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Tr690 Chain Slip, Judder, Shudder, & Hesitation Concerns P0871, P2797, P2715, P0711, P0712, P0713 (16-151-24R)

WARNING: This page is about the Outback Limited XT, which is a different variant/trim than selected.
Publication date: 2025-01-30
Reference number: 16-151-24R
Supersedes refnos: 16-151-24

TR690 CHAIN SLIP, JUDDER, SHUDDER, & HESITATION CONCERNS P0871, P2797, P2715, P0711, P0712, P0713

TR690 CHAIN SLIP, JUDDER, SHUDDER, & HESITATION CONCERNS P0871, P2797, P2715, P0711, P0712, P0713

SERVICE CAMPAIGN BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 16-151-24R, Date of Issue:  January 30, 2025
SUBARU: 2020-24 Legacy & Outback, 2022-24 WRX (A/T Only); 2019-24 Ascent

APPLICABILITY

2020-24MY Legacy & Outback

2022-24MY WRX (A/T Only)

2019-24MY Ascent

INTRODUCTION

This bulletin provides guidance when diagnosing chain slip, judder, shudder, and hesitation concerns on the TR690 model CVT transmissions used in the models listed above. The information below outlines the diagnostic flow in addition to the previously released related reference material. Always refer to the information within this bulletin prior to any other previously released material when addressing chain slip, judder, shudder, and hesitation concerns experienced by a customer.

SERVICE BULLETIN SUMMARY TABLE

The following table below displays TR690 DTC related bulletins. Use this tables as reference as you may be directed to one of these documents using the service procedure information in this bulletin.

SERVICE BULLETIN SUMMARY TABLE
Status TSB # Subject Starting MY Ending MY Model
DTC Related Bulletin 16-135-21R DTC P0871 - Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "C" Circuit Range/Performance 2022 2022 Outback Wilderness
DTC Related Bulletin 16-145-23 DTC P2797/Reprogramming Files 2023 2024 Legacy & Outback 2.4L Turbo
DTC Related Bulletin 16-142-23 DTC P2715 (Pressure Control Solenoid "D" Stuck On) Diagnosis 2022 2022 Legacy & Outback 2.4L Turbo
2022 2022 Outback Wilderness
2022 2022 Ascent
DTC Related Bulletin 16-144-23 DTC P0711, P0712, P0713 Diagnostic Procedure 2019 2023 Ascent

CUSTOMER INTERVIEW INFORMATION

The customer interview is a vital part of performing an accurate diagnosis. Listed below are some examples of key wording/phrasing and conditions to be used to help accurately pinpoint the appropriate diagnostic strategy. When interviewing the customer, referencing the below diagram will help both the customer and retailer grasp the type of condition to be considered for diagnosis.

G16910819
NOTE: This bulletin requires a test drive for concern replication. Technicians must follow instructions, refer to relevant appendices, and record data using the Select Monitor. This ensures accurate diagnosis and avoids repetitive test drives.
To ensure all necessary data is collected during the road test, record all TCM PIDS. For the diagnostic strategy of this Technical Service Bulletin, the following PIDS should be focused on:
  • Engine Rev Speed
  • Primary Rev Speed
  • Secondary Rev Speed
  • Turbine Speed
  • Actual Gear Ratio
  • Primary UP Duty
  • Front Wheel Speed

Depending on the diagnosis and repair procedures, the vehicle may need the latest software. The table below is a general guide to recent reprogramming file improvements. ALWAYS REFER TO THE LATEST TSB FOR REPROGRAMMING FILE APPLICATION AND AVAILABILITY.
Current Reprogramming File Improvement Description (Always refer to Applicable TSB for Details) Applicable TSB
Noise & Vibration When Turning (Appendix A-Section 5) Chain Slip Feeling Countermeasure 16-136-22R
Ascent Long Lockup Judder (Appendix A-Section 2) 16-140-23
Ascent P0711 Transmission oil temperature sensor A system circuit characteristic error 16-141-23R
Ascent Lock-up Judder- (Appendix A-Section 2) TBD
Vibration during FWD clutch slip (Appendix A-Section 3) TBD
23MY Legacy/Outback P2797 Shock upon restart from ISS 16-145-23R
23-25MY Legacy/Outback/Ascent/WRX Shudder during Deceleration W/AC ON (Appendix A-Section 4) 16-150-24
23-24MY Legacy/Outback/Ascent/WRX Input Clutch Slip 16-150-24

TR690 DRIVABILITY CONCERN DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE

Refer to the work flow chart below to confirm the next course of action.

G16910820

SECTION A: [While Drive Straight] 

Refer to the work flow chart below to confirm the next course of action.

