CVT high reving in 1st gear

[Nunsie 251]

Hi folks
Recently purchased a 2013 Impreza Sport with CVT. 143K miles. I have other Subarus with CVT's and understand the different "feel" of a CVT. This particular car is staying in first gear way too long causing extended high RPM's and just hanging there too long. It does NOT make the high screeching noise I've seen in some belt/chain slipping videos. Sometimes lifting on the fuel pedal a bit will get it to shift. Also it seems slightly better once warmed up. I've researched and found several possibilities including low or old trans fluid, slipping belts, transmission control module etc. I'm thinking I'll start with a fluid change to start. Any other advice and/or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[bmart]

Is there any service history? Was the fluid changed before?

 

[Nunsie 251]

Is there any service history? Was the fluid changed before?

There is some service history on the Carfax but I did not see any transmission fluid change or flush or anything like that.

 

[Nunsie 251]

Update:
Had the trans fluid changed, not flushed at a Suby dealer .(My understanding is it replaces approximately six of its 12 qt capacity). Also reset the "learning codes" in the tranny and motor. If it helped at all it wasn't a ton. Service rep suggested what I'm experiencing is just how early CVT's operate, you have to get used to how the amount of fuel pedal affects the shifting. I get that, I've been driving Subarus of all types since 1993 and can't dismiss my own knowledge and history. Looking for more advice from anyone here. Thanks

 

[bmart]

He's right. They've gotten better, but IMHO, they're still not great. Go test drive a Honda car with a CVT and see the difference. Completely different technology.

I've driven a few of the Subaru ones and never liked them and decided to with with 5MT.

 

[Nunsie 251]

Indeed. I drive a 15 Impreza sport and wish it was a stick.

I was also thinking I would change 6 quarts again next year. Ultimately having more and more new fluid less old.