2021 Subaru Outback Oil Change
Complete guide to 2021 Subaru Outback oil change. Cost estimates, difficulty level, time required, and environmental impact.
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💰 Cost Breakdown
💡 Tip: Costs vary by location and repair shop. Authorized service centers typically charge more than independent repair shops.
🔧 Repair Overview
Oil Change is one of the most common repairs for 2021 Subaru Outback. This repair involves replacing the damaged maintenance component with a new or refurbished part. The process typically takes 30-45 min and requires easy skill level.
🔧 Required Tools
🔩 Replacement Parts
What You'll Need
- Replacement maintenance part (OEM or aftermarket)
- Precision screwdriver set (Phillips #000 or pentalobe)
- Opening tools (plastic spudger, suction cup)
- Adhesive strips or glue
- Clean workspace with good lighting
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Remove the right dashboard panel
Remove all contents in the glove box.
Gently pry and pull out the dashboard panel located at the right side of the glove box.
Step 2: Remove the glove box
Unscrew the screw that holds the pin on the right hinge of the glove box.
Disconnect the damper (string) locate on the right side of the glove box.
Push in the sides of the glove box to release the knock pins.
Remove the glove box by disengaging the left hinge.
Step 3: Remove the upper storage box
Remove the 3 screws on the left side of the upper storage box.
Pull out the upper storage box.
Step 4: Remove bracket
Remove the screws to take out the bracket from hole where the storage box was removed.
Peel off Velcro tape attaching the insulator, and push up the insulator.
Step 5: Remove & replace filter
Press inward the four tabs on the filter housing and the filter tray out. You need to slide the tray below the upper storage support.
Replace the filter. The air flow arrow on the filter must point down.
📖 Repair guide provided by iFixit - The free repair manual. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
iFixit Difficulty: Easy | Time: NaNh NaNm
DIY vs Professional Repair
✋ DIY Repair
- ✅ Lower cost (parts only: $21-$45)
- ✅ Learn new skills
- ❌ Risk of further damage
- ❌ No warranty
- ❌ Requires tools and time
🔧 Professional Repair
- ✅ Expert installation
- ✅ Warranty included
- ✅ Faster turnaround
- ❌ Higher cost ($35-$75)
- ❌ Need to find reputable shop
Environmental Impact
By choosing to repair your 2021 Subaru Outback instead of replacing it, you're preventing approximately 5798 kg of CO₂ emissions. Manufacturing a new 2021 Subaru Outback generates 5800 kg of CO₂, while this repair only produces about 2 kg of CO₂. That's a 100% reduction in carbon emissions!
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