How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2015 Subaru Forester take?

Approximately 9 quarts of CVT fluid for a full fill; a single drain-and-fill typically replaces about 4–5 quarts, depending on what remains in the torque converter and lines.

What the figures mean for maintenance

The 2015 Forester uses Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT. When planning a fluid change, it’s important to distinguish total system capacity from the amount you actually drain in a service. The torque converter and cooler lines retain fluid, so a single drain does not remove all old fluid. For a thorough refresh, technicians often perform multiple drain-and-fill cycles or use the full system capacity as a guide.

Always use the fluid Subaru specifies for CVTs—CVTF meeting JWS 3309 standard. Do not substitute conventional ATF, as that can damage the transmission.

Key capacity and practical numbers you should know:

• Total system capacity (full fill): about 9 quarts


• Typical drain-and-fill amount in one cycle: about 4–5 quarts


• To maximize refresh, perform two back-to-back drain-and-fill cycles, spaced a few minutes apart

These figures serve as a practical guide for planning a CVT fluid change on a 2015 Forester. Real-world amounts can vary slightly by vehicle and service procedure, so always verify with official service documentation or a dealer.

Fluids, procedures, and aftercare

Fluid type: Use Subaru CVTF that meets the JWS 3309 specification. Do not use generic ATF or non-approved CVT fluids, as improper fluid can cause CVT wear or fault codes.

Procedure basics (model-specific steps are in the service manual):

• Warm the engine and transmission to normal operating temperature for accurate level checks


• Follow the official procedure for draining the CVT and refilling through the designated service port or fill plug


• For a full fluid refresh, repeat drain-and-fill cycles as recommended by Subaru’s service guidelines


• After refill, run the vehicle, check for leaks, and verify the transmission fluid level while hot and on level ground

Note: Some 2015 Forester models may have different level-check methods depending on the transmission version or market. If you’re unsure, consult the owner's manual or a Subaru service technician. For non-professionals, professional service is advised to avoid over- or under-filling.

Summary

In summary, a 2015 Subaru Forester’s CVT typically takes about 9 quarts of CVTF for a full fill. A single drain-and-fill generally replaces around 4–5 quarts, and multiple back-to-back cycles can maximize the refresh. Always use the Subaru-approved CVTF (JWS 3309) and follow the official service procedures for your exact VIN and transmission variant. When in doubt, consult a dealer or qualified mechanic for precise guidance.

What type of transmission fluid for 2015 Subaru Forester?

The 2015 Subaru Forester requires either Genuine Subaru Lineartronic CVTF or High Torque CVT Fluid for its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), depending on the specific model (e.g., 2.5i vs. XT). For an older automatic transmission (4/5-speed), you would need Subaru ATF HP/PS Fluid. Always check your owner's manual for the precise specification for your vehicle.
 
For a 2015 Subaru Forester with a CVT

• For the 2.5i model: The 2015 Forester with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine typically uses Subaru Genuine CVTF-II. 
• For the XT model (turbocharged): The 2015 Forester XT uses Subaru High Torque CVT Fluid. 

For a 2015 Subaru Forester with an older automatic transmission

• If your model has a traditional 4-speed or 5-speed automatic (4EAT/5EAT), you will need Subaru ATF HP/PS Fluid. 

This video demonstrates the process of flushing and changing the transmission fluid in a 2015 Subaru Forester's CVT: 1mMTYouTube · Mar 2, 2020
Important considerations

• Always check your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle will be in the owner's manual. 
• Use the correct type: Using the wrong type of fluid can damage the transmission. Subaru CVTs require specific Lineartronic fluid; other automatic transmission fluids will not work correctly and can cause damage. 
• Consider aftermarket fluids: Several aftermarket brands offer fluids that are compatible with Subaru CVTs, such as Valvoline CVT fluid and ENEOS ECO CVT Fluid, but always ensure the product is certified for Subaru Lineartronic transmissions. 

How much CVT fluid does a SUBARU take?

A Subaru CVT fluid capacity for a drain and fill is typically around 5 to 7 quarts, though some sources suggest having 8 quarts on hand. The total system capacity, including the torque converter and lines, is higher and can be up to 14 quarts. The exact amount depends on the model and service procedure. 
This video demonstrates the process of changing CVT fluid in a Subaru, including the draining and refilling steps: 57sMrSubaru1387YouTube · Apr 17, 2020
Drain and fill

• Approximate amount: For a standard drain and fill, you will likely need between 5 and 7 quarts of fluid. 
• Best practice: It is recommended to have at least 8 quarts available to be safe. 
• Process: After draining, you will refill the transmission with the new fluid until it begins to drip out. 
• Final top-off: The final top-off is done with the engine running and the transmission warmed up to around 95−113∘F95 minus 113 raised to the composed with power cap F95−113∘𝐹 (35−45∘C35 minus 45 raised to the composed with power cap C35−45∘𝐶). 

Total capacity

• Higher volume: The total capacity for a completely dry system is significantly higher, around 14 quarts. 
• Why it's different: This includes fluid in the torque converter, cooler, and lines, which are not emptied in a standard drain and fill procedure. 
• "Flush" vs. "drain and fill": A true fluid "flush" is a more extensive process that involves circulating multiple fill-and-drain cycles to replace nearly all of the old fluid. A drain and fill only replaces the fluid in the pan. 

What you'll need

• Fluid: Genuine Subaru CVTF-II fluid is recommended. 
• Tools: A torque wrench, 14mm socket for the drain plug, and an 8mm hex bit for the fill plug. 
• Other parts: A new crush washer for the drain plug and a fluid transfer pump are necessary because there is no dipstick. 

You can watch this video to see a Subaru CVT fluid change and flush process: 1mMTYouTube · Mar 2, 2020

How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a drain and fill?

For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid. 
How to determine the right amount

• Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely. 
• Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling. 
• Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process. 
• Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid. 
• Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high. 
• Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading. 

Important considerations

• A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter. 
• You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage. 
• Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain. 

How much transmission fluid does a 2015 Subaru Forester take?

Automatic Transmission Fluid
Capacity: TR580 Total Fill 13.1 quarts.