2021 Subaru Crosstrek Fluid Type Specifications

Fluid Type Specifications for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	0W-20, API SN Plus or SP, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6	4.2 US quarts (with filter)
Engine Coolant	Subaru Super Coolant (Blue, Long-Life OAT)	7.3 US quarts (manual trans), 6.9 US quarts (CVT)
Transmission Fluid (CVT)	Subaru CVTF-II (Lineartronic CVTF-II)	12.9 US quarts (total fill, consult owner's manual for drain/fill)
Front Differential	API GL-5, SAE 75W-90	1.4 US quarts
Rear Differential	API GL-5, SAE 75W-90	0.8 US quarts
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	Consult owner's manual for exact capacity
Power Steering Fluid	Electric Power Steering (No fluid required)	N/A
Washer Fluid	Standard Windshield Washer Fluid	1.3 US quarts (approx.)

Engine Oil

For your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, the factory-recommended engine oil is a 0W-20 viscosity, meeting API SN Plus or SP and ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6 specifications. Subaru specifically designs its engines to run optimally with this thinner oil, which contributes to fuel efficiency and proper operation of variable valve timing systems.

• Capacity: Approximately 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with a filter change. Always verify the level with the dipstick after filling and running the engine for a short period.
• Interval: Subaru recommends oil changes every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. For severe driving conditions (e.g., frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, dusty roads), more frequent changes may be necessary.
• Pitfalls: Using an incorrect oil viscosity or specification can lead to reduced fuel economy, increased engine wear, and potential issues with the engine's emissions control systems. Never use an oil that does not meet the specified API and ILSAC standards.

Engine Coolant

Your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek uses Subaru Super Coolant, which is a blue-colored, long-life Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. This coolant is formulated to provide extended protection against corrosion and freezing/boiling.

• Capacity: Approximately 7.3 US quarts (6.9 liters) for manual transmission models and 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) for CVT models. Total capacity may vary slightly, always refer to your owner's manual.
• Interval: Subaru Super Coolant is designed for extended service intervals, typically 137,500 miles or 11 years for the first replacement, and then every 75,000 miles or 6 years thereafter. However, it's good practice to check coolant levels regularly.
• Pitfalls: Mixing different types of coolants (e.g., OAT with HOAT or IAT coolants) can lead to chemical incompatibilities, gelling, reduced corrosion protection, and potential damage to the cooling system. Always use genuine Subaru Super Coolant or an equivalent long-life OAT coolant that meets Subaru's specifications.

Transmission Fluid (CVT)

If your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is equipped with the Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), it requires Subaru CVTF-II (Lineartronic CVTF-II). This is a highly specialized fluid critical for the proper operation and longevity of the CVT.

• Capacity: The total system capacity is approximately 12.9 US quarts (12.2 liters). However, a typical drain and fill will only replace a portion of this. It is crucial to consult your owner's manual or an authorized Subaru service center for the correct drain and fill procedure and capacity, as proper fluid level is critical.
• Interval: Subaru generally considers the CVTF to be a "lifetime" fluid under normal driving conditions, but many technicians and enthusiasts recommend inspecting or changing the fluid around 60,000 to 90,000 miles, especially if you engage in heavy towing, frequent off-road driving, or stop-and-go traffic. Always refer to the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual.
• Pitfalls: Using any fluid other than Subaru CVTF-II can cause severe damage to the CVT, leading to costly repairs. Never use generic or "universal" ATF/CVTF in a Subaru Lineartronic CVT.

Front Differential Fluid

For the front differential, your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek requires a gear oil meeting API GL-5 specification with an SAE 75W-90 viscosity.

• Capacity: Approximately 1.4 US quarts (1.3 liters).
• Interval: Typically, differential fluid is recommended for inspection every 30,000 miles and replacement every 30,000 miles or more frequently under severe driving conditions.
• Pitfalls: Using an incorrect viscosity or fluid not meeting the GL-5 specification can lead to premature wear of differential components. Some limited-slip differentials require friction modifiers, but the Crosstrek's open differentials do not.

Rear Differential Fluid

The rear differential in your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek also uses a gear oil meeting API GL-5 specification with an SAE 75W-90 viscosity.

• Capacity: Approximately 0.8 US quarts (0.75 liters).
• Interval: Similar to the front differential, inspection every 30,000 miles and replacement every 30,000 miles or more often for severe use.
• Pitfalls: Ensure the fluid meets API GL-5 and is the correct 75W-90 viscosity to prevent excessive wear and potential damage.

Brake Fluid

Your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek uses DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 has a higher wet and dry boiling point than DOT 3, offering a slight performance advantage, especially under demanding braking conditions. However, both are compatible.

• Capacity: Consult your owner's manual for the exact capacity, but a typical brake fluid flush will require around 1 liter.
• Interval: Brake fluid should be routinely inspected and is generally recommended for replacement every 30,000 miles or every 2-3 years, as it is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture over time, reducing its boiling point and effectiveness.
• Pitfalls: Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) brake fluid, as it is incompatible with systems designed for DOT 3/4 and can cause severe damage to seals and ABS components. Always use new fluid from a sealed container, as brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is equipped with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, which means it does not use hydraulic fluid. Therefore, no power steering fluid maintenance is required.

Washer Fluid

Standard windshield washer fluid is suitable for your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek.

• Capacity: The washer fluid reservoir holds approximately 1.3 US quarts (1.2 liters).
• Interval: Fill as needed.
• Pitfalls: In colder climates, ensure you use a washer fluid designed for freezing temperatures to prevent the fluid from freezing in the reservoir, lines, or nozzles.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is not offered with a diesel engine in the North American market, thus Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is not applicable to this vehicle.

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