Subaru CVT Fluid Change: Step-by-Step with ENEOS Import CVTF Model S
At Sonoma Raceway, with Ferraris racing in the background, ENEOS ambassador Faruk Kugay tackled a CVT fluid transmission flush on a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. This blacked-out Crosstrek with wind deflectors and auxiliary lights exemplifies the quintessential Subaru vibe, while also needing proper maintenance for its specialized continuously variable transmission. Watch the video (above) and follow this outline for the Subaru CVT fluid change.
Why Change CVT Fluid?
The factory service manual recommends changing CVT fluid every 25,000 miles, though many owners stretch this to 30,000-60,000 miles. This particular Crosstrek had 132,000 miles on the odometer with its last fluid change around 30,000 miles ago. Warning signs that your CVT needs attention include:
- Delayed or jerky acceleration
- Whining, buzzing, or grinding noises
- Shuddering or vibration
- Dark or burnt-looking fluid
The Fluid of Choice
For this job, we used ENEOS Import CVTF Model S fluid, specifically engineered for Subaru transmissions. This fluid offers:
- Superior protection against metal-to-metal contact
- Optimized operation of CVT belt and pulley systems
- Perfect compatibility with Subaru specifications
The Process
- Start with the fill plug first – This ensures you can actually complete the job before draining the transmission.
- Drain and measure the old fluid – We drained approximately 4.5 quarts, not the 11 quarts mentioned in some resources.
- Replace the drain plug – We installed a new crush washer and torqued the drain plug to 22.9 ft-lbs.
- Initial fill – We added about 3.5 quarts until the fluid started dripping from the fill hole.
- Temperature and circulation procedure – With the temporary fill plug installed, we:
- Started the engine and let it idle until the transmission temperature reached between 95-113°F (35-45°C)
- Shifted through Park → Reverse → Neutral → Drive → Neutral → Reverse → Park to circulate the fluid
- Final fill – With the engine still running in Park, we topped off the fluid until it began dripping from the fill hole again.
- Install the fill plug – We torqued the fill plug to 36.9 ft-lbs to complete the job.
Important Notes
- Most popular Subaru models use CVT transmissions, including the Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek
- Performance models like the WRX STI typically come with manual transmissions or traditional automatics
- Never substitute regular automatic transmission fluid for CVT fluid, as CVT fluid is specially formulated for the unique components in these transmissions
With the average age of cars in America now exceeding 10 years, proper maintenance like regular fluid changes becomes increasingly important. This 2019 Crosstrek, with proper care including regular CVT fluid changes using the appropriate fluid, should deliver hundreds of thousands of reliable miles.
For more information about ENEOS products or CVT fluid maintenance, visit our product page or consult with your local dealer.