SUMMARY: Subaru Corporation is offering consumers an extended warranty on the continuously variable transmission (CVT) on approximately 1.5 million vehicles after concerns were raised about transmission problems that may cause the vehicle to stall on model year 2012-2017 vehicles.
How do I know if my Subaru CVT transmission is bad?
CVT Problems Experienced
- Stalling – Owners complained that the vehicle would stall out and come to a sudden stop.
- Shuddering, Shaking and Bumps – If a CVT belt or pulley is not working properly, it can cause the car to shake or shudder, which was experienced by consumers throughout the years and models.
Is there a problem with Subaru CVT transmissions?
Several older Subaru models commonly experience CVT problems. Stalling, shuddering, and delayed acceleration can be signs of a transmission issue. Subaru has a RepairPal reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0 and ranks 14th out of 32 brands surveyed.
What are the signs of a failing CVT transmission?
Some common problems to look out for with your CVT include:
- Transmission ‘jerking’, slipping, grinding or jumping during acceleration when the car is shifting gears.
- Noisy while driving – some customers have issues with a ‘whining’, ‘clanging’ or ‘rattling’ sound while driving especially with Nissan CVT’s.
What years did Subaru have CVT transmission problems? – Related Questions
Is it worth replacing a CVT transmission?
Replacing a CVT transmission costs roughly between $3,000 and $5,000 or higher. The CVTs won’t last nearly as long as the standard automatic transmissions, and it’s not surprising if they fail to run for more than 100K miles or less.
What is the biggest problem with CVT transmission?
Most problems are not unique to CVTs, CVTs are susceptible to a range of problems caused by a lack of transmission fluid. Perhaps the biggest problem with CVTs is unfamiliar drivers thinking there is a problem. CVTs sound different from other transmissions, so you might hear a disconcerting whirring or clunking noise.
What is the average life of a CVT transmission?
CVT transmissions last just as long as a traditional automatic transmission and are designed to last the full life of the vehicle. The typical CVT has a life expectancy of at least 100,000 miles. Certain models like the Toyota Prius commonly last well over 300,000 miles.
How often do CVT transmissions need to be replaced?
Most manufacturers fall into a range between 30,000 and 50,000 miles. Many car owners find that their manual doesn’t specify a time. If this is the case, a good rule of thumb is around 50,000 miles.
What happens when a CVT transmission is low on fluid?
A low level of transmission fluid can allow the transmission to sustain serious damage over time! Without the fluid lubricating the moving parts, the gears (or lack thereof, in the case of CVTs) will grind and become damaged.
How much does it cost to fix a CVT transmission?
The average cost to repair a CVT transmission ranges between $3500 and $8000.
Can you rebuild CVT transmissions?
If your vehicle requires a CVT transmission rebuild, then you need an expert that you’re sure can handle it. Transmission Technicians stay highly trained to perform all CTV transmission rebuild services, and all CTV transmission work.
How hard is it to fix a CVT transmission?
CVTs are more complex and specialized than a standard automatic transmission, and repair costs often are very expensive. And when a CVT cannot be repaired, it needs to be replaced, which can be so expensive that owners are forced to sideline an otherwise perfectly good car.
Do CVT transmissions need to be serviced?
Most CVTs (continuously variable transmissions) need inspections and/or fluid changes. We advise owners to refer to the owner’s manual for specific guidance and to keep records of related services. Remember that unlike engine oil, transmission fluid should never burn off.
How long will a Subaru CVT transmission last?
Eventually, the CVT fluid will need to be flushed and replaced — but it can last up to 100,000 miles or more in some cases before it goes bad.
Does Subaru recommend changing CVT fluid?
As a result, there’s not really much maintenance to perform. Still, most owner’s manuals will recommend changing the transmission fluid every 90,000 miles or so.