ENEOS Import CVT Fluid Model S by 2019 Subaru Crosstrek in garage

Subaru CVT Fluid Change: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

If you own a Subaru—whether it’s a Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, or Impreza—chances are it’s equipped with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). While CVTs offer smooth acceleration and improved fuel economy, they require special care to stay in top shape. One of the most important maintenance tasks? A regular Subaru CVT Fluid change.

Recently, at Sonoma Raceway, professional driver and ENEOS ambassador Faruk Kugay tackled a CVT fluid change on a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek with over 130,000 miles. Here’s what we learned—and why this should be on your maintenance radar.

Why Change Your Subaru CVT Fluid?

Over time, Subaru CVT Fluid degrades from heat and friction, losing its ability to protect your transmission’s internal components. Delaying a fluid change can lead to costly damage.

Common Signs You Need a CVT Fluid Change:

      • Delayed or jerky acceleration
      • Whining or buzzing noises
      • Vibrations or shuddering
      • Dark, burnt-smelling transmission fluid

Subaru’s factory recommendation for CVT fluid service varies by model, but many owners opt for changes every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. In this case, the Crosstrek hadn’t had a fluid change in over 30,000 miles—so it was definitely due.

Choosing the Right CVT Fluid

Not all transmission fluids are created equal. Subaru CVTs require a specific formulation to perform properly.

For this fluid change, Faruk used ENEOS Import CVTF Model S—a fluid specially engineered for Subaru vehicles. It offers:

      • Exceptional wear protection
      • Smooth, efficient operation of the CVT belt system
      • Full compatibility with Subaru transmission specs

⚠️ Important: Never use standard automatic transmission fluid in a Subaru CVT. It can cause serious damage.

How to Perform a Subaru CVT Fluid Change

This simplified version of the process shows what a proper CVT fluid change looks like:

Step-by-Step:

  1. Start with the fill plug
     – Confirm you can refill before draining.

  2. Drain old fluid
     – About 4.5 quarts came out in this case.

  3. Replace the drain plug
     – Use a new crush washer and torque it to spec (22.9 ft-lbs).

  4. Initial fill
     – Add new Subaru CVT Fluid (around 3.5 quarts) until it starts to drip from the fill hole.

  5. Warm up the transmission
     – Let the engine idle until the CVT reaches 95–113°F (35–45°C).

  6. Shift through all gears
     – Cycle from Park → Reverse → Neutral → Drive → and back to Park to circulate fluid.

  7. Final top-off
     – Add fluid until it drips again with the engine running.

  8. Tighten the fill plug
     – Torque to 36.9 ft-lbs to seal it.

The Bottom Line

Routine maintenance—especially a Subaru CVT Fluid change—is key to getting the most out of your vehicle. With proper care and the right fluid, like ENEOS Import CVTF Model S, your Subaru can easily surpass 200,000 miles of smooth, reliable driving.

As more vehicles age past the 100,000-mile mark, taking care of the little things (like transmission fluid) makes a big difference.

Want to Learn More?

Check out ENEOS Import CVTF Model S or talk to your local Subaru specialist to find the right maintenance schedule for your car.

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