Is Subaru Self Sabotaging Their Vehicle's Reliability, To Show A Lower Cost Of Ownership?!

[@MrSubaru1387]

The maintenance guide I was referencing in the video can be found here - www.subaruoutback.org/threads/2020-warranty-and-maintenance-booklet.519332/

[@Goodward7]

I thought you had produced YOUR OWN spreadsheet with your suggested corrections.

[@MrSubaru1387]

@@Goodward7 oh no, but I can probably make one up.

[@Goodward7]

@@MrSubaru1387 Maybe just a simple list of the items that you would do differently. Nothing fancy.

[@Goodward7]

I sent you an email.

[@markpenco4677]

You made no mention of power steering fluid? Experience that the power steering fluid, if left unchanged, will shorten the life of the rack?!

[@markd_aus9809]

Fluids are cheap, radiators, engines, transmissions are not -simple. Love your work support from Australia!

[@peterlattimore6013]

Hahndorf, SA

[@marybarras2153]

Subaru dealership employee here - asked our genius Subaru tech about the CVT fluid change and quickly responded that he would definitely change the fluid every 30k. He also added that it was expensive but cheaper than a new transmission.

[@YummyBaer]

Really?? Lmao

[@throwaway692]

Can you use the high torque CVT fluid in something like a 2018 Forester Premium? Thanks. :)

[@jamesmedina2062]

maybe with their inflated flag hours, is the service expensive. CVT fluid is not expensive at all.

[@SergioDeLaPaz-td3sr]

I went to my shop, had my fluid done at 30k with Amsoil

[@terrymcnew9489]

Had mine changed about 2 mths ago, 200 bucks, ouch

[@Imjustacarguy]

Last year I asked my Subaru dealership to change the transmission fluid on my 2015 Subaru Forester. The person I spoke to said the transmission fluid was a “lifetime fluid”, but I told them to still change the transmission fluid anyway.

[@kyle-qw5yx]

I tried that and they said their policy is not to open them. So stupid.

[@chrisb9478]

I use & really like Hunter Subaru in Asheville, NC. They’ll change the CVT fluid no problem. I think they charge just under $300. I do it every 40k miles, I think this dealer recommends every 90k.

[@RoyalEmpressTree]

My dealership recommends frequent cvt fluid change. I love that place

[@fishguy911]

My dealership in Austin recommends CVT and diff service every 30K.

[@Subie-Driver]

There is no such thing as a lifetime fluid…period. They all break down. Take it elsewhere.

[@Yourmission9]

I’ve enjoyed your channel recently, bought an old subaru with 300k miles and that old girl is still handling business, and your expertise and guidance has been super helpful

[@johnny1771]

As a tech that has worked for many dealers, the one thing that customers need to understand, a part on a car only needs to last until the warranty expires. After that, it isn't the manufacturers problem. It's yours.

[@jordangouveia1863]

Techs like you is why I've done the service the on my cars myself, for the past 45 years.

[@tyree9055]

​@@jordangouveia1863I won't go as far as you did (in insulting him 😂), but I do my own automotive work, too. I've seen far too much incompetence in the automotive repair industry. 🤔

[@jimbrown7261]

@@jordangouveia1863 He doesn't sabotage the cars or the parts, he just tells it like it is. We need to stop eating meat and being wasteful and at the same time we need to keep throwing away our white goods and cars regularly. Yea...

[@Austin-cg7be]

@@jordangouveia1863He was trying to explain that once the vehicle is out of warranty if you have done extended factory intervals or no services at all according to some manufacturers when the warranty is up the company isnt going to help you. Im sure he can attest that he would rather be doing preventative maintenance on your car than major repairs.

[@timin770]

My step son drives me batty by sticking

[@bobl1769]

Good recommendations. Up here in Canada, just driving in the middle of our very cold winters classifies as severe duty: transmissions, differentials, shocks and all moving parts stiffen up; expansion and contraction increase wear; salt and condensation increase corrosion; and, we are repeatedly starting very cold direct injected engines. Like you said, maintenance is cheap in comparison to the cost of replacing major components. Thanks!

[@eulogiofuentes1940]

That’s what I normally do change my oil every 5000 miles , rotate my tires every 5,000 miles , change my belt at 50000 also my transmission fluid at 50,000 Flush my antifreeze at 25,000 , incidentally, I have a 2020 Subaru Forrester , i’ve done everything myself don’t trust dealers and thank you for the information, sir

[@bohdanked]

This is scary! This morning I was thinking about my CVTs in my Subarus. And thought to myself would be nice if MsSubaru made a video on his current take on CVT fluid changes and general maintenance. I was going to leave comments with this suggestion on his newer videos. And now I opened KZbin and boom, the video is already here. Thank you!!!

[@treborg777]

Virtually all vehicle manufacturers have gone to this policy of eliminating maintenance requirements. That's also why they're offering free maintenance for the first two years.

[@josephkelleher8820]

Bought my Altima car almost 13 years ago. Nissan offered the first 2 oil changes and tire rotations for free. Nothing more after that.

[@flippino35]

bought a 2024 crosstrek from pacific servco subaru and they dont give out any free oil changes. i already did one oil change at $175

[@benbrown9991]

I just bought a new Honda civic sport. They do first 2 years free. I loved subaru but the past 2 had problems. My 2015 Subaru Crosstrek transmission pump went out. The front axles had to be changed and had other transmission work done before. The Outback also had problems with front axles and I traded it. I wish I had better luck with them.

[@CombativeLlama]

@flippino35 if they’re charging you $175 for an oil change you’re getting ripped off. If there’s more to it then it might be worth the money, but oil alone for $175 is wild.

