Curious question about A/Ts

[HillbillyLes]

Since I'm looking for an SVX (seems like they are all in the east-northeast per e-bay...haven't even found a salesman in MO who is familiar with what they are) I've been doing some research on what to look for when shopping, reliability issues, maint costs, etc. Apparently there are some real issues with the A/T in the SVX, especially pertaining to heat vs. tranny life.

 

I understand that the SVX uses the same A/T as the Legacy, WRX, Forrester, etc. Do these other models have the same issues and if not, why not?

 

I know the newer model trannies (94-97) had some reliability updates, at least in the SVX but the A/T still seems to be probably the weakest (and most expensive to resolve) link, even in the newer ones.

 

Also, the wheel bearings and brake rotors seem to be areas of concern, too. Did Subaru eventually design a heavier update or will a newer part retrofit with more reliability, say WRX STi, Forester, or Outback? I think the issue with these related to the design of these being to weak/small to hold up the the weight of the car reliabily for long term.

 

Just thought I'd pose the questions to see if anybody knew.....I've visited the SVX site and they talk a lot about replacing and repairing but haven't heard anyone ask why the tranny issue, at least from my experience, seems to be isolated to the SVX. Nor have I seen anyone ask about retrofiting wheel bearings or discs from something current.....

 

Les

[Setright]

The SVX is heavy. That really covers both tranny and brake questions.

 

The best solution would be to increase the volume and cooling of the tranny fluid, and fit some Mintex brake pads. M1155 should be the ticket for such a heavy car. M1144 if you live in a cold climate. Both these brake materials last a long time, so don't worry about the price. New discs are a must.

 

You could also fit better discs. EBC discs aren't bad, and not too expensive over stock. Just stay away from EBC pads. They are useless.

 

Oh, Ferodo pads are very good too. And the are less likely to squeal compared to Mintex. Although proper fitment is essential to avoid this with any pad.

 

Bigger brake kits are overrated for road going cars. Plus they just add even further to the weight of the car!

[gbhrps]

From my own experience and from what I've followed on this forum, there aren't a great deal of problems with Subaru automatic transmissions. Since you say that all models including the SVX used the same tranny, and only the SVX had a history of problems, Setright is probably right on the money by suggesting that the SVX's weight is one of the problems. As well, the added horsepower of the 2 extra cylinders wouldn't help either. During the SVX's build dates it was the only 6 cylinder sharing a tranny with all of the fours. Now that its not built any more (SVX), and Subaru has added turbos and 6 cylinders to several cars in its lineup, I'd be willing to bet that its strengthened its trannies to cope with the added horsepower accordingly. This is all just speculation on my part. I've had to replace one wheel bearing in 300 000 km of Subaru ownership, not unexpected, not a big deal. I've never had a brake issue concerning rotors or pads, since twice a year I pull all the pads, clean everything, and lube the sliding points and pins myself. Again, not a big deal, you can do it all yourself in a lazy afternoon. Hope this is of some help, and if anyone can add something I've overlooked, please jump in.