I did my 15 forester at 112k, using amsoil cvt fluid. I did 3- 2 liter flushes out the transmission cooler return line into a soda bottle. It was black the initial drain and first 2 liter shot. Then, the second shot started to look green-yellow, shifting all ranges with brake and park brake on. The 3rd shot was near all green-yellow. After replacing return hose, I added until it dripped out and by using a laser handheld temperature gun aimed at the black pan, sealed the refill at 107f temperature. Now has 151 k miles and runs fine. Used a 2 gallon garden chemical sprayer.
A garden sprayer to put the fluid in? Isn't CVT fluid thick? How in the world? Wouldn't you have to use a manual pump or something electric to push it in?
I've been using Valvoline CVT fluid since 2014, first drain and fill being done at 60k miles. Subaru Lineartronic fluid was only available in 5 gallon pails and was priced like liquid platinum. I've been using the Valvoline product since at my regular 60k mile drain/fills without any problems at all and am currently at 181k miles. The drained fluid is usually a bit dark but without any strange odor nor do I find any foreign material in the drainage. Since Subaru now sells its fluid in reasonable sized 1 quart containers I may switch to that next time. YMMV.
I work at a Subaru dealership, there were some cvt transmissions with different cvt fluids in them from the factory, Subaru says that there's nothing to be worried about will not harm the transmission. We have seen no issues relating to this.
May times for factories the color differance will depend on who supplies that load of oil. The specs will be correct but the dye color will be different.
Well color for one, high torque is orange in color, cvt II is a bluish green, I am not sure of the compounds that make each one of them up. However you should not mix or use instead of each other. There are like 5 different cvt fluids now, I wish they went back to the 5 speed automatic. Especially since there was only 1 transmission fluid unless it was a manual shift, hope this helps some.
Nice video, at 100k km I drained and refilled my 17 outback TR580 with Eneos Model S which is specific to CVTF II Vehicles. It was the same green color as the oem Subaru fluid. Been 75k km, seems to be fine. Will drain and fill again soon.
As a Subaru SR Master tech that now works at an Indi shop. aftermarket CVT fluid is usually red. I haven’t had any issues using aftermarket fluid vs the idemitsu fluid. Im also red-green/deutan color blind so
I would suspect the differences between the 2 cvt fluids would be minimal, if they both are Subaru fluids. Probably just some friction modifiers and rated to a higher temp. The real issue is really not knowing what was in there for sure. These transmissions are really fragile, so I would say if there was a major issue, it would have shown itself by now. And Subaru really doesn’t give proper service intervals. It’s a 100k miles on normal driving (highway) and 50k adverse driving (in town) per service data.
Local garage used 75w-90 Lucas from a barrel (against my wishes) in my 2010 with TR690. Saved me 100 bucks over Subaru brand. Works great and going strong at 215k miles. Torque converter is under warranty either way.
I bought a new '12 Impreza Sport Limited that I had the pan removed at 10k miles to remove the metal shavings in the strainer above the pan inside. It was A LOT in there! Next change at 58k, I switched to Valvoline by doing four drain and fills. Next D&F was at 90k. Removed the pan again at 180k, the strainer and magnet were empty and clean. Now at 252,900 miles and the CVT is slipping when the engine is warm and accelerating between 1,000 and 2,000 rpm. No problem above 2,000 rpm. It doesn't make any noise. Note: the valve body was replaced at ~192,000 miles. Dealership suggested a flush but when I told them how many times I changed the fluid, they ruled that out. For another CVT, they quoted $4,300 and $7,100 (used / new). They didn't mention anything about solenoids. Can those be replaced or do you need a whole transmission?
Thanks for the video Robert nicely done with the fluid change, I'll be doing it also I have 290k on my 2011 outback. Take care of yourself and Girlfriend and be Blessed ❤️❤️👍.
Hmm definitely orange 🍊 to me too 🧐 Just got myself a 08 My 09 Forester MT and i freakin love it, you've definitely climbed up the ranks for Subaru tech for me, meaning the only one haha 😅enjoying your informative content, thank you Sir 😊
@@jp2246 with the scanner you have to Have all 4 wheels off the ground it’s a bit of a procedure. South main auto has a video where he does a valve body and he goes through the process.
fwiw - I drained and filled the CVTF on my 2015 Outback with the TR580 and the fluid was also an amber color coming out. Owned it since new so this was definitely the factory fluid.
Moms 2014 ob with only 71k has had 3 cvts put in by Subaru. Idk. Its been serviced at the dealer since new. They put a lifetime power train on it after the first one quit. So they have done axels and wheel bearings too. Every time the cvt acted up it sounded like an outboard motor.
Awesome video. Enjoyed all the details. A p2158 code (vehicle speed sensor B) and troubleshooting that issue on my wife’s 2015 Outback led me here. Subscribed!
Yeah def wrong fluid, when I did my 13 with your help at 90000 miles, it at least showed a tint of green along with the darkness, I did 2 drain fills 1000 miles apart and it was happy.
I expected to fulsh old fluid using the exit in upper body of the transmission. You coluld start the engine , feed the new fluid on the bottom and collect the old fluid on the top. In this way you could flush the old fluid in larger quantity in comparison with just dropping off. There is a particularly reason for not using the exit way of the transmission? Thank you.
Actually the situation happened to my dad and his Avalon he had an 08 took it to a mechanic they installed universal fluid and when he would drive up in the hills you could hear the torque converter clutch so we drained it and I added the Toyota WS fluid everything all good..
