Project 2014 Forester: Replacing The Old CVTF (Full Service), Clearing Adaptives, & Learn Process!

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[@JoeyShip]

You’re such a great resource for the Subaru community. Thank you for these well made and thorough videos!

[@MrSubaru1387]

You’re welcome!

[@soundknight]

That was really great: I have an idea for another episode - how to use the computer to turn off features like stop start tech and begin start up in ‘S’ mode

[@MarkMyshatyn]

These videos along with the impressive commonality between Subaru models are incredible for those of us that do our own maintenance. Between the weekend subscriptions to Subaru's TIS website and this kind of content, I haven't had to take my crosstrek to any dealer since 2018! Thank you!

[@MrSubaru1387]

You’re welcome!

[@chrisb9478]

We’ve had 5 Subarus with the CVT. No problems at all. I’ve always taken them to the dealer for CVT fluid change every 40k miles though too. Subaru Athens didn’t want to, but Hunter Subaru swears by it & does it now for less than $200.

[@cabuco2006]

yep just take care of it and it will last.

[@mdonola]

Thank you again Mr Subaru! I don't miss one of your videos, thank you very much for your excellent contribution 🙌🏻👏🏻

[@johnreese3762]

Lots of miles on that car! Great video, thanks!!

[@MrPoppyDuck]

Thank you again Mr Subaru! I need to look at that fill tool that you use. Sure beats trying to use funnels for difficult fluid fill jobs.

[@rockinrob2004]

Awesome 2 in a row! You know Subaru's better than SOA as they don't even recognize changing the fluid until 90+ it has to be planned obsolescence to make you trade up or possible issues. JMO Thanks for ALL you do & the education you gave us ALL! Much respect

[@MrSubaru1387]

They want that “low cost of ownership” to show buyers. Never mind the high cost of repair after not performing preventative maintenance!

[@joeymartin8722]

The sales guy told us that the fluid didn’t need to be changed at all and the owner’s manual reflected that statement. I had my wife take it in over the summer to get it done anyway at 100K. She does no hard driving so hopefully it’s all good.

[@DBrisky37]

​@@MrSubaru1387after have my local dealer tell me it doesn't need to be changed I found your videos. It was the first time I heard a "lifetime" fluid and something didn't seem right. Did it myself with your help. Thank you!

[@zakedwards6128]

​@joeymartin8722 and then I believe Subaru Japan recommends every 36k. It's so odd

[@MrSubaru1387]

@@zakedwards6128 I go by every 3yr/36k miles drain and refill.

[@FlowJunkee65]

That was an awesome information session and demonstration, MrSubaru1387. Thank you for this and all your other informative and helpful videos.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Thank You!

[@samuelkrinninger3060]

One thing I've learned with these fill plugs for the transmission and both the differentials is using the new grip edge hex sockets. Using them, I have yet to worry about stripping the bolt out compared to using the standard style hex bolts. Comes in handy too when techs who worked on them previously tighten the ever living daylights out of them or strip them partially

[@bullnukeoldman3794]

I saw you use that Mityvac a couple of videos ago and...I got myself one. Great tool, good for a lot of things!

[@zakedwards6128]

LOL I bought so many tools because of Mr. Subaru

[@michaelweatherhead9470]

Thanks for the update Robert great job as always ❤❤❤it. Take care of yourself and family and Girlfriend and be Blessed ❤️❤️👍.

[@royportalise5269]

Nice work, thank you for great content!

[@FooTech1976]

Dude you’re awesome! Ty for another amazing video!🎉

[@cgeatches]

If I could afford it I’d buy you a lift! I’m 71 with 3 Outbacks I do most of my own service so not really up for scurrying around on the ground. Really like your videos, thanks!

[@michaelbrennan7148]

Thank you. Much appreciated.

[@klenk1am]

I have a Forester with 170,000 miles, don't know the service history but it's pretty clean. So glad I found your videos so I can start going through things. Let's get mine to 223,000 too!

[@piezoman79]

I was surprised when I called around locally trying to find even an independent Subaru specialty shop willing to do a cvt service on our 14 forester, and they all refused, saying that they’re ‘lifetime.’ This was within the last year. We finally decided to sell the forester earlier this year and bought a newer outback. Hopefully the official word from soa changes in the near future so I can get the transmission serviced within the extended service period. I’m not comfortable not having fluids changed *ever* but also not thrilled about possibly doing it myself.

