Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Oil pump

2017 Subaru Forester Oil Pump — What It Does and When To Service It

Yes, the 2017 Subaru Forester is fitted with an engine oil pump. Technical references that confirm this include the Subaru Service Manual for 2017MY Forester (Engine, Lubrication System sections for FB25 and FA20F), Subaru New Car Features/Service Training materials for FB/FA-series engines, and the Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue, which lists an oil pump assembly for both the 2.5-litre non‑turbo and 2.0-litre turbo variants. These sources describe a crankshaft-driven positive-displacement trochoid/internal gear oil pump integrated with the front timing chain cover and controlled by a pressure relief valve.

On the 2017 Forester, the oil pump’s job is simple but critical: it pushes engine oil through galleries to lubricate bearings, camshafts, timing chains, and—on the XT—feeds the turbocharger as well. By keeping a steady oil film under pressure, it reduces wear, carries away heat, and helps keep everything spinning happily under the bonnet. Because it’s a positive-displacement design, it builds pressure quickly, and the built-in relief valve stops pressure from spiking when the oil’s cold.

It isn’t a routine “replace at X kilometres” item. Instead, the pump lasts a long time if the right oil is used and changed on schedule. The smart play at each service is to use the engine oil grade and spec recommended in the owner’s manual, replace the filter, and check for any oil pressure warning light, rattles on cold start, or metallic glitter in drained oil—classic clues the lubrication system needs attention.

Replacement is usually only considered when there’s verified low oil pressure, after internal engine damage, or during major front-of-engine work. On FB/FA engines, the pump lives behind the front timing cover and is driven directly off the crank, so proper replacement involves removing the crank pulley, the front cover, and resealing with the correct FIPG sealant, then torquing fasteners to spec per the Subaru Service Manual. It’s not a quick driveway job—best left to a technician with the right tools, sealants, and pressure-testing kit.

• Watch for: oil pressure light at hot idle, top-end ticking, or knocking under load.
• Good habits: timely oil and filter changes, OEM-spec filters, and prompt attention to any leaks.
• Pro tips: verify actual oil pressure with a gauge before calling the pump, issues can also stem from worn bearings, a blocked pickup, or wrong oil viscosity.

Does the 2017 Subaru Forester have an oil pump?

It does. Both the FB25 (2.5i) and FA20F (2.0 XT) engines use a crank-driven trochoid/internal gear oil pump integrated with the timing chain cover. This layout and operation are detailed in the 2017MY Subaru Service Manual and Subaru FB/FA engine training materials.

When should the oil pump be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval. Replacement is considered if verified oil pressure is below spec, the engine has suffered contamination or bearing damage, or the front cover is off for major work. Always confirm pressure with a mechanical gauge and inspect the pickup, relief valve function, and bearing condition before condemning the pump.

What oil should be used to look after the pump?

Use the viscosity and specification listed in the owner’s manual for the exact engine and local climate. Many 2017 Foresters run a high-quality full-synthetic in the 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 range depending on engine and market. Correct grade and timely changes are the best insurance for pump longevity.