G16910821

SECTION B: [When Turning] 

Refer to the work flow chart below to confirm the next course of action.

G16910822

SECTION C: [Both Driving Straight & Turning] 

Refer to the work flow chart below to confirm the next course of action.

G16910823

SECTION C: [Both Driving Straight & Turning] (Continued) 

G16910824

SECTION D: (Confirmation of Repair) 

G16910825

WARRANTY/CLAIM INFORMATION

For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited Warranty period or covered by an active Subaru Added Security Classic or Gold plan, this repair may be submitted using the following claim information:

FLOW CHART A

Labor Description Labor Operation # Labor Time: Ascent Labor Time: Outback/Legacy Labor Time: WRX Fail Code
CVT Diagnosis B303986 0.6 0.6 0.6  
CVT Replace and TCM Update/Check(1) C303186 5.2 5.2 4.8 MQJ-24
QMR Submission with CVT Replace** C303386 0.2
CVTF Replacement and TCM Update/Check(1) C303686 0.5 0.5 0.5 MQU-26
Torque Converter & CVTF replacement and TCM Update/Check(1) C303286 5 4.9 N/A LAA-26
(1) Include current or New CID# in warranty claim. 

FLOW CHART B

Labor Description Labor Operation # Labor Time: Outback/Legacy/Ascent Labor Time: WRX Fail Code
CVT Diagnosis  B303986 0.6 0.6 MSP-26
Transfer Clutch R&R and TCM Update/Check (1)  C303486 5.7 N/A
(1) Include current or New CID# in warranty claim. 

FLOW CHART C

Labor Description Labor Operation # Labor Time: Ascent Labor Time Outback/Legacy Labor Time: WRX Fail Code
CVT Diagnosis  B303986 0.6 0.6 0.6  
CVT Replace and TCM Update/Check (1)  C303186 5.2 5.2 4.8 MQJ-24
QMR Submission with CVT Replace (2)  C303386 0.2
CVTF Replacement and TCM Update/Check (1)  C303686 0.5 0.5 0.5 MQU-26
Torque Converter & CVTF replacement and TCM Update/Check (1)  C303286 5 4.9 N/A LAA-26
Transfer Clutch R&R and TCM Update/Check (1)  C303486 5.7 5.7 N/A MSP-26
(1) Include current or New CID# in warranty claim. 
(2) Use QMR submission Labor Operation when Replacing CVT ONLY 

FLOW CHART D

Labor Description Labor Operation # Labor Time: Fail Code
CVT Diagnosis  B303986 0.6 MKO-00
See Labor Operations per Flow Chart Used 
Diagnosis and No Fault Found/QMR Submitted  C303386 0.2

IMPORTANT REMINDERS: 

  • SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
  • Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
  • Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.

APPENDIX A (SECTION 1)

IMPORTANT: 2023MY Legacy & Outback 2.4L vehicles, refer to DTC P2797/REPROGRAMMING FILES TSB 16-145-23R.

Function of "Gear Ratio Change Rate Error Judgement" 

Description  : When feeling shocks or vehicle body vibrations during acceleration, this function will support the diagnostic process to determine whether a chain slip occurs in the CVT or not.

PRECAUTIONS FOR ROAD TESTING

  • Use a USB cable to connect the DST-i or DST-010 to a PC. Wireless communication may lead to a wrong determination
  • When driving on public roads, pay attention to the surrounding traffic conditions and drive safely incompliance with the law.
  • To ensure accurate detection of abnormal gear ratio changes, please refrain from the following actions during the test drive:
    • Sudden deceleration or acceleration
    • Driving on rough roads
    • Driving the vehicle with the four wheels not stably contacting the ground, such as driving over bumps and/or putting the vehicle on lift before completing the detection process.

SSM WORKFLOW

  1. On the [Start] screen, select [Diagnosis].
  2. On the [Select Vehicle] screen, enter the vehicle information and select [Confirm].
  3. On the [Main Menu] screen, select [Each System].
  4. On the [Select System] screen, select [Transmission].
  5. On the [Select Function] screen, select [Work Support].
  6. On the [Work Support] screen, select [Gear Ratio Change Rate Error Judgement].
  7. Follow the instruction displayed on the screen and perform a road test.
  8. Once the concern is replicated, end the testing and the results will automatically populate. When the message "Gear Ratio Change Rate Error Judgment is Complete" is displayed, the detection process has finished. Testing automatically ends after a time period approximately 50 minutes. If an additional measurement is desired, restart the Subaru Select Monitor after saving the data.

