Subaru Outback Manuals 2012 Outback Owner's Manual | Page 393

Maintenance and service 11-21 Drive belts Manual transmission oil Automatic transmission fluid It is unnecessary to check the deflection of the drive belt periodically because your engine is equipped with an automatic belt tension adjuster. However, replacement of the belt should be done according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Consult your SUBARU dealer for replacement. If the belt is loose, cracked or worn, contact your SUBARU dealer. It is unnecessary to check the manual transmission oil level. However, if neces- sary, consult your SUBARU dealer for inspection. & Checking the fluid level & Recommended grade and viscosity 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 level gauge. Each oil manufacturer has its own base oils and additives. Never use different brands together. For details, refer to “Manual transmission, front differential and rear differential gear oil” F12-7. Though the fluid level can be checked without warming 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 temperature of the transmission fluid up to normal operating temperature; 158 to 1768F (70 to 808C) is normal. 2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake. 3. First shift the select lever in each position. Then shift it in the “P” position, and run the engine at idling speed. – CONTINUED –