How much fluid does a Subaru CVT hold?

In general, Subaru's Lineartronic CVTs hold about 9 quarts (roughly 8.5 liters) of CVT fluid for a standard drain-and-fill, with some models requiring up to around 10 quarts. A full fluid exchange can involve more fluid, depending on the procedure and the model year. Always confirm exact capacity from your owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer for your specific configuration.

Understanding Subaru CVT fluid capacity

The capacity of a Subaru CVT is not a single universal figure. It depends on the model year, the specific Lineartronic configuration, and whether you are performing a simple drain-and-fill or a complete fluid exchange. The following notes help explain what to expect.

• Service method: drain-and-fill (with or without replacing the filter) versus a complete fluid exchange or flush.


• Model and year: different Subaru models (Impreza, Forester, Crosstrek, Outback, Legacy, etc.) use variations of the Lineartronic CVT.


• Fluid cooler and routing: some cars route CVTF through a cooler path, which can affect the amount drained vs. replaced during a service.


• Pan and filter design: the design and whether the filter is replaced can influence the total volume needed for a proper fill.


• Torque converter and circuit volume: a full exchange may require more fluid to fill the converter and related passages.

In general, these factors cause the capacity to vary within a small range. For most owners performing a standard drain-and-fill with a filter change, plan on about 9 quarts. For a full flush/exchange including the torque converter and associated passages, expect roughly 12 to 15 quarts depending on the model year and configuration. Always verify with official documentation for your car.

Typical figures by service type

The following ranges cover the most common maintenance scenarios. Use them as a guideline, but confirm exact figures for your vehicle.

• Drain-and-fill with filter replacement: approximately 8 to 10 quarts (about 7.5 to 9.5 liters).


• Complete fluid exchange/flush (including torque converter): approximately 12 to 15 quarts (about 11 to 14 liters).

These ranges reflect the way Subaru's Lineartronic CVTs are commonly serviced and may vary slightly by model and year. For precision, refer to your owner's manual or ask a Subaru service professional.

Model-year and model-specific notes

While the overall order of magnitude is similar, there are differences by model and year. For typical Subaru Lineartronic CVTs in recent years, drain-and-fill volumes cluster around 9 quarts, while full fluid exchanges hover in the 12–15 quart range. Always check the exact specification for your car's year and trim to avoid underfilling or overfilling.

How to determine the exact capacity for your vehicle

To avoid guessing, use one or more of these steps to determine the precise CVT fluid capacity for your Subaru.

1. Consult the owner’s manual or Subaru repair literature for the exact CVTF capacity for your model/year and the service method planned (drain-and-fill vs flush).


2. During a drain-and-fill, catch and measure the fluid you drain to estimate how much remains in the pan and system after the service; use this to plan additional fill if needed.


3. If performing a complete flush, prepare to replace the entire required volume (often more than the drain-and-fill figure) and consider having the cooling circuit and torque converter addressed as needed.


4. Use only Subaru-approved CVTF and follow the specified procedure (fluid temperature, engine running, etc.) as outlined in the service manual to ensure proper level and performance.

By following these steps, you can ensure you apply the correct volume and avoid overfilling or underfilling a CVT, which can affect performance and longevity.

What to know about Subaru CVTF fluid

Subaru CVTs use a dedicated CVT fluid designed specifically for Lineartronic transmissions. Do not substitute standard automatic transmission fluid (ATF) or other fluids, as incorrect fluid can degrade performance and cause wear. When in doubt, rely on Subaru-approved CVTF and the official service procedure in your vehicle's manual or from a Subaru dealer.

Summary

In practical terms, plan on roughly 9 quarts (about 8.5 liters) for a standard drain-and-fill, and around 12–15 quarts (11–14 liters) for a full fluid flush or exchange in most modern Subaru Lineartronic CVTs. Exact figures depend on model year, trim, and service method, so always verify with the owner's manual or a Subaru service professional before starting work.

How much CVT fluid does a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek hold?