[@niuhuskieguy]

Honda/Acura still seems to have reasonable maintenance schedule calibration in their maintenance minder system, though the most disagreement I believe comes from the suggested oil change and transmission fluid change. I'm just over 5k for mileage and showing 30% remaining. I'll likely be taking it in within the next couple weeks.

[@butcher390]

I'm glad you've covered this very topic 🙏

[@richardsmith4187]

I have always believed in taking care of my car and it will take care of you. I've owned 3 Subaru's and my present 2020 Impreza is a great little car. Recently had a complete brake job with rotors resurfaced new pads and drained and flushed the brake fluid. I also had the dealer drain and flush the radiator and add new coolant. After your video I called my dealer and they advised the CVT fluid didn't need to be changed as per Subaru it was a lifetime fluid. So I made a service appointment and they are going to drain and refill the front and rear differentials ( $ 249.00 ) and drain the CVT fluid and refill ( $ 399.00 ) + tax ! I think it's a bit steep, but I don't want to cut corners and thought the same as you, fluid gets old and particles floating around in it is not good. I drive with peace of mind and will spend the money required to keep the car in top shape. Thank you for your GREAT video's and I wish you were in Florida as you would do all my service work. But I could drive to Carolina ...LOL

[@randykaczynski2632]

Where is his business located?

[@richardsmith4187]

@@randykaczynski2632 I think he is located in North Carolina

[@iliacmartinez2320]

Thank you for covering this issue. Dealer didn’t even want to check my CVT fluid at 37K on my 2022 Outback. 😡 not going back to the dealer for any services. I need a Mr. Subaru here in Chattanooga.

[@stonz42]

Good info. I have a 2015 outback 2.5 with 140k and have always changed my oil at 5k, except the first at 3k, and I have zero problems with oil consumption. Diff fluids done every 30k, plugs every 60k, brake fluid is checked and changed with new brakes every 50k or so. I also had the radiator flushed and CVT fluid serviced at 125k. CVT service definitely improved the overall smoothness of the transmission. The car still runs like new.

[@TosCrawford]

Great advice, now I need a PDF with that information so I don't forget it immediately.

[@thesparkster]

Manufacturer's Lifetime is just to get them past their longest extended mile warranty plan. Subaru's is 100K. They don't want you to open your transmission to service or change the fluid because they just want the owner to limp to the point where they can't change the fluid without possibly causing an issue. My dealer went from changing the transmission fluid (half drain and replace) for $120 in 2018 to now charging over $300. My daughter took her car to the dealer recently and they were telling her not to do a drain and replace and were giving her a hard time when she requested it, so she just left.

[@monkeymanstones1]

Every Subaru dealership has told me (and I knew it was BS because oils and fluids break down with heat and over time) the CVT trans in my 2011 and 2013 never needs to be changed. Good thing I watched your video doing so, yesterday. If I can find the part numbers for the gaskets and filters I'll be doing it myself.

[@AnhYeuEmMaiMai69]

I have 2 Subaru cars, used to have 3. My 2010 Outback has 195K on it it is a 3.6R that holds 7.5 quarts. It does NOT burn oil. I use Kirkland 5w30 synthetic, changing it every 7K. I change the trans oil every 30K miles I did my 2014 Legacy 2.5i CVT oil change at 60K on the trans

[@leedaero]

“You can pay me now or you can pay me later.”

[@mingyaowu7720]

Agreed on the cvt oil, front and rear differential. As a former technician at subaru. Back then at my country, the cvt oil supposed to replace at 50,000km intervals. The front and rear differential around 60,000km to replace. This customer he drag til 80,000km then come in servicing with the complaints of slight jerking of gearbox when shifting and slight whining sound from front and rear differentials. So go for the basics check the fluids. The fluids had dark colors. So, decided to replace the fluids for his car. He was very lucky all the slight whining sound and jerking gone after the replacement of the fluids. As for brake fluids I myself recommended to replace it for every 50,000 to 60,000km. If you drive your car aggressively(many hard braking). I recommend replacing it at every 45,000km.😊 These fluids you cannot save money or skip it. Skipping these will lend you very expensive bills or money pits in the future.😊

[@koishiikitty]

This completely bit me in the butt recently. It was hard to face how real what you're saying is after buying my 2013 cross treck as my second car. In 2019 I found a cross treck limited that only had 14000 miles. It was a 2013 model and an automatic. I decided to pay the premium price because of the low mileage. No one told me about the issues they had with the CVT solenoids/ head gaskets. IF I had KNOWN I would've chosen a different car.. Since then, I've moved to Hawaii and the car turned 89000 miles and the CVT has finally had issues. The head gasket, specifically the pressure solenoid. You can imagine my surprise when every mechanic I called said this is a known issue and that Subaru had made the parts wrong to begin with, which is why they fail between 80000 and a 100000 miles. I called Subaru of America and because the 10 years ran out last year they refused to help. So now I am stuck paying 2000 to fix a part that they made faulty to begin with and decided not to make it a recall issue..... just extend a warranty that in my case is useless. The more I'm learning about how hard it is to maintain some of these parts.... the more I'm really dissatisfied with the brand. You pay a lot of money and do regular maintenance only to pay to fix the problem the brand created? Yeah.... I'm thinking I'll buy a kei truck from Japan next because this left me feeling scammed as a customer. Some of us can't afford to buy new cars every $90,000 miles. It's kind of a shity move.

[@2bleubird]

I recently bought a Toyota Camry and the dealership said I didn’t need to change the oil until 10k/12 months. I ended up changing it at 3k/6 months. I plan on sticking to an oil change every 6 months.

