Fluid Change in GFs Legacy

[HLxDrummer]

My GF's 2008 Legacy is almost at 70K so it is probably time for the 60K maintenance. Includes brake fluid, coolant, and plugs.

I don't think I need to replace the wires but what about the F/R diffs and automatic tranny fluid? The manual says you never have to change those fluids. I wouldn't mind doing it just to be safe (hoping to make the car last a long time) but if it really isn't needed then I will save the money and time (I am under a time crunch with school).

If I replace the trans fluid then should I do the filter? Strainer?

It also says not to worry about the fuel filter which I thought was strange. Guess if it starts running shitty someday then I'll look at it lol

[DocWalt]

Fuel filters on modern cars shouldn't need changed. Same for automatic trans fluid. I'd definitely replace the fluid in the diffs though, and check out nasioc or something for info about the trans side of things.

[HLxDrummer]

I decided to just do all the drivetrain fluids to be safe. They haven't been changed yet so I may as well (so the plugs don't seize AND to actually change everything lol). Cost $500 at the dealership to get brake fluid, plugs, and coolant done before. Spent $240 to do air filter, engine oil, trans oil, F/R diff oil, brake fluid, and plugs this time doing it myself.

[donniekak]

Does the transmission even have a drain plug? Make sure before you buy everything. Some of the newer no service automatics don't have a drain plug.

[ItTricky]

^^^ what he said, basically if it doesn't have a dipstick for the trans its "sealed" and should only be serviced by the dealer, I hate when one of those damn things comes into work, i lose money lol

[HLxDrummer]

Good tips, guys. It does have a dipstick and in the manual it says how to drain it so I should be good. Even has an external oil filter

[VR4Rob]

There are no wires, the ignition is coil on plug. Be patient doing the plugs. IMO it's worse than a 3/S plug change, especially with the driver's side rear cylinder. LegacyGT.com is the best source of info on those cars.

~4 years, 80K miles of Legacy GT 5MT wagon ownership

[HLxDrummer]

She actually has the 2.5L non turbo so it had wires. I would love a LGT 5 speed wagon for a DD!

The dealership said the AT had a external filter do I bought one.. Got under the car and didn't see anything. There is a block off plate covering what looks like a filter housing so I guess they eliminated them on that model but kept the trans housing? Didn't feel like pulling the pan for a maintenance free part so I just changed the fluid.

Also, the coolant conditioner they recommend has all kinds of particles in it. Almost like a stop leak or something. Really strange but I put it in anyway..