Maintenance Time.

[Mike193]

So, I hit 30k miles, and after doing research I see its suggested I change transmission fluid.

My question is, is this a project I should easily be able to tackle myself, or should I bring it to a shop.

[SD_GR]

It's required, not suggested. There are DIY how-to threads about. If you DIY use the correct spec geal oil, buy a factory washer for the drain in the gear box, consider a silicone sealant for the rear diff plug, and keep ALL dated receipts. See DIY thread.

[speedtown]

it's seriously required at 30k? if didn't have the warranty still I'd def push it off. Well at least it's a good time to upgrade the fluid. Of course I'm going to hit 30k in the middle of winter, just great!

[SD_GR]

Check your manual to be sure of the interval. Mine has "R" not "I".

[shadowpr]

it's easy to do. just buy some subaru trans fluid (extra-s)

i ddin't notice a washer on mine, but i used some gasket sealer on the threads for both the trans and rear diff.

i suggest you buy a length of clear hose to do the rear diff, and have someone there to help you pour it in while you hold the hose in the hole. and go slow.

the trans itself is really easy. easier than an oil change.

you will need a t-70 socket though.

[SD_GR]

One thing that can't be overemphasized I think is, when doing the rear diff, remove the FILL bolt first. DO NOT REMOVE THE DRAIN BOLT FIRST.

[Heide264]

One thing that can't be overemphasized I think is, when doing the rear diff, remove the FILL bolt first. DO NOT REMOVE THE DRAIN BOLT FIRST.

Is this in case the top bolt is stuck or for venting reasons?

[EJ257]

Is this in case the top bolt is stuck or for venting reasons?

So you don't get stuck with an empty diff, unable to refill it.

[Heide264]

So you don't get stuck with an empty diff, unable to refill it.

Yup... so to make sure the bolt isn't stuck. That would be frustrating.

[Sasquatch]

One thing that can't be overemphasized I think is, when doing the rear diff, remove the FILL bolt first. DO NOT REMOVE THE DRAIN BOLT FIRST.

Oh. Never did that. Great advice.

So you don't get stuck with an empty diff, unable to refill it.

I was always able to get both off rather easily.

[EJ257]

I was always able to get both off rather easily.

:giggity:

Not everyone has Bigfoot strength.

[Sasquatch]

:giggle: at :giggity:

A 22" breaker bar makes it easy enough.

[UEDan]

A 22" breaker bar almost rounded my top bolt =(

[EJ257]

A 22" breaker bar makes it easy enough.

Where that is insufficient, add a jack handle to the mix.

[SD_GR]

Yes it's so you don't end up with an immobile car and a stuck fill bolt. Sure it's 1:1000 that'll happen, but there's always that 1000th time and I don't want to be a statistic.