How much does it cost to fix a transmission in a Subaru?
Most Subaru transmission repairs cost between roughly $1,000 and $4,000, with major work like a rebuild or CVT replacement often in the $3,000 to $8,000 range depending on the model and labor costs.
Subaru transmissions come in several configurations—automatic (including the 4-speed 4EAT era and the current Lineartronic CVT) and, in sportier models, manual transmissions. Costs vary by model year, damage severity, whether you choose a dealer or independent shop, and the availability of parts. This article outlines typical price ranges, factors that influence them, and options that affect final costs.
What drives the price
Cost is influenced by several factors that determine how much labor and parts are needed. The main ones are listed here.
- Transmission type and configuration (CVT vs traditional automatic vs manual)
- Model year and engine compatibility
- Extent of damage and required repair (solenoids/valves vs. bearings/ gears)
- Repair vs. replacement decision, including remanufactured vs. new parts
- Labor rates at your location and whether you use a dealer or independent shop
- Availability of parts and whether a service bulletin or recall affects cost
Understanding these factors helps you gauge where your estimate might land and which options could save money over time.
Model-specific notes
Subaru CVTs are common in many late-model vehicles and are generally more expensive to repair or replace than traditional automatics. Manual transmissions (found on some WRX/STI variants) have different parts costs and repair profiles and are often cheaper to replace or rebuild compared with CVTs.
Typical cost ranges by repair type
Prices vary, but the following ranges give a practical sense of what you might pay for common scenarios. Always obtain a written estimate after a diagnostic and consider multiple quotes.
- Diagnostic and inspection: typically $100–$200, sometimes waived if you proceed with the shop’s repair work
- Transmission fluid change (including CVT fluid changes): about $150–$300 for conventional automatics; CVT fluid service often $250–$450
- Minor repairs (sensors, solenoids, leaks, minor seal work): roughly $200–$1,500
- Major repairs (valve body work, bearings, gears, clutch packs): roughly $1,500–$3,500
- Transmission rebuild (remanufactured components, more extensive work): about $2,500–$4,000 for traditional automatics; CVT rebuilds often $3,000–$6,000
- Transmission replacement (remanufactured or new unit): commonly $3,500–$8,000; dealer-installed CVT replacements can exceed $7,000 and may approach $9,000 or more in some markets
- Used or refurbished transmission option (parts from salvage or remanufactured): typically $1,500–$3,000 for the unit, plus labor
Note that dealer quotes tend to be higher than independent shops, and labor costs vary by region. After diagnosis, request detailed itemized estimates for parts and labor before authorizing any work.
What you can do to manage costs
Consider obtaining multiple quotes, asking for itemized estimates, and exploring options like a rebuilt or remanufactured unit versus a new unit. If the issue is diagnostic or minor (e.g., a leak or sensor/solenoid), addressing it promptly can prevent more expensive failures later. For some models with high CVT costs, evaluating the vehicle’s remaining value and potential trade-in or resale options may influence whether repair or replacement makes the most financial sense.
Model-year and region considerations
Newer Subaru models with CVTs tend to have higher replacement costs than older models with traditional automatics. Region and shop type (dealer vs. independent) also significantly affect price, with urban areas usually higher than rural areas.
Bottom line: what to expect for your Subaru
Expect a wide cost range driven mainly by the transmission type and the extent of work required. If your Subaru has a CVT, plan for higher potential costs, especially for replacement or major repairs. Always start with a diagnostic, gather quotes from multiple shops, and weigh the option of repair versus replacement in the context of your vehicle’s age, mileage, and overall condition.
Summary
Transmission repair costs for Subarus vary widely. Small fixes and fluid services are relatively affordable, while CVT-related work and major repairs can push bills into the thousands. Getting a diagnostic, then comparing several written estimates from independent shops and dealers, will give you the clearest sense of the total cost. Consider long-term value, model year, and the availability of parts when deciding between repair, rebuild, or replacement.