MrSubaru, how do you think is it make sense (if I have enough of time) to also remove CVT's oil pane and clean it + clean magnet & filter? Also one more important question - it's hard to find Subaru's OEM CVTF-II fluid in EU countries, but there are some manufactures (like Motul or Ravenol) which saying those CVTFs are compatible with TR-580, is it ok to replace original CVTF with such brands? And if yes - does it requires some specific procedures (like not recommended on high mileage or requires to replace all filters)?
Not sure if someone put the wrong CVT fluid in or not. I did a CVT service on my 2016 Subaru Forester. I had done a Valve body replacement. Then a few weeks later I did a CVT drain and refill and the color was reddish / brownish. I don't think the fluid had ever been changed for 153,000 miles. So I don't have any evidence to back this up, but the reddish brownish color could just be what the CVT color turns to over time on Subaru TR580 transmissions. My 2016 Forester definitely looked the same color as yours when I drained and refilled the transmission
Subaru HT CVTF is more expensive for that previous shop to pour into that Outback. I likely think it was Subaru C-30 CVTF (p/n SOA868V9245) was in that tranny. It also amber color and more cheaper than HT or Lineartronic II fluid
I am doing this on my ‘15 forester. I took it a step further and removed the pan, cleaned the magnet and blew out the screen and heat exchanger. Will I have issues with the pump priming on first start? 4 fluid flushes would cost about $1000 retail for oem fluid, wouldn’t it?
Because they want to sell you a new car when it fails. I hate to sound cynical, but think about it. The dealer and manufacturer say, "Well, that fluid is engineered to last the lifetime of the transmission". Yes, it will last the lifetime of the transmission when it dies prematurely and they''ll say 'that was the lifetime'! I have a 2019 Outback with 95K on it and I have not had the transmission fluid changed. I'll be taking care of that in a couple of weeks and I am kicking myself for buying into this nonsense. Same with oil changes. Whatever the service books says, halve it and your car will last you forever. Manufacturers/dealers have very different goals than the consumer who wants their car to last as long as possible and be as reliable as possible. Don't buy these recommendations that will hurt your car in the long run. If you buy a new car every couple of years, then don't worry about it.
@@dukebeach1 I had the service done at the 100k mark. I think they changed their minds later on as to what they needed. It most definitely needs to be serviced.
Really enjoy your videos! '19 Forester 2.5 owner here. I sometimes hear a low humming noise coming from the front end of the vehicle while cruising at low speeds on even/quiet surfaces. I assumed something on the front axles might be off so told the dealer about this while I left it there for the 30k service. Dealer mentioned it could be CVT issues and they need to go through a potentially lengthy diagnostic procedure with Subaru (via warranty claim) I searched and found Service Bulletin 16-132-20R, does it make sense to diagnose as a potential chain slip issue if only symptom is occasional humming noise from the front end? I assume the dealer ran it through the SSM tool to get some evidence of potential issues? Otherwise the car drives normal, and it's really low mileage, so I was kind of suspicious... Any other Subaru owners out there, know of a DYI procedure I can do to confirm/discard that theory?
I was just looking into what CVT fluid to get for my 17 OB 2.5 limited when your video hit. Put in the vin on the official Subaru parts site and it only says WS and HP match the vin, and the CVT II I thought was correct does not come up at all. The manual just says “consult dealer” … I can definitely see how someone could put in the wrong fluid. Seems fishy-thanks for all the tips and correct info.
I work at a dealership and i know that the dye in the cvt fluid breaks down over time and a lot of the fluid i change is no longer teal anymore especially after 230k miles id assume.
I agree with this. I changed my 18 OB 2.5i’s TR580 CVT fluid at 60K miles and it was golden colored. I bought it as a certified pre-owned off a lease from a local Subaru dealership, so I assume it was the original fluid. The new fluid I put in was CVT-II and it was green. I think the dye just breaks down to a normal oil color, then it probably continues to just get darker and dirtier over time, and this video was an extreme example of that.
I'm guessing there are magnets in the CVT pan? Ford and Nissan (and ???) have 'fixed' some transmission warranty problems by going from TWO to THREE magnets in the pan. Hmmmm.... Back in the day only one magnet seemed to be 'enough'.
I’m in the South Jersey area near Philadelphia. I wish I could find somebody competent like this guy to do a transmission service on my 15 outback. I don’t trust the dealership and there are too many bad mechanics around my area.
I would suggest using rubber gloves. Being exposed to oil with metal particles in it can lead to skin cancer. It is also a lot easier to wash your hands afterwards.😅
Got a 2018 unit and it’s now out of its 5 year warranty. Going take it for its first non warranty dealer service and this is the thing that I’m demanding be done regardless.This is something I wouldn’t trust to anybody other than the experts.
From my point of view, it looks like the drain hole on the transmission is actually higher than the bottom of the pan. If that's the case, it would be difficult to get all the fluid out without removing the pan.
Thanks! Btw, nice chart. Now front and real diffs, hope, they have correct not mixed with anything oil inside. Last week I tried to replace the front diff oil, but I've got troubles with the fill plug - turned the slots, so now it's round 8mm, not hex. I know, that I can replace the oil trow refill plug, but better to replace the fill plug too. Have you ever had the same problem? How to extract the fill plug?
We changed the CVT fluid to our 2019 Subaru Ascent when it hit 45,000 miles last year. My Subaru dealer mechanic recommended us to use the high torque fluid because it’s a Turbo. We did it and did see an improve on the car after the change. So far is working fine. I guess our Subaru mechanic was right about it.
