[Kev0]

Hi All,

Hoping to find a little help towards finding a solution. So my 2018 Crosstrek 6MT (64,000mi) is exibiting all the signs of "torque binding". That is a solid thud/shutter while performing slow tight turns in either direction, once the car has warmed up/acting as if stuck in 4wd Lo. Everything I have been able to find points toward replacing the center differential/viscous coupler, unfortunately I haven't found anything that pertains to the 2018 6MT. Mechanic has tried to diagnose the issue but is unsure of the cause(hasn't run into this issue on the newer 6MT and was told by a local Subaru dealer that the 2018 6MT doesn't have a viscous coupler).

Just wondering if anyone else has run into similar issues with the newer manaul Crosstreks?

 

[77'911]

Have you checked or serviced the rear diff? There is a tsb out on the diff oil, the factory put in too light an oil initially. I changed ours out when the 2018 was new. I would also check the motor and trans mounts have not collapsed. If the driveline geometry is off, ie bad mounts, it can produce clunks or thuds on tight turns.

 

[wrxKWONDO]

might also check your cv joints

 

[Kev0]

Thanks! Haven't done anything with the rear differential yet. I suppose I can start with a fluid change see if it helps.

I've read a little on he cv joint issue, but not sure the problem lies there. The noise is not really a click and doesn't present until everything is warm(10-15 min driving)

Also I should add that my tire maintenence was poor(because I'm an idiot), which is another thing that points toward the center diff.

Thanks again

 

[BobNH]

Subaru thinks they have a VC in the manual trans model...

Subaru U.S. Media Center - 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Press Kit:SUBARU INTRODUCES ALL-NEW 2018 CROSSTREK COMPACT SUV WITH ALL-NEW DESIGN, PERFORMANCE, SAFETY, CAPABILITY AND COMFORT

media.subaru.com

.

And FWIW, we had to replace it in my wife's 2009 Legacy Spec Ed 5 spd, for exactly the symptoms you describe.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

 

[Bluefoton]

Well Subaru doesn't think the 6MT has a viscous coupling centre differential, it just does..

Quite a few things can clunk. CV joints, worn bushings, sway bars, the rear diff, strut mounts.. I'd check every single suspension component before blaming the transmission, it's quite rare the centre diff fails. Even if/when if it does - the symptom would most likely be a loss of the "locking" ability (worn silicon fluid) more so than "clunks".

Keep us posted!

 

[77'911]

You might also check the prop shaft, there is a tsb ( 3-88-22) on that as well.