The correct oil filter number depends on the engine in your 2016 Outback. Most models use the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, but some trims offered or built with a larger engine may use a 3.6-liter flat-six. Because the filter number varies by engine, you should confirm your specific engine before purchasing.
Engine options in the 2016 Outback
Understanding which engine your vehicle has is the first step in identifying the correct oil filter. The 2016 Outback was commonly equipped with a 2.5L boxer-four engine, with a 3.6L boxer-six option in certain trims or configurations. The oil filter part number differs between these engines, so verification is essential.
How to determine the exact oil filter number
Use these steps to identify the correct filter for your specific Outback.
- Locate the engine code on the engine block or in your vehicle’s door jamb/under-hood sticker. Common Subaru engine codes include FB25 for the 2.5L and EZ36 for the 3.6L.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the maintenance section of the service manual for the recommended oil filter part number for your engine code.
- Visit Subaru’s official parts site or contact a Subaru dealer and input your VIN or engine code to pull the exact oil filter part number.
- If you’re buying aftermarket, reference the filter cross-reference by engine code and thread size to ensure compatibility with the 2016 Outback’s oil system.
Conclusion: By confirming the correct engine code (and, if possible, your VIN) and using official diagrams or a dealer lookup, you will source the precise oil filter part number for your 2016 Outback.
Notes on engine variants
Here is a quick note on how engine variants influence the filter choice. The 2.5L FB25 and the 3.6L EZ36 engines use different oil-filter housings and correspond to different Subaru filter part-number families. Always verify with an official diagram or parts lookup to avoid getting the wrong filter.
- FB25 (2.5L) variant: Filter part number is from the Subaru 2.5L filter family; verify with official diagrams for the exact suffix.
- EZ36 (3.6L) variant: Uses a different filter family than the 2.5L; confirm the exact suffix via Subaru’s parts diagram or a dealer.
Conclusion: The engine-specific nature of the Outback’s oil filter means there isn’t a single universal part number for all 2016 Outbacks. Always verify the engine code before purchasing.
Brands and cross-references (optional)
If you prefer aftermarket options, several brands cross-reference Subaru oil filters for the 2.5L and 3.6L engines. When shopping, ensure the cross-reference matches your exact engine code and thread size to avoid fitment issues.
- OEM (Subaru) filter: confirm the exact Subaru part number via dealer or official parts diagrams based on engine code.
- aftermarket cross-references: use the engine code and year to locate a compatible filter from brands like Wix, Bosch, or Fram and verify the fitment with your vehicle.
Conclusion: Aftermarket filters can be a convenient option, but always verify compatibility with your engine code and Subaru specifications to ensure proper fit and filtration performance.
Summary
In short, the oil filter number for a 2016 Subaru Outback is engine-dependent. Confirm whether your vehicle has the 2.5L FB25 or the 3.6L EZ36 engine, then check the official Subaru parts diagrams or a dealer to obtain the exact part number. This approach guarantees the correct filter is used, whether you choose OEM or an aftermarket option.