This is perfect timing. I am planning on doing this on my 2017 Outback. If we dont have the scanner, how long should we let it idle to get the fluid up to temp?
Good day Mr. Subaru my 09 Subaru Forrester with the four-speed automatic I am starting to get a whining noise under acceleration. You can hear it real good between 20 and 30 miles an hour I have about 195,000 miles on it. currently it sounds like it’s coming from the center of the car, I am thinking it’s the center bearing on the prop shaft to the rear wheels but I’m open to hear other peoples opinion about this. I don’t want to just part canon and waste a bunch of money The only thing I’ve done to this car is fluid changes, a starter and alternator tires and brakes. It’s been a good car.
I know some Japanese transmissions have a small cartridge filter on one of the sides. Do Subarus have one like that too? It is usually the smallest filter you will ever have seen in your life. I once changed that on my Nissan and it made a big difference on its own in smoothness. This is considering that Nissan CVTs get a special kind of hate from their owners too!
Thanks for a great video Mr Subaru. Did you also change the fill and drain plug gaskets when you did the flush and fills? I plan on doing the same on my '15 Outback once the extended warranty runs out.
So if I park the car over night next morning take the fill plug off see how full it is,then drain and fill to that level why would I need a thousand dollar scan tool? Also if dealers have the pump and scan tool you have why does every dealer I call says not needed ?
Hi ! I’m with Impreza RX 2018 2.0liter. DIYs don’t have access to SUBARU genuine CVT fluid in my country. We do have AMSOIL fluid VALVOLINE CVT fluid or Castrol Transmax CVT please advise which to use
On the video for your CVTF oil replacement on the 2013 Outback with the TR580 trans , you said start with a cold engine before draining trans oil. On the video with the 2015 outback 2.5L like mine, you said to start with a warm engine before draining the trans oil. I have the 2015 2.5 L not sure what trans is in my outback, so do i the start with a warm or cold engine before the draining of the trans? Thank you for the great video.
Thanks for putting these great videos. One question though. In an earlier video I saw you did the relearn procedure. Why didn’t you do it for this Vehicle though ??
Subaru in my country extraordinary cars especially subaru diésel de best cars diesel. 500.000 Km. In my country all Marc’s vehicles. Americans, Europeans, Japanese’s, Koreans Chinese. Subaru considerlly extraordinario cars.
Thank you for the videos. I work in a small neighborhood garage. Have you made a video on the harness and valvebody issues on both a/t and cvt? If not can you talk about these issues? Thank you, new subscriber
Yes. Only did the drain and fill. Standing there watching it, it looked to be yellow in color from a distance. Also had both def done and the coolant drained and refilled. Basically made a new car out of it.
Nice to see no metal particles in the old fluid... Owning a Nissan (jatco) cvt that looks unbelievable. On my car, and several other jatco cvts ive seen, you get steel powder in the oil each time you change it. I dont know if its belt or pulleys, but replace oil preety often (40000km) to avoid valves clogging, poor lubrication or something.
Subaru tech for 11 years. The fluid goes in bluish, but comes out orangish after some time. Also fun fact, something maks it ture purplish after it spills on the ground when draining. I think it has something to do with oxidizing.
@MrSubaru1387 Looking at the video I'd does seem fairly clean so it could be the wrong fluid or aftermarket. But the blue after a bunch of miles isn't blue anymore and looks orangish but dirty.
Ok, so…. I’m guessing about 12+ quarts of cvtf-2 @ $17.00ish a quart, to flush out your transmission. No small expense. I get it. Be thankful, I am a BMW mechanic, working for a dealer. We sell a lot of ZF, BMW ATF type 2 at $88.00 @ ltr. Often times a “Mechtronoc” (valve body) replacement will total a vehicle. ($7800-10500ish) BMW reman trans $12k+… So, us guys with a warranty…. We hit 100k…. Do you recommend “flushing” the trans or only replacing the fluid drained? I have no experience in servicing a CVT. In my head, my understanding how these things work…. They should not “slip” like some of the domestic transmissions use to after a drop pan service….. Is this accurate?
Hello- Is there a general time in minutes, to run the engine/Transmission to get a 'close-to-correct' temperature to top off the trans fluid? I have a 2017' Forester Premium. Thank you sir!!
@@JohnGonzalez-js7ho I did. That's why I'm asking otherwise. We don't all have an Autel analyzer. What would be an average time to reach that temperature range, otherwise. Five minutes, ten minutes? Do you know
I just did the TR580 fluid service and it would be hard to put a general time on it. Too many variables. I did it with a $30 plug in OBD2 Bluetooth scanner and a free app. Or at minimum get a harbor freight IR gun and shoot the pan, they are only $25. Don't let 25-30 be a barrier from getting it right on.
@nm-mack4778 subaru tech here, you can't put a time on it. Was the vehicle just driven? Was it cold last night? How long since you shut down? Best bet is to get a cheap scanner and do it correctly.
Hello I tried raching out to you about my 2016 Outback with 194,000 miles Love the car. What is your opinion about changing the timing chain and water pump at 200,000? She is a noisey car for the last 40,000, sounds like she needs a valve job. Been told more then once they tend to sound like that with a lot of miles. Also, should the transmission fluid be changed? Thank you.
My Subaru Dealer says changing out the CVT fluid change is part of the 60k mile service. The car’s maintenance manual says to inspect every 30k miles. Replacing the fluid costs $500 and appears to be unnecessary but I’m not sure. Any thoughts?
