Who builds Subaru CVT transmissions?
Subaru vehicles are known for their reliable and efficient Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), which are manufactured by the Japanese automotive supplier JATCO. JATCO, a subsidiary of Nissan Motor Company, has been Subaru's exclusive CVT supplier since the early 2000s.
JATCO's Role in Subaru's CVT Production
JATCO is responsible for the design, development, and manufacturing of the CVT units that are used in a wide range of Subaru models, including the Impreza, Outback, Ascent, and others. The company's expertise in CVT technology has been a key factor in Subaru's ability to offer fuel-efficient and smooth-driving vehicles to its customers.
Benefits of Subaru's JATCO-Produced CVTs
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Subaru's CVTs, manufactured by JATCO, are designed to optimize engine performance and reduce fuel consumption, contributing to the brand's reputation for fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Smooth Driving Experience: The CVT technology provides a seamless and responsive driving experience, with no noticeable gear shifts, resulting in a more comfortable and enjoyable ride for Subaru owners.
- Reliability and Durability: JATCO's expertise in CVT manufacturing has resulted in Subaru's transmissions being known for their reliability and long-lasting performance, even in demanding driving conditions.
The partnership between Subaru and JATCO has been a key factor in the success of Subaru's vehicles, as the CVT technology has played a significant role in the brand's reputation for fuel efficiency, smooth driving, and overall reliability.
Are Subaru CVT transmissions any good?
Subaru CVTs are generally good for their intended purpose, offering good fuel economy and a smooth ride, and recent models have shown improved reliability. However, they have a history of specific failures, particularly in models from roughly 2010–2018, and require diligent maintenance to prevent problems, say YouTube users and Reddit users.
This video explains what a Subaru CVT is and how it works: 1mMrSubaru1387YouTube · Sep 22, 2024
Pros
- Fuel efficiency: CVTs can improve gas mileage by keeping the engine in its most efficient RPM range.
- Smoothness: They provide a smooth, seamless driving experience without the traditional shift shock of a conventional automatic.
- Performance: Modern Subaru CVTs have been programmed to mimic traditional automatic transmissions with "steps" for a more engaging feel, especially in performance models like the WRX.
- In-house design: Subaru designs its own CVTs, which allows them to be integrated well with the brand's unique powertrain.
Cons
- Past reliability issues: Subaru CVTs had a reputation for failures in certain model years, particularly from 2010–2018, often related to the torque converter or valve body.
- Maintenance: They are very sensitive to proper maintenance. Neglecting to change the CVT fluid can lead to premature failure.
- Cost of repair: Some repairs, like a failed valve body, are expensive and often result in the entire transmission being replaced.
- Towing limitations: While they can handle light loads, they are not designed for heavy towing, which can lead to accelerated wear and tear.
Recommendations
- For newer models (2018 and newer): The reliability of Subaru's CVTs has improved significantly, and they are considered much more robust. A 2018 or newer model is a safer bet for reliability, according to Reddit.
- For older models: If you own an older model, proper and frequent fluid changes are critical for longevity, suggest YouTube users and Reddit users.
- Avoid heavy towing: Unless you have a model specifically designed for it, avoid towing anything heavier than a very small utility trailer.
- Check the maintenance history: If buying used, check for a history of regular service, especially CVT fluid changes. If there's no record, it's a good idea to get the fluid changed as soon as possible, says A&A, The Shop.
Is the Subaru CVT the same as the Toyota?
Like a bicycle but much beefier. Subaru CVTs are manufactured by Subaru and are not the same or even like most other CVTs used in other brands. The TR690 as implemented in the Ascent (and Outback/Legacy XT) requires special handling for things like fluid changes.
Which car manufacturer has the best CVT?
Toyota and honda, imo build the best cvt transmissions. Toyota especially has had a lot of time to perfect them as they started in the prius and they've now recently added a fixed take off gear which takes alot of strain off of the transmission itself and honda has something similar I believe.
Who makes Subaru's CVT transmission?
Yes they are, subaru manufacturers their own brand and design of cvt. No other manufacturer uses it.