[@George-sp9vu]

I have 60k miles on a Outback in Ireland,have asked 4 main dealers about the possibility of changing CVT fluid.None of them want to do it,I am a little nervous of doing it myself as it's our only vehicle.Thanks for great videos

[@retzrets]

Do it! It's actually easy and just make sure to level the oil on 95-100F and refill on flat. Had a really bad experience with overfilling by other mechs.

[@manhoot]

The little soo-bar-oooo. Wow

[@Rslibertyturbo]

Hey man I used to work for Subaru in Australia, when the cvt came out, Subaru told us tech that they are sealed unit and not too change fluid. But I don’t believe the fluid does not need to be changed ever.

[@gabrielirizarry6135]

I love all your videos! I have learned so much from you. I’m hopping you can help me out with a small recommendation. I have a 2016 cross track with 101k on it and I’m getting oil in my radiator. I have been told it’s the dreaded Subaru head gasket issue. What I need is someone reliable in Southern California area that can do the job. Of course I don’t trust the dealers and they are the biggest crooks out there right up with car sales people. lol. But yes someone please! Thx.

[@tommynunez1495]

Waiting on the Ascent cvt video. Replaced the fluid with the dealer back in June. 64k miles no issues. Dealer said fluid was dark. Carfax showed no info on prior owner. Bought it with 33k on it.

[@latergator3367]

Excellent, you just saved me $300.00. Of course Subaru America will not be happy with me, hence with you ! 😊

[@sdscott42]

MrSubaru, great video. I have a 2015 Outback that has never had the fluid changed. Can you recommend a DIY scan tool to read the CVT temp?

[@happyhome41]

It is THIS service (on my 2021 Forester) I would drive south to have you do. Looking at 40,000 km (as recommended for severe service in the manual) and that is probably two years away yet.

[@austingavins9181]

Thanks for another cracking video - saved it before I watched it even :) Have my new to me Forester just arrived from Osaka, 2.0i CVT with Eyesight and approx 44,000 miles on a 2014 plate. Thinking of doing the CVT as I can't see it being done in the history. Quick question is I may? Subaru CVT fluid is ferociously expensive here in Ireland, is it ok to do the flush with other brand CVT Fluid (meeting Subaru specification), drain it, and then do the final fill with Subaru fluid?

[@kidwelldavid6136]

After all that, did it work better for you? Thanks for the video

[@LGmarge]

Wow. 223000 miles

[@frealm]

I've made do with a 10$ fluid pump from harborfreight for years now, around 6 or 7 times on a couple cars. No need to purchase the myvac units for all you at home mechanics 😊

[@chrishower]

Which of your videos would best help diagnose a failing valve body vs. torque converter vs. CVT? I tried searching but I'm still unclear how to isolate each point of failure.

[@huntershi3357]

Hi Mr. Subaru, thank you for your videos! May I ask a question: do we need to change the transmission filter when we change the fluid? Thanks!

[@kheff46]

If you kept the temp at the correct degree, drained and refilled, then did the PRND and back sequence, would you have to actually use a scan tool or relearn procedure?

[@reeceyamato]

Hi, I replaced my Subaru outback 2013 2.5 transmission, but now the car start but don't move, I fill the transmission with oil til it was dripping from the 8 MLM Allen screw, I also found that the transmission oil don't get hotter even when the car is on for a long time (40-60 minutes, ) what you think it can be the problem? And thank you for all your videos they are a great source of knowledge

[@jackp3303]

I see you doing some kind of partial transmission fluid replacement. In some videos I saw full fluid replacement - they just disconnect one of the tubes from transmission to heat exchanger, then start car for short period of time (to get about 1 quart of old fluid), then add new fluid into the transmission. And do this until you got fresh transmission fluid from tube. + Usually they recommend clean magnet inside transmission and replace the filter. How do you thing is dangerous \ not required or better to do on high milage?

[@fabianbotea8469]

When I did on my Impreza 2016 the first cvtf change I disconnected the exit circuit to warmer/cooler thing..... When I start the engine and in the same time put the new fluid in I observed on the exit the old oil come out. At least 2 liter old oil (I believe old oil resting in tourgue converter. In total I used 13 l of oil . Pan down and change the metalic "filter". Clean the magnet. For leveling I use and obd ho can read CVT temp. In comparison with drain and fill I think I manage to change a much big procentage.... I kindly ask you...why you don't collect the old oil from upper exit hose ? I know you have a good reason but I don't know what is this reason. Thank you. You are an inspiration for me.

