What transmission fluid do I need for a Subaru Forester?

Your Forester’s transmission type and model year determine the correct fluid. In general, Subaru CVTs use Subaru CVTF that meets JWS 3324; traditional automatics use ATF WS (World Standard) appropriate for that generation; manual transmissions use Subaru MTF that meets GL-4. Always confirm with your owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer before purchasing.

The following guide helps you identify which fluid is required based on your Forester’s transmission type and year, and provides practical steps to verify the exact specification for your vehicle.

Overview by transmission type

Use the appropriate fluid type for your transmission as described below. If you’re unsure which transmission your Forester has, consult the owner’s manual, check the vehicle identification, or ask a Subaru dealer.

• CVT (Lineartronic): Use Subaru CVTF that meets JWS 3324. Do not use conventional ATF. Some third-party fluids are labeled as compatible, but ensure they explicitly meet JWS 3324 or are sold as Subaru CVTF. Follow the service interval in your manual.


• Automatic transmission (4EAT/5AT and newer automatics): Use ATF WS (World Standard) for most recent generations. Some older Foresters may specify a Dexron III/Mercon-equivalent fluid per the manual; do not mix fluids and follow the exact spec listed in your owner's manual.


• Manual transmission (5MT/6MT in older or base trims): Use manual transmission fluid (MTF) that meets GL-4, commonly marketed as Subaru MTF. Do not use ATF in a manual transmission unless the manual explicitly allows it.

Concluding guidance: The exact requirement depends on your model year and the transmission type. Always verify with the official documentation for your vehicle to avoid misapplication that could affect performance or longevity.

How to confirm the exact fluid for your Forester

To be certain you’re using the correct fluid, follow these steps:

1. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the precise fluid specification and capacity for your model year and transmission type.


2. Identify the transmission type in your specific Forester (CVT vs automatic vs manual) by looking at the gear shifter, badges, or VIN-based spec sheet.


3. Look for a transmission fluid specification label on the dipstick (if equipped) or under the hood near the brake fluid reservoir that lists ATF WS, CVTF JWS 3324, or MTF GL-4, as applicable.


4. When purchasing fluid, use products clearly labeled with the exact Subaru specification (e.g., CVTF meeting JWS 3324, ATF WS, or MTF GL-4) and avoid mixing different types unless the manual explicitly allows it.

In short, rely on the official specification for your exact Forester configuration. Using the wrong fluid can lead to shifting issues, wear, or damage over time.

Summary

Identify your Subaru Forester’s transmission type and model year, then match the fluid to Subaru’s official specifications: CVTF for CVTs (JWS 3324), ATF WS for most automatic transmissions, and MTF GL-4 for manual transmissions. Always verify with the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer to ensure you’re using the correct fluid and capacity for your vehicle.

Does Subaru need special transmission fluid?

Using the wrong fluid can cause severe damage to your transmission. Always use Subaru-approved CVT fluid or a compatible high-quality alternative like ENEOS ECO CVTF or ENEOS Import CVTF Model S.

What kind of transmission fluid does a 2018 Subaru Forester take?

The correct transmission fluid for a 2018 Subaru Forester depends on the transmission type, but for the common Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the required fluid is Subaru's CVTF-II. If your model has a different automatic transmission, use the fluid type specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can cause severe damage, so confirm the type before purchasing a replacement.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to change Subaru Forester CVT transmission fluid: 59s3GuysGarageYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Subaru Forester CVT fluid type

• 2.0L and 2.5L Naturally Aspirated Engines: Use CVTF-II, which replaced the older CVTF-I. This fluid is typically a bluish color. 
• 2.0L DIT or 3.6L Engines (XT models): Use CVTF-High Torque. This fluid is red-orange colored. 
• 2020+ Models: Some newer models use CVTF-III, which is different from CVTF-II. 
• Aftermarket fluids: Many brands make compatible fluids, but it is critical to choose a fluid specifically labeled for Subaru Lineartronic CVT (CVT-II). Examples include Valvoline CVT Fluid or ENEOS ECO CVTF. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: Always confirm the specific fluid required for your vehicle, as the wrong fluid can cause transmission damage. 
• Do not mix fluids: Different Subaru CVT fluids are not interchangeable (with the exception of CVTF-II replacing CVTF-I). 
• Use the correct parts: When replacing the fluid, it is also recommended to replace the drain plug gasket (crush washer). 

You can watch this video to learn about the Subaru Forester transmission fluid: 1mTalking Shop 716YouTube · Oct 13, 2024

What kind of transmission fluid for Subaru Forester?

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission
FRAM – FRAM Full Synthetic Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon (Part No. F426-1G)

What kind of ATF does Subaru use?

The Subaru transmission fluid type depends on your transmission, but common options include CVTF-II or CVTF-III for Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) and ATF-HP for older automatic transmissions. It is crucial to use the correct fluid, so always consult your owner's manual or a Subaru dealership to confirm the specific type for your vehicle to prevent damage.
 
For Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT)

• CVTF-II: A green fluid used in many older CVT models, such as certain Crosstrek, Forester, Legacy, and Impreza models. 
• CVTF-III: A newer fluid for many current CVT models. 

For Automatic Transmissions (AT)

• ATF-HP: A specific fluid recommended for many Subaru 4-speed and 5-speed automatic transmissions. It is also sometimes used in power steering systems. 
• Dexron: Some older models may use a standard Dexron-type automatic transmission fluid. 

Important considerations

• Owner's manual: Always check your owner's manual for the precise fluid type and specifications for your vehicle. 
• Genuine Subaru fluid: It is highly recommended to use genuine Subaru fluid or an equivalent fluid from a trusted brand like Idemitsu, as Subaru uses Idemitsu as their OEM supplier. 
• Avoid multi-vehicle fluids: Avoid using generic multi-vehicle fluids, especially for CVT transmissions, as they may not have the correct specifications.