How much does it cost to repair a CVT transmission on a Subaru?
Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles, including Subaru models. While they offer smoother driving and improved fuel efficiency, CVTs can be costly to repair when issues arise. In this article, we’ll explore the typical costs associated with repairing a CVT transmission on a Subaru, factors that influence the price, and tips to potentially save money on repairs.
Understanding CVT Transmission Repair Costs
Repairing a CVT transmission on a Subaru can be a significant expense, with costs varying depending on the extent of the damage and the specific model of the vehicle. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 for a CVT transmission repair or replacement. Here’s a breakdown of what influences these costs:
- Extent of Damage: Minor repairs, such as replacing a valve body or fixing a fluid leak, may cost between $1,000 and $2,500. However, a full transmission replacement can easily exceed $5,000.
- Subaru Model: The cost can vary depending on the model and year of your Subaru. For example, a Subaru Outback or Forester may have different repair costs compared to a Subaru Impreza or Crosstrek.
- Labor Costs: Labor rates vary by location and repair shop. In areas with higher labor costs, such as urban centers, you may pay more for the repair.
- Parts Availability: Genuine Subaru parts can be more expensive than aftermarket alternatives, which can impact the overall cost.
Signs Your Subaru’s CVT Transmission Needs Repair
Recognizing the early signs of CVT transmission issues can help you address problems before they escalate. Look out for the following symptoms:
- Unusual noises, such as whining or grinding, while driving.
- Delayed or erratic acceleration.
- Shuddering or jerking during gear changes.
- Warning lights on the dashboard, such as the “Check Engine” light.
- Transmission fluid leaks or a burning smell.
Tips to Save Money on CVT Transmission Repairs
While CVT repairs can be expensive, there are ways to potentially reduce costs:
- Regular Maintenance: Follow Subaru’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular transmission fluid changes, to prevent costly repairs.
- Extended Warranty: If your Subaru is still under warranty, check if the CVT repair is covered. Subaru has offered extended warranties for CVT issues on certain models in the past.
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple repair shops to find the best price. Independent mechanics may offer lower labor rates compared to dealerships.
- Consider Rebuilt Transmissions: In some cases, opting for a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission can be more cost-effective than a brand-new replacement.
Conclusion
Repairing a CVT transmission on a Subaru can be a costly endeavor, but understanding the factors that influence the price and taking proactive steps to maintain your vehicle can help minimize expenses. If you suspect an issue with your CVT transmission, don’t delay in seeking professional assistance. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in transmission repairs and offer competitive pricing to get you back on the road safely and affordably. Contact us today to learn more!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Subaru CVT transmission is going bad?
Identifying Subaru Transmission Failure
Delayed or rough gear shifting. Unusual noises, such as grinding, whining, or clunking. Slipping gears, where the engine revs but the car doesn't accelerate accordingly. Leaking transmission fluid or a burning smell.
Can a CVT be repaired without replacing it?
No you can't. CVT's need to be replaced but in your case you may be able to get a new one under extended warranty from Nissan. Talk to your Nissan dealer.
How much does it cost to replace a CVT transmission in a Subaru?
The CVT itself would cost around $5000-$6000 at wholesale price. You might need the dealership to program the control module afterwards, but that would only be a couple hundred or so. This is all standard for any modern car.
What years did Subaru have CVT problems?
The models and years that were affected mainly by transmission issues are:
- Crosstrek, 2013 – 2015.
- Crosstrek Hybrid, 2014 – 2015.
- Forester (2.0 and 2.5 liter engines), 2014 – 2015.
- Impreza, 2012 – 2015.
- Legacy, 2010 – 2015.
- Legacy 3.6L V6, 2015.
- Outback, 2010 – 2015.
- Outback 3.6L V6, 2015.
Is it expensive to fix a CVT transmission?
Typically, a new CVT unit costs between $3,000 and $5,000, while labor costs range from $1,000 to $2,000.
Is it better to repair or replace CVT transmission?
Extensive CVT Repairs Often Lead to Transmission Replacement
This scenario is often associated with more complex, newer CVT transmissions. If the damage to your transmission is extreme, we will often suggest you have a transmission replacement.
Is there any way to fix a CVT transmission?
The result is that currently, there are few repair options when a CVT begins to fail. It is possible to repair CVT units from certain manufacturers, but for the most part, a failing CVT means replacing the transmission.
What usually fails on a CVT?
Some of the common problems that owners run into include overheating, slipping, and sudden loss of acceleration. Shuddering is also a common problem. Since CVTs depend on the belts to operate, if these suffer from excessive stretching or too much wear, the transmission can completely fail.
What usually goes bad on a CVT transmission?
Some of the common problems that owners run into include overheating, slipping, and sudden loss of acceleration. Shuddering is also a common problem. Since CVTs depend on the belts to operate, if these suffer from excessive stretching or too much wear, the transmission can completely fail.
Can Subaru CVT transmissions be repaired?
Patch Repair
For instance, there are some Subaru CVT units where a valve body replacement or repair is a viable, although not always successful, option. This would entail removing the “brain” of the transmission and repairing or replacing that unit.
