17 Outback 3.6 HT CVT Service 180k; Sample on the way to Blackstone

[BISCUT]

I just had CVT service done at 180k. Last CVT service was at 105k. I had done a UOA with the first service and now await the second UOA to come back from Blackstone. I'll post it when it comes in.

I found a solid Indy Sub specialist near me and used his shop for this CVT service. Interesting info from the owner. He indicated 8 quarts is about what he gets from the HT CVT without removing it. According to him, in order to get all 12 qts you need to remove the CVT unit and turn it on it's side. True? I know the dealer charged me for 12 qts and did not remove the CVT unit. Either they weren't truthful or possibly dealer uses an exchange system? Wondering what/who is correct.

 

[BHopkins]

I just finished replacing the valve body on the CVT in my wife's '13 Outback, and did a drain and fill at the same time. When I was reading the manual, I saw that total capacity of the CVT and cooler, etc., is 12.9-13.4 quarts.

If your indy is getting out 8 quarts of CVTF, they are doing a simple drain and fill. I typically get less than 7 quarts out of my '13 Outback when doing a drain and fill. But I buy 8 quarts, just in case. Perhaps that is what your indy does?

There is a method for doing a flush, by disconnecting the transmission cooler line, feeding fresh cvtf in, and dumping the old cvtf. It is a little more involved, but it is a pretty thorough method. When using this method, I think most people use more like 13-14 quarts or more.

A more common method that some dealerships use is do a drain and fill, then run the transmission through the gears, then do a second drain and fill. This is the method I used for the most recent service I just finished. Where your dealership has charged you for 12 quarts of cvtf, I suspect this is the method they used.

 

[fantastic]

Yep, just like how my recent transmission fluid change recently. They charged me 16 qts but put in a "conditioner" as well. The directions say it needs 11 oz so and trans takes 16 so did they overfill my trans or charge me for the whole quart. Just like how many "technicians" say they use their calibrated wrist instead of torque wrench. We're just supposed to trust them. Hope the service was done at least halfway but feeling like you've been charged for full service...it's not right. Id reach back out for an explanation. I know it can be awkward but we have to do what we have to do sometimes.