Q: Drained the wrong fluid
I accidentally drained transmission fluid instead of the oil while attempting to change the oil.
Recommended Services
| Transmission Fluid Service | $140.08 - $502.73 | Get a Quote |
Hello! Believe it or not, that has been done several times before on Subarus. The transmission drain looks very similar to the oil drain, so they can easily be mistaken for one another. Usually, the transmission will just have to be properly filled with new fluid, and all will be fine. It is not recommended to drive a vehicle with low transmission fluid, because fatal damage to the transmission will occur. You may benefit from a mobile automotive service, such as YourMechanic, who can send a certified technician out to you for transmission fluid service.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
How does the SecuriLock® system work?
Your car is equipped with a Vehicle Immobilizer system called SecuriLock®. It’s designed to prevent your car from being started with anything other than one of the keys programmed for the ignition and computer. Of course, there are a few...
I feel a solid bump when I hit the brakes
Have the vehicle driven to see if when the brakes are tough when the steering is pulled one way or the other. If it is, the problem is in the brakes or suspension on that side it pulls to. The...
Heating blows cold - 2006 Porsche Cayenne
Hello. Based on what you have described, I am almost 100% certain you need to replace your blower motor control module / resistor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/heater-blower-motor-resistor-replacement). Not getting AC is much more common than not getting heat because heat comes from the...
Car overheats while not moving or moving very slow.
Hello. A temporary "hotter than normal" behavior like your are describing is likely to be a failed radiator fan switch. The switch (and fan) should power up when the engine temperature is hotter than normal - such as low air-flow...
When an engine is replaced should it include a new intake boot or air intake system? Or is that separate?
The intake hose and any external component of the engine is not included in an engine swap replacement unless it is listed to be replaced as a separate item to be replaced.
Car shakes for acceleration
Shaking or vibrating may be caused by many different things such as faulty spark plugs, poor fuel pressure or misfires. Other things such as a faulty idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) may cause the engine idle to drop below the...
How do I know which O2 sensor to change when it sets a code for o2 sensor? 2000 Jaguar S-type
Hi - the description for each Check Engine problem code contains the clues (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/o2-sensor-by-andrew-t_3) : for a given code - P1647 for example - the description is "Bank 2, Sensor 1". This means the first sensor in the exhaust system...
Power steering goes out while driving or right after car is started with "power steering service ESC" showing up on the panel
There was a safety recall for some 2004 through 2009 Malibu models for electric power steering issues. The problem can be the electric motor or the steering column itself. You should go to safercar.gov and run the VIN number for...
I opened my trunk by accident in the house with my keypad, can I lock it back using the keypad?
You cannot use the remote to close a trunk after you have opened it. You will need to close it manually.
Related articles
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Oil Pan
Common signs include puddles of oil under the car, leaks around the oil drain plug, and visible damage to the oil pan.
How to Top Up the Oil in Your Car
Regular car maintenance can make a huge difference with keeping your vehicle in good condition. For major repairs and special jobs,...
Understanding the Subaru Low Oil and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Subaru Low Oil codes indicate when your car needs service.
Browse other content
Maintenance
Estimates