Subaru cars mainly use two types of automatic transmissions:
- Lineartronic CVT – a continuously variable transmission, widely used in all modern models.
- E-AT (4EAT, 5EAT) – classic automatic gearboxes with torque converter in older models.
What gearboxes are used in Subaru cars?
- Lineartronic CVT – Forester, Outback, XV, Legacy, Impreza (from 2009).
- 4EAT, 5EAT – in older Forester, Legacy, Outback until ~2009.
- High Torque CVT – for more powerful models, such as the Outback 3.6R.
How is the repair going?
- Diagnostics – checking CVT electronics, pressure, pulley condition.
- Disassembly and troubleshooting – CVT pulleys, chain, pump, valve block, AT frictions.
- CVT chain/pulley replacement – often due to noise, loss of traction.
- Hydraulic unit repair (CVT/AT) – for poor shifting or pressure problems.
- Oil change – important for CVT cooling and longevity, only original oil.
- Adaptation and final testing – required after each repair.
The most common problems:
- CVT: loss of traction, jerking, overheating, noise, error codes.
- AT (4EAT/5EAT): knocks, oil loss, solenoid damage.
- Slow response or slipping when accelerating.
Technical disadvantages:
- CVT: very sensitive to oil condition, high repair costs.
- 4EAT/5EAT: reliable, but due to age, requires a full restoration.
- CVT is not suitable for aggressive driving or heavy loads.
Approximate Subaru gearbox repair costs:
- CVT pulley/chain replacement: €1200–2500
- Oil change (CVT/AT): €250-400
- Hydraulic unit repair: €800–1500
- Full overhaul (CVT): €1800–3500
- 4EAT/5EAT repair: €1500–2800