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What subarus have TR580 transmission?

The short answer: Subaru does not list a factory TR580 transmission in its official catalogs, and no mainstream Subaru model is known to use a TR580 designation. If you’ve seen a TR580 tag or reference, it’s likely not a factory Subaru part and may come from a third-party remanufacturer or another brand.

This article investigates what the TR580 label could mean in a Subaru context, explains how Subaru labels its transmissions, and provides practical steps to verify the correct transmission for a specific vehicle.

What the TR580 label might be in practice

In automotive parts circles, codes like TR580 can appear on remanufactured units, box labels, or cross-reference lists. The “TR” prefix exists in other brands’ lineups, and some vendors use internal or supplier codes that do not correspond to Subaru factory designations. A stamped or printed code can also be misread or confused with a similar-looking Subaru label.

Common possibilities to consider

There are several explanations worth checking if you see TR580:

The unit is not a Subaru factory product but a remanufactured or exchanged unit sourced from a third party.

The stamping or tag is damaged or misread, leading to an incorrect interpretation of the code.

The code belongs to a different manufacturer (for example, a Toyota or other automaker) that was installed in a Subaru via a non-standard swap.

To avoid confusion, verify the exact transmission code stamped on the case and cross-reference it with official Subaru parts catalogs for the vehicle’s year and model, or consult a Subaru dealer or trusted independent shop.

Subaru transmission lineup: what you are likely to encounter

Below are the major transmission types you will typically see in Subarus across different generations. This list focuses on factory-equipped configurations rather than aftermarket swaps.

4EAT — four-speed automatic used in older Subarus (late 1980s through early 2000s).

5EAT — five-speed automatic used in many models from the early 2000s onward.

Lineartronic CVT — Subaru’s continuously variable transmission, broadly used from the 2010s onward.

Manual transmissions — five- or six-speed manuals offered on certain models and trims (e.g., some Impreza/WRX/STI variants, BRZ).

Transmission availability varies by model year and market, and some models may have had only one transmission option in a given year.

How to verify the transmission in your Subaru

If you want to confirm the exact transmission in a specific vehicle, follow these steps:

Locate the transmission code stamped on the case or on a metal tag near the bellhousing or pan; photograph it from multiple angles if you can.

Cross-check the code against Subaru’s official parts catalog or service manuals for the vehicle’s model year and drivetrain configuration.

Check the vehicle’s VIN and build sheet, which can often reveal the original transmission option.

Consult a Subaru dealer or a trusted independent shop with access to Subaru’s parts database for a definitive match.

Armed with the correct code and documentation, you can avoid misidentifications and ensure you source compatible parts or plan the right replacement.

Summary

In short, there is no widely recognized Subaru factory installation labeled TR580 in official catalogs as of the latest model years. If you encounter a TR580 tag, treat it as a potential non-Subaru part, a misreading, or a vendor-specific code. For most Subarus, you’ll be dealing with 4EAT or 5EAT automatic transmissions, the Lineartronic CVT, or one of the available manual options, depending on model and year.

If you can share the exact model, year, and a photo or the exact code stamp you’re seeing, I can help verify its origin and provide a precise cross-check with Subaru’s official resources.

What is the difference between Subaru TR690 and TR580?

The main differences between the Subaru TR580 and TR690 transmissions are their size, design, and intended applications. The TR580 is a smaller, lighter, and more compact design used in lighter-duty vehicles with naturally aspirated engines, while the TR690 is a larger, heavier, and higher-torque capacity transmission suited for more powerful engines and heavy-duty applications. A key internal difference is how they handle direction changes: the TR580's pulley assembly rotates in the opposite direction for reverse, whereas the TR690's pulley assembly always rotates in the same direction.

