[stevieachi]

I'm coming from a manual 6-spd for 8 years and a 5-spd for 4 years before that just fyi. I like how the cvt can be shifted with the paddles even in drive mode and then just returns to normal auto drive on its own. Seems very useful for a highway pass; downshift for some more power, make the pass and be on your way without fiddling around. But I'm also finding myself wanting to shift down a click or two when stopping as I'm used to having that gearing help in addition to the brakes. Just wondered if anyone else does this, or if I should stop this habit in case I'm better off just wearing out brakes and avoiding any type of transmission issues this could cause (if any?). Anyone know for sure if this could be damaging? My thinking is the electronics aren't going to let it go too low and I'm not talking about racing into every stop and letting the gearing whine...but I do notice less braking force required even with conservative speed into a stop. Thoughts?

 

[stevieachi]

Well the answers have ranged from absolutely - absolutely not with some insults to boot. I really don't know what to "decide", but like someone was stating they would like more proof either way.

For what it's worth, section 7-28 of the manual includes this piece under braking tips;
"Use of engine braking - Remember to make use of engine braking in addition to foot braking. When descending a grade, if only the foot brake is used, the brakes may start working improperly because of brake fluid overheating, caused by overheated brake pads. To help prevent this, shift into a lower gear to get stronger engine braking."

Against my fear of a rejected transmission warranty claim years from now (kidding), I sent a question to Subaru asking about this. I referenced what the manual states above and asked if using the cvt downshift for general stopping could cause any transmission problems or was against Subaru's intended use. I'll post the reply when I receive one.

 

[stevieachi]

Right, and I understand the additional wear side, but also think on the other side with the modern electronics governing the shifts and engine speed etc, the entire body of the car would rust out well before any tangible effects from downshifting to stop would ever show up in the cars lifetime for me at least. I'm hoping to have this car a long time which to me is 10 years / 120,000 miles.

I think I just want to hear it from the horses mouth at this point. I'm not planning to downshift every stop 100% of the time. I guess maybe if I'm coming in a little hot or light changes on me it comes in handy. Also coming from a lighter more sport oriented car (r32) so still probably adjusting my driving to the new ride. I'm anxious to hear their reply.

 

[stevieachi]

Subaru got back to me via email from my question through the website;

Thanks for your patience as I researched engine braking in your 2013 Outback with CVT. I sent it to two separate Technical representatives. They both replied with similar feedback.

It is only recommended in situations where the engine braking would be needed, such as “when descending a grade." Normally, a driver would have no need to engine brake when just coming to a stop at a light or stop sign. Since the transmission is not designed to handle this, it would accelerate wear on the CVT.

I think that's enough for me to not make a habit of it. Thanks for all the input - good forum!