Subaru dealerships all say "Its lifetime fluid" but its only lifetime of the transmission. Someone who cares about they're car will have this done every so many miles to keep the transmission running in good condition. I personally am planning to have this done on my 2019 Forester right around 50k miles.
@@marstedt Yep for 8 grand...well if its on your dime... if its under warranty they find a way to fix it. Ours told us the same "life time fill". The service writer said it so many times to me I had to tell them to stop and three months later asked me why I had-dent have it change when they did the warranty work. Pretty damn sad.
I've got the same year Outback in the limited trim, 162k. To my knowledge and from the records I've got from previous owner, the CVT fluid has never been changed.whats your recommendation on getting it changed? Dealer won't do it, and every mechanic I've talked with won't either and says ride it out till the valve body goes.
Quick question, i just bought a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport, i know on the older models with the key you could prime the oil filter before starting after a oil change, is that still possible to do on the newer ones with a push to start by just putting it in accessory mode or whatever the other mode is?
Just won a 2015 outback 2.5 limited with just under 87k miles for $5700 from copart. Just gotta replace the front bumper and headlights and I'm set. What're the maintenance recommendatioms for changing the transmission fluid? Am I overdue? Edit: it most definitely wasnt just headlights and bumper lol. Found a shop to fix the ding in the frame and fix alignment issues of body parts for under $1500 tho
Would you recommend services at time intervals or by mileage? We do oil changes at time or mileage whichever comes 1st "it's always time with that one" my wife doesn't put much mileage on her 2020 Crosstrek 25k in 42 months. I only expect her to have 35k at the 60 month would you have the $1300 at 60k miles or 60 months? TIA
Holy crap, I have a 2015 3.6 with HT transmission. $35 a quart for the orange fluid and according to your chart it takes 13.4 qt. Are there any quality but cheaper alternatives? I'm only at about 20K miles.
I watched your vid on valve body replacement and CVT fluid drain/fill and AT learning. Saved my a couple grand. thank you!!!!
I did my 15 forester at 112k, using amsoil cvt fluid. I did 3- 2 liter flushes out the transmission cooler return line into a soda bottle. It was black the initial drain and first 2 liter shot. Then, the second shot started to look green-yellow, shifting all ranges with brake and park brake on. The 3rd shot was near all green-yellow. After replacing return hose, I added until it dripped out and by using a laser handheld temperature gun aimed at the black pan, sealed the refill at 107f temperature. Now has 151 k miles and runs fine. Used a 2 gallon garden chemical sprayer.
AMSOIL makes great stuff, but I’m not sure if I would put their cvt fluid in.
A garden sprayer to put the fluid in? Isn't CVT fluid thick? How in the world? Wouldn't you have to use a manual pump or something electric to push it in?
@@lukas______ I unscrewed the nozzle to increase flow. Ihe initial fill took half hour. It was a 2 gallon hand pump pressurized sprayer.
@@Hillbillyshakespeare I am a preferred customer.
@@roberttatro577 ok?
Looks orange 🍊 to me! Good luck Mr S, hopefully the issue goes away!
I've been using Valvoline CVT fluid since 2014, first drain and fill being done at 60k miles. Subaru Lineartronic fluid was only available in 5 gallon pails and was priced like liquid platinum. I've been using the Valvoline product since at my regular 60k mile drain/fills without any problems at all and am currently at 181k miles. The drained fluid is usually a bit dark but without any strange odor nor do I find any foreign material in the drainage. Since Subaru now sells its fluid in reasonable sized 1 quart containers I may switch to that next time. YMMV.
If it’s not broken, why fix it?
I work at a Subaru dealership, there were some cvt transmissions with different cvt fluids in them from the factory, Subaru says that there's nothing to be worried about will not harm the transmission. We have seen no issues relating to this.
May times for factories the color differance will depend on who supplies that load of oil. The specs will be correct but the dye color will be different.
The high torque fluid is a different color but the aftermarket fluid is usually red (ish)
What issues do you run into?
I have a 2017 Forester 2.0 turbo… what’s the difference in cvtf-II and high torque cvt fluid
Well color for one, high torque is orange in color, cvt II is a bluish green, I am not sure of the compounds that make each one of them up. However you should not mix or use instead of each other. There are like 5 different cvt fluids now, I wish they went back to the 5 speed automatic. Especially since there was only 1 transmission fluid unless it was a manual shift, hope this helps some.
Was really satisfying to watch. You really like your work and take pride in it, more power to you!
Nice video, at 100k km I drained and refilled my 17 outback TR580 with Eneos Model S which is specific to CVTF II Vehicles. It was the same green color as the oem Subaru fluid. Been 75k km, seems to be fine. Will drain and fill again soon.
As a Subaru SR Master tech that now works at an Indi shop. aftermarket CVT fluid is usually red. I haven’t had any issues using aftermarket fluid vs the idemitsu fluid. Im also red-green/deutan color blind so
Really enjoying this series on this vehicle, keep the videos coming , thanks 😊
Props to Subaru- 230k without major issues DESPITE careless ownership and wrong prior fluid!
Good point
I would suspect the differences between the 2 cvt fluids would be minimal, if they both are Subaru fluids. Probably just some friction modifiers and rated to a higher temp. The real issue is really not knowing what was in there for sure. These transmissions are really fragile, so I would say if there was a major issue, it would have shown itself by now. And Subaru really doesn’t give proper service intervals. It’s a 100k miles on normal driving (highway) and 50k adverse driving (in town) per service data.
Hi guys, could have been serviced at an independant garage as well.
