What kind of gear oil does a Subaru Outback take?
The Subaru Outback, a popular crossover SUV, typically requires a specific type of gear oil for its drivetrain components. The recommended gear oil for a Subaru Outback is a synthetic gear oil that meets the GL-5 specification.
Gear Oil Requirements for the Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is equipped with a symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which includes a rear differential and a transfer case. These components require a specialized gear oil to ensure proper lubrication and prevent wear and tear.
According to Subaru's recommendations, the Outback should use a synthetic gear oil that meets the GL-5 specification. This type of gear oil is designed to withstand the high loads and temperatures experienced in the Outback's drivetrain components.
The recommended gear oil viscosity for the Subaru Outback is typically SAE 75W-90. This viscosity provides the necessary lubrication and protection across a wide range of operating temperatures.
Reasons for Using the Recommended Gear Oil
Using the correct gear oil is essential for the proper functioning and longevity of the Subaru Outback's drivetrain components. Here are some key reasons why the recommended gear oil is important:
- Wear Protection: The GL-5 specification gear oil provides superior wear protection for the gears and bearings in the rear differential and transfer case, reducing the risk of premature failure.
- Thermal Stability: Synthetic gear oils have better thermal stability, which means they can withstand the high temperatures generated in the Outback's drivetrain components without breaking down.
- Improved Efficiency: The low-viscosity SAE 75W-90 gear oil helps reduce power losses, improving the overall efficiency of the Outback's AWD system.
- Compatibility: The recommended gear oil is specifically formulated to be compatible with the materials and seals used in the Outback's drivetrain components, reducing the risk of leaks or other issues.
Using the wrong type of gear oil or failing to change it at the recommended intervals can lead to increased wear, reduced efficiency, and even potential damage to the Outback's drivetrain components.
How often should I change my Subaru Outback differential fluid?
Having your Subaru's differential fluid drained and replaced as often as every 30,000 miles is important to keeping your vehicle running in top condition.
What kind of fluid goes in a rear differential?
Think engine oil but thicker; it's similar to fluid that's used to lubricate manual transmission gears. There are two basic types of differential fluid: Mineral oil, which is a natural, crude oil-based fluid. Synthetic differential fluid, which is created with chemicals and can be fine-tuned for optimal performance.
What fluid should never be used in a rear differential?
Never, under any circumstances, put engine oil in your differential. This will result in devastating damages to your engine. Engine oil is much different than gear oil, mostly it cannot withstand high pressure.
Is gear oil and transmission oil the same?
Transmission fluid and transmission oil are the same, but gear oil is for differentials, and in some people's minds, for transmissions, but you should not use just any gear oil in a manual transmission, as they may destroy synchronizers in their effort to protect extreme pressure.
Is differential fluid the same as gear oil?
The differential fluid, also known as gear oil, is specifically formulated to lubricate and protect the gears and bearings within the differential housing. On the other hand, transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating and cooling the intricate components of your vehicle's transmission system.
What oil is recommended for a Subaru Outback?
Oil Type & Capacity for Subaru Outback
Also like the Crosstrek, the Outback engine should be filled with 0W-20 synthetic oil. If synthetic oil isn't available, you can use either 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil. However, as suggested above, the engine oil should be replaced with synthetic oil during the next change.
How often do I need to change gearbox oil?
every 30,000 to 50,000 mi
Manual gearboxes usually require a gearbox oil change every 30,000 to 50,000 mi (48,000 to 80,000 km). Automatic gearboxes usually have gear oil change intervals of between 60,000 to 100,000 mi (96,000 to 160,000 km). It's advisable that you change your gearbox oil filter at the same time as your oil.
Does it matter what gear oil I use?
All gear lubricants are definitely not the same. There are differences in the additive technology used for lubricants for each specification, and just because one type of gear oil works well for one type of gear application, that doesn't mean it will work well for all.
What happens if you never change differential fluid?
Most differentials need a fluid change at about 50,000 miles. If left too long or if the fluid starts to run low, the differential will become noisy and can eventually fail. If that happens, the gears can seize, locking up the rear wheels and potentially causing a lot of damage or even an accident.
When to change gear oil on a Subaru?
Subaru often suggests changing the transmission fluid at regular intervals, such as every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the model and transmission type.
