Subaru · 2002–2026
HOW TO RESET THE OIL LIFE ON A SUBARU IMPREZA
Oil change light or maintenance reminder on after an oil change? Here's how to reset it on the Subaru Impreza (2002–2026), plus how much oil it takes, the oil type and the oil filter number.
Engines covered
2.0L H4 · 2.5L H4
Model years
RESET STEPS
Subaru Cluster Settings Menu · covers model years 2002–2026
Subaru, roughly 2005 and newer
- 1
With the ignition ON (engine off), use the steering-wheel INFO buttons to open the cluster settings menu.
- 2
Go to SET → MAINTENANCE (SERVICE) → OIL CHANGE (or ENGINE OIL).
- 3
Press and hold ENTER/SET until the value resets, then confirm.
- 4
Start the engine and verify the service light is off.
Oil needed for an oil change
5.1 qt (4.8 L) · 4.2 qt (4.0 L)
Capacity with a new filter. Verify the exact amount and oil grade (viscosity) in your owner's manual before filling.
Type of oil
5W-30
Oil filter part number
Subaru 15208AA12A · 15208AA15A
Common factory part numbers — the right filter can vary by engine. Verify before buying.
TIRES & WHEELS
Lug nut torque
89 ft-lb (120 N·m)
Tighten in a star pattern; re-check after 50–100 miles.
Drivetrain
Symmetrical AWD
X-pattern (AWD)
- Every tire crosses diagonally: left front ↔ right rear, right front ↔ left rear.
- Keep all four tires within the same tread depth (AWD systems are sensitive to mismatched sizes).
Directional or staggered tires use different rules — see all rotation patterns.
TPMS reset · Automatic relearn by driving
Applies to 2008 and newer (some 2006–2007 too).
- 1
Set all tires (cold) to the door-jamb pressure.
- 2
Drive above 20 mph for about 10–20 minutes; the light turns off once sensors are read.
- 3
New sensors must be registered with a TPMS tool.
Torque, drivetrain and TPMS info are common values for this model family. Verify in your owner's manual or service info before working on the vehicle.
BEFORE YOU START
- Only reset the oil life after a real oil and filter change.
- Warm oil is hot — let the engine cool a few minutes before draining.
- Reset resets the internal interval timer; it doesn't change what's in the sump.
SUBARU IMPREZA QUESTIONS
+How do I reset the oil life on a Subaru Impreza?
With the ignition ON (engine off), use the steering-wheel INFO buttons to open the cluster settings menu. Go to SET → MAINTENANCE (SERVICE) → OIL CHANGE (or ENGINE OIL). Press and hold ENTER/SET until the value resets, then confirm. Start the engine and verify the service light is off.
+How much oil does a Subaru Impreza take?
About 5.1 qt (4.8 L) or 4.2 qt (4.0 L) with a new filter, depending on engine and year. Check the dipstick after filling.
+What type of oil does a Subaru Impreza use?
Commonly 5W-30. Confirm the grade in your owner's manual or on the oil filler cap.
+What oil filter fits a Subaru Impreza?
Common factory part number: Subaru 15208AA12A · 15208AA15A. The right filter can vary by engine, so confirm before buying.
More answers on our oil change FAQ.