We use a really nice universal fluid in our TR580, and its red in color. CVT-F 2
Local garage used 75w-90 Lucas from a barrel (against my wishes) in my 2010 with TR690. Saved me 100 bucks over Subaru brand. Works great and going strong at 215k miles. Torque converter is under warranty either way.
Exactly the video I was waiting for. Thank you very much. You took a lot of mystery out of the procedure. Great work as always. Sorry you got "hosed".
In Australia, the amber fluid is used in all Subaru CVTs.
Worth checking for TCM updates as well as comparing data to relatable symptoms in TSB 16-132-20R
I paid $17 a quart at our local Subaru dealership. I hope you get your CVT fluid at wholesale prices
Look up idemitsu CVTF Type SB2, they make subie fluids, same as CVTF II
I’d be happy to pay $17/quart. My dealership wants $32.44/quart. I had to order it online ató get a decent price.
I bought a new '12 Impreza Sport Limited that I had the pan removed at 10k miles to remove the metal shavings in the strainer above the pan inside. It was A LOT in there!
Next change at 58k, I switched to Valvoline by doing four drain and fills. Next D&F was at 90k. Removed the pan again at 180k, the strainer and magnet were empty and clean.
Now at 252,900 miles and the CVT is slipping when the engine is warm and accelerating between 1,000 and 2,000 rpm. No problem above 2,000 rpm. It doesn't make any noise. Note: the valve body was replaced at ~192,000 miles.
Dealership suggested a flush but when I told them how many times I changed the fluid, they ruled that out. For another CVT, they quoted $4,300 and $7,100 (used / new). They didn't mention anything about solenoids. Can those be replaced or do you need a whole transmission?
Thanks for the video Robert nicely done with the fluid change, I'll be doing it also I have 290k on my 2011 outback. Take care of yourself and Girlfriend and be Blessed ❤️❤️👍.
Hmm definitely orange 🍊 to me too 🧐
Just got myself a 08 My 09 Forester MT and i freakin love it, you've definitely climbed up the ranks for Subaru tech for me, meaning the only one haha 😅enjoying your informative content, thank you Sir 😊
I always get into the habit of doing a adaptive relearn after a fluid change I have found it makes a huge difference
By disconnecting battery or with a scanner?
@@jp2246 with the scanner you have to
Have all 4 wheels off the ground it’s a bit of a procedure. South main auto has a video where he does a valve body and he goes through the process.
@@jp2246 subaru scanner, I don't know of any generic ones that do it but they might
@@churchofseabass9227 after market scanners do have the functionality but usually they are units that are over 500 bucks
@@churchofseabass9227 Mr Subaru just did a review on a scanner a few vids back, think it's reasonably priced too!
The best part of this video was the Ko-ken 3725Z-280 😍
fwiw - I drained and filled the CVTF on my 2015 Outback with the TR580 and the fluid was also an amber color coming out. Owned it since new so this was definitely the factory fluid.
Moms 2014 ob with only 71k has had 3 cvts put in by Subaru. Idk. Its been serviced at the dealer since new. They put a lifetime power train on it after the first one quit. So they have done axels and wheel bearings too. Every time the cvt acted up it sounded like an outboard motor.
That BRZ back there with a super big smile on its face :D
Awesome video. Enjoyed all the details. A p2158 code (vehicle speed sensor B) and troubleshooting that issue on my wife’s 2015 Outback led me here. Subscribed!
The clarity of this video is surprisingly distracting! 😅 Looks fantastic!
Mine is playing in 360p due to bad service where I'm at. Not distracting at all 😅
Yeah def wrong fluid, when I did my 13 with your help at 90000 miles, it at least showed a tint of green along with the darkness, I did 2 drain fills 1000 miles apart and it was happy.
Makes me wanna drive down to the Carolinas & have you service my 19 Legacy! Only at 25k right now!
'17 Forester 2.5i:
Done it every 30000 miles , with both diffs, as well.
168000 miles to date.
I expected to fulsh old fluid using the exit in upper body of the transmission. You coluld start the engine , feed the new fluid on the bottom and collect the old fluid on the top. In this way you could flush the old fluid in larger quantity in comparison with just dropping off. There is a particularly reason for not using the exit way of the transmission? Thank you.
Actually the situation happened to my dad and his Avalon he had an 08 took it to a mechanic they installed universal fluid and when he would drive up in the hills you could hear the torque converter clutch so we drained it and I added the Toyota WS fluid everything all good..
Yes Robert the high torque variant of the fluid it is like a orange or yellow
MrSubaru, how do you think is it make sense (if I have enough of time) to also remove CVT's oil pane and clean it + clean magnet & filter?
Also one more important question - it's hard to find Subaru's OEM CVTF-II fluid in EU countries, but there are some manufactures (like Motul or Ravenol) which saying those CVTFs are compatible with TR-580, is it ok to replace original CVTF with such brands? And if yes - does it requires some specific procedures (like not recommended on high mileage or requires to replace all filters)?
I wish you would do a CVT service on a newer generation outback 2020 or newer that takes CVTF version 3. Along with front and rear diffs.
Not sure if someone put the wrong CVT fluid in or not. I did a CVT service on my 2016 Subaru Forester. I had done a Valve body replacement. Then a few weeks later I did a CVT drain and refill and the color was reddish / brownish. I don't think the fluid had ever been changed for 153,000 miles. So I don't have any evidence to back this up, but the reddish brownish color could just be what the CVT color turns to over time on Subaru TR580 transmissions. My 2016 Forester definitely looked the same color as yours when I drained and refilled the transmission
Subaru HT CVTF is more expensive for that previous shop to pour into that Outback.
