Subaru TR690 Lineartronic CVT (Second Generation) · Subaru · Expert rebuild service since 1987. Lifetime warranty. Free diagnostic.
2015–present Subaru Outback (2.5L/3.6L), 2015–present Subaru Forester (2.5L), 2015–present Subaru Legacy (2.5L/3.6L), 2015–present Subaru Impreza (2.0L)
| Configuration | CVT — Lineartronic 2nd generation (improved chain and ratio range) |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratios | Ratio range approximately 2.63:1 (low) to 0.38:1 (high) |
| Fluid Type | Subaru CVTF-II (Idemitsu CVTF) |
| Fluid Capacity | 8.0 qts total, 3.8 qts service refill |
The TR690 improved on TR580 reliability, but chain wear still occurs at extended fluid intervals. V6 3.6L applications experience faster chain wear.
Symptoms: Chain noise, slip under acceleration, DTC P0868, vibration
Cold-start shudder in the first 1–2 minutes after startup is a TR690 complaint addressed by Subaru TSBs. CVTF-II freshness is a factor.
Symptoms: Shudder when first moving in the morning, subsides after warm-up, DTC sometimes absent
Varnish from neglected CVTF-II causes solenoid sticking, affecting ratio modulation.
Symptoms: Ratio hunting, fuel economy drop, hesitation during acceleration
TR690 rebuild replaces chain set (improved spec), pulleys, solenoid body, and all seals. CVTF-II used. All O-rings and thrust washers renewed.
Subaru CVTF-II every 25,000 miles. Cold-weather Chicago drivers should allow extra warm-up time. Check for applicable Subaru TSBs for startup shudder before authorizing mechanical service.
The TR690 is the improved second-generation Lineartronic with better chain design and wider ratio range. It's more durable than the TR580 but still requires regular CVTF-II service.
2015+ Outback, Forester, Legacy, and Impreza with 2.0/2.5/3.6L engines.
A full rebuild ranges $2,500–$3,200 at Chicago Transmission.
Cold-start shudder is a known TR690 issue. Check for Subaru TSBs — a fresh CVTF-II fluid service often resolves it.
With CVTF-II every 25,000 miles, TR690 units commonly reach 150,000–200,000 miles.
Free diagnostic, written estimate, lifetime warranty. Chicago's TR690 rebuild specialists since 1987.
