CVT fluid change.

[msilverm]

i understand that Subaru japan recommends changing the CVT transmission fluid every 3 years or 36,000 miles. I have a 2021 outback XT with less than 15,000 miles. Does it make sense to change the fluid, though its mileage is low but the car is more than three years old? I appreciate your views. Mark

 

[bmart]

Just follow the manual...

 

[Dick Foster]

What he said. Changing a little oil is way way cheaper than a new tyranny or car.
Never defer maintenance. It's penny wise and pound stupid.

 

[msilverm]

Thanks, I appreciate your responses. The reason for my question is that Subaru USA indicates the CVT is a closed system and the fluid need not be changed, ever. Subaru Japan says change the CVT fluid 3 years or 30,000 miles. With so few miles, I thought the fluid may still be good. However, on balance I think you are correct.

 

[MrMark]

Check out the YouTuber Mr. Subaru for his videos about that. It basically boils down to him recommending the Subaru of Japan specifications. As he says, the lifetime fluid argument Subaru of USA used just meant it was usable until the CVT failed sometime after 100k miles. He does talk about how the fluid change is performed, and why it should be done by a properly trained technician with the right equipment, and not just any DIY or Quick Lube shop.

 

[HMW]

Agree, I know brake fluid should be replaced but 36000 for cvt seems too soon

 

[bmart]

Gear oil in the manual transmission and the (same) fluid in the rear at on 30k cycles. FYI.

 

[HowAboutThat]

i understand that Subaru japan recommends changing the CVT transmission fluid every 3 years or 36,000 miles. I have a 2021 outback XT with less than 15,000 miles. Does it make sense to change the fluid, though its mileage is low but the car is more than three years old? I appreciate your views. Mark

I popped onto the site just now to ask exactly this question. Thank you very much.
I have not yet read the other answers, but my feeling is that the fluid degrades with time as well as with use and humidity buildup will occur, so yes you should.
But now I will see what the experts say…

 

[pete]

understand that Subaru japan recommends changing the CVT transmission fluid every 3 years or 36,000 miles. I have a 2021 outback XT with less than 15,000 miles. Does it make sense to change the fluid, though its mileage is low but the car is more than three years old? I appreciate your views.

i understand that Subaru japan recommends changing the CVT transmission fluid every 3 years or 36,000 miles. I have a 2021 outback XT with less than 15,000 miles. Does it make sense to change the fluid, though its mileage is low but the car is more than three years old? I appreciate your views. Mark