[ForesterTQ]

I am about to do my 4th oil change on my '16 2.5i 6MT. It has a little over 24000 miles on the odometer. I did the last oil change with a socket, 3 inch extension and a rachet. I have always use a 14MM long handle box end wrench on my 3 Toyotas. It is very easy with 1 tool instead of 3 pieces for my Forester. I know there is a plastic pan that may get in the way of the box wrench. Just wondering if any other members have used just a long handle 17MM box wrench. Thanks.

 

[jzmtl]

I've used a ratcheting box wrench once, just use whatever gives you the best access.

 

[Even_Stephen]

Just be aware that the Subaru plug is very soft and the points are easy to round off. So if you use a box wrench, I strongly suggest using the closed end of a 6-point wrench, not a 12-point. I use a 6-point socket with a 3/8" ratchet. No extension. But mine is a 2014, so the opening in the plastic "skid plate" may be different than your 2016.

If this is an ongoing difficulty, I would recommend you install a Fumoto valve and be done with using any sort of wrench again.

 

[Frank's subie]

I don't think you will clear the plastic pan with a wrench but I'm not sure. I use a 3/8 wrench and socket.

 

[ForesterTQ]

Thanks for all the replies and input. I will see if I can lay the box end wrench onto the plug securely, if not then I will go back to a 6 point socket, 3 inch extension and a ratchet.

 

[ForesterTQ]

Just be aware that the Subaru plug is very soft and the points are easy to round off. So if you use a box wrench, I strongly suggest using the closed end of a 6-point wrench, not a 12-point. I use a 6-point socket with a 3/8" ratchet. No extension. But mine is a 2014, so the opening in the plastic "skid plate" may be different than your 2016.

If this is an ongoing difficulty, I would recommend you install a Fumoto valve and be done with using any sort of wrench again.

Thanks for the suggestions. I will see if the 12 point box end wrench can access the plug. If it can then maybe next oil change I will purchase a 6 point box end wrench. I agree with the softness of the Subaru drain plug. All three of my Toyotas' plugs are 14MM heads and all 6 points are fine. '99 Camry has 150K. '98 Tacoma has 120K. '06 Tundra has 43K. by the way my '16 Forester 6MT has a 17MM plug head. I know others have the smaller 14MM. Don't know why.