The current model Subaru Outback  with the 3.6l H6 incorporates something Subaru has never done and that’s a low oil level sensor and warning indicator (yellow in color).  This is not to be confused with the low oil pressure light (red) that has existed on all EJ platform Subaru Vehicles.

Subaru 3.6r Oil Level Sensor

The current production  Subaru 2.5l NA 4 cylinder models are required to use full synthetic oil, the current production Subaru H6 is not, even though Subaru has specified oil change intervals of 7000 miles for “normal use”.  The low oil level sensor is there to prevent engine failure due to low oil levels, as Subaru is anticipating oil consumption in between oil changes at the increased service interval and knowing many won’t really understand if how they use the car fits into the definition of normal or severe use.  So for the first time on a Subaru your Subaru is checking its oil for you!

One thing I want to point out is that when changing the oil if the key is turned to the on position when the oil level is low, or after filling it back up with oil  after an oil change and when starting the vehicle you are too quick with the key the low oil light will come on and stay on for a drive cycle even though the oil level is full.  If you change the oil your self its a good idea to turn the key to the run position once you have filled it up with oil, and let the system   recognize the oil is full, (this should take about 20 seconds) prior to starting the Subaru.

In the event this does happen to you all you can do is drive it for a bit, shut it off and restart it and it should go off on its own.

Thanks for reading

Justin