[@AwakeErnest]

Mr Subaru; If I put a little air pressure into fill plug hole, would I be able to force out any add’l old fluid? Maybe make a hose fit tight into fill plug hole and attach to a foot pump like used to inflate air mattresses?

[@ErrorInvalidName]

How important is it to clear the adaptives and learn process? Our 2017 Outback needs a CVT servicing badly and Subaru would never touch it until I recently went up there and mentioned its a shame Subaru of America thinks the fluid is forever which we know there is no such thing. The new service guy said they are scared to touch then when they haven't been touched for a long while as they've had a few not move afterwards LOL.......Sigh 100k on ours and I worry if I dont do the fluid exchange like you just did they are going to hook it up to a machine and blow the internals to bits now that they will all of a sudden service it. But back to the original question it sounds like I'd need a dealer to do the clearing process. Thank You

[@tylerhuang5378]

Hey im from canada abd im interested in a crosstrek 2024 onyx/sport trim. Is it using the FB25D engine? Are they any relaibility concerns ? Love your vidoes !

[@mauriceakerr9123]

Hi Mr Subaru I always watch your videos you're doing i great job.I have a big problem with my g4 and I think the mechanics are just riping me off and making things worst

[@miken8150]

Which model Topdon scanner are you using? And if I'm shopping for a different model what text would I search for to ensure I'm getting the AT relearn?

[@cgundlac]

How much cvt fluid do you generally use when doing a flush and fill? The valve body kit on subarupartsdeals only includes 2 quarts of fluid. Gotta be more than that, right?

[@71_button]

Mr. Subaru, thoughts on Valvoline CVT Fluid? I’m planning changing every 30K. Valvoline warranties if changed @ 30K intervals. Thank you.

[@fountainvalley100]

It’s interesting to note that my 2021 Forester doesn’t call for CVT fluid changes just inspections.

[@BreadAndGatorade]

How often to do this on a car bought new? Do you need to do the "rinse and dump" if you do regular drain and fill?

[@Mini-Driver]

I need that and more to our 2014 Forester with 267K+ on the clock. I'm also chasing a vibration around 70mph. How far are you from Richmond, VA? I'll drive down.

[@bradvdb4136]

Have you ever seen the transmission leak from the torque converter/trans pump cover? It weeps down and drips off the diff drain bolt ,so it looks the diff is leaking. Subaru has a TSB out on this. I had to have my forester done this week. Found to be bad RTV from the factory, The mechanic sad it never cured right . Its a pretty big job the trans needs to come out and the pump cover needs new RTV and seals needs to be replaced.

[@MoneyMarcMes]

So when you replace fluid you have to do the AT learning each time you repalce the fluid?

[@anthonygonzalez9474]

Hi got a question how many quarts of oil should i used to do the same steps you did, and is recommend to change the filter also or no? Thank you.

[@brianf8621]

Mr Subaru, is the first refill to flush the valve body and any old fluid in cooler?

[@robertcraig2654]

We have a 2015 Forester. Subaru issued us a 100,000 mile warranty on the transmission but told us it would void the warranty if we ever changed the fluid! The dealer kept telling us to change the fluid until I showed them the letter stating NOT to change the fluid! I’ve been extremely uneasy about waiting till 100,000 to change the fluid. I do it every 30,000 on my Hondas.

[@captsteve1963]

My 2011 Legacy is coming up on 200000 miles. The last time the fluid was changed was about 100000 miles ago. It shifts and runs well. Should I leave it as some say or should I go ahead and change it?

[@xanderlander8989]

Thanks! I'm about to do this on our '16 Forester at 136k. I see you're using the Phoenix, is there a more affordable topdon tool that can do the relearn?

[@brianf8621]

Something that a home users can afford.

[@smitty683]

How long does it take to get the fluid to 95F from idle? Is it too hot right after driving 20 mins?

[@TRACKERV]

Help! 2001 forester-occasionally shifts VERY hard going between gears, especially from 1st to 2nd gear.. Shakes the entire car. Had Subaru dealer service the tranny when it started around 154,000, seemed to fix it for a while but is now doing it again. What would you suggest?

[@worldsails2000]

Do Subaru's not have transmission filters or is that not something that needs to be changed?

[@j.saavedra1502]

@MrSubaru1387 what do you think about using an infrared thermometer to measure the 95 degree operating temp?

[@danielkuzevski9326]

mr Subaru. What scan tool is the most economical for transmission flush?

[@Skitzoshank]

So today my 09 WRX hatchback would not get out of reverse and my clutch pedal was not returning unless I pulled it back up. Any ideas🙏🏽

[@dbeckMSP]

is it possible to do this without the relearn? if not, is there a consumer tool that can be bought to monitor the temp and do the relearn?

