2016 Subaru Forester Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

When you are digging into the powertrain specifications of the 2016 Subaru Forester, understanding the transmission and axle gear ratios is crucial. Whether you are looking to squeeze every last drop of fuel economy out of your daily commute, or you need to know exactly how your Forester will handle steep mountain passes and light towing, the gear ratios tell the true mechanical story.

The 2016 Forester was offered with two main engine choices: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter flat-four and a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four in the XT trims. Depending on the engine and trim, buyers could get a 6-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Below is a comprehensive guide to the transmission and axle ratios for the 2016 Subaru Forester.

Transmission gear ratios

Subaru offered three distinct transmission setups for the 2016 Forester. The 2.5i base and Premium trims came standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. A Lineartronic CVT was optional on those trims and standard on higher 2.5i trims. The high-performance 2.0XT models received a specialized High-Torque Lineartronic CVT designed to handle the extra turbo boost.

Here are the internal gear ratios for each transmission option.

6-Speed Manual Transmission (2.5i and 2.5i Premium)

Lineartronic CVT (2.5i Models) Note: As a continuously variable transmission, the CVT operates on a spectrum of ratios rather than fixed gears, though it does feature simulated "steps" in manual mode.

High-Torque Lineartronic CVT (2.0XT Models)

Available axle ratios

Because Subaru utilizes its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, the front and rear differential ratios (axle ratios or final drive ratios) must match perfectly. The axle ratio chosen by Subaru's engineers for each configuration is tailored to the power band of the engine and the type of transmission used.

How to identify your axle ratio

Unlike trucks from domestic manufacturers (which use door-jamb RPO stickers for GM or axle tags for Ford/Ram), Subaru models typically do not have a dedicated axle code listed on the door jamb. Because Subarus come with standard axle ratios tied directly to the engine and transmission combination, identifying your ratio is quite straightforward:

1. Check your engine and transmission: The easiest way to know your final drive ratio on a 2016 Forester is to look at your shifter and your engine. If it’s a manual, you have the 4.444 ratio. If it's a non-turbo 2.5L CVT, you have the 3.700 ratio. If you have the turbocharged 2.0XT, you have the 4.111 ratio.
2. VIN Decoder: Running your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through a Subaru VIN decoder or dealership parts department will instantly verify your exact powertrain configuration, ensuring you buy the correct differential or transmission replacement parts if needed.
3. Transmission Code Tag: You can also look for the transmission identification tag located under the hood on the bell housing. This code can be referenced in a Subaru service manual to confirm the internal final drive.

Towing vs MPG impact

The relationship between your axle ratio and your vehicle's performance is a delicate balancing act.

A numerically lower ratio (like the 3.700 found in the 2.5i CVT models) is often referred to as a "tall" gear. This allows the engine to run at lower RPMs while maintaining highway speeds, which significantly improves fuel economy (MPG). However, it sacrifices some off-the-line grunt.

A numerically higher ratio (like the 4.444 in the manual Forester or the 4.111 in the XT) is known as a "short" gear. This multiplies the engine's torque more effectively, making it better for acceleration, passing power, climbing steep hills, and light towing. The trade-off is that the engine spins faster at highway speeds, resulting in increased fuel consumption and higher engine noise. (Note: The 2016 Forester has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs across all trims).

Common issues

While the 2016 Subaru Forester’s drivetrain is generally robust, high-mileage examples or those subjected to harsh conditions can develop some known issues:

• CVT Judder or Failure: The Lineartronic CVTs have been known to experience chain slip, valve body failures, or torque converter issues, often manifesting as a judder or hesitation when accelerating. Subaru extended the warranty on many of these CVTs due to these concerns.
• Rear Differential Whine: A persistent whining noise from the rear of the vehicle that changes pitch with vehicle speed often points to wear on the ring & pinion gears or the pinion bearings. Regular differential fluid changes are critical to preventing this.
• Carrier Bearing Wear: The driveshaft connecting the transmission to the rear differential uses a center carrier bearing. Over time, the rubber surrounding this bearing can tear, leading to a clunking noise or vibration under the center console during acceleration.

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