Inspect means inspect fluids for level and condition, as well as component for obvious leaks. Some people do it, some people do not. Some people are of the opinion if I'm going to "inspect" it then I'm just going to replace it. I am of the opinion, if it is a part of the service the customer is paying for, then I am going to do it. Normally I don't see dark enough differential fluid until around 80,000-90,000 miles to recommend replacing it. Some customers like preventative maintenance (sounds like you do since you stated you changed differential fluid at 30,000 miles).'

As far as CVT fluid replacement, that's a massive debate as well. I drain and fill my own personal car and have no problem recommending the same for customer vehicles. I have heard some dealers won't do a drain and fill on a customer's CVT even if the customer requests it stating "Subaru does not recommend a fluid change."

Coolant is long life, not due until 137,000 or 11 years or something like that. Refer to your owner's manual Warranty & Maintenance booklet. Again, if you prefer preventative maintenance it is not going to harm anything changing it sooner.

Spark plugs on a 2018 Forester are fairly easy provided you have a good combination of ratchets, extensions, and u-joint swivels.

 

I was on the fence about the differential at 30k but my son knows a Subaru technician and of all the stuff they wanted to do at 30k he said he would do that one. I googled it and found some sort of evidence that sort of suggested it was it good idea mentioning new car breaking. Etc etc.

I know my limitations and I'm not going to mess with changing spark plugs and also read that your average independent shop due to the nature of the boxer engine probably isn't a good choice either so you either have the dealer or someone who specializes the supers. At least that's what googling led me to last night!

And the fluids are again debatable I'm really on the fence some say it's must do maintenance others say waiting is just looking for trouble and that's what they want. LOL I don't know what to think.

Thanks!