I likely think it was Subaru C-30 CVTF (p/n SOA868V9245) was in that tranny. It also amber color and more cheaper than HT or Lineartronic II fluid
I am doing this on my ‘15 forester. I took it a step further and removed the pan, cleaned the magnet and blew out the screen and heat exchanger.
Will I have issues with the pump priming on first start?
4 fluid flushes would cost about $1000 retail for oem fluid, wouldn’t it?
We were told by the dealer that the cvt needed no service. Just says inspect on the maintenance log.
Because they want to sell you a new car when it fails. I hate to sound cynical, but think about it. The dealer and manufacturer say, "Well, that fluid is engineered to last the lifetime of the transmission". Yes, it will last the lifetime of the transmission when it dies prematurely and they''ll say 'that was the lifetime'!
I have a 2019 Outback with 95K on it and I have not had the transmission fluid changed. I'll be taking care of that in a couple of weeks and I am kicking myself for buying into this nonsense.
Same with oil changes. Whatever the service books says, halve it and your car will last you forever.
Manufacturers/dealers have very different goals than the consumer who wants their car to last as long as possible and be as reliable as possible.
Don't buy these recommendations that will hurt your car in the long run.
If you buy a new car every couple of years, then don't worry about it.
@@dukebeach1 I had the service done at the 100k mark. I think they changed their minds later on as to what they needed. It most definitely needs to be serviced.
BS !!! My 2012 impreza cvt crap to bed at 87k miles after I followed this horrible advice. Never again, I would change it every 50k-60k.
Ironic that they installed the HT fluid because not many stores sell it. I cant find it is quart bottles for my 2019 3.6r Outback. Nice job
Really enjoy your videos! '19 Forester 2.5 owner here. I sometimes hear a low humming noise coming from the front end of the vehicle while cruising at low speeds on even/quiet surfaces. I assumed something on the front axles might be off so told the dealer about this while I left it there for the 30k service. Dealer mentioned it could be CVT issues and they need to go through a potentially lengthy diagnostic procedure with Subaru (via warranty claim) I searched and found Service Bulletin 16-132-20R, does it make sense to diagnose as a potential chain slip issue if only symptom is occasional humming noise from the front end? I assume the dealer ran it through the SSM tool to get some evidence of potential issues? Otherwise the car drives normal, and it's really low mileage, so I was kind of suspicious... Any other Subaru owners out there, know of a DYI procedure I can do to confirm/discard that theory?
hello, please make a video how to Flushing coolant radiator for Subaru BRZ
Just an FYI. Draining the CVT fluid from trans cooler output hose is much faster and acurate than draining it from CVT trans drain plug!
I was just looking into what CVT fluid to get for my 17 OB 2.5 limited when your video hit. Put in the vin on the official Subaru parts site and it only says WS and HP match the vin, and the CVT II I thought was correct does not come up at all. The manual just says “consult dealer” … I can definitely see how someone could put in the wrong fluid. Seems fishy-thanks for all the tips and correct info.
I work at a dealership and i know that the dye in the cvt fluid breaks down over time and a lot of the fluid i change is no longer teal anymore especially after 230k miles id assume.
I agree with this. I changed my 18 OB 2.5i’s TR580 CVT fluid at 60K miles and it was golden colored. I bought it as a certified pre-owned off a lease from a local Subaru dealership, so I assume it was the original fluid. The new fluid I put in was CVT-II and it was green. I think the dye just breaks down to a normal oil color, then it probably continues to just get darker and dirtier over time, and this video was an extreme example of that.
I'm guessing there are magnets in the CVT pan? Ford and Nissan (and ???) have 'fixed' some transmission warranty problems by going from TWO to THREE magnets in the pan. Hmmmm.... Back in the day only one magnet seemed to be 'enough'.
I’m in the South Jersey area near Philadelphia. I wish I could find somebody competent like this guy to do a transmission service on my 15 outback. I don’t trust the dealership and there are too many bad mechanics around my area.
Probably one of those quick lube places put regular ATF into it
My 2019 Crosstrek should also take the green CVTF II - but at 110k it looks just as dirty red as your video.
I want to do this but I’m worried the dealer won’t put the right amount of fluid back in.
Hard to not put the “right” amounts of fluid in there…it spits out what you overfill!
Maybe the concern is under filling.
I would suggest using rubber gloves. Being exposed to oil with metal particles in it can lead to skin cancer. It is also a lot easier to wash your hands afterwards.😅
Got a 2018 unit and it’s now out of its 5 year warranty.
Going take it for its first non warranty dealer service and this is the thing that I’m demanding be done regardless.This is something I wouldn’t trust to anybody other than the experts.
From my point of view, it looks like the drain hole on the transmission is actually higher than the bottom of the pan. If that's the case, it would be difficult to get all the fluid out without removing the pan.
it's recessed a couple mm so the head of the drain plug doesn't hang down to get ripped off on a rock...
Thanks! Btw, nice chart. Now front and real diffs, hope, they have correct not mixed with anything oil inside.
Last week I tried to replace the front diff oil, but I've got troubles with the fill plug - turned the slots, so now it's round 8mm, not hex. I know, that I can replace the oil trow refill plug, but better to replace the fill plug too.
Have you ever had the same problem? How to extract the fill plug?
I wish that you lived closer to me............There are quite a few Subarus in this area
We changed the CVT fluid to our 2019 Subaru Ascent when it hit 45,000 miles last year. My Subaru dealer mechanic recommended us to use the high torque fluid because it’s a Turbo. We did it and did see an improve on the car after the change. So far is working fine. I guess our Subaru mechanic was right about it.
