Subaru Yellow Oil Light: Causes, Fixes & When to Worry (Complete Guide)

The yellow oil light in your Subaru indicates low oil level rather than low oil pressure, requiring prompt attention but not immediate shutdown. This warning typically means you need to add oil soon, check for leaks, or address potential oil consumption issues that are common in certain Subaru models, particularly those with FB engines manufactured between 2011-2015.

What Does the Yellow Oil Light Mean on a Subaru?

The yellow oil light on a Subaru resembles a genie lamp or oil can with a drop and indicates your engine is running low on oil. Unlike the red oil light (which signals dangerous low oil pressure requiring immediate engine shutdown), the yellow warning means you should check and add oil soon but can typically drive to a safe location. Subaru uses this dual-color system to differentiate between urgent pressure problems (red) and maintenance-level oil quantity issues (yellow). The yellow light activates when oil level drops approximately one quart below the recommended level.

Why is My Subaru’s Oil Light Yellow?

Several factors can trigger the yellow oil light in your Subaru:

• Low engine oil level (most common cause)
• Oil consumption issues (particularly in 2011-2015 models with FB engines)
• External oil leaks from gaskets, seals, or drain plug
• Internal oil leaks or burning oil
• Oil quality degradation between scheduled changes
• Faulty oil level sensor
• Extreme driving conditions accelerating oil consumption
• Extended periods between oil changes
• Clogged oil filter restricting proper circulation
• Oil dilution from frequent short trips

The light typically appears when oil level drops about one quart below the full mark, giving you time to address the issue before engine damage occurs.

Is it Safe to Drive a Subaru with the Yellow Oil Light On?

You can safely drive a Subaru with the yellow oil light on for short distances to reach a gas station or service center. However, you should check the oil level at your earliest convenience and add oil if needed. Continuing to drive for extended periods with low oil can lead to increased engine wear, reduced performance, and potentially serious damage.

If the oil light is red rather than yellow, pull over immediately and shut off the engine, as this indicates dangerous low oil pressure that can cause catastrophic engine failure within minutes. The yellow light provides a warning buffer, but shouldn’t be ignored for more than 100-200 miles of driving.

How to Check Your Subaru’s Oil Level When the Yellow Light Appears

Follow these steps to properly check your Subaru’s oil level:

1. Park on level ground and turn off the engine
2. Wait 3-5 minutes for oil to settle in the oil pan
3. Open the hood and locate the oil dipstick (yellow ring handle)
4. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth
5. Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again
6. Check the oil level against the markings (should be between L and F marks)
7. If oil is at or below the lower mark, add oil in small increments
8. Use a funnel to add oil through the oil fill cap (marked “Engine Oil”)
9. Add approximately half a quart, then recheck the level
10. Continue adding small amounts until the level reaches near the full mark

Never overfill the oil as this can cause different problems. The dipstick typically shows two holes or dimples – the lower one represents minimum safe level while the upper indicates full.

What Type of Oil Does My Subaru Need?

Subaru requires synthetic oil for all models 2011 and newer (except some 2011 Impreza models). Turbo models specifically require 5W-30 synthetic oil, while non-turbo models use 0W-20 synthetic. Using the incorrect oil type can affect performance and potentially void warranty coverage.

Common Causes of Yellow Oil Light in Different Subaru Models

The 2011-2015 models with FB engines experienced significant oil consumption issues that led to a class action lawsuit. Subaru extended warranty coverage to 8 years/100,000 miles for excessive oil consumption on affected vehicles.

Subaru Oil Consumption Issues and Class Action Lawsuits

Subaru faced a significant class action lawsuit regarding excessive oil consumption in vehicles equipped with FB engines. The affected models include 2011-2014 Forester, 2013 Legacy, 2013 Outback, 2012-2013 Impreza, and 2013 Crosstrek with both automatic and manual transmissions.

The lawsuit alleged these engines consumed excessive oil due to defective piston rings and other design flaws. As part of the settlement, Subaru extended the powertrain warranty to 8 years/100,000 miles specifically for oil consumption issues and provided reimbursement for past repairs, oil purchases, and related expenses.

Many owners reported needing to add a quart of oil every 1,000-2,000 miles, far exceeding normal consumption rates. While Subaru maintained the vehicles were not defective, they implemented design changes in later model years to address these concerns. If you own an affected vehicle, you may still qualify for coverage under the extended warranty program.

How to Reset the Oil Light on Your Subaru

After addressing the low oil condition, you may need to reset the oil light:

1. For most Subarus with yellow oil level light:
   • Check and correct the oil level
   • Start the engine and let it warm up
   • The light should turn off automatically once the oil level sensor registers sufficient oil
2. If the light persists after adding oil:
   • Locate the main fuse box under the hood
   • Find the test mode fuse socket (marked “PDI”)
   • Insert a spare 10-amp fuse into this socket
   • Turn the ignition to “ON” position (don’t start engine)
   • The light should reset and turn off
   • Remove the fuse and return it to its original position
3. For maintenance reminder lights (not oil level):
   • Use the information button on the steering wheel
   • Navigate to the maintenance menu
   • Select “Oil” or “Oil and Filter”
   • Press and hold the “Enter” button
   • Select “Set” or “Reset” option

Different Subaru models may have slightly different reset procedures, so consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

When to Change Oil in Your Subaru

*Severe conditions include: frequent short trips (less than 10 miles), extreme temperatures (below 0°F or above 90°F), stop-and-go traffic, towing, off-road driving, or dusty environments.

Subaru recommends more frequent oil changes for turbocharged models due to higher operating temperatures. The first oil change should occur earlier (around 3,000 miles) to remove manufacturing debris and break-in particles.

