How much does it cost to repair a Subaru transmission?
Transmission issues can be one of the most daunting and expensive repairs for any vehicle owner, and Subaru models are no exception. As the owner of Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ve seen my fair share of transmission problems. In this article, I’ll break down the factors that influence the cost of repairing a Subaru transmission and provide insights to help you make informed decisions.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Subaru Transmission Repairs
The cost of repairing a Subaru transmission can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are the key elements that influence the price:
- Type of Transmission: Subaru vehicles often use either a manual transmission or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). CVTs are more complex and typically cost more to repair or replace than manual transmissions.
- Extent of Damage: Minor issues, such as replacing a solenoid or fixing a leak, will cost significantly less than a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Model and Year: The specific Subaru model and its production year can impact the cost. For example, newer models with advanced technology may require specialized parts and expertise.
- Labor Costs: Labor rates vary by location and shop. At Kevin's Autos, we pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing without compromising quality.
- Parts Availability: Genuine Subaru parts can be more expensive than aftermarket options, but they often provide better reliability and performance.
Typical Costs for Subaru Transmission Repairs
While the exact cost will depend on the factors mentioned above, here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect:
- Minor Repairs: Fixing a small issue, such as a fluid leak or replacing a sensor, can cost between $150 and $500.
- Transmission Rebuild: A rebuild involves disassembling the transmission, replacing worn components, and reassembling it. This can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the complexity.
- Transmission Replacement: If the transmission is beyond repair, a replacement may be necessary. For Subaru vehicles, this can range from $3,000 to $8,000, especially for CVTs.
Tips to Save on Transmission Repairs
Transmission repairs can be costly, but there are ways to minimize expenses and extend the life of your Subaru’s transmission:
- Regular Maintenance: Follow Subaru’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular transmission fluid changes, to prevent major issues.
- Address Problems Early: If you notice warning signs like slipping gears, strange noises, or transmission fluid leaks, have your vehicle inspected promptly to avoid more extensive damage.
- Choose a Trusted Repair Shop: Work with a reputable auto repair shop, like Kevin's Autos, that specializes in Subaru vehicles and offers transparent pricing.
- Consider Warranties: If your Subaru is still under warranty, check if transmission repairs are covered. Extended warranties may also help offset costs.
Conclusion
Repairing a Subaru transmission can be a significant investment, but understanding the factors that influence the cost and taking proactive steps to maintain your vehicle can help you save money in the long run. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to provide expert advice and high-quality service to keep your Subaru running smoothly. If you’re experiencing transmission issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
How long should a Subaru transmission last?
Transmission in your Subaru. Every 30,000 mil uh you should go at least 100,000 miles without any major problems newer models of Subarus are utilizing a CVT transmission uh the reason.
How do I know if my Subaru transmission is going out?
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.
How much does it cost to replace a Subaru transmission?
$3,500 to $8,000
Depending on which version of transmission your Subaru has, the replacement cost can be anywhere from $3,500 to $8,000.
Are transmissions worth replacing?
Alternatively, replacing your transmission may cost more, but you get the benefits of a brand-new transmission free of wear and tear. A new transmission should perform smoothly, seamlessly, and durably. Replacing your transmission also makes more sense if your vehicle is older or has many miles.
Is it worth fixing a broken transmission?
If your transmission fails due to overheating, overheating may be the problem, and replacing the transmission is the recommended repair. However, if your transmission fails due to a mechanical or electrical failure, it may be cheaper and more efficient to rebuild the transmission than to replace it.
Is there a recall for Subaru on transmissions?
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) has initiated this safety and emissions Recall for certain 2019 - 2020 model year Ascent vehicles, 2020-2021 model year turbo Legacy vehicles, and 2020-2021 model year turbo Outback vehicles in which the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) chain may slip and/or break.
Are subarus known for transmission problems?
Several older Subaru models commonly experience CVT problems. Stalling, shuddering, and delayed acceleration can be signs of a transmission issue. Subaru has a RepairPal reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0 and ranks 14th out of 32 brands surveyed.
Is it cheaper to rebuild a transmission or replace it?
Opting to rebuild your transmission rather than replacing it presents a more cost-effective solution. If you want to save money, this is the ideal choice. When rebuilding your transmission, the mechanic only needs to focus on fixing the specific components that are failing rather than replacing the entire unit.
Can I trade-in a car with a bad transmission?
Your dealership will need to do an evaluation of your car to offer you an accurate trade-in value, but the general rule of thumb is almost any kind of car dealership will trade-in any kind of vehicle as long as it is driveable. If they can't fix it and sell it on their lot, chances are they know another lot that will.
