When should I replace CVT fluid on my Subaru Crosstrek?
Maintaining your Subaru Crosstrek's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is essential for ensuring smooth performance and extending the life of your vehicle. One of the most common questions we hear at Kevin's Autos is, "When should I replace my CVT fluid?" In this article, we’ll break down the recommended intervals, signs that it’s time for a change, and why this maintenance is so important.
Manufacturer Recommendations for CVT Fluid Replacement
Subaru generally recommends inspecting the CVT fluid every 30,000 miles and replacing it around the 60,000-mile mark under normal driving conditions. However, this interval can vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. For example, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, tow heavy loads, or navigate steep inclines, you may need to replace the fluid more often.
Why Replacing CVT Fluid Is Important
The CVT fluid in your Subaru Crosstrek plays a critical role in keeping the transmission running smoothly. Over time, the fluid can degrade due to heat and friction, leading to reduced performance and potential damage. Here are some key reasons to stay on top of CVT fluid maintenance:
- Prevents Overheating: Fresh CVT fluid helps regulate the temperature of the transmission, preventing overheating.
- Ensures Smooth Shifting: Clean fluid allows the transmission to shift seamlessly, maintaining a comfortable driving experience.
- Extends Transmission Life: Regular fluid changes reduce wear and tear, prolonging the life of your CVT.
Signs That Your CVT Fluid Needs Replacement
Even if you’re not at the recommended mileage interval, there are some warning signs that indicate it’s time to replace your CVT fluid:
- Strange Noises: Whining or grinding sounds from the transmission could mean the fluid is dirty or low.
- Slipping Gears: If your Crosstrek struggles to maintain speed or shifts erratically, the CVT fluid may need attention.
- Burnt Smell: A burnt odor coming from the transmission area is a clear sign that the fluid is overheating and breaking down.
- Poor Acceleration: If your vehicle feels sluggish or unresponsive, it could be due to degraded CVT fluid.
How to Replace CVT Fluid
While replacing CVT fluid can be a DIY project for experienced car enthusiasts, it’s often best to leave this task to professionals. At Kevin's Autos, we use specialized equipment to ensure the fluid is replaced correctly and the transmission is functioning at its best. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Drain the old CVT fluid from the transmission.
- Inspect the fluid for signs of contamination or excessive wear.
- Refill the transmission with fresh, manufacturer-approved CVT fluid.
- Test the vehicle to ensure proper operation.
Conclusion
Replacing the CVT fluid in your Subaru Crosstrek is a vital part of maintaining your vehicle’s performance and longevity. By following Subaru’s recommendations and paying attention to warning signs, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your Crosstrek running smoothly. If you’re unsure about the condition of your CVT fluid or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us at Kevin's Autos. We’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you don't change CVT fluid?
Old, degraded oil can't provide adequate lubrication, leading to increased friction and, consequently, overheating. When the temperature gets too hot (transmission fluid itself overheats when temperatures reach higher than 200 degrees Fahrenheit), components begin to warp, break, and suffer severe damage.
How long does CVT last on a Subaru?
There is a fair chance your Subaru CVT will last well beyond 60,000 miles as long as you stick to the factory-recommended maintenance schedule and take care not to overfill your transmission fluid.
Can a CVT last 300000 miles?
Despite their durability, Honda CVTs can encounter issues; however, with proper care, they can help owners exceed 300,000 miles on their vehicles.
How often should I change the CVT transmission fluid on my Subaru Crosstrek?
every 30,000 to 60,000 miles
Follow Subaru's Recommendations
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.
How much does it cost to change transmission fluid in a Subaru Crosstrek?
The average cost for a Subaru Crosstrek Transmission Fluid Change is between $42 and $52 but can vary from car to car.
How often does CVT fluid need to be changed?
every 30,000 to 60,000 miles
Most manufacturers recommend changing the CVT transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. This interval is designed to ensure that the fluid is in good condition and prevents potential transmission damage. However, this interval may vary depending on the type of vehicle, your driving style, and the vehicle's age.
How do I know if my Subaru CVT transmission is going bad?
Identifying Subaru Transmission Failure
Delayed or rough gear shifting. Unusual noises, such as grinding, whining, or clunking. Slipping gears, where the engine revs but the car doesn't accelerate accordingly. Leaking transmission fluid or a burning smell.
How do I know if my CVT transmission fluid needs replacing?
Other than the dreaded check engine light, if you observe delayed shifting, poor acceleration, slipping gears, or transmission whine, then you should consider having your transmission fluid changed or maybe even flushed.
Does CVT fluid need to be changed on a Subaru?
Just like a traditional automatic gearbox, the CVT gearbox will need a transmission flush occasionally. If the fluid isn't changed inside the transmission eventually, it can break down too far to lubricate the metal gears as they mesh together, and allow the transmission to sustain serious damage.
How much does it cost to change CVT fluid?
between $350 to $400
On average, you can expect to pay between $350 to $400 for a CVT fluid change in the United States. This price range takes into account various factors such as the type of vehicle, location, and the specific dealership or service center you choose.
