TJB63

Hi, first post here but owner of a 2014 Outback 2.0D for 2.5 years and I really like this car. Mileage currently about 126k, took it on with 99k with a brand new genuine DPF, which eased my pre acquisition concerns, however, when I booked it in for the 100k service with the then main dealer, I was informed that the CVT was “sealed for life” and they would not undertake my request that they do so. Enter post acquisition concerns, especially as under hard acceleration, the revs would very occasionally hold onto the high (4000 rpm x it’s a diesel!). Fast forward 2.5 years and in the meantime, original area main dealer closes and after a year or so, Crayford & Abbs, a north Norfolk main dealer for several brands are appointed as Subaru dealers and open new premises with showroom and workshop. On my last visit towards the end of March for an MoT and sorting the stuck closed sunroof, I casually enquired about their approach to the “sealed for life” CVT position and delighted to hear that yes, they would do this, they’ve done a few already, with only one where they were unable to remove the drain plug and the service includes a new filter and quoted me £388 (IIRC) plus vat. Booking was made for mid April and following a delay of a day due to Subaru sending the incorrect oil (they’re explanation) - they had the car for 3 days in total, which given the nature of the liquid gasket for the sump pan, they told me it enabled them to leave it to cure overnight. Meanwhile, I was enjoying but becoming increasingly annoyed by the 2026 Outback demonstrator/service car and its incessant need to bing and bong at me. Now, two weeks in and having driven about 2,000 miles, I can report that the new oil and filter have improved the performance of the CVT enormously; no longer reluctant to “change down”, the progression through the rev range and drops are way smoother, overall, the system feels much happier, as, am I. Crayford & Abbs, North Walsham, Norfolk. I do not work for them or have any connection with them apart from being a very satisfied customer, they’ve done every service from 100k at a cost that I’m prepared to pay and less than I was expecting from a main dealer. Excellent service too, always offered and accepted a service car, which is generally one of their demo models, more importantly, CVT oil and filter change with main dealer back up and software to update the “brain”. Highly recommended.