2020 Subaru Ascent BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Variator Chain Break-in: Procedure

NOTE:
  • During variator chain break-in, VDC warning light illuminate because of the difference between the vehicle speed value and G sensor value. This is not a malfunction. If the warning light illuminates, clear the VDC memory after the variator chain break-in is finished. Ref. to COMMON (DIAG)>CLEAR MEMORY>OPERATION .
  • If the above malfunction code is detected during variator chain break-in, the system enters into fail mode, and the vehicle shows symptom such as engine speed rapid increases even if the accelerator pedal is gradually depressed.
  1. Lift up the vehicle.
    CAUTION: Lift up the vehicle until the tire bottom is 0.3 m (0.98 ft) or more above the ground.
  2. Shift the select lever to "P" or "N" range.
  3. Apply the parking brake.
  4. Connect the Subaru Select Monitor to data link connector.
  5. Idle the engine to raise the CVTF temperature to 40 - 50°C (104 - 122°F) displayed on the Subaru Select Monitor.
    NOTE: When CVTF temperature does not rise easily or if you want to rise CVTF temperature faster, maintain the engine speed within 2, 000 - 2, 500 r/min at "P" or "N" range to raise the CVTF temperature.
  6. With the select lever in "P" or "N" range, increase the engine speed to 3, 000 - 3, 500 r/min, and maintain the speed for approximately five seconds, then release the accelerator pedal.
  7. Depress the accelerator pedal gradually again to increase the engine speed to 3, 000 - 3, 500 r/min, maintain the speed for approximately five seconds, then release the accelerator pedal.
  8. Release the parking brake.
  9. Shift the select lever into manual mode and set to 1st.
  10. Depress the accelerator pedal gradually, and increase the engine speed to 5, 300 r/min.
    NOTE: Increase the engine speed while taking care that the engine speed does not become too high.
  11. Release the accelerator pedal to fully closed position to lower the engine speed to 4, 000 r/min.
  12. Depress the accelerator pedal gradually again, and increase the engine speed to 5, 300 r/min.
  13. Repeat procedures 11 and 12 forty times.
  14. Release the accelerator pedal and idle the engine.
  15. Shift the select lever to "P" range, and then turn the engine to OFF.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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