[@adamlewellen5081]

I believe Chris Rock coved this topic almost 20 years ago. " Can Cadillac after 120 years make a car were the bumper don't fall off? Of course they can! But then thay can't sell you a new Cadillac!"

[@---ny4ys]

@@aswinhanagal4293 easy to improve when the cars are absolute garbage. cadillacs are about as reliable as a fart after tacobell

[@d47000]

​@@aswinhanagal4293I agree, I was actually caught off guard when I drove one for the first time. Pretty stylish ride.

[@TassieLorenzo]

@@aswinhanagal4293 But some parts that fail -- like say the ECU or HVAC actuator -- are not maintenance parts?

[@---ny4ys]

@aswinhanagal4293 I am a mechanic. And while that's true to an extent it's a vacuous statement. Of course a better maintained car will last longer than one without maintenance but your Cadillac with regular maintenance is not going to last 1 fifth the time of your standard run of the mill jap box.

[@---ny4ys]

@@aswinhanagal4293 have you ever noticed you don't really see aging caddilacs on the road? It's because they are junk. Northstar was a massive failure

[@swkohnle08]

I totally agree with you. Maintenance is key to the reliability of any car. While I no longer do the work myself, I do take both my wife's and my Subaru's to the dealer for service. Oil/tire rotation every 5K miles, air / cabin filters twice a year, coolant flush at 90K, CVT drain and fill at 60K front and real diffs every 15K, brake fluid flush at 12K. I have a good working relationship with our service manager and service advisors. I keep all my service records in a binder for each car. When we do trade our Subarus in for a new Subaru, I always bring to service binder with me at the time of trade-in. Not sure if it get's me a better trade-in value but we have a great relationship with our sales associate and they appreciate that we buy and service our cars at this dealership in CT and treat us well as repeat customers.

[@richardharker2775]

Oils ain't oils. In Australia the Subaru service/oil change is 15,000 kilometres (9,300 miles). I was told by the service technician because of tighter tolerances and smaller oil galleries the engine works best with 0-16 oil and the Subaru oil is good for that milage. Words are cheap without evidence so I changed the first at 1500 kilometres and the next at 7,000. I trust evidence based knowledge and "The motor Oil Geek" channel.

[@jimbojumbo-os1np]

Didnt know they were already pushing that thin oil in aus, In the temps we get here i already didnt like the idea of 0w-20 as it is. Ive ever bothered taking my car to the dealer and just do 7500km services with 5w30. No oil burning and the engine is much quieter and smoother than a friends XV using the thin crap.

[@TassieLorenzo]

"smaller oil galleries" That's always a nonsense argument IMO, how big do they think oil molecules are? Any oil goes through the equivalent of SAE 60, 50, 40, 30 etc as the engine is warming up anyway. Although engines designed to take 0W8 and 0W12 have a different bearing finish, that's why these oils have a different API logo on the bottle and are considered "not backwards compatible". 0W16 through 10W60 should all be backwards compatible though.

[@richardharker2775]

@@TassieLorenzo I heard the words that came out of his mouth but I don't think I would get an engineering document to verify his statement. Either way I'm leaving the services and recommendations to the private technician I've been using for years. When I showed him the service schedule he went silent and just slowly shook his head.

[@jamesmedina2062]

@@jimbojumbo-os1npI agree it will be quieter. If you jeep going it will even get nearly silent! But think too about thermal cooling via the oil. Its tradeoffs but I personally like a little thicker oil especially in gearbox. I could not even count on smooth gear exchanges in my Honda with the original thin oil. Gear mashes and ambiguity galore!

[@tbolt5883]

This sounds like a backdoor way to make more money. Extend the service period and then charge tons of money to fix things when the parts break due to lack of regular maintenance.

[@thedon9670]

exactly

[@tyler1673]

its a way for companies to reduce their environmental impact numbers per car and ignore how those cars are being thrown away sooner.

[@The_Cre8r]

I would love a downloadable PDF that I can stick in my owner's manual.

[@randykaczynski2632]

Me too!

[@hanglooserecluse]

Screenshot the the one Mr Subaru put on the screen , save it, add contrast so the words pop out and then print it or get it printed as a photo in any size you require

[@rudedog302]

So I take it that 60,000 miles on my front and rear differentials on my 2020 Forester is the interval. All they and you mentioned is the BRZ at 60K. I totally agree with your recommendations, I already purchased one of the pressure pumps that you used on you video on CVT fluid replacement. I have 4K to go before I have to replace it. I wish there was a way to drain the torque converter, so you don't have to waste so much fluid on the CVT service.

[@malikipolka1921]

60k is a great time to change ur dif fluids,brake fluid, coolant , spark plugs, and cvt fluid! Fluids should be changed every 30k or so better to be safe than sorry later ! Cv joints should also be inspected at 60k as well along with the drive belt more than likely they'll be alright but still should inspect it

[@M.R.1525]

Bless you, the up keep you have suggested in this video is totally correct, I have done all that you recommend except done so in Kilometers. My 2010 Forester (5 speed manual Touring) bought from a dealer brand new in Nov. 2009 runs better than a Swiss watch. Has never, ever broken down, and all these years I have not spent a red Cent on anything other than wear and tear material, brakes, tires, filters, all liquids, plugs and so. To this day it remains my daily driver for all seasons and purposes and with 700,000 Kilometers on the odometer, its nowhere near the end of its life. People who wish to have a hassle free and cost effective car ownership experience need to memorize 6 simple words; BE GENTEL, PREVENTETIVE MAINTENANCE, ENJOY IT. Thank you for the great info you provide, it is much appreciated.

