2020 Subaru Crosstrek 41K. Change CVT fluid?

[rekit]

Going in for oil change soon, some videos REALLY recommend CVT fluid swap. Makes sense to me. Not sure if I trust the stealership to do it, but...what does the group think and how much have you had to pay? Thx. Clear Lake Sub in TX is our dealer.

 

[Rand]

Depends I heard around $350
if you have a scan tool that can read cvt temp.. its not the hardest thing to do.. but not stupid easy either.
mainly because people tend to open wrong plugs or not follow instructions.

 

[scrllock]

It's one of the very few things (besides recalls) I'll go to the dealer for. As long as it's a dealer using the OE fluid, some of the ones around me upcharge for the privilege of using universal BG crap. If they're not giving you the per-quart price with the job, they'll only sell you the 5 gallon pail (at least for HT-CVT) and so it's not even worth trying to DIY except with aftermarket fluid, which I don't touch.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Yes, you should change the CVT fluid!

 

[Rand]

It's one of the very few things (besides recalls) I'll go to the dealer for. As long as it's a dealer using the OE fluid, some of the ones around me upcharge for the privilege of using universal BG crap. If they're not giving you the per-quart price with the job, they'll only sell you the 5 gallon pail (at least for HT-CVT) and so it's not even worth trying to DIY except with aftermarket fluid, which I don't touch.

2020 Crosstrek takes CVTF-III blue which is available in quarts for about 15$ each.

CVTF-LV -amber/clear which is what most 2020+ Turbo subarus use is only available in 5 gallon buckets ;\ or from overpriced rebottlers at 40$/qt

 

[buster]

100% change it.

 

[Marcozi]

Reline make CVT that's compatible with your subbie. It's about $20/qt.

 

[Dave Hess]

I would try and drain / refill myself if possible.

 

[Rand]

I would try and drain / refill myself if possible.

It makes more sense on the vehicles with quarts available around 15$ such as the OP's

For a turbo subaru such as mine.. 500$ for the bucket or 350 for them to change it might be a different $$$ calculation

 

[scrllock]

the process isn't that difficult, but make sure you have a copy of the service manual and not just a youtube video. if you can get the fluid affordably I would absolutely do it yourself, it's not much different than a normal drivetrain fluid service, just with a couple more steps to make sure the level is set at the proper temp.

 

[Wheel366]

$500 quote from my dealer.

 

[rekit]

Thanks all. I knew in my mind it was a good idea, just wanted to hear from the pro's. How many qts should I end up being charged for, just to keep em honest? Google is saying 6-8 for a drain and fill.

 

[Glenda W.]

Thanks all. I knew in my mind it was a good idea, just wanted to hear from the pro's. How many qts should I end up being charged for, just to keep em honest? Google is saying 6-8 for a drain and fill.

I requested the full fluid exchange and it was around 12-13 quarts. Make sure you tell them no flush solvents or additives.