Just leased a new Forester and I love it! I have a question that I don't want the dealer to screw me (more) on. Can I do the oil changes myself on my car even though it's leased?

If you mean going to the auto store and buying the oil and filter each time and doing it yourself, answer hazy but it is probably OK if you keep the receipts of the purchase (correct oil and filter!) and write down the mileage.

 

My question is why bother doing it yourself? Most non dealer places will do it for under $20 and my dealer sends me an occasional coupon to do it for $20 with a carwash. Add up the cost of buying decent oil and the correct filter and your time. I think you will come out ahead paying to have it done.

You can do all maintenance work yourself, or pay any shop to do it. You are not required to use the dealer or OEM parts. There is a lot of info on this, Google "Moss-Magnuson Warranty Act".

 

What you must do is keep records. Keep all receipts and make sure that the date and mileage are on them. I also keep a log with date, mileage and work done.

 

Paying someone else to do an oil change doesn't save any time. I can do it in less time than it takes to drive somewhere to have it done. I can do it any time I want. I can choose better quality parts and materials. And I know it's done right and the quicky lube monkeys haven't screwed anything up (speaking from repeated bad experiences). I don't have to deal with pushy salesman trying to sell me parts and services I don't need. Besides, I like working on my cars.

Plus the 09 Foresters dont have engine undercovers so doing and LOF is cake even on flat ground with no jack stands...just like any other subaru...17mm, around 5 qts, filter, and drain plug gasket and your all set...