[@wads_o_hair]

It would be even more helpful to address situations where the car is not driven very much. I know that the service miles/months recommendations are "whichever comes first," but obviously for some items the time interval is less important than the miles (e.g., tire rotation). Does CVT fluid degrade that much over time vs. miles? Is an air filter due for replacement if it has been in service for only 3000 miles? Another helpful thing you could include is providing cost estimates (dealer and/or professional mechanic) for major service like CVT fluid replacement or coolant replacement, things that many owners would prefer not to do themselves.

[@GlycerinZ]

I've owned my 2001 Legacy GT Limited 5-speed since 2006, my dad bought it new in 2002. I started driving it @ 25k miles, currently at 156k miles. Only have used synthetic oil in the car. basic rundown of the first time I replaced the following parts (not parts that have typical service intervals like tires, oil/oil filter, brake pads): 2014: Knock Sensor 2015: Timing components, thermostat 2015: Spark plugs, spark plug wireset, serpentine belts, front wheel bearings, valve cover gaskets 2015: Steering rack (even though I dont believe it needed to be, it was misdiagnosed) 2020: Starter 2021: Head gaskets, Radiator, (crank pulley, timing sprocket, woodruff key since the guy who did my timing didnt tighten down the crank pulley enough and it being loose cracked the woodruff key and ruined the valleys in the crank pulley as well as the timing sprocket) 2022: Brake rotors, battery terminals 2023: Struts/shocks, front CV axles, Ball joints, Tie rod ends, Sway bar links front/rear, Power steering pump (and hoses because why not) Parts still original and working: Window motors, all 4 A/C compressor Alternator CV axles, rear Ignition coils Fuel pump Fuel injectors Cam and Crank sensors, Oil level sensor, Fuel level sensor Both radiator hoses Clutch was replaced under some recall in 2004 and still in use, although I know its headed towards end-of-life Overall this car has been so good to me. I was only 20 years old when my father gave me this car, and I have been through a lot with it!!Never left me stranded. The starter actually took a dive on me when I was an hour from home, but I was able to knock it with a pole and get the car started. The moonroof motor is pretty well shot, so i dont bother trying to open it. The HVAC controls for where to direct air stopped working, looking into that. But at least the heat and AC still work.

[@Th3Think3r]

Thanks for a recap of your maintenance recommendations. I appreciate it. It confirms much of what my already planned intervals were based on previous videos of yours and others. Much like how vehicle footprints keep growing so they can 1-up the competition with cargo space, legroom, etc. every brand is trying to outdo the others by stretching maintenance intervals and making others inspection only. In other words, they are happy to tell you when inspection finds out damage has already been done. When I brought my 22 Forester in for the first of 2 complimentary oil changes the first question I asked the Advisor was what interval they recommended for the CVT fluid change and they told me it was a lifetime fluid but they recommend service after 100k. It must be a coincidence the dealership new vehicle complimentary drivetrain extended warranty is 8yr/100k. 😆

[@NashRambler172.6]

You are the Subaru ambassador! I have 4 Subarus currently and I do all the maintenance Otherwise these vehicles won't last..

[@moonshadowdrifting]

I guess it comes down to the biggest target market. Us DIY people who are happy with a 20 year old car (or have to do make do with), are not very profitable. My Forester will outlast me!

[@dust_gale3108]

No it will not . The engine possibly if you do oil changes perfectly on time and do oil clean Transmission breaks down over time . Never lasts more than an engine under normal conditions

[@bradybernhart670]

I wouldn't trust a dralership as far as I can throw them to do cvt oil. They can't keep actual mechanics.

[@jamesmedina2062]

dealerships are petri dishes of what happens when greed goes wild

[@markfisher1716]

Great video Robert! You definitely hit the nail on the head with this one.

[@Tony-59-films]

I agree with your recommendations my friend. I follow your videos and your recommendations on the videos.. I did my CVT transmission fluid change from your videos and timing belts & brakes. Thank you .

[@jstephens2758]

My Legacy is now 6 years old but I drove it a lot less than expected because I now work at home and travel much less on business. At 5 years, I asked the dealer to change the brake fluid because it was due by time. They responded that it was not needed until the mileage limit was reached and I was only at half of that. I gave in, but this year, even though I was still well below the mileage, I insisted it be changed. It is a lot less expensive to change fluid than it is to replace major components of the brake system or pay for accidents caused by faulty brakes.

[@Flashman36175]

I hope they checked your brake fluid for water contamination. I have had fleet cars not brake properly due to that. The worst was my Honda Odyssey minivan, after not using it for a month or so it braked so poorly I drove it straight to a local garage, and lucky it barely stopped 😀. So now after 3 times warned (or more) I now check my own vehicles brake water content. If I was still given fleet cars, I would check them if using them for a long trip or assigned for a more then a couple of days. The testers are cheap on Amazon or such.

[@kiwikidusa]

Same here with regards to CVT fluid change, the 'dealer' said it was lifetime and would not replace it. So thanks to Mr Subaru I acquired all the tools to replace the front diff, CVT and rear diff fluids myself every 30,000 miles for my wife's 2012 Impreza. We aim to get at least 250,000 miles out of it. My 2005 Forester (manual) has 230,000 miles on the original engine; I'm going for 300,000 before I'll consider rebuilding or replacing the short block as I'm still getting 28 mpg with mixed driving. There's no way I'm paying $37,000 for a new one that has at least $10,000 of crap I don't want and would never use and now have $1,200 windscreen replacements!!!