This video explains the common problems with Subaru CVTs: 1mMrSubaru1387YouTube · Sep 22, 2024

Feature	TR580	TR690
Size & Weight	Shorter and lighter	Longer and heavier
Vehicle Application	Smaller models with naturally aspirated engines (e.g., Impreza, Forester)	Larger vehicles with more powerful or turbocharged engines (e.g., Ascent, WRX)
Torque Capacity	Light-duty use	High-duty use with higher torque capacity
Direction Change	Pulley assembly rotates in opposite direction for reverse	Pulley assembly always rotates in the same direction; reversal occurs via a different set of components
Internal Design	Forward/reverse clutches are located in front of the pulleys	Forward/reverse clutches are located behind the pulleys

Which Subaru transmission is best?

The "best" Subaru transmission depends on your priorities, as Subaru's Lineartronic CVT is highly efficient and smooth for most drivers, especially in 2017 and newer models, while the 6-speed STI manual transmission is the best for performance enthusiasts. For older models, the pre-CVT 4-speed automatic is considered robust by some, but has limitations compared to modern options.
This video explains the difference between manual and CVT transmissions in the WRX: 58sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · Feb 3, 2023
For efficiency and everyday driving

Lineartronic CVT (2017-present): Considered the best all-around for modern Subarus. It offers excellent fuel economy and smooth, linear acceleration.
Improvements since 2015: Upgrades like external coolers, improved clutch packs, and refined software have addressed early CVT issues. For a positive experience, maintain proper service intervals and avoid excessive strain.
Manual mode: All Lineartronic CVTs come with a manual mode that simulates a 6-speed with paddle shifters for a sportier feel when needed.

For performance and enthusiast driving

6-speed STI manual: This is the top choice for performance and durability, designed with motorsport in mind. It is significantly stronger and has higher operability than previous 5-speed versions.
Best for swaps: The 2007 STI 6-speed is often favored for its compatibility with earlier WRX models and its use of a speed sensor and a compatible final drive ratio, notes a YouTube video.

You can watch this video to learn more about the 6-speed STI manual transmission: 58sFlatironsTuningYouTube · May 20, 2022
For older models

Pre-CVT 4-speed automatic: For those who prefer a traditional automatic, some drivers consider the older 4-speed automatic (found in models from 2008-2013) to be more robust and easier to maintain than the early CVTs.
Manual option: Some older models came with 5-speed manual transmissions, which are generally reliable, though they may lack refinement compared to modern options.

What Subarus have the TR580 transmission?

Manufacturer Part Number: TR580. Compatible With Subaru EXIGA 2012-2016,Subaru FORESTER 2011-2016 1.6L 2.5L,Subaru IMPREZA 2010-2016 1.6L,Subaru LEVORG 2014-2016 1.6L,Subaru OUTBACK 2009-2016 2.5L,Subaru XV 2012-2014 1.6L 2.0L,Subaru XV Crosstrek 2013-2014 2.0L.

What years did Subaru have CVT transmission problems?

Subaru had significant CVT transmission problems primarily in models from the 2010 to 2015 range, particularly the first-generation Lineartronic CVT. Specific issues included torque converter clutch failures and other problems like chain slip, affecting models like the Outback, Legacy, Forester, Impreza, and Crosstrek during these years. Subaru extended the warranty for many 2010-2015 vehicles to address these early reliability issues.
Years and models with significant CVT problems

Outback & Legacy: 2010–2015
Impreza: 2012–2015
Crosstrek: 2013–2015
Forester: 2014–2015 (with 2.5L engine); some 2014–2018 models with FB25 engine
WRX: 2015 (2.0L engine)

This video explains common problems with Subaru CVTs, including torque converter and valve body issues: 47sTHE CARS GURUYouTube · Jul 24, 2025
Common problems

Torque converter clutch failure: This was a major issue in early models (around 2010–2013), causing the car to stall when stopping. The torque converter was redesigned to fix this.
Chain slip: This occurred in some early models, often during highway cruising.
Valve body and solenoid issues: These problems have been reported in various model years.
Oil pump chain leaks: This became an issue in later models.

What to know

Extended warranty: Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 10 years or 100,000 miles for many 2010–2015 vehicles due to these early problems.
Redesigned transmissions: Newer models (especially after 2015) generally feature improved CVTs, but some issues can still arise.
Maintenance is key: Proper and timely maintenance, including fluid changes, is crucial to help prevent issues.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.