That us the only fluid recommended for that transmission.
Bingo. That’s the fluid the Ascent uses.
great video. I have an exact same car and want to do the cvt fluid. How many quarts should I prepare fir this kind of flush and fill? 2.5L
This is perfect timing. I am planning on doing this on my 2017 Outback. If we dont have the scanner, how long should we let it idle to get the fluid up to temp?
Good day Mr. Subaru my 09 Subaru Forrester with the four-speed automatic I am starting to get a whining noise under acceleration. You can hear it real good between 20 and 30 miles an hour I have about 195,000 miles on it. currently it sounds like it’s coming from the center of the car, I am thinking it’s the center bearing on the prop shaft to the rear wheels but I’m open to hear other peoples opinion about this. I don’t want to just part canon and waste a bunch of money The only thing I’ve done to this car is fluid changes, a starter and alternator tires and brakes. It’s been a good car.
I know some Japanese transmissions have a small cartridge filter on one of the sides. Do Subarus have one like that too? It is usually the smallest filter you will ever have seen in your life. I once changed that on my Nissan and it made a big difference on its own in smoothness. This is considering that Nissan CVTs get a special kind of hate from their owners too!
Thanks for a great video Mr Subaru. Did you also change the fill and drain plug gaskets when you did the flush and fills? I plan on doing the same on my '15 Outback once the extended warranty runs out.
There’s no filter to change.
I did this on my 2018 Forester XT and changed both gaskets. They were inexpensive. The genuine Subaru high torque CVT fluid was not.
So if I park the car over night next morning take the fill plug off see how full it is,then drain and fill to that level why would I need a thousand dollar scan tool? Also if dealers have the pump and scan tool you have why does every dealer I call says not needed ?
Maybe they used Aisen fluid? That's a brown version of CVTF2
Hi ! I’m with Impreza RX 2018 2.0liter. DIYs don’t have access to SUBARU genuine CVT fluid in my country. We do have AMSOIL fluid VALVOLINE CVT fluid or Castrol Transmax CVT please advise which to use
Yup it was orange
On the video for your CVTF oil replacement on the 2013 Outback with the TR580 trans , you said start with a cold engine before draining trans oil. On the video with the 2015 outback 2.5L like mine, you said to start with a warm engine before draining the trans oil. I have the 2015 2.5 L not sure what trans is in my outback, so do i the start with a warm or cold engine before the draining of the trans? Thank you for the great video.
Thanks for putting these great videos. One question though. In an earlier video I saw you did the relearn procedure. Why didn’t you do it for this Vehicle though ??
Subaru in my country extraordinary cars especially subaru diésel de best cars diesel. 500.000 Km. In my country all Marc’s vehicles. Americans, Europeans, Japanese’s, Koreans Chinese. Subaru considerlly extraordinario cars.
Wonder did they use the valvoline max life atf fluid on this… the fluid does say it works on the Subaru CVTs….
Thank you for the videos. I work in a small neighborhood garage. Have you made a video on the harness and valvebody issues on both a/t and cvt? If not can you talk about these issues? Thank you, new subscriber
THey have used a Guiness for the transmision fluid :D
I have a 2021 Ascent Touring that had slips after 30 minutes of driving. Only 55,201 miles.
I just had the drain and fill done on my 2015 Forester.
Did the Subaru dealer do the drain and fill? Did the cvt work okay afterwards?
Yes. Only did the drain and fill. Standing there watching it, it looked to be yellow in color from a distance. Also had both def done and the coolant drained and refilled. Basically made a new car out of it.
@@kidwelldavid6136nice. don't forget about the brake fluid! Unless they do it at brake service time. I am obsessive about all my fluid changes too
did it as well. @@DBrisky37
Nice to see no metal particles in the old fluid... Owning a Nissan (jatco) cvt that looks unbelievable. On my car, and several other jatco cvts ive seen, you get steel powder in the oil each time you change it. I dont know if its belt or pulleys, but replace oil preety often (40000km) to avoid valves clogging, poor lubrication or something.
Subaru tech for 11 years. The fluid goes in bluish, but comes out orangish after some time. Also fun fact, something maks it ture purplish after it spills on the ground when draining. I think it has something to do with oxidizing.
@RX-1 Actually there is 4 types of fluid depending on the transmission.
Weird. I’d never noticed it being this color before in draining one.
@MrSubaru1387 Looking at the video I'd does seem fairly clean so it could be the wrong fluid or aftermarket. But the blue after a bunch of miles isn't blue anymore and looks orangish but dirty.
@@Conors_Permaculture it’s always looked deep navy blue to me after. More like used engine oil with a blue tint.
@MrSubaru1387 Hmm maybe climate? Like I mentioned it turns purple on the ground if spilled like it oxidizes.
Do you need to do the Software thing at the end? Or can you just change the fluid out like an oil change?
Ok, so…. I’m guessing about 12+ quarts of cvtf-2 @ $17.00ish a quart, to flush out your transmission. No small expense. I get it.
Be thankful, I am a BMW mechanic, working for a dealer. We sell a lot of ZF, BMW ATF type 2 at $88.00 @ ltr. Often times a “Mechtronoc” (valve body) replacement will total a vehicle. ($7800-10500ish) BMW reman trans $12k+…
So, us guys with a warranty…. We hit 100k…. Do you recommend “flushing” the trans or only replacing the fluid drained? I have no experience in servicing a CVT. In my head, my understanding how these things work…. They should not “slip” like some of the domestic transmissions use to after a drop pan service….. Is this accurate?