[@chuckg6039]

My new Toro push mower said in the manual that you dont need to ever change the oil. Just top it off as needed. I couldnt believe what i read!

[@MrSubaru1387]

I’ve seen this. Lot of mower and pressure washers are saying this. Disposable.

[@chuckg6039]

@@MrSubaru1387 I'm still going to change the oil in my mower. It's simple and cheap.

[@tyree9055]

My brand new push mower is already burning oil on startup and it has no drain plug either! 🤯

[@chuckg6039]

@@tyree9055 I just tip the mower to drain the oil.

[@Flashman36175]

Change the oil. Most 4 cycle Lawn Mowers needs the "splash" to lubricate. Oil additives which controls foaming (and the splash) will go bad in about 3 years, depending on conditions. So if you plan on keeping the mower for 5 or more years, please change the oil at least once a year. With the price of new parts such as wheels you may not want to run it for a decade though. A lawnmower use to be a once or twice in a lifetime purchase. I still have my birth lawnmower it can apply for Social Security if it was a human; only thing it does not mulch or bag and I am to old and lazy to rack now.

[@michaelryan226]

I think your recommendations are spot on...!!!

[@sezwo5774]

Severe service differential fluid and auto transmission fluid have always been 15k miles, ...since the beginings of Subaru (or at least1990s) It makes for a high maintenance vehicle but those who drive them hard, for example in mountainous terrain appreciate the reliability and don't mind the added regimen and cost. Subaru differentials if properly maintained can last forever no matter what load is put on them, high speed driving in mountains is NO PROBLEM. I live in the Sierras and drive my Impreaza very fast, and always accelerating uphill (to avoid speeding tickets), but frequent fluid/oil changes are a must.

[@cigarsgunsanddiesel8032]

I told my dealership when I bought my Legacy... if this transmission craps out before 100k I'll NEVER buy another Subaru... simple as that SOA!

[@michaelmartin2276]

Fluids HAVE to be replaced at regular intervals. That is if you want to actually save money from major repair bills. I love my Subaru vehiclesand I also believe most vehicles will last with proper maintenance and responsable driving.

[@taelee347]

Changed CVT fluid for my wife's 2014 Forester XT at 30K and 60K miles, just like I was doing on my 2006 STI every 30K miles. Coming up on 90K miles and no issues so far w/ CVT (knock on wood). Since our Forester is now 10 years old, the extended Subaru warranty for CVT doesn't apply anymore, so we will do what we can. I have a friend who has 2017 FXT with just over 60K miles and I believe he never changed fluid, and he mentioned he experienced CVT slipping w/ high load up in the mountain.

[@kidwelldavid6136]

To me the make or model of a vehicle does not matter, the service is what matters. I feel your spot on with this video. Thanks.

[@buttsexandbananapeels]

Hyundai begs to differ.

[@PCProphecy]

Don't trust Subaru Dealership. Their pre-owned vehicles are sold with worn-out parts. Their service mechanics WILL make false claims on what parts need replacements. Personally, I went in with a voltage code and was quoted at $2,200 to fix, I decided to receive a second opinion, and the private mechanic said, "Just replace your battery, and everything should workout" he didn't even charge me (the voltage code was cleared after the battery replacement).

[@PeatyR]

I'm pretty much in alignment with you on everything, especially the CVT fluid and Manual gearbox fluid. One thing I like to do, and I always get push back on this, I like to change the front Oxygen sensor (s) at 90 - 100K miles. More often than not it helps restore a few MPGs', sometimes there is a dramatic increase. I feel they start to go bad so slowly it's hard to notice you drop in MPG's. Also, the longer you wait the more difficult it is to remove it. I just did a friends 2006 Forester's front sensor due it causing a CEL. I had 247K miles and it was a bugger to remove. Did you mention the PCV valve I can't remember now but I do that and the hose going to it since that almost always cracks when you inspect the valve.

[@MrSubaru1387]

I can agree with an oxygen sensor being a maintenance item.

[@redlywaxer]

I absolutely agree with your recommendations as I tend to keep cars well past 200,000 miles. Here in the south I never use oil thinner than 5W-30 after warranty, nor do I use anything but high quality synthetic oil. I still have excellent fuel economy even though not using 0W-20 oils.

[@dust_gale3108]

Yeah yeah. Write a comment when your rings will gunk up with that fat oil and you'll have scores on the cyl walls. 😂😂😂

[@cbijames7]

Hey so I got some good news Subaru of America sent me the written letter on that TCV showing my vehicle would be covered for 15 years. I don't know if you sharing this helps but when I called they told me it was covered and sent me a letter . So thank you for keeping us in the loop with factory information. Your the best. Wish I lived closer to you I would have you as my personal Subaru mechanic.

[@acquasea]

Just had my oil changed for my '17 Outback and was told the brake fluid needed to be changed. Checked with the shop that did my last brake job and was told by the owner (in biz for 45 years) that brake fluid never needs to be changed and other mechanics are just creating work for themselves. Very confusing but great to hear your confirmation about brake fluid needing to be changed.

[@therupe1758]

Reliability over everything else. I’ve never bought a Subaru because it was pretty (I don’t think anyone buys them for their looks), luxurious, or efficient.

[@davidbauer7424]

Have you seen a WRX sti or a BRZ pretty darn good looken Subaru's right there..

[@gailhopkins4950]

beauty is in the eye of the beholder , I love everything about my SUBARU !

