How much does it cost to fix a Subaru transmission?

Most Subaru transmission fixes cost between roughly $2,000 and $6,000, but CVT replacements can push the price to $4,000–$8,000 depending on the model and labor. This article explains why prices vary, what options you have, and how to shop for a fair price.

What drives the price

Pricing for Subaru transmissions is influenced by the type of transmission, the repair approach, and the vehicle model and location. Here are the main factors you should know before getting a quote.

• Transmission type: Subarus commonly use CVTs in many recent models, which can be more expensive to replace than traditional automatics.


• Repair vs replacement: Minor fixes (solenoids, seals, leaks) are cheaper than a full rebuild or a complete transmission replacement.


• Labor rates and location: Urban and high-cost areas typically charge more per hour; labor can range roughly from $75 to $150 per hour.


• Parts quality: OEM, remanufactured, or aftermarket parts affect price and warranty terms.


• Model/year: The exact transmission layout and required parts vary by model and year, influencing both parts and labor costs.


• Extent of damage: More extensive internal damage drastically increases both parts and labor needs.

In short, the overall cost is a function of repair type, replacement necessity, and regional labor and parts pricing.

Cost ranges by repair path

Prices can vary based on the repair path chosen and the shop’s pricing. The ranges below give a general sense of what to expect for common scenarios.

• Minor repairs and small fixes (solenoids, gaskets, seals, leaks): approximately $200–$600.


• Transmission service (fluid change, filter, standard maintenance): approximately $150–$350.


• Non-major transmission repair (specific component failures without full rebuild): approximately $500–$1,500.


• Transmission rebuild (for traditional automatics): approximately $2,500–$4,500.


• Replacement with a rebuilt/remanufactured unit: approximately $3,000–$6,000.


• CVT replacement (new or remanufactured): approximately $4,000–$8,000+, depending on model and labor.

Note that diagnostic fees and additional parts (coolers, seals, lines, or a new transmission mount) can affect the final price. Always request a detailed, written estimate that itemizes parts and labor.

Subaru model and year considerations

Subaru adopted CVTs across many models in the 2010s and onward, which generally leads to higher replacement costs compared with older, traditional automatics. The exact figure depends on whether your vehicle uses a CVT or a conventional automatic and on the availability of remanufactured units in your region.

• CVT-equipped models (Forester, Outback, Legacy, Crosstrek, Impreza from the 2010s onward): typical replacement costs range from $4,000 to $7,000, with rebuilds often in the $2,500 to $4,500 range.


• Older, non-CVT automatics (less common in current models): rebuilds commonly run about $2,000 to $4,000; replacements about $3,000 to $6,000.


• Manual transmissions (less common in recent Subarus): repairs typically run $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the fault and parts required.

Consulting with a Subaru specialist shop can help ensure you’re quoted for the correct transmission type and the most cost-effective option for your vehicle.

Cost-saving tips

To avoid overpaying and to improve the odds of a lasting repair, consider these prudent steps before authorizing work.

Get multiple written estimates

Obtain at least two or three detailed estimates that break out parts, labor hours, and any diagnostic fees. This helps you spot inflated items and compare value across shops.

• Ask whether the quote includes fluid changes, gaskets, seals, and any required transmission mounts.


• Inquire about options for remanufactured or rebuilt units and the associated warranty terms.


• Clarify the warranty length and what it covers (parts, labor, or both).

With clear quotes, you can better determine whether repair, rebuild, or replacement offers the best long-term value.

When to repair vs replace

Smaller issues such as fluid contamination, worn solenoids, or minor leaks may be addressed with a targeted repair. More extensive internal damage typically necessitates a rebuild or full replacement. Balance short-term savings against long-term reliability and ownership costs.

• Repairs may be cheaper upfront but might not address underlying wear.


• Replacements can restore reliability and include new or extended warranties, but come with higher upfront cost.

The right choice depends on symptom severity, mileage, and the vehicle’s overall condition.

Summary

Translating a diagnosis into a price for a Subaru transmission involves several moving parts: whether the vehicle uses a CVT or a conventional automatic, the extent of damage, labor rates in your area, and the parts you choose. In general, expect about $2,000–$6,000 for most repairs, with CVT replacements commonly in the $4,000–$8,000 range. Always seek written estimates, compare options, and consider a reputable Subaru specialist to maximize durability and warranty coverage.

Is it cheaper to fix a transmission or replace it?

It is cheaper to fix a transmission if the problem is minor, like a small leak or a few worn parts. If the damage is extensive, rebuilding or replacing the transmission is necessary, and a rebuild is often cheaper than a full replacement, especially for newer or well-maintained vehicles. A replacement is typically the most expensive option, but can provide greater peace of mind and reliability for older vehicles with widespread damage. 
Fix vs. Rebuild vs. Replace

Option	Cost	When to choose
Fix	Cheapest ($300 - $600)	For minor issues like sensor replacements, solenoid adjustments, or small leaks.
Rebuild	Mid-range ($1,100 - $3,500)	When the damage is extensive enough to require a rebuild but not a full replacement, and the vehicle is newer and well-maintained.
Replace	Most expensive ($1,800 - $8,000)	When the damage is catastrophic or the vehicle is older and a new unit provides the best long-term solution.

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Key factors to consider

• Extent of damage: Minor repairs are always cheaper than rebuilds or replacements. 
• Vehicle age and value: For newer cars with lower mileage, a repair or rebuild is often more economical. For older, high-mileage vehicles, a replacement might be a better investment for the long term. 
• Labor costs: Labor is a significant part of the cost for any transmission service. 
• Time: Rebuilding can take longer than a replacement, but it is still often faster than finding and installing a new transmission. 
• Vehicle condition: A vehicle's overall condition is crucial when deciding on a transmission repair or replacement. 

Can a Subaru transmission be repaired?

If your Subaru needs transmission repair, the good news is at least you don't need transmission replacement. The bad news is it's still costly. Repair costs vary widely, too, due to a number of factors: style of your car, extent of damage, manual vs.

Are subarus known to have transmission problems?

Yes, Subarus have had transmission problems, particularly with some older Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs). However, newer models have seen marked improvements and are generally more reliable, especially with proper maintenance like following service intervals and regularly changing the transmission fluid. 
Common transmission issues

• CVT failure: Some earlier models of CVTs had a reputation for issues such as shuddering, stalling, and hesitation. 
• Fluid degradation: Lack of proper CVT fluid maintenance can lead to overheating and failure. 
• Valve body problems: The valve body, which controls hydraulic pressure, can fail or have issues with its solenoids. 
• Chain slip: In certain models, particularly some newer ones, the CVT chain has been known to slip or break. 
• Torque converter issues: The torque converter is a potential failure point in some Subaru CVTs. 

Factors affecting reliability

• Maintenance is key: Proper and timely maintenance, especially the regular replacement of CVT fluid (at intervals like 30,000 to 40,000 miles), is crucial to prevent problems. 
• Model year and design: Newer model years have seen significant improvements in CVT design, durability, and cooling, which has resolved many issues found in earlier versions. 
• Usage and stress: Excessive strain, such as heavy towing or aggressive off-road use that exceeds the vehicle's design limits, can contribute to transmission problems. 

Symptoms of a failing transmission

• Gear shifting problems (hesitation, jerking)
• Reddish-brown fluid leaks on the ground
• A burning smell
• High-pitched whining or droning noises
• Vehicle hesitating to move into gear 

How much does it cost to repair a Subaru transmission?

On average, transmission repairs range from $300 to $1,400. For example, if your Subaru Outback requires a clutch replacement on a manual transmission, expect costs between $800 and $1,500.