ROAD TEST PATTERN

No. Accelerator Opening Degree Vehicle Speed Number Of Times Implemented Note
1 30% 0 → 30mph Each 1 time If the customer's suggestions are specific, such as vehicle speed and accel pedal opening, implement that driving pattern.
2 50% 0 → 30mph
3 100% 0 → 30mph
4 After driving at a constant speed for 20s at the vehicle speed shown on the right, accelerate by stepping on the accelerator opening 10% more. 30(constant speed) → 40mph
5 40(constant speed) → 50mph
6 50(constant speed) → 60mph

APPENDIX A (SECTION 2)

Lockup Judder Type A Diagnosis Procedure. 

CAUTION: Confirm WRK-21/22 Has Previously Been Performed.

After the test drive has been completed with replication of the symptom, refer to the judgement criteria and example graph below to determine if the condition matches Lockup Judder Type A. If replication has not been completed, refer to the replication steps below.

G16910826

REPLICATION METHOD

STEP 1:  Warm up the CVT until CVTF temperature reaches 122-158 degrees F (50-70 degrees C).

STEP 2:  Make a complete stop, then accelerate the vehicle with throttle opening of approx. 15%.

STEP 3:  As soon as the lockup operation begins at around 13mph with a slight drop of engine speed, open the throttle further to 25% quickly.

STEP 4:  Repeat the Step 2 and 3, 10 (ten) times.

STEP 5:  In case a when a judder sensation is felt, the vehicle is presenting <Lockup Judder Type A>.

APPENDIX A (SECTION 2)

LOCKUP JUDDER TYPE B DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURE

After the test drive has been completed with replication of the symptom, refer to the judgement criteria and example graph below to determine if the condition matches Lockup Judder Type B. If replication has not been completed, refer to the replication steps below.

Judgement Criteria 

  • There are fluctuations in Turbine Revolution and Primary Rev Speed:

    Peak to Peak > 50 rpm Duration < 1 second

G16910827

REPLICATION METHOD

STEP 1:  Warm up the CVT until CVTF temperature reaches 68-122 degrees F (20-50 degrees C).

STEP 2:  Make a complete stop, then accelerate the vehicle with constant throttle opening of 15-20%.

STEP 3:  Repeat the Step 2, 10 (ten) times.

STEP 4:  In a case when a judder sensation is felt, the vehicle is presenting <Lockup Judder Type B>.

APPENDIX A (SECTION 3)

FORWARD CLUTCH JUDDER DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURE

Judgement Criteria 

The rotational speeds of the upstream and downstream sides of the forward clutch do not synchronize during driving.

Upstream side of the forward clutch:  Secondary Rev Speed

Downstream side of the forward clutch:  Front Wheel Speed

Examples Graph for Forward Clutch Judder:

G16910828
G16910829

REPLICATION METHOD

STEP 1:  Warm up the CVT until CVTF temperature reaches 104-140 degrees F (40-60 degrees C).

STEP 2:  Using Eyesight Adaptive Cruise Control (without using gas pedal,) drive the vehicle at 50-60mh for more than 7 (seven) miles.

STEP 3:  Turn the Eyesight Adaptive Cruise Control of and keep constant speed of 40-60mph using gas pedal.

STEP 4:  Depress gas pedal to increase throttle opening by 3-4% per second up to 30%.

STEP 5:  Repeat Step 3 and Step 4 10 (ten) times.

STEP 6:  In a case when a judder sensation is felt, the vehicle is presenting < Forward Clutch Judder >.

APPENDIX A (SECTION 4)

A jerk or judder sensation felt from the powertrain during braking with the air conditioning on. 

IMPORTANT: 2023-24MY Legacy & Outback 2.4L, 2023-24MY Ascent, and 2023-24MY WRX vehicles, refer to TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (TCM)/SOFTWARE ENHANCEMENT TSB 16-150-24
G16910830

For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited Warranty period or covered by an active Subaru Added Security Classic or Gold plan, this repair may be submitted using the following claim information:

Labor Description Labor Operation # Labor Time: Fail Code
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE REPROGRAMMING B860-686 0.5 MJZ-48
TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE R&R INCLUDING RELEARN B860-786 0.8 MJT-43
TCM UPDATE AFTER REPLACEMENT C860-118 0.3

APPENDIX A (SECTION 5)

NOISE AND/OR JUDDER WHILE TURNING SYMPTOM DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURE

NOTE: The noise/vibration typically occurs under cold conditions.

STEP 1:  With the SSM connected confirm the CVT temperature is below 176 degrees F (80C) before driving to collect data. If 176F (80C) or above, let the CVT cool before evaluating it.

STEP 2:  Confirm if the noise/vibration appears by driving the vehicle under the conditions below. Pay full attention when performing a road test. Conducting the road test in closed area and with an additional person is recommended.