[@WendellSnyder]

30 years as a fleet mechanic for a large utility, I saw first hand how the lack of proper PM’ or preventative maintenance, caused more larger repairs down the road. The shops that were religious about it, had fewer major failures as the vehicles started racking up mileage. 5R110’s/4R100 as well as 6.8 V10’s, rear diffs and t-cases were dropping like flies in the shops that were sloppy with their PM’s. My policy was to drop ALL the fluids at first PM (6,000 miles). Then oil/filter @ 6k (company policy) trans and t-case service every 30k, diffs, brake fluid, p/s and coolant at 60k. Still had failures as units hit 150-200k, but manageable. I had a bit of autonomy that allowed me to make those decisions at the shop level. PM work aka “spinning filters” kinda boring and not very glamorous, but kept the fleet running!

[@timbrown9731]

For years, I’ve always followed the severe category that manufacturers recommend…… like for the coolant on my 3.6R I did it in six years 70,000 miles and I’ve been continuing to do that more often than normal. I’ll just drain the radiator when the engine cold and fill it and then do it again in the summertime…. I remember when I first bought my 13 Legacy dealer kept telling me my transmission is lifetime fluid… (5EAT) lol and the transmission is ……. sealed. They’ll all have vents on them if I’m correct….lol so Ive doing transmission service about every 30k. I just recently bought a ISF with 60,000 miles on it, not knowing how the past owners and not having any service history on the transmission. I only changed that fluid halfway in other words I just did one interval because I was worried about losing all the friction material, I was thinking of doing a couple fluid changes, but I have this crazy theory that clutch packs have a memory and if you change the fluid on say 30,000 miles can continue to do it more often, you sort of wanna leave some of that older fluid in there for the clutches….

[@carlrasmussen3267]

My greatest worry has been the fuel filter. Happy that you recommend not touching it. ‘16 2.5 Legacy Limited 160000 miles.

[@Moment2Forever]

Subaru could give out gold coins with all oem part purchases to offset the mopar-esque part cost. Just a thought.

[@jakeashba4528]

Every single manufacturer is and has been headed in this direction for years. It started with 0W20 oils, low tension piston rings, longer maintenance intervals, and “lifetime” transmission and driveline fluids. It’s only getting worse. It seems EPA ratings are the only thing that matters to most modern manufacturers.

[@CarsSimplified]

When I was on a vacation visiting family in Florida, I was able to drop off my 2018 Crosstrek for days if need be, and the dealer definitely resisted changing the CVT fluid quite a bit. That was at maybe 70K miles, and now I'm at 110K, still on the factory fill. It seems to be fine, but I really want to change it soon.

[@josephkelleher8820]

I take my 12' Altima to my independent service shop for CVT fluid replacement every 2 years. NS2 fluid for my car. My car has the original CVT now in its 13th year on the road.

[@andy.4790]

I just bought a 2024 Impreza base trim. Thanks for this video and I'll put a note on my calendar about the CVT fluid replacement.

[@toddb930]

Hadn't thought about this angle but you have a good point.

[@MichaelSuperbacker]

More reliable vehicle!!!

[@jacobrector7879]

Idk why its crazy to see you here but it made me smile lol

[@alihakimpour1015]

your absolutely right, I myself am going to change my spark plugs on my 2015 forester they haven't been done since I bought in 2018 and its already over 60,000 . Let's see how good these NGK ruthiums are.

[@John-js9je]

I highly applaud you for the honest assessment of Subaru of America’s recommended service intervals. Perhaps the takeaway is not so much the *exact* interval which is followed, but rather that there should be *some* *regular* and *reasonable* interval *before* the recommended service interval is reached.

[@StevenWatson-nf7hw]

My 2019 FB25D forester workshop manual shows total engine oil (build) capacity is 5L, but a service with filter is 4.2L. So another factor for us boxer-heads to be aware of, especially when using additives like flushes. Here in Aus oil changes are 12,500kms 12 mths, but ill drop it back to 10k now is out of warranty and servicing myself. Do lots of hwy driving too. Doing a drain & refill on the CVT with each diff service, if its looking especially tasty ill repeat. Thanks to Rock Auto for the international postage on the SB2 fluid! and @MrSubaru1387 on all the know-how!

[@treborg777]

Do a used oil analysis (UOA) to see what's happened to the used oil. That will tell you if the oil gets worn out by 6K miles, and it will tell you what's being worn out inside the engine.

[@ericripley9739]

Do where do you get this analysis done and what is the cost

[@davidbauer7424]

My wife has a first gen forester with 400+ kms on it i picked it up a year ago for $1000 Canuck bucks.. i did pull the engine to do a reseal not because the head gaskets were leaking but to take care of some small oil leaks. But i did head gaskets anyway. This vehicle runs great and the wife loves her subbie

[@josephkelleher8820]

I have my engine oil and filter changed every 4,000 miles or 4 months whichever comes first. I have my engine coolant drained and replaced every 4 years with the Nissan blue fluid. I change the CVT transmission fluid every 2 years. My brake fluid is changed ever 3 years. Power steering fluid every 5 years. Spark plugs every 100,000 miles.

[@charlie3851]

I agree with your recommendations, I have been having my oil changed every 5000 miles on my 21 Forester, the dealer agrees on this and this dealer claims they use the Genuine Subaru oil whereas many others tell you right out that they use other brands.

[@goodkarmechanic]

Great video, as a retired mechanic I agree with you that fluids need to be changed. It saddens me that Subaru is going the same way as BMW claiming lifetime fluids. We all know how that turned out for BMW owners... Such BS.

[@The333Wanderer]

Outstanding video. I’m on my 3rd Forester, a 2021. Other than the crap TCM, I have all maintenance done for my car. It’s always ready to go.