[@RIco02225]

Hey... so I stripped the fill hole 8mm hex bolt.... any ideas? I sprayed it with pb blaster and used a long arm. It wasen't moving at all so i decided to kick it and thats kinda when it stripped...

[@kenfromsilverdale5675]

What is the drain plug for just to the lower right of the fill plug?

[@samhill2655]

what are the two harness plug ins that are directly next to the fill plug. I think I might have a small leak coming from the plug-in closest to the cvt fill hole? Have you come across leaks from these spots before? Ideas on fix?

[@blaww89]

Don't quote me on it but on the TR580 it looks like speed sensor and oil pressure sensor, each with an o-ring that could potentially leak

[@The_CT_Review]

I have a 2014 Crosstrek. 89K miles and the transmission just went out. Local dealership won’t budge on repair/replace and the CustomerCare line won’t help either. I saw in your other videos that it may be covered up to 100K miles…but they claim that because it is 10 years old and that I never brought it to them for service, they won’t help. They say they have no records of my service. I changed my own oil. Wish I could email you to ask some advice on any option at all. Thanks.

[@MoneyMarcMes]

I have a Subaru Forester that says AT abnormal in the codes. So Does the CVT need a relearn process to get rid of the code?

[@doctor_who1]

my 220kw CVT jdm legacy 2012 has thrown a code p2764. is valve body replacement what i'd expect when i bring to dealership?

[@chillpengeru]

Whenever I ask my dealer about this service, they just say "the fluid lasts the life of the vehicle." That's it. I'm at 80k on my '16 Forester xt, should I definitely get it done? I only do 8-10k miles a year and might sell this around 100k anyway though as the warranty will be up.

[@Vuhjayjay68]

Is the learning process a must after swapping fluids or can I just swap fluids and make sure it’s full and get away with that

[@DextarRogue]

I'm curious, I have been thinking of doing this on my 2011 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium but the car has 207k miles and it has never been done. I'm REALLY worried about doing this as my Subaru is my winter car. I do get some hesitation off the line and sometimes when coming to a hard stop it feels like the car is going to die. I know it's easier for you since if something went out you'd be able to recommend/do the valve body but if I run into other issues I'm basically up a creek. Thoughts? Thanks for all your videos!

[@del5629]

I had my friend @ Precision tune replace my fluid w understanding no fault on his part. 2008 Outback w/225k miles, transmission was overheating….runs better now!

[@RobertLupo]

I have a 2015 Legacy with 290,000 miles. Replace valve body at 225,000. Do the pullys or chain ever die on these CVT's or just the valve bodies?

[@BSFJeebus]

I just hit 125k on my 2015 Forester and was curious if I can do a CVT service without the learning process since I don't have access to a tablet like a TOPDON?

[@waldguy]

Subaru manuals do not call for it. Relearn is only needed for TCM replacement, Disassembly of transmission, CVT replacement, Valve body replacement, or after Clearing AT learning values. Check the subaruforester threads.

[@user-ln8el8sb9p]

hi. i have: subaru xv 2017 1,600, and hyundai i 30 2010, 1,600. do you have recommended scanner/computer for amateurs users? can i connect my private laptop somehow?

[@VideoNOLA]

If I just change out the old fluid with 1:1 new (same brand/type/amount), will anything go wrong if I DON'T perform the analysis and learn??

[@timothycurran8474]

Mr. Subaru, I have a 2019 Outback Limited. Drained CVT FLUID 4 qts drained BUT after refilling with 4 qts no fluid dribbled out the fill. So I topped it off with a fifth qt. Still no fluid dribbling. I was afraid to put any more fluid so I put the fill plug in and started the car and went through the gears. Well a bunch of lights came on! Eyesight, check engine light, and it is now stuck in “off road mode. I don’t have a scan or code reader, is anything I can do to clear the light or at least get it to come out of “off road mode”. Lastly I did let the car warm up to 95 degrees and checked fill plug and had no fluid dribbling, I intend to put another qt in until it’s dribbles out.

