Fluid - CVT: Testing and Inspection

TRANSMISSION

Preparation
^ Idle hot engine after driving. Note that a true fluid level cannot be checked without driving the vehicle.
^ Use a clean cloth when checking the fluid level to prevent dirt or dust from coming in contact with the level gauge.
^ Position the vehicle on a flat surface.
^ Set the selector lever to the P range and check the fluid level using the level gauge. The engine must be idling.

Inspection
1. If fluid needs to be added frequently, carefully check for leakage.
2. Use only genuine Subaru ECVT fluid or DEXRON II.

FLUID CAPACITY (INCL. OIL COOLER)
FWD: Approx. 3.35 L (3.5 US qt, 2.9 Imp qt)
4WD: Approx. 4.15 L (4.4 US qt, 3.7 Imp qt)

3. Mixing different brands of fluid with genuine fluid may cause ECVT malfunction.
4. If ATF is found to be contaminated during inspection, the problem may be inside the transmission. Immediately check the condition of the transmission. ATF must be red without stickness.

Fluid level gauge

ECVT Fluid Level Check:

^ The center fluid level varies with changes in fluid temperature. Note that if fluid is replenished to the HOT level mark without the engine being warmed up sufficiently, the fluid level will be higher than the specified level under normal operating conditions.
^ Pay particular attention to the fluid temperatue which greatly affects the fluid level. The level gauge is marked with "HOT" [60°C - 80°C (140° - 176°F)] and "COOL" [20°C - 40°C (68 - 104°F)].

DIFFERENTIAL

^ Check differential fluid by removing filler plug on the carrier left hand side. Fluid level should be no less than .20 inch below filler plug hole.
^ Add SAE 80W, 85W or 90 gear oil as necessary to bring fluid within limits.
^ Reinstall drain plug with gasket, and torque to 22 - 28 ft lb.