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Used CVT replacement DIY? // 2011 Outback

3.2K views 6 replies 5 participants last post by  OBDad  
#1 ·
So My CVT in my 2011 (160K) has the nasty squeal... Its been going on for 1.5 months... And its perhaps Getting a bit worse...

Ive taken it to a specialty shop and they said no codes but they are pretty confident its the metal belt slipping... AND the only thing to do is replace the CVT

So my question... Anybody ever Replaced the CVT in their backyard?

I assume its pretty darn Heavy... I also assume that pulling the engine may be necessary?

Also The CVT's in the 2011 Legacy sedans are Literally Half the price at the salvage yards Im looking into?????????

Why?? People haven't been able to tell me why I cant use a Legacy Sedan CVT

Is the gearing different? Could I just get the rear differential from the Sedan and the CVT and Be good to go?


Thanks:smile2:
 
#2 ·
If doing a junk yard swap it shouldn't be any harder than any other transmission change out.

Will probably want to do it from the bottom.

I imagine the legacy and outback have different gearing ratios since they have different sized tires but if it's really that much cheaper you can change the diff too.
 
#3 ·
looks like you can only get the right one out of a 2011-12 2.5 outback.

or 2011-12 legacy. (or LGT)

https://www.quirkparts.com/oem-parts/subaru-trans-axle-31000ah780/

but not any 3.6 6 cylinder,...or a 2010, or a 2013-14.

new / seems ...pricey. although you might call a dealer and ask about a factory re-man. or a price on fix to what you got.
 
#6 ·
So My CVT in my 2011 (160K) has the nasty squeal... Its been going on for 1.5 months... And its perhaps Getting a bit worse...
Out of curiosity and to have the information out there (here), what is the history on the CVT?:

160k miles or kms?

Has the fluid ever been changed from it?

Towing? Deep water crossings?

Thanks!

Also, as long as you have clearance and a good support, should be able to get it out from underneath with a floorjack and an adapter plate. I'm sure it will be tight! Good luck!
 
#7 ·
Building on mjohnson's line of questioning... what's there to lose doing a couple of drain and fills with fresh fluid to see if the condition resolves? It obviously won't reverse any mechanical damage but if the slipping is caught early enough I'd think fresh fluid could improve your condition.