[@dcstod]

HELP!! I have a 2013 Impreza. It was throwing a P2764 and a P0700. I replaced the CVT Valve Body. The P2764 went away but I still had the P0700 and the dash warning lights. I then replaced the Transmission Control Module under the dash. No change. I now drained the transmission fluid, replaced the filter (not a filter), and put in new fluid. I cleared the codes. Once I drive it about like 20mph all the dash lights come back on and I get the P0700 code again! I don't know where to go from here? I don't have the Subaru Tool for codes or diagnosis since I'm not doing this for a living. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[@kiloknaller]

I noticed while driving with the windows down I can hear a sound that resembles crickets from underneeth at certain rpm. I suspect the cvt but the fluid got replaced only 30k km ago. I can't feel/notice any chain slipping when it happens, just the sound of something slipping/grinding.

[@fredfrederick5607]

Have the wheel bearings checked.

[@bassnm94]

Whats the best way to fill it without using that pump?

[@klenk1am]

What do you do if you don't have a scan tool to monitor the CVT temp?

[@HashHyped]

where can i get this exact service done? and what’s the price range!?!? Give or take

[@openwheelracing88]

I can do this without the scan tool right? I just don' t know when it reaches 95 degrees. Perhaps there is a idling time that roughly reaches 95 degree?

[@ShortysTRM]

I want to see you work on a high mileage rust belt vehicle. "Just gotta take off this dustshield. Take off this bolt. Ahh, head snapped off that one. This bolt...head snapped too. Hmmm. Let's try this one. Snapped. Why did the car just drop? Ah crap, the jackstand went through the rocker." I feel like 75% of Subaru owners are in snow states and it's hilariously frustrating to watch you take apart a high mileage car with zero resistance whatsoever lol

[@mikeys1459]

Wow would you say that cvt was about 3 qts.low?

[@AtomicBleach]

Can you just use the thermocouple from a fluke meter to measure the cvtf temp? I have a 2018 crosstrek right at 120k that im certain hasnt had the cvtf flushed. Would you do this same flush past 100k or just a drain and refill?

[@AtomicBleach]

@@alaindelon5398 I wouldn't really trust the pan temperature... But you do you.

[@lonwillis783]

Hello MrSubaru what kind of scanners do you recommend under 500.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Under/close to $500, the Topdon Artidiag900BT is great - www.topdon.us/search?q=artidiag900bt%2A&ref=FbllMMFzVRFf0i&type=product

[@andrewyoung9760]

What was the abnormal driving condition you were feeling from the cvt?

[@mikegordon8178]

Why is the drain at a higher position than the sump?

[@LI-FLKayakFisherman]

Crush washer part number and torque specs?

[@kevinj7113]

Do i need to purchase a TOPDON scan tool. TOPDON is very expensive. Is it okay to just not clear AT learning

[@lamka02sk]

Is it still the original transmission?

[@kenaniahgarcia]

i have a 2018 forester 2.5l premium trim that has about 115k miles and the CVT fluid has never been changed... at this point, because its well over 100k, should I just leave it untouched or ignore all the false Subaru marketing claims of "lifetime fluid" and not ever needing to replace the CVT fluid?

[@zackchang469]

How much fluid have you consumed?

[@Bigjoedo66]

So I sent an E-mail to Subaru USA about changing CVT fluid. They said to contact your dealer. It makes sense to change the fluid does Subaru now recommend fluid changes for CVT? TY

[@ErrorInvalidName]

Here's the issue, SoA has been iffy depending, but Subaru as a whole yes, Japan they change theirs every 35k miles I believe. This is why we have so many issue sover here they should be fixing stuff for free at this point with their oh the fluid lasts forever BS.

[@gerarddeleon4484]

what kind of scanner you are using

[@snolow]

Fill bolt is HEX or TORX bit??????

[@Jacob-vx4zw]

Is there such a thing as replacing CVT fluid too often or too early? If money is no issue, is it better to replace more often?

[@maybenot6075]

You can never replace your fluids to early!

[@richardbruto67]

CVT. Good lock on that.

[@kevinW826]

I found a few original Subaru outback and forester owners finally selling their Subarus on autotrader with 400,000 kms. Yes they have the original cvts. 2011-2016 models. All had documentation of service. Plus it helped that a lot of them were highway driven only. So it makes me happy to get a Subaru Crosstrek.

[@tranceforester9458]

I dont get why the Foresters dont come with paddle shifters like the Outback and Crosstrek. Are you considering puting paddle shifters on it?

[@cgfh8673]

Why? Paddle shifters on a cvt is pointless lol

[@tomki6asp]

Our local Subaru service dept said our 2016 Crosstrek does not need the CVT fluid changed. Need to find a different mechanic.

[@niktarasyuk535]

What is it "learning" I wonder...can we just replace the fluid?

[@joekowalski182]

Subaru of America says you don't have to service CVT??