What kind of transmission fluid does a Subaru take?

Subaru Transmission Fluid Recommendations
For automatic transmissions in Subaru vehicles, the recommended transmission fluids include:
– Subaru ATF IDEMITSU ATF HP “Dexron III” Type Automatic Transmission Fluid is recommended for the 2010 Subaru Forester.
– Subaru High Torque CVT Fluid, Idemitsu ATF Type HP, Subaru ATF-HP Automatic Transmission Fluid, and Subaru OEM ATF are recommended for 1990-2011 Subaru Outback with automatic transmission.
– Subaru High Torque CVT Fluid or Subaru Genuine CVTF-II are recommended for 2012-2014 Subaru Outback with automatic transmission.
– Subaru High Torque CVT Fluid or Subaru ATF-HP Automatic Transmission Fluid are recommended for 2015-2019 Subaru Outback with automatic transmission.
– Subaru High Torque CVT Fluid is recommended for 2020-2022 Subaru Outback with automatic transmission.
For manual transmissions, the recommended oil standards are API GL-4 and API GL-5. It’s important to use the recommended standard to protect the bronze synchronizers of the transmission.
Fluid Inspection and Replacement
Subaru recommends inspecting the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles and changing it based on its condition, which can be influenced by driving conditions and vehicle use. Severe driving conditions may necessitate more frequent fluid changes, with a recommendation to change the fluid every 30,000 miles for cars exposed to severe driving conditions.
It’s important to note that the specific model and year of the Subaru vehicle will determine the appropriate transmission fluid type, so it’s advisable to refer to the vehicle’s manual or consult with a certified Subaru technician for the most accurate information.

Is ATF and CVT fluid the same?

The only things that’s make the different for CVT fluid is that the fluid has to produce more fiction rather than less fiction.

Does it matter what transmission fluid I use?

The type of transmission fluid you should use depends upon the make, model and year of your vehicle. For example, many General Motor cars will require a DEXRON fluid and Ford cars commonly specify a MERCON fluid. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer recommendation for proper fluid use and change interval.

What happens if I put ATF instead of CVT?

Using the wrong type of transmission fluid for high-tech vehicles can result in irreversible damage. One should never mix regular manual or automatic transmission fluid with CVT fluid or vice versa. While an advanced car can run with the wrong transmission fluid, it will end in damage.

Can I use ATF instead of CVT fluid?

CVT fluid is specially formulated for the particular friction requirements of the steel band and pulleys. ATF is made for clutches. If you accidentally put ATF in a CVT, you will need to completely drain and flush the unit.

What type of transmission fluid does a Subaru CVT take?

Idemitsu CVTF Type SB2 is specifically formulated to meet and/or exceed the latest performance and protection requirements of continuously variable transmissions in Subaru vehicles.

What happens if I use ATF in a CVT transmission?

CVT fluid is specially formulated for the particular friction requirements of the steel band and pulleys. ATF is made for clutches. If you accidentally put ATF in a CVT, you will need to completely drain and flush the unit.

What kind of transmission fluid do I need in a Subaru?

It’s important to get the right fluid for your Subaru’s transmission. As a general rule of thumb, you should put: ATF-HP transmission fluid into 2005+ Subaru vehicles (except those with CVT transmissions) DEXRON III transmission fluid into 2004 and earlier Subaru vehicles.

What happens if you use ATF instead of CVT fluid?

Using the wrong type of transmission fluid for high-tech vehicles can result in irreversible damage. One should never mix regular manual or automatic transmission fluid with CVT fluid or vice versa. While an advanced car can run with the wrong transmission fluid, it will end in damage.

What transmission fluid do I need for CVT transmission?

CVTs operate differently than automatic step transmissions, so they demand a different type of fluid. Valvoline Full Synthetic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Fluid is uniquely formulated for today’s CVT transmissions.

Does a CVT need special fluid?

The transmission fluid ensures the belt or chain remains in contact with the pulleys, which is why CVTs require specialized fluids rather than traditional automatic or manual transmission fluid. CVT fluids are formulated with the correct frictional requirements to guard against belt slipping.