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First CVT Drain/Fill

3.8K views 22 replies 8 participants last post by  Robert.Mauro  
#1 · (Edited)
I do some towing during the summer. Current mileage is about 41,000. I purchased the 5 gallon bucket of CVTF-LV SOA748V0300. Our local dealer charges $400 for a drain/fill. I figured I could get four drain/ fills out of the 5 gallon bucket. But I discovered something by accident that I thought might be good information for anyone doing this yourself. When I drained the CVT I was going to leave it drip for a few minutes, but got sidetracked. I ended up putting the drain plug back on just barely snug until the next afternoon. When I removed it, I got at least one additional quart of fluid out. I refilled the transmission per the procedure. I estimate I had about 8 ounces of waste, and I used 7 quarts. This means I will only get two full drain/fills out my 5 gallon bucket before I have to buy another one, but I like thinking that I got almost a 50% change. It will be my SOP to let it drip overnight before I fill it up again.
 
#4 ·
No. The TR690 has a very specific process documented by Subaru that requires electronic monitoring of both volume and temperature. (there is no dipstick) There is also a relearn procedure once the fluid is restored. Also note if you're not aware, that there is only one fluid you can use and it's only available from Subaru. There is no third party product currently that meets Subaru specifications.
 
#14 ·
My understanding, based on years of commentary here and in the FB group, particularly from Subaru Ambassador Robert Mauro, is that the temp monitoring and the re-learn are part of the documented process. I do not personally work on vehicles other than my Kubota tractor, so I'm not going to ever do this myself anyway. You do need a reader for the process to the best of my knowledge. The TR690 is "delicate and picky" on things like this.
 
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