What type of transmission fluid does a Subaru CVT take?

Type of Transmission Fluid for Subaru CVT
Subaru CVT transmissions typically require a specific type of transmission fluid. The specific fluid type can vary based on the model and year of the vehicle. For example, the Subaru Lineartronic CVT, which is used in models like the Legacy and Outback from around model year 2014 and up, can use Castrol Transmax CVT ATF in certain cases. Additionally, the TR580/VTF23 model, typically found on 2.5i engines, may require about 12 quarts of fluid and can use Castrol Transmax CVT ATF in certain instances. It’s important to note that the Subaru CVT fluid is designed for the transmission and may be recommended for use, especially for vehicles covered under warranty.
It’s advisable to consult the Subaru owner’s manual to determine the specific fluid type specified for a particular vehicle. The manual typically provides detailed information on the recommended transmission fluid for the specific model and year of the Subaru vehicle.
Routine maintenance for Subaru CVT transmissions includes periodic inspection of the fluid, with the 2018 Subaru Outback, for example, requiring CVT fluid inspection by a dealership professional every 30,000 miles. This inspection helps ensure that the transmission fluid is in good condition and at the appropriate level.
In summary, while the specific type of transmission fluid for a Subaru CVT can vary based on the model and year of the vehicle, it’s important to consult the Subaru owner’s manual for the exact fluid type specified for the specific vehicle.
If you have any further questions or need additional information, feel free to ask!

What kind of CVT fluid does Subaru use?

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.

Are all CVT transmission fluids the same?

Each specific CVT fluid is formulated for a specific transmission; however, oil marketers have been able to demonstrate good performance with a single CVT oil across many different transmission designs.

Does Subaru recommend changing CVT fluid?

Considering this fact, and considering how early we notice the fluid deteriorating, we recommend the change around every 30k miles (or sometimes sooner as fluid condition dictates).

Is CVT fluid the same as ATF?

No, absolutely not – unless your “automatic” is a CVT, and then you must use CVT fluid. ATF and CVT oils are chemically completely different fluids with different additives, base stocks, viscosities, friction coefficients, etc.

Is all CVT fluid the same?

while CVTs generally require special fluid, some modern CVTs have been designed to work with more common types of transmission fluid. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual or consult with your mechanic to determine the right fluid for your specific model.

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.

What will happen if I put ATF in a CVT transmission?

Your CVT transmission will still function for a period of time since it is a mixture of both fluids and there will still be enough friction for the CVT transmission to work for a while. Eventually, however, permanent damage will occur and you have to rebuild your transmission.

Can you use ATF transmission fluid in a CVT transmission?

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. The worst is that the user might not even notice anything has gone wrong until the issues have already progressed.

How often should you change Subaru CVT transmission fluid?

once every 30,000 to 60,000 miles
Subaru CVT Transmission Fluid Service Special
Amongst all the different services your vehicle needs, some are needed more frequently than others. For instance, Transmission Fluid Services vary from make to model and driver to driver, but typically the range is once every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

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.