Scotty,
I have a 2018 Subaru crosstrek with a manual transmission. Great simple car, but I’m due for mt gear oil change and rear diff oil change.
Subaru states the vehicle comes with a Subaru extra mt gear oil 75w80. I can only find this in 5gal at well over 450$. The manual also says 75w90 can be used but may affect drivability and gas milage decrease.
Dealer says they use the 75w90 front and back with all services. 75w90 is the specified oil used in the rear differential.
What would you pick? I’m stuck with a $$$ correct choice or possible degraded driving experience.
Dealer says they use the 75w90 front and back with all services. 75w90 is the specified oil used in the rear differential.
The dealer gave you good info. The manual transmission and rear differential are able to use the same fluid (75W-90) (Instead of using 75W-80 in transmission)
Common replacement for Subaru's fluid is a GL-5 (75W-90) synthetic. Provided this link as they mention several alternative brands Bob the oil guy discussion
Usually at the dealership they sell the correct fluid. Call more than one dealer and ask for the price of the correct gear oil.
I was surprised with the price of the transmission fluid, for example, at the Subaru dealership when I serviced my transmission, it was cheaper than aftermarket and it was the correct one.
