5 Subaru Transmission Problems Symptoms & Signs (cvt)

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Last updated on July 31st, 2023 at 09:06 pm

It doesn’t matter if your vehicle transmission is manual or automatic, the truth is, it can actually fail. In Subaru vehicles, Subaru’s transmission is an important component of the car and that is because the Subaru transmission is what is responsible for transmitting the correct amount of power to your wheels.

The transmission is an intricate piece of your vehicle and works in conjunction with your engine. This means there are many potential problems.

Your transmission won’t usually go out overnight for sure it will show some symptoms or signs before any abrupt breakdown. This is why I would love to share with you some Subaru transmission problem symptoms and these Subaru outback transmission problems can show up in any Subaru Model be it Subaru Impreza, Subaru Foster, etc. 

Subaru transmission problems symptoms and signs 

There are five obvious signs which will indicate that something is wrong with your Subaru vehicle before your transmission stops working and below are the Subaru outback transmission problems signs or symptoms

  1. Burning Smell
  2. Delayed Response
  3. Leaking Transmission Fluid
  4. Rough Shifts/Grinding gears
  5. Transmission slippage

subaru transmission problems cvt Signs

1. Burning Smell

A burning smell can be Subaru transmission problems caused by a lack of fluid in your transmission. Transmission fluid helps keep the parts cool and lubricated. When the transmission heats up, the fluid starts to evaporate, creating a burning smell. Our team of professionals should inspect your Subaru if you feel anything that could be described as burning.

2. Delayed Response

A Subaru vehicle that is having an automatic transmissions issue will have a delayed response that is more apparent. You should get an immediate response whenever you shift from park into drive.  But when you notice a delay in shifting from park to drive then this may be an indication that there is a problem with your Subaru transmission. This is one common Subaru outback transmission problems symptoms and it applies to a lot of other Subaru models too

3. Leaking Transmission Fluid

If your Subaru is leaking red or brownish fluid, it is time to seek the services of a professional auto mechanic. Transmissions are sealed systems, so no fluid should leak. Leakage can cause serious damage to your transmission and if your Subaru transmission leak happens to completely empty out your tank, it causes friction which can damage your engine.

4. Rough Shifts/Grinding gears

A rough shift or grinding gears is also an indication of a transmission problem considering that normally, your Subaru should be able to shift gears easily. This is true for manual and automatic vehicles alike. If you experience difficulty changing gears, or if your vehicle makes a grinding sound when shifting, it could be the transmission. Automatic transmission may also make a grinding or clunking sound.

5. Transmission slippage

Transmission slippage is dangerous and should not be taken lightly. If the transmission slips while driving an automatic transmission vehicle, it will pop from one drive to another. You may hear a popping sound from your engine and feel that your vehicle isn’t accelerating as fast as it used to. A qualified mechanic should be contacted immediately if you notice your transmission is slipping.

YOu may love to watch this video below on how you can service your Subaru yourself if you notice it has any of these transmission problems. Also, see this article for my recommended mechanic tools you will need to carry out this operation on your Subaru.

Does Subaru have Transmission Problems?

Yes, Subaru does have CVT transmission problems and a lot of Subaru users have complained about these issues. 

how long do Subaru CVT transmissions last

Your Subaru CVT should last at least 60,000 miles if you follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule recommendations and do not overfill your transmission fluid.

CVT transmissions are as durable as traditional automatic transmissions and designed to last for the entire life of your vehicle. A CVT transmission has a life expectancy that is at least 100,000 miles. Some models, such as the Toyota Prius, can last for well over 300,000.

I hope this article on Subaru outback transmission problems symptoms was helpful? Please share this post if you find it to be helpful.

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