[@Aashishkebab]

I had lifetime CVT fluid in my 2012 Outback. It indeed lasted the lifetime of the transmission, which was about 80,000 miles.

[@Marco-qe5zw]

if you did regular cvt oil changes it probably would have lasted 280000 miles

[@Coptergirljs]

I think you are right on the money. Why gamble; it's cheaper than replacing parts! When it comes to aircraft everything is done on time, period. That is why I always felt perfectly safe in the Helicopter.

[@jeffer1101]

From what I have found, consider the "Severe Driving Conditions" to be normal driving conditions for most people. We don't live and drive in a lab, so the vehicle is going to be subjected to extreme heat in the summer, subzero freezing temps in the winter and plenty of stop and go when we're stuck in traffic in the city. Unfortunately, this is what happens when the Marketing Department gives recommendations and they get in the way of reality.

[@oms2874]

I agree with your recommendations. Having owned Ford's, GMC's, Toyota, and now 3 Subaru's, I can't believe what I've read in the subaru owner's manual to " inspect " rather than service and replace at specified intervals. Yes, everything breaks down at some point, so why would you not carry out some kind of preventative maintenance to avoid that possibility?

[@jparker1823]

I pretty much agree with all your recommendations on mileage/interval. Only one I would probably do a little sooner is the rear diff. That fluid is always worse than the front. Rear is ready to come out around 25k, front can stay in until 40k no problems. I change those fluids every 3 yrs unless the mileage comes sooner.

[@kennethstevens1107]

Thanks for your instructional videos and narrative guidance. You are spot on with your recommendations. Would love to see more discussions and videos on Subaru maintenance for the DYI

[@jschodron6741]

I do the majority of the service myself as I was previously an ASE certified technician. With that said I still change my oil every 3000 miles on all my vehicles and often have sold them with over 200,000 miles with no noise or serious issues. Regular maintenance is what makes cars last. One car I sold, I ran into the purchaser and he said he had 400,000 on it and it was still going strong! Do regular service if you want them to last.

[@JoseCalderon-mp7dj]

Yes Sr. Totally agree with this basic maintenance point that you suggested thanks to remind us

[@erkkiamerikka]

It's, in my opinion, a result of the marketing departments having too much clout. In Japan they remain with the sensible intervals, here in the USA the order of the day is to make it look good on paper, and give the customer warm fuzzies that they don't need to do things and it's not necessary. I just got a new 24 Outback Limited, plan to drive it forever. Maybe every 3 years I'm driving to North Carolina for CVT service, lol. I agree with you on everything in this video.

[@oldfortyfive-tt1ir]

Every other oil change I use vacuum pump and change out the brake fluid in the reservoir. Started doing that on my old Toyota with a hydraulic clutch. Pretty much eliminated brake caliper, antilock system and wheel cylinder issues.

[@Ir0017]

Cant make this up. Wifes 2016 subaru crosstrek has oil in the coolant, noticed at exactly 100k miles. F.N.A. our first and last Subaru.

[@jasonriney481]

I do almost all my own maintenance/repair on my cars and I remember a week or two after buying my 2013 OB, I inspected the engine bay and transmission only to discover the absence of a dip stick to check CVT fluid and no drain plug and immediately thought it was absurd and stupid!! I bought my Outback with approx. 30,000 miles on it, so I wanted to plan to change the CVT fluid as the dealership showed they only inspected it. Upon reading the maintenance chart I discovered the crazy lifetime fluid note and confirmed this with the dealership. I've been turned down by the dealership several times when asked if they would suggest replacing CVT fluid over the years. My Outback currently has approx 136,000 miles and has NEVER had the CVT fluid changed and still runs great overall. I've been considering having the CVT fluid replaced, but I've heard that sometimes it may be better to not change it after not changing for such a long time with normal geared AT systems. Is that true, and if so would that apply to CVT systems? Can the CVT fluid change be DYI? Also do you have a video about signs/sounds that a CVT/torque converter may be going bad? I've always heard the CVT chain rattle off and on since I've had the car. I've listened to other Outbacks when they drive next to me and heard the same chain rattle, so I figured it was normal. Sometimes I notice the CVT rattles more times than others, esp when the outside humidity is extremely low (not sure how that's possible but I do notice it), or a lot of uphill stop and go traffic. I love your channel, thanks for all the great info!! BTW I'm about to buy that HUB Shocker to replace one of my rear wheel bearings, can't wait to try it!!

[@appalachianpatriot1796]

I have very much appreciated your channel for some time and you have helped me tons. However, I no longer have a Subaru because of this issue. Control arm bushing turned solid after only two years, ac compressor exploded, strange noise in front end, and the tons of BS advice from Subaru service advisors (except one in Kingsport Tn) including pricing a timing belt service for my ‘18 forester, seriously. 😮 In the Toyota world again and now I’m buying all kinds of fluids. 😅

[@PapaE001]

Current Forester is a 2014 with 114500 miles on it. Had the dealership change the CVT fluid at 50k( and they rolled their eyes at me too). And changed it again at 105k. My wife drove the car in town for the first 85000 miles, so I changed the oil every 5k-6k. Now I drive it to work which is about 27 miles each way. I’ve been changing the oil now every 8k-8.5k. I believe the type of driving you do should determine your change interval. My last vehicle had 265k on it and I only changed the oil once a year with 11k-12k miles on it. Still was only burning a quart of oil every 4500 miles when I sold it.

[@gboy2513]

Thank you for finally providing a Subaru Technicians Recommended Service Interval for longevity!

