How to Reset the Oil Life Indicator on a 2015–2019 Subaru Outback

Which Subaru Outback model years does this cover?

These oil life reset specifications apply to every Subaru Outback built from 2015 through 2019 — the BS (5th generation), mid-size wagon/crossover. Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.

What changed during the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback

• 2015Full redesign: all-new FB25, 3.6R moves to CVT, EyeSight driver-assist available for the first time on Outback
• 2018Facelift: revised front/rear styling, updated Starlink infotainment, standard EyeSight on most trims
• 2019Final year of this generation; last model year covered by the FB-engine oil-consumption settlement window

How do you reset the oil life on a 2015–2019 Subaru Outback?

6 steps, using only the controls in the car, the full sequence is above.

Do you need a scan tool to reset the oil light on a 2015–2019 Subaru Outback?

No. The procedure above uses the vehicle's own controls. A scan tool is only necessary if the reset does not take, which usually points at a different fault.

Why won't the oil light reset on a 2015–2019 Subaru Outback?

Almost always a timing problem in the sequence, a step held too briefly, or the ignition in the wrong position. Repeat it exactly, with the engine off and the key in accessory rather than run, unless the steps say otherwise. Same trip-meter-hold reset carried over from the BR generation. Reset manually after every oil change, the light is mileage-based, not condition-based.