The total CVT fluid capacity for a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is approximately 8.1 quarts. However, a standard drain and fill procedure typically requires about 5 to 6 quarts because it only replaces the fluid in the pan, not the fluid in the torque converter or cooler lines. A full flush or a more advanced service procedure that drains more fluid will require a greater quantity, around 8 to 9.5 quarts. 
This video demonstrates the process of changing the CVT fluid in a Subaru Outback, which has a similar procedure to the Crosstrek: 56sTalking Shop 716YouTube · Oct 13, 2024
CVT fluid capacity

• Total capacity: 8.1 quarts
• Amount for drain and fill: Approximately 5 to 6 quarts
• Amount for a full flush (with advanced method): 8 to 9.5 quarts 

You can watch this video to learn how to change the CVT fluid in a Subaru Legacy/Outback: 51sValley Mobile AutomotiveYouTube · Dec 16, 2024
Important considerations

• Consult your owner's manual: Always check your owner's manual for the most accurate fluid capacity and type for your specific vehicle model and trim. 
• Severe conditions: Subaru recommends changing the fluid more frequently if you drive in severe conditions, such as frequent stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, or towing. 
• Specialized tools: Performing a complete service may require specialized tools and knowledge, as the transmission needs to reach a specific temperature before final filling to ensure the correct level. 
• Professional service: If you are not comfortable performing this procedure, it is best to have it serviced by a qualified professional. They will have the necessary equipment and knowledge to complete the job correctly. 

Does Subaru recommend changing CVT fluid?

Yes, Subaru's maintenance recommendations for CVT fluid change depend on the driving conditions and region, with many unofficial recommendations suggesting changes around 30,000 to 60,000 miles for severe or every-day driving. While Subaru's official US manual often only recommends an inspection at 30,000 miles, some models have a severe driving condition recommendation to replace the fluid every 24,855 miles, and other regions explicitly recommend replacement intervals. 
Subaru's recommendations

• U.S. Schedule: The official U.S. maintenance schedule recommends inspecting the CVT fluid at 30,000 miles, but under severe driving conditions, it recommends replacing it every 24,855 miles. 
• Other Regions: Some other Subaru regions, such as Canada, have a more frequent maintenance schedule that includes changing the CVT fluid, sometimes as often as every 60,000 miles or 100,000 km. 

Why changing the fluid is important

• Lubrication: Like a traditional automatic transmission, the CVT fluid lubricates the internal components, and its breakdown can lead to increased wear and damage. 
• Performance: Proper fluid maintenance is crucial for the smooth operation of the CVT's pulleys and steel belt, which regulate gear ratios. 
• Cost savings: Changing the fluid is a preventative measure that is significantly cheaper than replacing a failed transmission. 

What to do

• Check your manual: Always refer to your specific vehicle's owner's manual for the most accurate maintenance schedule. 
• Consider driving conditions: If you frequently drive in "severe" conditions (such as heavy traffic, stop-and-go traffic, hilly terrain, extreme temperatures, or towing), you should follow the more frequent replacement interval. 
• Consult a professional: Have a dealership or a trusted Subaru specialty shop perform the service, as the CVT fluid change process is specific and requires a special fill procedure using the correct fluid. 

What CVT fluid does Subaru use?

Subaru uses specific CVTF fluids for its transmissions, such as CVTF-III (SOA427V2610) for many newer non-hybrid models or High Torque CVT Fluid (SOA748V0200) for models with high-torque CVTs, but it is essential to use the exact fluid specified for your vehicle's model year to ensure proper function and longevity. Some compatible aftermarket fluids from brands like ENEOS and Idemitsu are also available. 
Subaru genuine fluids

• Subaru CVTF-III (SOA427V2610): A blue/opaque fluid for many non-hybrid models like the 2020-2025 Crosstrek and 2024-2025 Forester, according to Amazon.com. 
• High Torque CVT Fluid (SOA748V0200): A fluid designed for high-torque CVTs, such as those found in the latest Forester XT models, notes Subaru Parts Online. 
• CVTF-II (SOA427V1660): An older version of the fluid, which is a green fluid used in many older models like the 2010-2019 Outback and 2012-2022 Impreza, says Amazon.sg. 

Aftermarket fluids

• ENEOS Import CVTF Model S: A fluid specifically engineered for Subaru vehicles, developed to work with Subaru CVTs and protect against metal-to-metal contact, according to www.eneos.us. 
• Idemitsu CVT Fluid: A brand that manufactures Subaru's genuine CVTF-II fluid, making it a compatible choice for Subaru CVTs, notes this YouTube video. 

Important considerations

• Always check your owner's manual or a dealership to confirm the exact fluid type and part number required for your vehicle's make, model, and year before adding or changing the fluid.
• Never mix different types of CVT fluid, as this can cause damage to the transmission. 
• Aftermarket fluids should only be used if they are explicitly compatible with your specific Subaru model and are backed by the manufacturer. 

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