Subaru 2003 Legacy - Manual (Page 396)

11-24
SAE viscosity No. and Applicable Temperature
OM-H0205
Automatic transmission fluid
B
Checking the fluid level
The automatic transmission fluid expands largely as its temperature
rises; the fluid level differs according to fluid temperature. Therefore,
there are two different scales for checking the level of hot fluid and
cold fluid on the dipstick.
Though the fluid level can be checked without warming up the fluid
on the “COLD” range, we recommend checking the fluid level when
the fluid is at operating temperature.
n Checking the fluid level when the fluid is hot
Check the fluid level monthly.
1. Drive the vehicle several miles to raise the temperature of the
transmission fluid up to normal operating temperature; 158 to 176
°
F
(70 to 80
°
C) is normal.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake.
3. First shift the selector lever in each position. Then shift it in the “P”
position, and run the engine at idling speed.