Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your Subaru running smoothly and efficiently. One essential aspect of vehicle maintenance is changing the transmission fluid.
Over time, transmission fluid can become dirty, contaminated, or deteriorated, which can lead to various issues and potentially costly repairs.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of Subaru transmission fluid change and provide a step-by-step guide on how to perform this task.
Contents
- 1 Why is Subaru Transmission Fluid Change Important?
- 2 Step-by-Step Guide Transmission Fluid Change
- 2.1 Step 1: Gather the Required Tools and Materials
- 2.2 Step 2: Locate the Transmission Drain Plug
- 2.3 Step 3: Safely Elevate the Vehicle
- 2.4 Step 4: Drain the Old Transmission Fluid
- 2.5 Step 5: Remove the Transmission Pan (if applicable)
- 2.6 Step 6: Replace the Transmission Filter (if applicable)
- 2.7 Step 7: Clean the Transmission Pan and Magnet
- 2.8 Step 8: Reinstall the Transmission Pan (if applicable)
- 2.9 Step 9: Refill with New Transmission Fluid
- 2.10 Step 10: Check the Fluid Level and Test Drive
- 3 Conclusion
- 4 FAQ
Why is Subaru Transmission Fluid Change Important?
Transmission fluid plays a vital role in the proper operation of your Subaru’s transmission system. It acts as a lubricant, cooling agent, and hydraulic fluid, ensuring smooth gear shifting, reducing friction, and preventing overheating.
However, as you drive your vehicle, the transmission fluid gradually accumulates contaminants, such as dirt, metal particles, and sludge. This buildup can impair the fluid’s performance and hinder the transmission system’s overall effectiveness.
Regularly changing the transmission fluid is essential to maintain optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your Subaru’s transmission. Neglecting this maintenance task can lead to numerous problems, including:
Poor Shifting Performance
Dirty or deteriorated transmission fluid can cause rough or delayed gear changes, leading to a less responsive and uncomfortable driving experience.
Regularly changing the transmission fluid ensures smooth gear shifts and enhances your driving comfort.
Increased Wear and Tear
Contaminants in the fluid can accelerate component wear and lead to premature transmission failure, resulting in costly repairs or even complete transmission replacement.
By changing the transmission fluid, you can minimize wear and tear on vital transmission components, saving you from expensive repairs.
Overheating
When transmission fluid becomes dirty, it loses its ability to effectively cool the transmission system. This can result in overheating, which can cause severe damage to internal components.
Regular transmission fluid changes help maintain the fluid’s cooling properties, preventing overheating and potential damage to the transmission.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Contaminated transmission fluid can increase friction within the system, causing decreased fuel efficiency and potentially higher fuel consumption.
By changing the transmission fluid, you can reduce friction, improve fuel efficiency, and save money on fuel costs in the long run.
Given these potential issues, it is crucial to include Subaru transmission fluid change as part of your regular maintenance routine.
Step-by-Step Guide Transmission Fluid Change
Performing a transmission fluid change on your Subaru can be done at home, provided you have the necessary tools and follow the proper procedure. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Gather the Required Tools and Materials
To change the transmission fluid in your Subaru, you will need the following items:
- Jack and jack stands: To safely elevate your vehicle.
- Drain pan: To collect the old fluid.
- Ratchet and socket set: To remove the drain plug and access the transmission pan.
- New transmission fluid: Ensure you use the correct type specified for your Subaru model.
- Replacement transmission filter (if applicable): Some Subaru models have a replaceable transmission filter that should be changed periodically.
- Transmission fluid funnel: To pour the new fluid into the transmission.
Step 2: Locate the Transmission Drain Plug
To access the transmission fluid, you need to locate the drain plug on the transmission pan. The transmission pan is usually located underneath the vehicle, towards the rear. Consult your owner’s manual or refer to online resources for the exact location of the drain plug.
Step 3: Safely Elevate the Vehicle
Using a jack and jack stands, elevate your Subaru to a comfortable working height. Ensure the vehicle is securely supported before proceeding further. Refer to your owner’s manual for proper lifting points and jack stand placement.
Step 4: Drain the Old Transmission Fluid
Place the drain pan underneath the transmission pan and carefully loosen the drain plug using a ratchet and socket. Allow the old fluid to drain completely into the pan. It may take several minutes for all the fluid to drain out.
Step 5: Remove the Transmission Pan (if applicable)
Some Subaru models have a removable transmission pan that allows access to the transmission filter. If your Subaru has a replaceable filter, remove the transmission pan carefully. Be prepared for some residual fluid to drain out once the pan is removed.
Step 6: Replace the Transmission Filter (if applicable)
If your Subaru has a replaceable transmission filter, remove the old filter and replace it with a new one. Ensure that the new filter is installed correctly and securely. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended replacement interval and filter type.
Step 7: Clean the Transmission Pan and Magnet
Clean the transmission pan, removing any residue or contaminants. Also, clean the magnet located inside the pan to remove any metal particles that may have accumulated. Use a suitable cleaning agent and a lint-free cloth or disposable wipes to clean the pan and magnet thoroughly.
Step 8: Reinstall the Transmission Pan (if applicable)
If you removed the transmission pan, reinstall it using a new gasket or sealant as recommended by the manufacturer. Ensure it is securely fastened but avoid overtightening the bolts. Refer to your owner’s manual for the proper torque specifications.
Step 9: Refill with New Transmission Fluid
Using a transmission fluid funnel, carefully pour the recommended amount of new transmission fluid into the transmission through the dipstick tube. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct fluid capacity and type. Avoid overfilling the transmission, as it can lead to foaming and other issues.
Step 10: Check the Fluid Level and Test Drive
After adding the new fluid, start your Subaru’s engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Then, with the engine running, check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick.
Ensure the fluid level is within the recommended range. If necessary, add more fluid and recheck. Be careful not to overfill the transmission.
Once you have verified the fluid level, take your Subaru for a short test drive to ensure proper shifting and overall performance.
Monitor the transmission for any unusual sounds, vibrations, or issues. If you notice any problems, consult a qualified mechanic for further inspection and assistance.
Conclusion
Performing regular transmission fluid changes is essential to keep your Subaru’s transmission functioning effectively and prolong its lifespan. By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can confidently perform this maintenance task yourself, saving time and money.
However, if you are uncertain or uncomfortable performing this procedure, it is always best to consult a qualified mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
With proper maintenance, your Subaru’s transmission will continue to provide smooth and reliable performance for years to come.
FAQ
1. Why is it important to change the transmission fluid in a Subaru?
Regularly changing the transmission fluid is important to maintain optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your Subaru’s transmission. Neglecting this maintenance task can lead to poor shifting performance, increased wear and tear, overheating, and reduced fuel efficiency.
2. What problems can occur if the transmission fluid is not changed?
If the transmission fluid is not changed, you may experience rough or delayed gear changes, premature transmission failure, overheating, and decreased fuel efficiency. These issues can lead to costly repairs or even complete transmission replacement.
3. Can I change the transmission fluid in my Subaru myself?
Yes, you can change the transmission fluid in your Subaru yourself if you have the necessary tools and follow the proper procedure. However, if you are uncertain or uncomfortable performing this procedure, it is best to consult a qualified mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
4. What tools and materials do I need to change the transmission fluid in my Subaru?
To change the transmission fluid in your Subaru, you will need jack and jack stands, a drain pan, a ratchet and socket set, new transmission fluid, a replacement transmission filter (if applicable), and a transmission fluid funnel.
