My 2023 Subaru Forester has 36000 miles. I asked my dealer and called a second dealer if they would do a CVT service. Both dealers “almost” refused. Although 1 said if I insisted. It’s as if they never heard anyone else say what I hear from you about servicing the CVT. Should I skip the dealer and find a mechanic or just insist? And is it Breyer to do a full flush or just a fluid change?
The dealers won't do it because of Subaru of America's ludicrous assertion that the transmissions are "sealed" with "lifetime fluid". Ridiculous.
Find a mechanic familiar with doing the CVT fluid change on Subarus. To do the complete job is a fairly involved procedure (you can look it up on youtube).
Scotty has demonstrated doing a simple drain and fill on CVTs, being careful to put back in the exact same amount of fluid that came out. Fluid level is critical in those transmissions and the level needs to be checked under specific conditions.
I would find a dedicated transmission shop. I don't expect the corner mechanic to know how to work on a CVT.
Or, if this car has easily accessible drain bolt and filler plug, just drain the fluid and put exact same amount back in. Just make sure to use OEM fluid and new crush washers.
