CVT Fluid: Should I Flush or Just Drain?

My Subaru dealer in Florida says there’s no need to drain or flush since it’s a sealed system. But they said they could do it for $700. Based on what I’ve read here and elsewhere, I’m on the fence.

Depends on the year and driving conditions. For newer Subarus, if you’re not doing heavy-duty driving or towing, every 60k should be fine.

Merrick said:
Depends on the year and driving conditions. For newer Subarus, if you’re not doing heavy-duty driving or towing, every 60k should be fine.

It’s a 2021, and yeah, I’ve heard 30k-40k or 60k from different people. Not sure what to go with!

@Baer
If you’re not off-roading or towing, maybe wait until 50k. And maybe have them inspect it before going all in.

@Baer
Your 2021 has a 100k mile warranty on the CVT. I’d avoid unnecessary service until after that.

At 32k miles, your CVT oil should still be fine. I wouldn’t touch it unless you notice any issues.

Sayer said:
At 32k miles, your CVT oil should still be fine. I wouldn’t touch it unless you notice any issues.

Is there an ideal mileage to get it done? Heard 60k is the standard in Canada.

@Baer
If you do it yourself, just pick a mileage you’re comfortable with. I’d go with 30k-45k, especially if you’re driving in tough conditions.

@Baer
Just check the service manual.

I did a drain and fill at 90k miles. My friend has almost 250k on his Subaru with the original fluid.

At 30k miles, it’s probably unnecessary.

Beckett said:
At 30k miles, it’s probably unnecessary.

What mileage would you recommend then?

Baer said:

Beckett said:
At 30k miles, it’s probably unnecessary.

What mileage would you recommend then?

I’ve seen recommendations all over. One dealership near me says 60k, and another says 100k. I’ve also heard every 45k.

Baer said:

Beckett said:
At 30k miles, it’s probably unnecessary.

What mileage would you recommend then?

I wouldn’t touch it until the CVT warranty ends at 100k. What year is your vehicle?

@Beckett
Changing the CVT fluid doesn’t void your warranty.

Baer said:

Beckett said:
At 30k miles, it’s probably unnecessary.

What mileage would you recommend then?

I’d recommend 60k, then every 60k after that.

Baer said:

Beckett said:
At 30k miles, it’s probably unnecessary.

What mileage would you recommend then?

Subaru doesn’t recommend any specific mileage for it, same as Toyota.

CVT isn’t a scheduled service for Subaru. No need to touch it unless the fluid is somehow compromised.

Sable said:
CVT isn’t a scheduled service for Subaru. No need to touch it unless the fluid is somehow compromised.

Not true—CVT maintenance is standard in other countries but not the USA.

@Asher
Why is this still so controversial? Fluids in any vehicle should be changed at some point.