How much is a Subaru Legacy transmission?

The typical cost to replace a Subaru Legacy transmission is usually in the mid-thousands, commonly between about $3,000 and $6,000 installed, with higher prices for a brand-new OEM CVT and lower costs if you opt for a used or rebuilt unit. This article explores the pricing landscape, replacement options, and practical considerations for Legacy owners facing a transmission issue.

Cost landscape: what buyers should expect

Prices for replacing a Legacy transmission vary by the type of transmission, whether you choose new, rebuilt, or used parts, and where the work is performed. The following options represent the main paths buyers consider.

• New OEM CVT or automatic transmission from Subaru or an authorized dealer


• Remanufactured or rebuilt CVT/automatic from a specialist or independent shop


• Used or salvage-transmission sourced from a dismantler or junkyard

Prices depend on model year, transmission type, warranty coverage, and the inclusion of fluids, belts, sensors, and software recalibration. Shopping across dealers and independent shops can yield noticeably different quotes.

Typical price ranges by replacement option

For budgeting purposes, here are approximate installed-price bands you may encounter in the market, noting that actual numbers depend on parts availability, labor rates, and local conditions.

• Used or rebuilt transmission installed: about $2,500 to $4,500 total


• Remanufactured or rebuilt CVT with warranty: about $3,000 to $5,500 total


• New OEM CVT from a dealer: about $5,500 to $8,000 total

These figures include parts and labor and assume a straightforward installation without extensive ancillary repairs. If related components (cooling lines, seals, software updates) need attention, prices can rise accordingly.

What determines the final price

Several factors influence the final quote when replacing a Legacy transmission. Understanding them helps buyers compare offers more accurately.

• Transmission type and model year: modern Legacy models rely on a Lineartronic CVT, while older generations used traditional automatics; price and availability vary by type


• Age and availability of replacement units: dealer stock and repair-shop inventories differ by region and year


• Labor rates and shop type: dealership rates tend to be higher than independent repair shops, and CVT specialists may charge different rates than general shops


• Warranty coverage: longer or more comprehensive warranties affect overall cost but may provide long-term value


• Additional work and components: cooling system lines, sensors, software recalibration, and fluid flushes can add to the bill

When evaluating quotes, ask for a line-by-line breakdown and clarify what is included in the warranty to avoid surprises after the work begins.

Model-year notes and practical guidance

CVT prevalence in recent Legacy models

Since roughly the 2010s, Subaru’s Legacy lineup has predominantly used the Lineartronic CVT in many markets. While CVTs can offer smooth operation and efficiency, price and availability of rebuilt or replacement units tend to center around CVT-specific parts and service expertise.

Older transmissions and parts availability

Earlier Legacy generations used traditional automatics (and, in some cases, older 4EAT configurations). Replacement parts for these transmissions can be more readily available in the aftermarket, which can influence both price and repair timelines.

Warranty and service considerations

Warranty coverage—whether it’s a dealer-backed plan, a third-party warranty, or a shop-specific guarantee—will affect the overall value of the replacement. Review what the warranty covers (parts, labor, duration) and whether it transfers with the vehicle or the unit itself.

Shopping tips and next steps

To minimize surprises and secure a solid deal, follow these practical steps when planning a transmission replacement for a Subaru Legacy.

• Obtain multiple quotes and request a detailed, written breakdown of parts, labor, fluids, disposal, and taxes


• Ask about the specific transmission type (CVT vs traditional automatic) and confirm compatibility with your model year


• Clarify warranty terms, including duration and what is covered or excluded


• Check shop credentials and seek recommendations for CVT experience, then review customer feedback


• Inquire about potential additional repairs that may arise during replacement (cooling lines, sensors, software updates)

With competing estimates and clear warranty terms, you can choose the option that balances reliability and long-term value for your Legacy.

Summary

Replacing a Subaru Legacy transmission is a major repair with cost variability driven by transmission type, year, warranty, and regional labor rates. Realistic installed-price expectations typically range from about $3,000 to $6,000, with higher-end figures for new OEM CVTs and lower-end figures for used or rebuilt units. By comparing quotes, confirming transmission specifications, and understanding warranty coverage, Legacy owners can navigate the process more confidently and plan for a durable fix.

How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Subaru?

The cost to replace a Subaru transmission varies, but a common range is $3,000 to $8,000 for a CVT and $1,500 to $5,000 for a manual or traditional automatic. The price depends on the vehicle model, year, whether a new or used transmission is used, and labor costs. Subaru CVTs, in particular, can have higher replacement costs, often ranging from $7,500 to $8,600 for a new unit at a dealership. 
Cost breakdown by transmission type

• CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission):
  • New: Can cost between $3,000 and $8,000 or more, with some models at dealerships reaching $7,500 to $8,600. 
  • Used/Refurbished: Typically more cost-effective, with prices potentially in the $2,500 to $4,500 range, depending on the source. 
• Manual Transmission:
  • Replacement costs are generally lower than CVTs. 
  • Costs can range from approximately $1,500 to $3,000 or up to $4,000 for parts alone. 
• Traditional Automatic Transmission:
  • Costs typically fall between $2,500 and $5,000 for parts and labor. 

Factors that influence the final price

• Vehicle: The specific Subaru model, year, and submodel all affect the part and labor cost. 
• Parts: The price will differ based on whether you use a brand-new, remanufactured, or used transmission. 
• Labor: The hourly labor rates at the repair shop or dealership will contribute to the total price. Dealerships may have higher labor rates but use manufacturer-approved parts. 
• Warranty: Check if the new or used transmission comes with a warranty to protect against future issues. 

Is it worth replacing a transmission?

Whether replacing a transmission is worth it depends on a cost-benefit analysis of the vehicle's age, its total value, the cost of the replacement, and your own plans for the car. If the repair cost is less than 30-40% of the car's current value, or if you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacement may be a good investment. However, if the car is older and has other issues, or if the replacement cost is close to or exceeds the car's worth, it may be better to consider selling the vehicle. 
Factors to consider 
This video explains the factors to consider when deciding whether to replace your car's transmission: 42sNexologyYouTube · Sep 4, 2025

• Vehicle's value: Compare the cost of replacement to the car's current market value. If the repair is more than 30-40% of the car's worth, it may not be a good financial decision. 
• Vehicle's condition: If the rest of the car is in good condition with no major issues, a transmission replacement can be a worthwhile investment. However, if the car has many other problems, it may be better to cut your losses. 
• Your plans for the car: If you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacing the transmission is more likely to be worth the cost. If you only plan to keep it for a year or two, it may not be. 
• Cost of the replacement: Costs can range from $1,500 to over $8,000, depending on the vehicle and the type of transmission (new, rebuilt, or used). Be sure to factor in labor costs as well. 
• Reliability of the model: Some car models have a history of transmission problems, which may make replacement less desirable. 

Options for replacement

• New transmission: This is often the most expensive option, but it comes with a new warranty. 
• Remanufactured transmission: A remanufactured unit has been rebuilt to "as-new" condition and often comes with a good warranty, making it a solid choice. 
• Used transmission: This is the cheapest option but comes with the highest risk, as you don't know its history. It is generally not recommended unless you can test it first. 

Do Subaru Legacys have transmission problems?

While Subaru has improved its CVTs over the years, certain models are more prone to failures: 2010–2013 Subaru Outback & Legacy (First-generation Lineartronic CVT) 2013–2017 Subaru Crosstrek (Early FB20 engine models) 2014–2018 Subaru Forester (FB25 engine models)

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.