Items Conditions
CVT oil pan temperature Up to 176Deg F(1)
Accelerator opening angle 10 to 30%
Steering angle Full Steer
Vehicles speed Under 20mph
NOTE:
(1) The noise/vibration may not occur when the CVTF temperature is higher than 176 degrees F (80 C).

COUNTERMEASURE SERVICE PROCEDURES

Lockup Judder Type A & B:  Torque Convertor (p.n. 31100AB460) replacement, CVT Fluid (p.n. 31333AA160) replacement, and TCM software reprogramming (newest software available).

Forward Clutch Judder:  CVT Fluid (p.n. 31333AA160) replacement and TCM software reprogramming (newest software available).

Noise and/or Judder While Turning Symptom:  TCM software reprogramming (newest software available). Replacement of the referenced parts below. See the tables below for applicability.

LEGACY XT & OUTBACK XT ASCENT & OUTBACK WILDERNESS
Part Description Part Number Qty Part Description Part Number Qty
CLUTCH ASSY-TRF 33119AA740 1 CLUTCH ASSY-TRF 33119AA720 1
THRUST BEARING 806536020
806535030
806535040
806535050
806535060
806535070 806535090
1* THRUST BEARING 806536020
806535030
806535040
806535050
806535060
806535070
806535090
1*
GASKET 803916010 1 GASKET 803916010 1
GASKET 803918060 1 GASKET 803918060 1
RING-SEAL 31377AA490 3 RING-SEAL 31377AA490 3
High Torque CVT-LV  (As Needed) High Torque CVT-LV  (As Needed)
Model Transmission Fluid Part Number Quantity/Unit/Pack Warranty Part #
ALL  High Torque CVTF-LV SOA748V0300 5 Gallon Pail SOA635312
SOA748V0310 16-Gallon Keg

APPENDIX B: (INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY)

CVT CHAIN SLIP DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURE

There are three main forms of CVT chain slip.

  1. Continuous Micro-Slip
  2. Short-Time Slip
  3. Long-Time Slip

Using Subaru Select Monitor (SSM), check and record data monitors and compare to the three examples listed below. If the recorded data from the vehicle matches the examples below, the CVT will require replacement. The SSM data will be required for claim submission. A QMR containing the same information will also be required.

  1. Continuous Micro-Slip 

    Judgement Criteria 

    During a continuous micro-slip, while the Accelerator Opening Angle monitor displays a stable value for more than one second, there are fluctuations in the Actual Gear Ratio monitor:

    Peak to Peak > 0.02 Frequency  > 3 cycles per 1 second 

    There are fluctuations in the Primary Rev Speed and/or Secondary Rev Speed monitor:

    Peak to Peak > 50 rpm Frequency > 3 cycles per 1 second 

    Examples of the data monitoring during Continuous Micro-Slip:

    G16910831
  2. Short-Time Slip 

    When a short-time slip occurs, the changes in the Actual Gear Ratio monitor will be larger than 0.1 per 0.1 second. After the Actual Gear Ratio monitor resumes to stable conditions, distinct fluctuations in revolution speed continues.

    Example Graph of Short Time Slip:

    G16910832
  3. Long-Time Slip 

    When a long-time slip occurs, the Primary UP Duty monitor will be larger than 90% and the Actual Pulley Ratio monitor lowers for a duration of 0.5 seconds or more. Even after the Actual Gear Ratio monitor resumes to stable conditions, distinct fluctuations in revolution speed continues.

    G16910833

REFERENCE MATERIAL

SYMPTOMS SIMILAR TO CVT CHAIN SLIP

  1. Forward Clutch Slip Shock 

    This shock can occur when the forward clutch slips. If this situation is reported, reprogram the TCM with the newest software available.

    The rotation speeds for the upstream and downstream sides of the forward clutch do not synchronize when driving.

    Example for

    2.4L Turbo or 3.6L NA equipped vehicles

    Upstream side of the forward clutch-Secondary Rev Speed

    Downstream side of the forward clutch-Front Wheel Speed

    G16910834
  2. Lock Up Clutch Engagement Shock: 

    This shock can occur when the lock up engages rapidly. If this situation is reported, reprogram the TCM with the newest software available.

    G16910835
  3. Shift Up Shock: 

    This shock can occur when the CVT upshifts. If this situation is reported, reprogram the TCM with new software if it is available. If there is no new software available or the reprograming does not remedy the issue, report the situation to Techline.

    G16910836
  4. Primary Up Duty Square Control (Ascent Models up to 2021MY): 
    G16910837

A harsh shift can be felt while driving. If this situation is reported, reprogram the TCM with new software if it is available. If there is no new software available or the reprograming does not remedy the issue, report the situation to Techline.