I just called Subaru and confirmed that the 4-speed automatic transmission uses the Subaru ATF, not the ATF-HP.
I have a 2012 Subaru Forester 2.5X and was told the factory fill was Subaru ATF.
My USA manual, page 12-9, says Subaru ATF or Idemitsu ATF-HP. Power steering is the same + Dexron III.
Here's a brochure about Subaru fluids, which makes things unclear:
http://www.subaru.com/content/downloads/pdf/parts_brochures/ChemicalsBrochure.pdf
SOA868V9240
Genuine Subaru Factory Fill
Automatic Transmission Fluid
and Power Steering Fluid*
To address the individual needs of
both an automatic transmission
and power steering system,
engineers have worked to provide
both superior shifting and steering
system characteristics in one fluid.
Recommended for use in all pre-2006
MY 4EAT Subaru vehicles, this unique
fluid contains an advanced additive
package that provides optimum shift
quality over a wide range of operating
conditions while maintaining superior
pump flow characteristics needed
by the power steering system in all
Subaru vehicles.
• Meets Subaru OEM specifications.
• Anti-wear additives help to protect
the transmission from copper
corrosion and excessive wear.
• Friction modifier additives maintain
a high viscosity index that allows
for smooth shifting and smooth
steering in temperature extremes.
• Anti-foaming additives maintain
peak power steering performance.
• Compatible with all automatic
transmission and power steering
internal seals and O-rings.
• 1 quart bottle
SOA868V9241
Genuine Subaru Factory Fill
Automatic Transmission Fluid HP
and Power Steering Fluid*
This new formula is specifically designed
for use in pre-2006 MY Subaru vehicle
5EAT, and all post-2006 MY and later
transmissions. Special friction modifiers
and other additives ensure stable,
precise operation over long periods
of use. It offers superior temperature
extreme fluidity for smoother shifting and
maintains proper fluid pressure in hot and
cold weather. Maintains superior pump
flow characteristics needed by the power
steering system in all Subaru vehicles.
• Meets Subaru OEM specifications
• 1 quart bottle
The dealer charged me $3.99 a quart (4qt) + labor for a drain and refill. I was very worried when I saw that they used SOA635003 (which is the regular Subaru ATF).
Can we settle this once and for all? The 4-speed automatic in our Forester's are ancient designs, it very well may be the case they are ok with the old fluid?
Another link I found on the topic:
Drain fill on two Subaru's...one HWY, one CITY - Bob Is The Oil Guy