P0700 on Subaru: How to Diagnose & Fix
Transmission Control System Malfunction
5 Subaru models · 8 documented issues · 7 critical · $200-$9,000 repair
P0700 on Subaru by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Lineartronic CVT can develop shudder, hesitation, or jerky operation, especially during light acceleration at low speeds. Subaru has updated CVT software multiple times to address these concerns.
Common Symptoms
- Shudder during light acceleration
- Hesitation from stop
- Jerky operation at low speeds
- CVT whine or noise
- Delayed engagement
How to Fix
Have dealer update CVT software to latest version. CVT fluid change may help. In severe cases, valve body or CVT replacement may be needed. Subaru extended CVT warranty on some vehicles.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Subaru Outback forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
Sources for this issue (2)
Early Lineartronic CVT Outbacks (2010-2015) have documented internal CVT failures — most commonly valve-body faults, but also chain/pulley and pressure-control problems — that can cause harsh or delayed engagement, RPM flare, jerking, limp mode, or complete loss of drive. Subaru extended the CVT powertrain warranty to 10 years / 100,000 miles on 2010-2015 Legacy/Outback 2.5L CVT and 2015 3.6L CVT models (and related models) under bulletin 16-107-17R, while stating the extension was not in response to a specific condition. A revised/upgraded valve body is installed at repair. This is separate from the low-speed torque-converter shudder complaint; here the transmission can set fault codes and go into failsafe. Out of warranty, a full CVT replacement is a multi-thousand-dollar repair.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or delayed engagement into gear
- RPM flare / slipping under acceleration
- Jerking or shuddering
- Transmission warning light / limp mode
- Whining or loss of drive
How to Fix
If you experience harsh/delayed engagement, flaring, jerking, or a transmission warning, scan for CVT codes and get it evaluated quickly. First verify the vehicle is within (or was serviced under) the 10-year/100,000-mile CVT Warranty Extension — if so the valve-body or CVT repair should be free; escalate to Subaru of America if a dealer initially denies coverage, since owners report success on valve-body claims. Keep CVT fluid at the correct level/spec and address any leaks promptly, as low pressure accelerates valve-body wear. Out of warranty, a rebuilt/updated valve body is far cheaper than a complete CVT unit — get a diagnosis of the specific failed component before authorizing a full replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Subaru 31706AA331 CVT Control Valve Body
early CVT valve body only after TCM diagnosis proves the valve-body fault Fitment/availability: 2010-2012 Outback 2.5-liter EJ253 CVT branch; confirm VIN and production date Fitment/availability: ships in 1-2 business days with Add to Ca…
- Genuine Subaru 31825AA055 CVT Control Valve Kit
later 2.5-liter CVT valve body only after TCM diagnosis proves the fault Fitment/availability: 2013-2015 Outback 2.5-liter FB25 CVT branch; current supersession of 31825AA050-054, confirm VIN Fitment/availability: Add to Cart live when r…
- Genuine Subaru 31706AA144 High-Torque CVT Control Valve Body
2015 3.6R high-torque CVT valve body after exact diagnosis and VIN selection Fitment/availability: 2015 Outback 3.6R CVT branch within this card; current supersession of production-specific 31706AA140/141, confirm VIN Fitment/availabilit…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (3)
The Ascent's high-torque Lineartronic CVT (TR690) paired with the 2.4L turbo FA24 engine exhibits hesitation from stops, harsh engagement when shifting from Park to Drive/Reverse, and surging at low speeds. The TR690 CVT must handle significantly more torque than the TR580 used in Subaru's non-turbo models, leading to durability concerns. Multiple TSBs have addressed calibration issues. Some owners report complete CVT failure under 60,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- 1-2 second hesitation when accelerating from a stop
- Harsh thunk when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse
- Surging or bucking at low speeds in parking lots
- Shuddering during light acceleration at 25-40 mph
- Transmission warning light
- Burning smell from transmission area
How to Fix
Have dealer apply latest TCM software calibration (multiple TSBs released). Perform CVT fluid drain and refill with the CVT fluid Subaru specifies for the Ascent (TR690) - note this is different from the standard CVTF-II (SOA427V1660) used in TR580 units. If hesitation persists after software update, valve body replacement may be needed. For complete failure, Subaru reman CVT is available. In June 2025 Subaru extended CVT coverage on 2019-2020 Ascents to 10 years/100,000 miles, with reimbursement for earlier paid repairs; later Ascents carry the standard 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (3)
The Ascent's TR690 high-torque CVT develops valve body faults that cause erratic shifting, harsh engagement, and transmission warning lights. The valve body controls hydraulic pressure to the CVT pulleys and chain; on these units the line pressure sensor O-ring in the valve body can leak, causing abnormal pressure readings (DTC P0841/P0842), and the transmission cannot maintain proper ratio control. This is a hardware failure rather than a calibration issue.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission warning light illuminated
- Harsh thud when shifting from Park to Drive
- CVT slipping or flaring RPMs under load
- Shuddering at highway speeds
- Vehicle going into limp mode (limited to low speeds)
- Burning fluid smell
How to Fix
Diagnose with dealer scan tool to confirm P0841/P0842 line pressure sensor faults; Subaru TSB 16-157-26 directs technicians to the enhanced P0841 diagnostic tree and supplies a redesigned valve body (31706AA164 for 2019-23, 31706AA253 for 2024-25) with an improved sensor O-ring. Valve body replacement resolves the issue in most cases — this is a less expensive repair than full CVT replacement. If the CVT has been operated with a failed valve body for an extended period, internal damage may necessitate full CVT replacement. Covered under Subaru's powertrain warranty (5yr/60k) or applicable emission warranty when in period.
