How often should I change the transmission fluid on my Subaru Crosstrek?
Maintaining your Subaru Crosstrek's transmission fluid is essential for ensuring smooth gear shifts and prolonging the life of your vehicle. As an experienced auto service provider, I often get asked about the ideal interval for changing transmission fluid. Let’s dive into the details to help you keep your Crosstrek in top condition.
Manufacturer Recommendations for Transmission Fluid Changes
Subaru generally recommends changing the transmission fluid in your Crosstrek every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the type of driving you do. For vehicles equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is common in Crosstreks, the interval might be closer to 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, if you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as towing, driving in extreme temperatures, or navigating hilly terrain, you may need to change it more often.
Signs That Your Transmission Fluid Needs Changing
Even if you’re following the recommended schedule, it’s important to watch for signs that your transmission fluid may need attention sooner. Here are some common indicators:
- Slipping Gears: If your Crosstrek struggles to stay in gear or shifts unexpectedly, it could be due to degraded transmission fluid.
- Delayed Shifting: A delay when shifting gears might indicate that the fluid is dirty or low.
- Unusual Noises: Whining or grinding noises during gear changes can be a sign of transmission issues.
- Burnt Smell: If you notice a burnt odor coming from the transmission fluid, it’s time for a change.
- Dark or Dirty Fluid: Transmission fluid should be a bright red or pink color. If it appears dark or has particles in it, it’s time for a replacement.
Steps to Check and Maintain Your Transmission Fluid
Regularly checking your transmission fluid can help you stay ahead of potential problems. Here’s how you can do it:
- Park your Crosstrek on a level surface and let the engine warm up.
- Locate the transmission dipstick (refer to your owner’s manual if needed).
- Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully.
- Remove the dipstick again and check the fluid level and color.
- If the fluid is low, add the manufacturer-recommended transmission fluid type. Avoid overfilling.
Why Regular Transmission Fluid Changes Are Important
Transmission fluid serves as both a lubricant and a coolant for your vehicle’s transmission system. Over time, the fluid can break down, become contaminated, and lose its effectiveness. Regular changes help to:
- Ensure smooth and efficient gear shifts.
- Prevent overheating and reduce wear on transmission components.
- Extend the lifespan of your transmission system.
- Avoid costly repairs down the road.
Conclusion
For your Subaru Crosstrek, sticking to the recommended transmission fluid change intervals and keeping an eye out for warning signs can save you from major headaches. If you’re unsure about the condition of your transmission fluid or need assistance, don’t hesitate to visit Kevin’s Autos for a professional inspection and service. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to keep your Crosstrek running smoothly!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Subaru recommend changing transmission fluid?
Eventually, in 2018 or thereabout, Subaru finally started recommending fluid change on the CVT in it's warranty manual as early as 24,855 miles for severe conditions.
How much does it cost to change transmission fluid in a Subaru Crosstrek?
The average cost for a Subaru Crosstrek Transmission Fluid Change is between $42 and $52 but can vary from car to car.
Is Subaru transmission fluid lifetime?
Subaru claims that the transmission fluid is a lifetime fluid and doesn't need to be changed.
How to check automatic transmission fluid level on subaru crosstrek?
Checking Your Transmission Fluid
- Turn your engine on for a few minutes before proceeding.
- Find the transmission fluid dipstick.
- Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger.
- Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick.
- Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot.
Why do mechanics say not to change transmission fluid?
That bad fluid may have a “sticky” quality to it or metal flecks that act to aid friction, and if it's changed, the new fluid might cause the transmission to start slipping.
What happens if you don't get your transmission fluid changed?
The main thing that happens if you don't change your transmission fluid is that the system can overheat and cause a system failure. Low transmission fluid can also delay or cause difficulty in shifting, which can prevent your vehicle from accelerating or operating correctly.
Should you change transmission fluid by time or mileage?
Automatic: Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles
It's important to change your transmission fluid, but the type of transmission you have affects your ideal changing interval. If you drive manual, most manufacturers will recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
What is the 30 000 mile service on a Subaru crosstrek?
30,000 Miles / 30-Month Service
Our technicians will also inspect the hardworking components of your drivetrain, such as: Drive belt(s) Engine coolant systems, including hoses and connections. Transmission gear oil, as well as front and rear differential gear oil.
When to change transmission fluid on a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek?
Every 30 Months or 30,000 Miles
As your Subaru ages, we'll suggest repairs or replacements before they become a real problem. Approaching 60,000 to 100,000 miles, we'll also replace the radiator coolant and the transmission fluid, as well as the spark plugs.
Do Subaru Crosstreks need transmission fluid change?
Subaru Crosstrek transmission fluid changes are extremely main to keep your vehicle's transmission chummy and lubricated. If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your Subaru Crosstrek transmission will slip.
