Home FAQ

What type of transmission fluid does Subaru take?

Subaru vehicles typically require a specific type of transmission fluid, known as Subaru Genuine Transmission Fluid (SGTF) or Subaru Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid (CVTF). The exact type of fluid needed depends on the specific model and transmission in your Subaru.

Subaru Transmission Fluid Types

Subaru offers several different transmission fluid types to meet the needs of their various vehicle models and transmission systems:

Subaru Genuine Transmission Fluid (SGTF): This is the recommended fluid for Subaru vehicles with traditional automatic transmissions.

Subaru Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid (CVTF): This fluid is specifically designed for Subaru's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) systems, which are found in many modern Subaru models.

Subaru Manual Transmission Fluid: For Subaru vehicles with manual transmissions, a specialized manual transmission fluid is required.

It's important to use the correct fluid type for your Subaru's transmission to ensure proper lubrication and performance. Using the wrong fluid can lead to transmission issues and damage over time.

Finding the Right Subaru Transmission Fluid

To determine the right transmission fluid for your Subaru, you can check your owner's manual or consult with a Subaru dealership or certified mechanic. They can provide guidance on the specific fluid type and quantity needed for your vehicle's transmission system.

Regularly changing your Subaru's transmission fluid according to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule is also important for maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle's transmission.

What kind of ATF does Subaru use?

Recommended Fluid for your Subaru is ATF or Dexron III automatic transmission fluid.

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.

Are ATF and CVT fluid the same?

No, automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid are not the same and are not interchangeable. ATF is designed to minimize friction in gear-based automatic transmissions, while CVT fluid is formulated to have specific friction properties to allow the belt or chain to grip the pulleys in a belt-driven CVT system without slipping. Using the wrong fluid can cause serious and irreversible damage to the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Function: Lubricates and provides hydraulic pressure for the gear sets, clutches, and bands in a traditional automatic transmission.
Key property: Designed to reduce friction for smooth gear changes.
Color: Often red or green to differentiate it from other fluids.

This video explains what happens if you put ATF in a CVT transmission: 44sCounty Office LawYouTube · Oct 26, 2024
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Fluid

Function: Operates the belt or chain in a CVT's pulley system.
Key property: Formulated to have specific friction properties that allow the belt to grip the pulleys, preventing slippage.
Color: Can vary, but some have a green color.

Why they are not interchangeable

Different engineering: CVTs use a belt and pulley system, while traditional automatics use a set of gears. The different operating principles require different fluid properties.
Friction control: ATF minimizes friction, which is the opposite of what a CVT needs. Using ATF in a CVT will cause the belt to slip, leading to damage.
Severe damage: Even a small amount of the wrong fluid can cause significant and potentially irreversible damage to a CVT. Always check your owner's manual to ensure you are using the correct fluid for your specific vehicle.

What type of CVT fluid does Subaru use?

Idemitsu brand fluid is what Subaru uses as their OEM fluid, and can be had for less than the Subaru-branded stuff, which is exactly the same. Amsoil, Valvoline, Castrol all make CVT fluid that meet Subaru specs. Stick to subaru unless you drain the entire cvt which is impossible just from removing the drain plug.

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.