2017 Subaru Crosstrek Fluid Specs: A Complete Guide

Quick Reference Fluid Chart: 2017 Subaru Crosstrek

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity (Approximate)
Engine Oil	0W-20 Synthetic, API SN / ILSAC GF-5	5.1 quarts (4.8L)
Engine Coolant	Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)	7.6 - 7.7 quarts (7.2 - 7.3L)
Automatic Transmission	Subaru Lineartronic CVTF (P/N K0425Y0711)	12.9 quarts (12.2L) - Full Rebuild
Manual Transmission	75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil	3.5 quarts (3.3L)
Front Differential	(Same as transmission fluid)	1.4 - 1.5 quarts (1.3 - 1.4L) (MT only)
Rear Differential	75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil	0.8 quarts (0.76L)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4 FMVSS No. 116	As needed
Power Steering	None (Electric Power Steering)	N/A
Windshield Washer	-	4.2 quarts (4.0L)

Engine Oil

The heart of your Crosstrek is its FB20 2.0L Boxer engine, and the correct oil is non-negotiable for its health and longevity. Subaru specifies a SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil. This low-viscosity oil is critical for proper lubrication on startup, for the variable valve timing (AVCS) system to function correctly, and for achieving the expected fuel economy.

Look for bottles with the API "Starburst" certification mark, ensuring the oil meets or exceeds API Service SN or the ILSAC GF-5 standard. Using a high-quality full synthetic 0W-20 from a reputable brand will provide the best protection against wear and deposits. The oil change interval is typically every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Given the direct-injection nature of this engine, skimping on oil quality or extending intervals is not recommended.

The oil filter and crush gasket for the drain plug should be replaced at every oil change. The approximate fill capacity is 5.1 quarts (4.8L), but always verify with the dipstick after filling.

Engine Coolant

Subaru uses a specific blue-colored, long-life coolant called Subaru Super Coolant. This is a high-quality Phosphated Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (P-HOAT) coolant. It is essential not to mix this with other coolant types or colors (like green IAT or orange/red OAT), as this can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages, overheating, and costly damage to the radiator and heater core.

If you need to top off the system, use only pre-mixed Subaru Super Coolant or a compatible P-HOAT coolant (though using the OEM fluid is the safest bet). The initial factory fill is designed to last for over 10 years or 100,000+ miles, but subsequent changes are recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Total system capacity is approximately 7.6 quarts (7.2L). When servicing, always use distilled water if you are mixing from a concentrate.

Transmission Fluid

Fluid requirements for the 2017 Crosstrek depend entirely on the transmission type.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

If your Crosstrek is an automatic, it’s equipped with a Lineartronic CVT. This transmission does not use traditional ATF. You must use Subaru Lineartronic CVTF (Part No. K0425Y0711 or equivalent). Using any other type of ATF, multi-vehicle ATF, or even a different type of CVTF will cause irreversible damage to the transmission's internal belt and pulley system. While some sources may call this a "lifetime" fluid, experienced technicians recommend a drain and fill between 60,000 and 100,000 miles to ensure maximum transmission life. A full system flush or rebuild requires about 12.9 quarts, but a typical drain-and-fill procedure will replace a smaller amount.

Manual Transmission

For the 5-speed manual transmission, the requirement is a standard API GL-5 75W-90 gear oil. This fluid lubricates the gears, bearings, and synchronizers. The capacity is 3.5 quarts (3.3L). Check for leaks and inspect the fluid level periodically, with a fluid change recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles depending on driving conditions.

Differential & Transfer Case Fluid

As an all-wheel-drive vehicle, the Crosstrek has both front and rear differentials that require service.

• Front Differential (and Transfer Case): The fluid here is shared with the transaxle. For CVT models, it is lubricated by the Lineartronic CVTF. For manual transmission models, the front differential and transfer unit use API GL-5 75W-90 gear oil with a capacity of about 1.4-1.5 quarts.

• Rear Differential: The rear differential is a separate unit. It requires API GL-5 75W-90 gear oil. The capacity is small, at just 0.8 quarts (0.76L). It's a commonly overlooked service item, but the fluid should be inspected every 30,000 miles and changed as needed. Because the capacity is so low, it’s an inexpensive and crucial maintenance task to prevent premature wear.

Brake Fluid

The hydraulic brake system requires DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid that conforms to standard FMVSS No. 116. While DOT 4 has a higher boiling point, either is acceptable. The most critical point is that brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the boiling point (risking a soft or failing pedal under hard braking) and causes internal corrosion in the brake lines, calipers, and ABS module. For this reason, a full brake fluid flush is recommended every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage. When topping off or flushing, use fluid from a freshly opened container.

Power Steering Fluid & Other Fluids

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS). The steering rack uses an electric motor for assistance instead of a hydraulic pump. Therefore, it does not use any power steering fluid, and there is no reservoir to check or fluid to change.

• Windshield Washer Fluid: Use any standard automotive windshield washer fluid. In colder climates, switch to a winter blend with a lower freezing point to prevent frozen lines and nozzles. The reservoir holds approximately 4.2 quarts (4.0L).

• A/C Refrigerant: The air conditioning system is filled with R-134a refrigerant. Servicing the A/C system should be left to a professional with a certified recovery and recycling machine.

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