Subaru Transmission Problems

Transmission issues make up roughly 10% of all Subaru owner complaints. The majority of the issues have been reported by Outback owners.

The complaint we hear about most often is shuddering and jerking in the 2017 Forester.

Common Subaru Transmission Problems

  1. Brake Light Switch Defect

    A build-up of chemicals from scented cleaning products containing silicone can disable the brake light switch in millions of Subaru vehicles. This can prevent the brake lights from turning on when pressing the pedal, among other things, and…

    Continue reading article "Brake Light Switch Defect" Close-up of a brake light with a red lens on top, clear lens on bottom.

  2. Lineartronic CVT Reliability

    Once praised for its design, Subaru's CVT is showing problems with age. It can shake occupants back and forth as it wobbles its way though gears. In extreme cases it can hesitate so much it causes the engine to stall, forcing Subaru to exte…

    Continue reading article "Lineartronic CVT Reliability"

Where Transmission Complaints Happen

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

Worst Models

Recent Transmission News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  1. Subaru isn't pulling any punches when placing blame for their latest recall.

    They say "a single associate" was found using "an improper torque wrench technique" while tightening a cable nut in the CVT select lever of the 2021 Impreza and Outback. That's going to be an awkward next performance review. If left loose, the gear selector may not function properly.…

    keep reading article "Single Factory Worker Linked to Latest Transmission Recall for 2021 Impreza and Outback"

  2. After some prodding, Subaru has decided to extend the warranty on their Lineartronic CVT.

    A Subaru transmission warranty extension has been issued for 2010-2015 Legacy and Outback, 2012-2015 Impreza, 2013-2015 Crosstrek, 2014-2015 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2014-2015 Forester and 2015 WRX vehicles, all equipped with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).

    However, it’s a limited time offer. Inspections or repairs need to be completed by July 31, 2018.

    keep reading article "Subaru Extends Their CVT Warranty, but it’s a Limited Time Offer"

  3. Subaru has recalled some 2015-2016 Legacys and Outbacks for a manufacturing error in the propeller shaft connected to the transmission.

    [Subaru] says the seal cap and seal may be deformed inside the propeller shaft yoke, a problem that can cause transmission fluid to leak.

    That leaking transmission fluid can hit the hot exhaust pipe and start a fire. Car fires are no yoke.…

    keep reading article "Transmission Leaks and Fires Prompt Recall"