Sources for this issue (3)
A TCU programming error allows the Lineartronic CVT to engage before the drive chain is fully secured, causing chain slippage that fragments the chain guide. Owners report shudder, hesitation, irregular noises and MIL illumination; in worst cases chain breakage causes loss of motive power. This superseded the earlier WUV-07 recall and is the basis for the April 2024 class-action settlement covering 2019-2020 Ascents.
Common Symptoms
- shudder on acceleration
- hesitation
- whining or rattling from CVT
- CEL/MIL illuminated
- loss of forward propulsion
- P0700 / P2820-type codes
How to Fix
Verify recall WRK-21 / 21V-955 is completed at a Subaru dealer (free TCU reprogram, chain-slip data inspection, visual chain-guide inspection, and replacement of the CVT with a cooler flush if slippage or guide damage is found). Where the CVT is not replaced, the recall extends CVT coverage for chain slip to 10yr/100k. Class-action settlement (final approval April 18, 2024) extends powertrain warranty to 8yr/100k for affected VINs and provides reimbursement vouchers ($400-$750) for prior repair attempts.
Sources for this issue (5)
- Subaru Product Campaign Bulletin WRK-21/22R - CVT Chain Guide Breakage (NHTSA copy)manufacturer
- NHTSA Recall 21V-955 Part 573 Safety Recall Reportrecall
- NHTSA Recall 21V-955 / WRK-21 CVT Chain Guide Breakagerecall
- RECALL: WRK21 / NHTSA 21V955000 - Ascent CVT Chain Guide Breakageforum
- Subaru Ascent CVT Lawsuit Settlement Informationarticle
The Lineartronic CVT (TR580) used in Crosstreks develops chain stretch over time, typically between 80,000-130,000 miles. The stretched chain causes slippage, resulting in judder during light acceleration, particularly between 20-45 mph. The issue worsens in cold weather and uphill conditions. Subaru extended CVT coverage on 2013-2015 Crosstreks to 10 years/100,000 miles under service bulletin 16-107-17R and released multiple software calibration updates. In severe cases, the CVT requires complete replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Juddering or shaking during light acceleration at 20-45 mph
- Slipping sensation when climbing hills
- Delayed response when pressing accelerator
- Whining noise from transmission that increases with speed
- Check Engine Light with CVT-related codes (P0700, P2764)
How to Fix
Start with CVT fluid drain and refill using Subaru CVT Fluid Lineartronic II (SOA427V1700). Have dealer apply latest transmission control module software update. If judder persists, valve body replacement may resolve the issue. For severe chain stretch, full CVT replacement is needed (Subaru reman unit available). Verify if covered under Subaru's CVT warranty extension (bulletin 16-107-17R: 2013-2015 Crosstrek, 10 years/100,000 miles from the original warranty start date).
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (6)
- Subaru Bulletin 16-107-17R: CVT Warranty Extension to 10 Years/100,000 Milestsb
- Subaru Transmission Warranty Extension (CarComplaints)article
- CVT Chain Snapped Crosstrek - Subaru Crosstrek and XV Forumsforum
- Buying a 2013 Crosstrek XV CVT break - Subaru Crosstrek and XV Forumsforum
- CVT chain broke - Subaru Outback Forumsforum
- Subaru Crosstrek Transmission Problems TR580 - Cherish Your Carmedia
P0700 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0700 mean on a Subaru?
P0700 stands for "Transmission Control System Malfunction." P0700 is a general code indicating the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a fault somewhere in the transmission control system and has requested the check engine light be turned on. By itself it doesn't pinpoint the problem — it's an 'umbrella' code that tells you to look for additional, more specific transmission codes stored alongside it. The actual fault could be electrical, a sensor, a solenoid, or an internal transmission issue. You may notice harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or the transmission going into a protective 'limp' mode. On Subaru it is documented across 5 models: Outback, Ascent, Crosstrek, Legacy, Impreza.
What are the most common causes of P0700?
The most common causes of P0700 are: Stored companion transmission codes pointing to the real fault, Faulty shift solenoid or pressure control solenoid, Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty transmission speed or input/output sensor, Wiring, connector, or ground problems at the transmission, Failing transmission control module (TCM), Internal transmission mechanical wear or clutch problems, Valve body fault or sticking valves. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0700 on a Subaru?
Published repair estimates on Subaru range from $200 to $9,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.