How do you check the transmission fluid on a Subaru?
Checking the transmission fluid in your Subaru is an essential maintenance task that helps ensure your vehicle operates smoothly and efficiently. Regular checks can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your transmission. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to properly check the transmission fluid in your Subaru.
Why Check Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in the performance of your vehicle. Here are a few reasons why you should regularly check it:
- Lubrication: It lubricates the moving parts of the transmission, reducing wear and tear.
- Cooling: It helps to dissipate heat generated during operation, preventing overheating.
- Hydraulic Function: It provides the necessary hydraulic pressure for shifting gears smoothly.
- Contamination Detection: Checking the fluid can help identify contamination or degradation, which can lead to transmission failure.
Steps to Check Transmission Fluid
Follow these steps to check the transmission fluid in your Subaru:
- 1. Prepare Your Vehicle: Park your Subaru on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes to warm up the transmission fluid.
- 2. Locate the Dipstick: Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. In most Subaru models, it is usually found near the back of the engine bay, often labeled with a bright color.
- 3. Remove the Dipstick: Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
- 4. Check Fluid Level: Reinsert the dipstick fully, then remove it again to check the fluid level. The fluid should be within the marked range on the dipstick.
- 5. Inspect Fluid Condition: Observe the color and consistency of the fluid. Healthy transmission fluid is typically a bright red color and should be clear. If it appears dark or has a burnt smell, it may need to be changed.
- 6. Add Fluid if Necessary: If the fluid level is low, add the appropriate type of transmission fluid as specified in your owner’s manual. Use a funnel to avoid spills.
- 7. Recheck the Level: After adding fluid, recheck the level to ensure it is within the recommended range.
Conclusion
Regularly checking your Subaru's transmission fluid is a simple yet vital maintenance task that can save you from expensive repairs down the line. By following these steps, you can ensure that your transmission remains in good condition and operates smoothly. If you notice any issues with the fluid or if you are unsure about the process, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you check Subaru transmission fluid?
Checking Your Transmission Fluid
- Turn your engine on for a few minutes before proceeding.
- Find the transmission fluid dipstick.
- Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger.
- Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick.
- Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot.
Will my check engine light come on if I need transmission fluid?
The check engine light comes on to let the driver know that there is a problem in one of the vehicle's systems. A trouble code or dash light does not necessarily mean the transmission fluid is low, but a low transmission fluid level will cause the check engine light to illuminate on most modern vehicles.
How to check Subaru fluids?
Park your Subaru on a level surface and stop the engine. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and insert it again until it stops. Pull out the dipstick again and check the oil level on it. If it is below the lower level, add oil to bring it up to the upper level.
How will my car act if I need transmission fluid?
Not being able to shift is a direct result of having low transmission fluid. Slipping Gears - On the flipside, slipping out of gear is another side effect of having low transmission fluid. For example, you may be maintaining your current speed, then suddenly feel your vehicle downshift or shift to a higher gear.
How do you check the transmission fluid level on a Subaru?
Checking Your Transmission Fluid
- Turn your engine on for a few minutes before proceeding.
- Find the transmission fluid dipstick.
- Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger.
- Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick.
- Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot.
Do you check transmission fluid with an engine running?
The transmission fluid is not checked with the engine running but the transmission should be brought to full operating temperature. Ideally you want to take the car on a short drive until it fully warmed up and then park and cycle the gear shifter through all its positions to get an accurate fluid level reading.
How often do you have to flush the transmission fluid in a Subaru?
Follow Subaru's Recommendations
Subaru often suggests changing the transmission fluid at regular intervals, such as every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the model and transmission type. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial to keep your warranty valid and ensure the longevity of your transmission.
How do I know if my Subaru transmission is going out?
The most common signs that your Subaru's transmission will need to be repaired are; sudden losses in acceleration, shuddering while driving, a burning smell, transmission fluid leaks, a delay in engagement after shifting, or your check engine light turning on.
What year did Subarus have transmission problems?
Subaru owners have complained about problems with the Lineartronic CVT transmissions and Subaru extended the warranty for cars from model years 2010 to 2018. Usage: 2010–current Subaru Legacy / Outback / Exiga / Impreza / Levorg / Forester / XV and 2015 Subaru WRX Premium and Limited Editions.
What are the symptoms of low transmission fluid?
In the meantime, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the tell-tale signs that you may be low on transmission fluid.
- Noises.
- Burning Smell.
- Transmission Leaks.
- Slipping Gears.
- Slow Gear Engagement.
- Vehicle Accelerates Poorly.
- Check Engine or Transmission Warning Light Is On.
