We purchased a 2021 Outback Touring XT with low miles and are just scheduling our 30,000 mile service. I read that they suggest replacing the front and rear differential fluid. I asked a local mechanic (not a dealership but they specialize in Subarus and Japanese vehicles), and he didn't think it was necessary. Seems rather soon to do that. What do you all think? We love this car and want to take good care of it, but don't want to throw money away either. Thoughts?
barrjays
It's not necessary but if the vehicle was used for towing by the previous owner, then Subaru recommends CVT fluid at 25,000 miles and both differentials at 15,000 miles for severe service such as towing.
So I wouldn't consider it a complete waste to to it at 30k. Anecdotally some owners have found that their differential fluid looked brand new, and others found it to be quite deteriorated at their first differential fluid change, and sometimes it's the front diff fluid that's degraded and sometimes it's the rear. 🤷‍♂️
So I wouldn't consider it a complete waste to to it at 30k. Anecdotally some owners have found that their differential fluid looked brand new, and others found it to be quite deteriorated at their first differential fluid change, and sometimes it's the front diff fluid that's degraded and sometimes it's the rear. 🤷‍♂️
Severe service for different things use different examples, so for towing, severe service affects CVT, diffs, engine oil, but short trip driving only affects the engine oil. It's all in the detailed notes that Subaru has with their maintenance schedule, saying which type of severe service applies to which maintenance items.
You can DIY but be aware that for the front differential, you have the TR690 transmission, and many guides talk about "Subaru CVT" without specifying which one it is. Most commonly it's the TR580, which you do not have, so just make sure you get the right information.
The rear differential is very easy.
All of the Subaru Ascents have the TR690 and the 2.4 turbo that your Touring XT has.
Here's a video for the front diff change - note that the fill plug should say "diff" on it when you pull it out. You can use any 75w-90 gear oil it doesn't need to be Subaru.
The rear differential is very easy.
All of the Subaru Ascents have the TR690 and the 2.4 turbo that your Touring XT has.
Here's a video for the front diff change - note that the fill plug should say "diff" on it when you pull it out. You can use any 75w-90 gear oil it doesn't need to be Subaru.
Your rear differential holds 5 quarts?
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