The 2016 Subaru Impreza offers practical efficiency and all-weather confidence, and knowing its oil capacity helps owners maintain the engine over time. This specification is important for DIY owners using their own oil as well as for service centers managing accurate inventory.
Below you will find detailed capacity information presented in an easy-scan table, followed by in-depth coverage of maintenance procedures, oil selection, and common questions.
| Year | Engine | Oil Filter | Capacity (quarts) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 2.0L FB20 (naturally aspirated) | Standard OEM | 4.0 | Drain plug holds most, filter adds remainder |
| 2016 | 2.0L FB20 (with turbo) | Standard OEM | 4.0 | Same volume, turbo requires proper warm cycles |
| 2016 | 2.0L FB20 | Filter type AOYOS | 4.0 | Estimate with new OEM filter |
2016 Impreza Oil Fill Procedure Overview
Under the hood, the 2016 Impreza keeps the oil pan near the front and slightly off to one side, which means the fill cap sits above the engine’s highest point. Using a correct capacity of 4.0 quarts and a new OEM filter generally keeps the lubrication system balanced without overfilling. The reserve plug and filter mounting location make a two-person job easier, where one person adds oil while the second monitors the dipstick.
Before you begin, gather a 4-quart container for drained oil, a new filter specified for the FB20 engine, a socket set that matches the drain plug, and the recommended 0W-20 viscousity engine oil. Ensuring tools are ready reduces mess and prevents last-minute substitutions that could affect engine protection or emissions compliance.
With the car parked on level ground and the engine cold, loosen the drain plug carefully, allow the oil to drain completely, then tighten the plug to factory torque. Install the new filter hand-tight plus a quarter turn, pour the bulk oil into the fill port, and recheck the level after the filter and pan fill to arrive at the precise 4.0-quart target.
Choosing the Right Oil for the 2016 Impreza
Subaru specifies 0W-20 for the FB20 naturally aspirated engine and for the turbocharged variant, which balances fuel economy, cold starts, and long-term wear protection. Synthetic or high-mileage synthetic blends that meet or exceed Subaru’s SHS 030 specifications tend to maintain viscosity through extended drain intervals while supporting the turbocharged combustion pressures.
Using the correct viscosity matters because thicker oil can reduce fuel efficiency and make cold starts harder, while too thin oil may not protect bearings under higher loads. Look for the dexos1 or ILSAC GF-5 resource on the bottle, confirm the rating on the oil filter, and follow the maintenance schedule to keep warranty coverage intact and sensors reading accurately.
Maintenance Schedule and Long-Term Checks
Regular oil changes every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first, help the turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines stay within factory design limits. Cabin air replacement intervals and proper oil selection reduce sludge and varnish, especially in stop-and-go driving or short trips that do not fully warm the oil.
Inspect the oil drain plug washer each time you change the filter, and replace it if it shows deformation or flattening. Also check under the car for signs of leaks around the filter and sump, because early detection prevents low-oil conditions that could damage the timing chain or turbocharger bearings.
Key Takeaways for 2016 Impreza Oil Capacity Owners
- Use 4.0 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend oil per Subaru recommendation.
- Pair the refill with a new OEM-spec filter to maintain proper filtration and capacity.
- Check the dipstick after adding oil to avoid under- or overfilling the engine.
- Follow the 6-month or 6,000-mile change interval to protect the turbocharged and NA engines.
- Monitor for leaks around the drain plug and filter housing during each maintenance session.
FAQ
Reader questions
How much oil does a 2016 Subaru Impreza take when changing it myself?
A 2016 Subaru Impreza typically requires 4.0 quarts of engine oil for a complete fill, including the oil filter replacement.
Does the turbocharged 2016 Impreza use more oil than the base model?
No, both the turbocharged and naturally aspirated 2016 Impreza models use the same oil capacity of 4.0 quarts because they share the same displacement and filter configuration.
Can I use a different oil filter and still add 4 quarts?
Using a different filter may slightly change the total oil needed, so check the dipstick after filling and adjust by adding small amounts until the level sits in the proper range.
What happens if I overfill the oil past 4 quarts in my 2016 Impreza?
Overfilling can cause increased crankcase pressure, oil foaming, reduced lubrication, and potential leaks or sensor warnings, so always measure and drain to the manufacturer’s specified capacity.