I’ve done both and extractor takes out like 97% of oil. I still had about a half cup when I pulled the plug.
Oil being dark is a good indicator that you have to do an oil change. However, you shouldn't wait until it changes color to do it. Clear oil doesn't necessarily mean you can keep going.
It is well established that boxer engines want their oil changed and I do not think for a second that a visual inspection is valid for determining if it is time. Highly, **highly** recommend you change the oil per the manual without hesitation and regardless of what it looks like.
I would also make sure that every time you fill up the gas you check the oil dipstick and if it’s a little low top off the oil. In fact, I think this is probably crucial to owning an older Subaru like mine mine has 300 K.
I second those saying bring a spare quart of oil. I wouldn't be too worried about taking my 2012 Outback at 170K miles on such a trip...but would agree check the oil every 1000 miles or every morning (depending how far you go in a day) just to make sure it isn't getting low.
Check all your fluids ASAP. If any are low, top off as per the manual and monitor closely before you leave to make sure it's not leaking or consuming anything. Definitely bring extra oil, 1 or 2 quarts would be pleanty, and some paper towels and rubber gloves help too.
Should be fine, but CHECK THE OIL FREQUENTLY. This series of engines is notorious for oil consumption problems, which may not appear at all when doing short trips, but suddenly it's drinking 1qt or more per 1000 miles on the highway.
I had the same issue on my 2019 A6 3.0 last year. Two times I had to pop into the dealership to have oil removed (no charge) and the issue was due to dilution and short trips.
On my 1.8ts I usually change it when the motor blows up and has to be replaced. They used to last perpetually but builds have progressed to the "Yes it absolutely is going to grenade or window the block before 10k miles???? so really I only ever have to FILL oil 1 time???? I wish this was less true than it actually is. On the rest, (2.7tt and 4.2) 10k miles if you use good full synthetic oil and a nice filter
I avoid the 5 minute drive-thru places. One of them wanted over $100 for full synthetic on my Subaru Forester. Not worth the 5 minutes.
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