LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Subaru >> 2009 >> Outback Limited >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Transmission >> Automatic Trans >> Automatic Transmission 4AT >> Automatic Transmission Fluid >> Inspection
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Inspection

NOTE: The level of ATF varies with fluid temperature. Pay attention to the ATF temperature when checking ATF level.
  1. Raise the ATF temperature by driving a distance of 5 -10 km (3 - 6 miles). Otherwise, idle the engine to raise ATF temperature to 70 - 80°C (158 - 176°F) on Subaru Select Monitor. Refer to READ CURRENT DATA , OPERATION, Subaru Select Monitor.
  2. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
  3. After selecting all positions (P, R, N, D), set the select lever in "P" range. Idle the engine for 1 or 2 minutes, and measure the ATF level.
    Fig 1: Identifying Upper And Lower Level On ATF Level Surface
    G06337126Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Make sure that the ATF level is higher than mid level between the upper and lower marks of the HOT side. If the fluid level is below the lower mark, check the transmission for leaks. If there are leaks, it is necessary to repair or replace gaskets, oil seals, plugs or other parts.
  5. If the ATF level is below the center point between upper and lower level marks, add the recommended ATF until the fluid level is above the center point between the upper and lower level marks.
    CAUTION:
    • Be careful not to exceed the upper level.
    • Be wary of the ATF level when filling. If the ATF is filled to the upper level while the transmission is cold, it is in an overfilled condition and the oil will over flow.
  6. Check ATF level after raising ATF temperature to 70 - 80°C (158 - 176°F) by running the vehicle again or by idling the engine.