Hate to know fluid cost! Refilling my 2008 with normal trans was close to $170 just to buy Subaru approved . Subaru CVT I think is twice that
$408 for the most expensive option, a 6cyl outback with the high torque cvt. Price with no sales tax. 😢
With the mileage it lasted, I would almost say keep going with the orange stuff haha
Will most dealerships or independent mechanics do the repeated fill and drain to get the fluid the right color?
In your videos I have not seen you replace the cat fluid filter. Is it not required?
Most of the aftermarket fluid I have used for Subarus has been a goldish color.
Is the fluid level check needs to let engine idling for the final check? Or just warm up the fluid then shut off the car check the fluid?
Hello- Is there a general time in minutes, to run the engine/Transmission to get a 'close-to-correct' temperature to top off the trans fluid? I have a 2017' Forester Premium. Thank you sir!!
Following this
@@JohnGonzalez-js7ho I did. That's why I'm asking otherwise. We don't all have an Autel analyzer. What would be an average time to reach that temperature range, otherwise. Five minutes, ten minutes? Do you know
I just did the TR580 fluid service and it would be hard to put a general time on it. Too many variables. I did it with a $30 plug in OBD2 Bluetooth scanner and a free app. Or at minimum get a harbor freight IR gun and shoot the pan, they are only $25. Don't let 25-30 be a barrier from getting it right on.
@nm-mack4778 subaru tech here, you can't put a time on it. Was the vehicle just driven? Was it cold last night? How long since you shut down? Best bet is to get a cheap scanner and do it correctly.
Any link with a cheap but good scanner?
4-5 CVT refills to flash out the old fluid? that's 50-60L of new CVT fluid. Wow.
I think he means 4-5 at home drain and fills, only get about 4.5 to 5 quarts out each time, but that's still 20-25 quarts, lots of $ for sure!
Yeah. It wasn’t a cheap service. Lol
it probaly wasn't service since its a lifetime fluid right? (Rolls eyes at subaru)
Would you please tell me the brand of transfer tank you are using to fill the CVT. Thanks
How come you don't you use the flush method off the heat exchanger? Does it not get out more old fluid for the same amount of new fluid?
Hello
I tried raching out to you about my 2016 Outback with 194,000 miles
Love the car.
What is your opinion about changing the timing chain and water pump at 200,000?
She is a noisey car for the last 40,000, sounds like she needs a valve job.
Been told more then once they tend to sound like that with a lot of miles.
Also, should the transmission fluid be changed?
Thank you.
My Subaru Dealer says changing out the CVT fluid change is part of the 60k mile service. The car’s maintenance manual says to inspect every 30k miles. Replacing the fluid costs $500 and appears to be unnecessary but I’m not sure. Any thoughts?
The subaru dealership here told me that I never needed to do this. And I have the exact same subaru, the same color even. What gives?
Subaru dealerships all say "Its lifetime fluid" but its only lifetime of the transmission. Someone who cares about they're car will have this done every so many miles to keep the transmission running in good condition. I personally am planning to have this done on my 2019 Forester right around 50k miles.
You don't have the change the fluid anymore, only the transmission. ;)
@@marstedt Yep for 8 grand...well if its on your dime... if its under warranty they find a way to fix it. Ours told us the same "life time fill". The service writer said it so many times to me I had to tell them to stop and three months later asked me why I had-dent have it change when they did the warranty work. Pretty damn sad.
whats the rough price on the fluid? I though a fill was 400$.
I have a 2012 Subaru Outback 2.5 with 250K miles. I don't know the service history. Should I replace the CVT fluid in?
Love your vids! I'm from Beaufort SC looking to purchase a 2013 Crosstrek with 160k. Wondering if I could bring it by to have you inspect it?
I've got the same year Outback in the limited trim, 162k. To my knowledge and from the records I've got from previous owner, the CVT fluid has never been changed.whats your recommendation on getting it changed? Dealer won't do it, and every mechanic I've talked with won't either and says ride it out till the valve body goes.
Quick question, i just bought a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport, i know on the older models with the key you could prime the oil filter before starting after a oil change, is that still possible to do on the newer ones with a push to start by just putting it in accessory mode or whatever the other mode is?
Thanks for the video! Is there a serviceable filter under the pan?
No, only a pickup screen. There is a cartridge filter deep inside that requires disassembly. Subaru should have used a spin on filter.
Just won a 2015 outback 2.5 limited with just under 87k miles for $5700 from copart. Just gotta replace the front bumper and headlights and I'm set. What're the maintenance recommendatioms for changing the transmission fluid? Am I overdue?
Edit: it most definitely wasnt just headlights and bumper lol. Found a shop to fix the ding in the frame and fix alignment issues of body parts for under $1500 tho
Would you recommend services at time intervals or by mileage? We do oil changes at time or mileage whichever comes 1st "it's always time with that one" my wife doesn't put much mileage on her 2020 Crosstrek 25k in 42 months. I only expect her to have 35k at the 60 month would you have the $1300 at 60k miles or 60 months? TIA
Holy crap, I have a 2015 3.6 with HT transmission. $35 a quart for the orange fluid and according to your chart it takes 13.4 qt. Are there any quality but cheaper alternatives? I'm only at about 20K miles.
Is there a chart for fluid specs. Cant find what Subaru says I should use in my 2018 crosstrek
If you take the Subaru to a dealer, would they do the xtra oil changes to clear out all the old oil or not?