[@sebastianmoise8728]

I own for 34yrs Subies...and I have now Outback and Impreza....LOVE both❤❤❤...but Chinese will suffocate all..and if Subaru plays infantile especially with maintenance, they will be out of the business.

[@trep53]

Since my wife is the primary driver of our 2015 Forrester I follow the “severe duty” recommended intervals! She drives it like she stole it. Fortunately it is running just fine. Also has lower mileage at 74000 miles so I change oil at 6 months including a full inspect regardless of the mileage. In my lifetime the first cars I drove where ‘60s cars with 80k miles and on there last leg. Now cars last much longer and worth spending the money on good service.

[@andremcintosh]

I agree with you. I love my Subaru and will maintain it so it can serve for years

[@lovestihlquality1369]

For those of us rely on dealer service, adding some of the Mr. Subaru recommendations each time service i.e. coolant one time, spark plugs another serpentine belt. Of course keeping all records vital

[@ikariku]

Last week on my local Subaru parts shop I heard a customer quoting a replacement shock absorber for his 2019 Subaru Impreza. I can't believe what I heard so I ask the seller about that and he said me it was $500 for a normal one and in the case of some Forester equipped with auto leveling shocks was a thousand a piece. Wtf...

[@buttsexandbananapeels]

Complicated systems are expensive to repair. That's how it goes.

[@RobertWorthington]

100% agree on your service schedules. Also, i let the car warm up, too in winter. 😂 my vehicles just seem to "randomly" last longer than other comparable vehicles.

[@Rich-xq3uv]

@@slalomking Greta, is that you?

[@RobertWorthington]

@@slalomking ill be sure to do a little extra idling for you this week!

[@truckercowboyed2638]

Oh shut up, starting off in a cold car is actually more polluting as the engine isn't up to efficient temperature yet....​ Go hug a tree @@slalomking

[@richroj]

that was great Mr. Subaru, I am going to take your advice 👍

[@BrominatedVegetableOil]

Its meant to do exactly what you said, create a false cost of ownership. Also will help kove vehicles as they breakdown just on the otherwise of the warranty.

[@Mike525F]

Awesome video! Advice to live by no matter what brand car you drive

[@CombativeLlama]

Had the transmission fluid issue with my Camry. Dealer said it’s lifetime so they don’t recommend it. I told them their techs know how to do it and they have the fluid plus I’m offering to pay for it. Had it done no problem. Looking to change it myself in the next 10k miles since I’ve looked up the service manual on how to do it and watched plenty of videos I’m pretty confident I can do it. Subaru recommends changing the trans oil on their manual transmissions, why anyone believes it wouldn’t need to be done on a CVT is beyond me. But I think most people just do what their dealer tells them and they move on. Most people also trade in their cars at regular intervals or lease their cars so they’re often not up on what the best way to maintain longevity is. Just need to make it run to the trade in and it’s no longer your problem.

[@billderas3420]

This brings up a point with my two turbo-charged Subarus (2016 Forester XT and 2017 WRX). Both vehicles have always been serviced at my local Subaru dealership. During the initial years of ownership, both vehicles were serviced at 6K miles/6 months (whichever comes first). The dealership always placed a "Service Again" sticker on their windshields following this schedule. Upon the start of COVID, I found that both vehicles were initially getting stickers indicating "5K miles/5 months" and later "4K miles/4 months". Upon questioning the service department about this level of service, the first response was that turbo-powered vehicles needed synthetic oil changes more often. I replied that these were vehicles owned by retirees that were: 1) garaged 90% of the time; 2) not exposed to severe weather conditions; and, 3) each averaged only 7-10K miles per year. They agreed that we are not the norm and went back to a 6K miles/6 month service schedule. Have to say that they waaaaaaaay over-serviced both vehicles for a few years. Having been a fleet manager for much of my career, I should have paid more attention to their servicing.

[@iakpwnzjoolol]

better overserviced than underserviced... especially for turbo subarus

[@adventure950]

As an retired aircraft tech preventative maintenance was the only way we taught replace it before it needs replaced simple, bit late when your up in the clouds - I have applied the same theory to cars and motor bikes all my life. I now have my first Subaru I love the car it’s an outback with 66000 miles on now with full one owner and one dealer Subaru service history uk spec, it’s had oil changes at main dealer from new at 7000 miles but Subaru state 9000 or 12 month, so that’s seems quite different to USA but your latest video is the Subaru service spec that we have had for years. Trying to get the (actual jobs done ) rather than standard service history that states serviced in accordance with Subaru schedule is almost impossible, I’ve arranged a cvt oil change including the mesh strainer and magnets cleaned in the sump, (this is what Subaru UK say if your doing a change) albeit they state it’s a lifetime fluid - madness ! except for certain conditions ( Driving on salted roads, driving near coast, towing a caravan or trailer etc) it’s insane. Glad you have recommended your take on things, I will be following your guidelines it just makes sense.

[@waltherp9978]

A downloadable pdf to print of your recommendation would be great if there's a way you could put that together

[@patrickdubois7997]

i'm in canada and own a 2023 Forester wilderness with 47k miles in 1.5 years 80% freeway mileage. 20% off road and really dusty road and heavy winter condition. I plan to change CVT fluid in the next interval (50k miles) because severe duty and i have many issue with CVT with my last FXT 2014. In my case i'm totally good with oil change interval to 6k miles because the car is always hot on long drive every day almost 6k miles in 3-3,5 month approx.

[@Macabre215]

Is there a chance you have the maintenance schedule YOU recommend all written out? I think it would be great to get a version of this schedule with your annotations.