Subaru TR580 Lineartronic CVT (First Generation) · Subaru · Expert rebuild service since 1987. Lifetime warranty. Free diagnostic.
2010–2017 Subaru Outback (2.5L), 2010–2017 Subaru Forester (2.5L), 2012–2017 Subaru Impreza (2.0L), 2012–2017 Subaru Legacy (2.5L)
| Configuration | CVT — Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (chain belt) |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratios | Ratio range approximately 2.40:1 (low) to 0.39:1 (high) |
| Fluid Type | Subaru CVTF-II (Idemitsu CVTF) |
| Fluid Capacity | 7.5 qts total, 3.5 qts service refill |
The Lineartronic uses a push chain (not a belt). Chain stretch causes slippage and ratio control issues. This is the primary Lineartronic failure mode, particularly on 2010–2014 units.
Symptoms: Slip under acceleration, chain noise (whine or drone), DTC P0868 or P0894, reduced fuel economy
Chain debris from stretch contaminates the pulley surfaces, scoring them and requiring replacement.
Symptoms: Progressive noise increase, vibration, ratio hunting, DTC P0776
Valve body pressure control solenoids fail from degraded CVTF-II, causing erratic ratio control.
Symptoms: Hesitation on acceleration, DTC P0840, fuel economy reduction
TR580 rebuild replaces the chain set, primary and secondary pulley assemblies, and valve body solenoids. Subaru CVTF-II used throughout. All seals and O-rings renewed.
Subaru CVTF-II every 25,000 miles — Subaru recommends 30,000 but early TR580 failures correlate with extended intervals. Do not use generic CVT fluid. AWD viscous coupling requires separate service.
2010–2017 Outback, Forester, Legacy, and Impreza models with 2.0/2.5L naturally aspirated engines.
It has had reliability concerns, particularly on 2010–2014 units. Regular CVTF-II every 25,000 miles is essential for long-term durability.
A full TR580 rebuild ranges $2,400–$3,100 at Chicago Transmission.
Subaru CVTF-II (Idemitsu CVTF) — not compatible with generic CVT fluid or NS-2/NS-3.
Yes — chain noise indicates chain stretch or pulley wear. Stop driving and have it inspected. Continued driving accelerates damage significantly.
Free diagnostic, written estimate, lifetime warranty. Chicago's TR580 rebuild specialists since 1987.
