Maintaining a healthy transmission is crucial for the longevity and performance of your vehicle. The Subaru Crosstrek, known for its rugged capabilities, requires specific attention to its transmission fluid, especially if equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This article will provide a comprehensive guide on Subaru Crosstrek transmission fluid change, including its importance, recommended intervals, and a step-by-step procedure.
Transmission fluid serves several vital functions, including lubricating moving parts, dissipating heat, and removing contaminants. Over time, transmission fluid degrades and loses its effectiveness. Regular fluid changes and flushes help maintain optimal performance, prevent premature wear and tear, and extend the lifespan of the transmission.
CVT Fluid Considerations
CVTs use a unique type of transmission fluid specifically designed for their unique operating characteristics. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, CVTs require a special blend of fluid that can withstand high pressure and temperature variations. Using the incorrect fluid can damage the CVT and void the vehicle’s warranty.
Recommended Change Interval and Considerations
The recommended transmission fluid change interval for the Subaru Crosstrek CVT varies depending on driving conditions and usage. However, under normal driving conditions, Subaru recommends changing the CVT fluid at around 60,000 miles.
Heavy-Duty Usage Considerations
If you engage in heavy towing or frequent off-road driving, it may be necessary to change the transmission fluid more frequently. These conditions put additional stress on the transmission and fluid, requiring more frequent maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Older automatic transmissions in American cars typically did not require fluid changes before 32,000 miles. This demonstrates that the recommendation for frequent CVT fluid changes may be unwarranted in many cases.
Subaru Crosstrek CVT Fluid Change Procedure
Changing the transmission fluid in a Subaru Crosstrek CVT requires specific tools and equipment to ensure proper operation. It is recommended to have the procedure performed by a qualified technician or adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals.
Materials Required
Subaru CVT Transmission Fluid (4 quarts)
Transmission filter (if applicable)
Drain pan
Funnel
OBD2 scanner (optional)
Step-by-Step Procedure
Safety Precautions: Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and the engine is turned off. Allow the engine to cool before proceeding.
Locate Drain Plug: Under the vehicle, locate the transmission drain plug.
Drain Fluid: Place a drain pan under the plug and carefully loosen it using a wrench. Allow the fluid to drain completely.
Replace Filter (if applicable): If equipped with a transmission filter, remove the old filter and replace it with a new one.
Tighten Drain Plug: Once all the fluid has drained, re-tighten the drain plug to the specified torque.
Fill Transmission: Use a funnel to pour the new CVT fluid into the transmission filler hole. Refer to the vehicle’s manual for the recommended fill level.
Check Fluid Level: Start the engine and run it for a few minutes. Use an OBD2 scanner or the dipstick, if equipped, to check the fluid level. Adjust the level if necessary.
Reset Transmission Adaptive Learning: Drive the vehicle for about 20 minutes in various driving conditions to allow the transmission to relearn its shift patterns.
Flush the transmission fluid regularly: Flushing the transmission fluid every 60,000 miles is recommended to remove any contaminants and ensure optimal performance.
Use genuine Subaru CVT fluid: Using the correct transmission fluid is crucial for the proper operation of your CVT. Genuine Subaru CVT fluid is specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of Crosstrek CVT transmissions.
Follow recommended service intervals: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on transmission fluid change intervals and other maintenance recommendations.
Is it necessary to change my Subaru Crosstrek’s transmission fluid frequently?
No, changing CVT fluid before 100,000 miles is generally not necessary unless you engage in demanding driving conditions like heavy towing or significant off-road use.
What type of fluid does my Subaru Crosstrek CVT transmission require?
CVT transmissions in Subaru Crosstreks require a specific type of fluid that is designed for CVTs. Ensure that any shop servicing your CVT has the expertise and equipment to handle CVT fluid replacement.
Is there a recommended change interval for CVT fluid in my Subaru Crosstrek?
In the absence of heavy towing or significant off-road use, changing CVT fluid before 100,000 miles is generally not necessary.
How does the lifespan of CVT fluid compare to traditional automatic transmission fluid?
CVT fluid is often considered “lifetime” fluid, meaning it is not typically recommended for replacement unless specific conditions warrant it. Even older automatic transmissions in American cars typically did not require fluid changes before 32,000 miles.
What should I do if a repair shop recommends changing my CVT fluid at an unusually low interval?
Consider seeking a more reputable repair shop. Frequent CVT fluid changes may be unfounded and could indicate a questionable motive.
Be wary of repair shops that suggest changing transmission fluid at unusually low intervals, such as 8,000 miles.
This may indicate a questionable motive.
CVT Fluid Requirements
Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) require a specific type of fluid and specialized equipment for replacement.
Ensure that any shop servicing your CVT has the necessary expertise and equipment.
Lifespan of CVT Fluid
CVT fluid is often considered “lifetime” fluid, meaning it is not typically recommended for replacement unless specific conditions warrant it.
In the absence of heavy towing or significant off-road use, changing CVT fluid before 100,000 miles is generally not necessary.
Recommended Change Interval for CVT Fluid
In the absence of heavy towing or significant off-road use, changing CVT fluid before 100,000 miles is generally not necessary.
Even older automatic transmissions in American cars typically did not require fluid changes before 32,000 miles, indicating that the recommendation for frequent CVT fluid changes may be unfounded.
