What is included in a Subaru 60,000 mile service?
A Subaru 60,000-mile service typically includes an oil and filter change, essential inspections, and several fluid refreshes; the exact items depend on the model and year.
As vehicles approach this milestone, dealerships and shops perform a mix of routine maintenance and targeted replacements designed to protect engine health, drivetrain integrity, and safety. The exact checklist can vary by engine type (timing belt versus timing chain) and by model generation, so owners should consult their owner's manual or a Subaru service adviser for precise requirements.
Core maintenance tasks you’re likely to see
Below is a common set of tasks that service technicians typically perform at about 60,000 miles on many Subaru models. The exact lineup can vary by engine and year.
- Engine oil and filter change
- Engine air filter replacement
- Cabin air filter replacement
- Tire rotation and tread/condition inspection
- Brake system inspection (pads, rotors, lines) and performance assessment
- Fluid checks and top-offs, including engine coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and power steering fluid where applicable
- Transmission/CVT fluid service (drain and fill or flush, depending on model)
- Differential fluid service (front and/or rear, if applicable to AWD models)
- Drive belts and hoses inspection; replacement if worn
- Electrical system and battery check; lighting and wiper blade inspection
- Engine performance checks including spark plugs status and overall ignition system health
Completing these tasks helps maintain performance, efficiency, and safety while addressing components most prone to wear by the 60,000-mile mark.
Model- and engine-specific considerations
Some maintenance items hinge on whether your Subaru uses a timing belt or a timing chain, and on the particular engine family (for example, 2.0L or 2.5L engines, turbocharged variants, etc.).
Timing belt versus timing chain and other engine details
Many older Subaru engines used a timing belt that typically has a replacement interval around 60,000 to 105,000 miles depending on model. If your engine uses a belt, the 60k service may include timing belt replacement and often the water pump as a single package. If your engine uses a timing chain, there is usually no belt replacement at 60k, but technicians may inspect the chain guides and tensioners and address related components.
Spark plugs and ignition components
Spark plugs commonly reach replacement due around 60,000 miles for many Subaru engines. Some newer engines extend this interval to 100,000 miles depending on plug type and emission requirements.
Powertrain fluids and AWD specifics
CVT or conventional automatic transmissions often require a fluid drain/fill at 60k miles on many Subarus. In addition, front and rear differentials in AWD models may have their fluids refreshed around this milestone. Always verify with the service advisor for your exact powertrain setup.
Coolant and cooling system
Cooling system service intervals vary by model and coolant type. Some Subarus call for a coolant flush and replacement around 60k or 100k miles, while others schedule it at longer intervals (or only if contamination is present). The service bay will also check hoses, radiator, and the water pump for signs of wear.
Filtration and cabin air
In addition to engine air filter and cabin air filter replacement listed earlier, some models may have a fuel filter or sensor checks that are addressed at this interval depending on dealer recommendations.
Summary
In most Subaru 60,000-mile services, expect an oil and filter change, filtration replacements, tire rotation, brake inspection, and a suite of fluid checks, with model-specific variations such as timing belt replacement or CVT fluid service depending on engine type. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer for your exact configuration and interval recommendations.
