. Just tighten them snugly by hand, and you should be good to go.

Forgetting to lubricate the oil filter gasket before installing it is another easy-to-make mistake. This can cause the gasket to dry out and crack, leading to leaks. Always apply a thin coat of fresh oil to the gasket before screwing on the filter. And last but not least, neglecting to properly dispose of the used oil is a big no-no. As I mentioned earlier, dumping used oil is harmful to the environment and often illegal. Always take your used oil to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your oil change goes smoothly and your engine stays happy and healthy. So, take your time, pay attention to detail, and you'll be a pro in no time!

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! Changing the oil in your 2018 Subaru Forester might seem a little intimidating at first, but it's actually a pretty straightforward process. With the right tools, a little bit of knowledge, and a healthy dose of caution, you can easily tackle this maintenance task yourself and save some money in the process. Remember, regular oil changes are crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and preventing expensive repairs down the road. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Forester stays in tip-top shape for years to come.

And don't forget, if you're ever unsure about any part of the process, don't hesitate to consult your owner's manual or seek help from a qualified mechanic. It's always better to be safe than sorry! But with a little practice, you'll be changing your oil like a pro in no time. Happy motoring!