Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Transmission fluid

Transmission Fluid for the 2017 Subaru Impreza: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Subaru Impreza is a popular choice among Aussies thanks to its reliability, all-wheel-drive capability, and solid performance. When it comes to keeping your Impreza running smoothly, understanding the role of transmission fluid is pretty important, especially if you want to avoid expensive repairs down the track.

So first things first, does the 2017 Subaru Impreza even use transmission fluid? The answer is yes, but it really depends on the type of transmission fitted to your car. The 2017 model came with a couple of transmission options. You could find a manual gearbox or Subaru's well-known Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in these vehicles. Both rely on transmission fluid, but the type and maintenance needs differ quite a bit.

Manual gearbox models use a conventional manual transmission fluid or gear oil. On the other hand, the CVT models use a special CVT fluid that's different from traditional automatic transmission fluids. This fluid plays a crucial role in keeping the transmission components running smoothly and efficiently.

So what exactly does transmission fluid do in your 2017 Subaru Impreza? Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of your car's transmission system. Whether you're driving a manual or CVT, this fluid lubricates all the moving parts inside the transmission, reduces friction, helps dissipate heat, and ensures smooth gear shifts. For CVT transmissions in particular, the fluid also helps the belt and pulleys operate quietly and efficiently without slipping or jerking.

Now, if the transmission fluid wasn't used or maintained properly, things could get messy pretty quickly. The moving parts inside the transmission would rub against each other causing accelerated wear and tear or potentially catastrophic failure. Over time, old or contaminated transmission fluid loses its lubricating and cooling properties, which can lead to overheating and damage to gears, bearings, and seals.

For owners of CVT-equipped 2017 Subaru Imprezas, keeping the correct CVT fluid fresh and at the right level is even more important. Subaru uses a specific type of CVT fluid - often Subaru CVT fluid (sometimes labeled as Subaru CVT Fluid Subaru Genuine) - designed to meet the unique demands of their Lineartronic transmissions.

So, how often should transmission fluid be replaced in a 2017 Subaru Impreza? Subaru's general recommendation is to change the CVT fluid every 60,000 kilometres or so, especially if you do a lot of city driving, towing, or operate in hot climates. Manual transmission fluid intervals can vary, but routine checking and replacement at major service intervals is common practice. It is always best to check the owner's manual or service manual specific to the Impreza model for exact intervals.

If you decide to skip transmission fluid maintenance, you're running a real risk of expensive repairs or failure down the line. Contaminated or degraded fluid can cause rough or erratic shifting, strange noises, overheating, and decreased fuel efficiency. For CVTs, in particular, damaged belts or pulleys can mean costly replacements or transmission rebuilds.

Regular transmission fluid checks can be a quick and simple health check for your Impreza's transmission. Most auto shops can inspect fluid colour, clarity, and smell to gauge its condition. Good transmission fluid will generally be translucent and red or amber in colour. If it looks dark, cloudy, or smells burnt, it's a clear sign a fluid change is overdue.

When changing the transmission fluid on a 2017 Subaru Impreza, it's best to stick with Subaru-approved fluids. Using the right fluid ensures compatibility with seals and components plus it preserves the unique shift characteristics of the transmission. Also, fluid changes on CVTs often include an oil filter replacement to keep things running smoothly.

In addition to fluid changes, keeping an eye out for leaks under the car, especially near the transmission pan or cooler lines, is good practice. Early detection of leaks can save you from running your transmission on low fluid levels, which is a common culprit in transmission damage.

So if you're looking after a 2017 Subaru Impreza and want it to keep performing well for years to come, giving transmission fluid the attention it deserves is a smart move. Regular servicing that includes transmission fluid inspection and replacement when needed will keep those gears and pulleys happily slipping along without issues.

Remember, whether it's the manual or CVT transmission, transmission fluid isn't just some minor oil. It's a fundamental part of your Impreza's drivetrain that ensures smooth operation, longevity, and the kind of driving experience Subaru is known for. Give your car the fluid love it deserves and it'll thank you with many trouble-free kilometres on the road.