NHTSA ID Number: 10160485
Manufacturer Communication Number: 16-120-19
Summary
This bulletin provides a procedure to follow for addressing customer concerns of a shuddering condition or chattering -type sound heard or felt when making sharp turns. If an applicable vehicle presents with the condition as described, it is recommended to perform the transfer clutch break-in procedure as described.
21 Affected Products
Vehicles
SUBARU | ASCENT | 2019 |
| SUBARU | FORESTER | 2014-2018 |
| SUBARU | LEGACY | 2015-2019 |
| SUBARU | OUTBACK | 2015-2019 |
| SUBARU | WRX | 2015-2019 |
INTRODUCTION:
This bulletin provides a procedure to follow for addressing customer concerns of a shuddering condition or chattering -type sound heard or felt when making sharp turns. If an applicable vehicle presents with the condition as described, it is recommended to perform the transfer clutch break-in procedure as described below.
SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
REMINDER: Customer satisfaction and retention starts with performing quality repairs.
NOTES: BEFORE performing this procedure:
- The tires should always be confirmed to be within specification. As little as a quarter inch (1/4”) difference in rolling circumference can cause internal issues.
- Check for and address any stored DTC(s).
- Make sure the X-Mode switch is turned OFF.
- This procedure is best performed in an open parking lot area where the vehicle can be driven in circles without any interference from other traffic. Do NOT attempt this procedure on public roads.
- The following transfer clutch break-in procedure may have to be completed more than once to obtain the desired results.
While holding the steering in the full lock (left or right) position, drive the vehicle in “D” range at about 3 MPH then turn the steering wheel to full lock in the opposite direction to complete a “Figure 8”. Vary the vehicle speed by accelerating and braking. After completing about 10 figure eights, road test to confirm if the condition has changed. This procedure may have to be performed more than once to achieve the desired results.
If the break-in procedure above does not address the condition, proceed with diagnosing the condition following the procedure in the applicable Service Manual.
See the September, 2018 issue of TIPS for more information regarding CVT repairs.
SEOCONTENT-START
APPLICABILITY: 2015-19MY Legacy and Outback w/ 3.6L
2014-18MY Forester Turbo
2015-19MY WRX
2019MY Ascent
Models listed above with TR690 CVT
SUBJECT: AWD Transfer Clutch Chatter Sound / Shudder
WARRANTY / CLAIM INFORMATION:
For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited or Powertrain Limited Warranty period or covered by
an active Subaru Added Security Powertrain, Classic or Gold plan, this repair may be submitted using
the following claim information:
Labor Description Labor Operation # Labor Time Fail Code
PERFORM TRANSFER CLUTCH BREAK-IN PROCEDURE A383-148 0.5 MKL-25
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
• SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as
previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
• Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
• Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
NUMBER: 16-120-19
DATE: 03/04/19
- 6 Quarts of genuine Subaru CVTF-II fluid
- SOA427V1660 x6 This is green fluid
- 2013-2019 Crosstrek with CVT NON HYBRID, 2014-2016 Crosstrek CVT HYBRID
- 2014-2023 Forester 2.5 Naturally Aspirated with CVT NON TURBO (NOT FOR WILDERNESS)
- 2010-2019 Legacy 2.5 FB25 with CVT, 2010-2014 Legacy 3.6 with CVT, 2010-2019 Outback 2.5 FB25 with CVT, 2010-2014 Outback 3.6 with CVT, 2012-2023 Impreza 2.0 non turbo with CVT
- [Fine Tune Your Vehicle]: Automatic and manual transmission fluid provides hydraulic pressure, lubrication, and friction to your vehicle’s engine; Use the Idemitsu CVT Type SB2 CVT Transmission Fluids 5 Quart Bottle to top off your vehicle and keep you on the road longer
- [Smoother Shifting]: Continuously variable transmission oil will help your gears shift properly to prevent hard or jerky shifting; Designed with frictional properties for superior performance and high torque
- [Extend Engine Life]: Precisely engineered transmission CVT fluid resists buildup; Anti-wear technology protects your belts, gears, and pullies, while high viscosity properties withstand intense temperatures
- [For Your Vehicle]: SB2 CVT fluid is compatible with Subaru TR580 transmissions; Refer to owner manual specifics to ensure compatibility; CVT transmission oil is crafted to meet Type CVTF-II specifications
- [Contents]: Vehicle lubricant package includes 1 bottle of Idemitsu SB2 CVT oil transmission fluid; 1 bottle of 5 quart (4.7L) CVT trans fluid makes refilling your vehicle more convenient
- Compatible with Subaru CVTs: Specifically designed for Subaru continuously variable transmissions, particularly TR580, ensuring precise performance with CVTF II specification. Ideal for automatic and manual transmission systems requiring hydraulic pressure, lubrication, and friction.
- Smooth Shifting Performance: Designed with precise frictional properties to support smooth, consistent gear shifts, preventing hard or jerky transitions, and ensuring superior performance in high-torque applications.
- Extended Transmission Life: Advanced formulation resists buildup and uses anti-wear technology to protect belts, gears, and pulleys, while high viscosity properties withstand intense temperatures.
- Optimal Viscosity Stability: The fluid maintains excellent viscosity at both high and low temperatures, ensuring efficient lubrication and friction control even under extreme conditions.
- Certified Quality: Manufactured to meet the highest quality standards, backed by ISO certifications, and trusted by leading automotive manufacturers for reliable performance and protection.
- 8 Quarts of genuine Subaru CVTF-II fluid
- SOA427V1660 x8 This is green fluid
- 2013-2019 Crosstrek with CVT non hybrid, 2014-2016 Crosstrek CVT hybrid
- 2014-2023 Forester 2.5 Naturally Aspirated with CVT non turbo (not for wilderness)
- 2010-2019 Legacy 2.5 FB25 with CVT, 2010-2014 Legacy 3.6 with CVT, 2010-2019 Outback 2.5 FB25 with CVT, 2010-2014 Outback 3.6 with CVT, 2012-2023 Impreza 2.0 non turbo with CVT
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