Yellow Oil Light vs. Other Subaru Dashboard Warnings

The yellow oil level light is less urgent than the red oil pressure warning but should still be addressed promptly. Unlike the check engine light which may indicate various issues, the oil level light specifically points to low oil quantity.

DIY Oil Change for Subaru Vehicles

Follow these steps for a DIY Subaru oil change:

1. Gather necessary supplies (oil, filter, drain pan, wrench)
2. Run engine for 5 minutes to warm oil
3. Park on level surface and engage parking brake
4. Lift vehicle using appropriate jack points and secure with jack stands
5. Locate and remove oil drain plug (14mm wrench for most models)
6. Allow oil to drain completely (10-15 minutes)
7. Replace drain plug with new crush washer (torque to 30-34 ft-lbs)
8. Locate oil filter (top-mounted on most models)
9. Remove old filter using oil filter wrench if necessary
10. Apply thin film of new oil to new filter gasket
11. Install new filter hand-tight plus 3/4 turn
12. Remove oil filler cap and add recommended amount of oil
13. Replace oil cap and start engine
14. Check for leaks around drain plug and filter
15. Turn off engine, wait 5 minutes, and check oil level with dipstick

Tools Needed for a Subaru Oil Change

• Jack and jack stands or ramps
• Oil drain pan (at least 6-quart capacity)
• 14mm socket or wrench (for drain plug)
• Oil filter wrench (if filter is tight)
• Funnel
• Shop rags or paper towels
• New oil filter (Subaru part #15208AA15A for most models)
• New crush washer for drain plug
• Correct type and amount of oil for your model
• Torque wrench (recommended)
• Disposable gloves
• Container for used oil disposal

Remember to properly dispose of used oil at an authorized recycling center.

How Much Does it Cost to Fix Yellow Oil Light Issues on a Subaru?

Simple oil additions or changes are inexpensive, while addressing underlying oil consumption issues can be costly. Check if your vehicle qualifies for coverage under Subaru’s extended warranty for oil consumption before paying for major repairs.

Preventing Future Yellow Oil Light Warnings

Follow these preventative measures to avoid oil-related issues:

• Check oil level every 2-3 gas fill-ups (especially in older models)
• Follow recommended oil change intervals based on driving conditions
• Use only Subaru-recommended oil types and weights
• Replace oil filter with every oil change
• Address minor leaks promptly before they worsen
• Keep records of oil consumption to identify increasing trends
• Consider high-mileage oil formulations for vehicles over 100,000 miles
• Avoid prolonged high-RPM driving in models prone to consumption
• Allow proper warm-up in cold weather before aggressive driving
• Consider engine treatments designed to reduce consumption in older engines
• Maintain regular service schedule for all engine components

Regular monitoring is especially important for 2011-2015 models with known oil consumption issues.

When to Seek Professional Help for Subaru Oil Issues

While adding oil or performing routine oil changes can be handled by most owners, certain situations warrant professional attention:

Seek professional help when:

• Yellow oil light returns quickly after adding oil (within 500 miles)
• Oil appears milky or has metal particles
• Engine makes knocking or ticking noises
• You notice blue smoke from exhaust
• Oil leaks appear to come from hard-to-reach areas
• Vehicle is under warranty (to maintain coverage)
• Oil consumption exceeds 1 quart per 1,000 miles
• Multiple warning lights appear simultaneously
• You lack proper tools or experience for DIY repairs

Subaru dealerships have specialized diagnostic equipment and experience with model-specific issues, though independent Subaru specialists often offer more competitive pricing with comparable expertise.

Do Subarus Burn More Oil Than Other Vehicles?

Certain Subaru models, particularly those with FB engines produced between 2011-2015, do consume more oil than industry averages. While normal consumption is considered 1 quart per 3,000-5,000 miles, affected Subarus may use 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles.

This issue primarily affects the horizontally-opposed “boxer” engine design with specific years and models. The class action settlement acknowledged these concerns, though Subaru maintained the consumption was within acceptable ranges. Later model years (2016+) show significant improvement in oil retention.

The boxer engine design, while offering handling advantages through a lower center of gravity, can be more prone to oil consumption due to its horizontal cylinder orientation. However, proper maintenance and monitoring can mitigate these issues, and many Subaru engines regularly exceed 200,000 miles despite moderate oil consumption.

People Also Ask:

Can I just add oil when my Subaru yellow oil light comes on?
Yes, you can add oil when the yellow light appears. Check the level first, then add oil in small increments until the dipstick shows proper level (between L and F marks). This is a temporary solution if the light appears between scheduled changes.

How long can I drive my Subaru with the yellow oil light on?
You can safely drive 100-200 miles with the yellow oil light on, but should check and add oil at the earliest opportunity. Extended driving with low oil accelerates engine wear. If the light is red (not yellow), stop immediately.

Why does my Subaru need oil between scheduled changes?
Subarus, especially 2011-2015 models with FB engines, may consume oil between changes due to piston ring design, horizontal engine layout, or normal consumption. Some consumption (1 quart per 3,000 miles) is considered normal, but excessive use may indicate an issue requiring attention.

Does the yellow oil light mean I need a complete oil change?
Not necessarily. The yellow light indicates low oil level, which can often be resolved by adding oil. However, if you’re approaching your scheduled change interval or the oil appears dirty, a complete oil and filter change is recommended.

What year Subarus have oil consumption problems?
The 2011-2014 Forester, 2013 Legacy, 2013 Outback, 2012-2013 Impreza, and 2013 Crosstrek with FB engines were covered in a class action lawsuit for excessive oil consumption. These models may consume 1 quart every 1,000-2,000 miles, which is higher than normal.