Automatic Transmission Fluid; Checking The Fluid Level - Subaru 2004 Forester Owner's Manual

-30 -20 -10 0 10
-20 0 20 40 60
85W
80W
75W/90
SAE viscosity No. and Applicable Temperature
20 30 40
80 100
90
HSB036BA

Automatic transmission fluid

Checking the fluid level

The automatic transmission fluid expands largely as
its temperature rises; the fluid level differs according to
fluid temperature. Therefore, there are two different
scales for checking the level of hot fluid and cold fluid
on the dipstick.
Though the fluid level can be checked without warm-
ing up the fluid on the "COLD" range, we recommend
checking the fluid level when the fluid is at operating
temperature.
Checking the fluid level when the fluid is hot
Check the fluid level monthly.
1. Drive the vehicle several miles to raise the temper-
ature of the transmission fluid up to normal operating
temperature; 154 to 176° F (70 to 80° C) is normal.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the park-
ing brake.
3. First shift the selector lever in each position. Then
shift it in the "P" position, and run the engine at idling
speed.
Maintenance and service
– CONTINUED –
11-27