Crosstrek Transmission Warning Signs Point to Bad Sensor

Had similar transmission issues with a 2015 Subaru Impreza Hybrid at 130000km. The symptoms matched exactly, rough shifting, grinding noise, and transmission warning light with limp mode activation. Initially suspected a transmission temperature sensor malfunction, but diagnostic testing revealed significantly low transmission oil level. The transmission issues were causing overheating problems due to insufficient lubrication. The main cause was a slow leak from a deteriorated transmission seal. The repair required: Complete transmission oil flush, Replacement of transmission seals, New transmission sensor (the old one was damaged from running with low fluid), Full system diagnostic to ensure no additional transmission damage This was a serious issue that required immediate attention. Continuing to drive with these symptoms could have led to complete transmission failure. After the repair, the transmission shifted smoothly again with no warning lights or unusual sounds. Always worth checking transmission fluid levels first before assuming sensor issues, as low fluid can trigger similar symptoms and warning lights. Regular transmission maintenance could have prevented this situation.

Thanks for sharing that experience. I actually went through something similar with my XV Crosstrek last month. The transmission sensor symptoms sounded identical to what I experienced, rough shifts and warning lights. Quick follow up, what was your total repair cost? My gearbox sensor replacement ended up being more expensive than expected, and I wonder if the pricing was reasonable. Also, has everything been working properly since the fix? No recurring transmission issues? Understanding the actual costs and long-term results would really help compare repair experiences. My transmission repair is still fresh, so I want to know what to watch out for.

Thanks for asking about the results. After taking it to the mechanic, they confirmed it was indeed a faulty transmission oil temperature sensor causing those irregular shifts and warning lights. The total repair came to 365€, which included fixing the gearbox oil level that was running too low. Since the repair three months ago, the transmission has been working flawlessly. No more warning lights, rough shifting or concerning noises. The temperature sensor replacement resolved all the transmission issues completely. Getting both the sensor and oil level addressed in one service was actually cost-effective, as running low on transmission oil can damage other components over time. Regular transmission maintenance checks are now part of my service routine to prevent similar problems. The price you mentioned does sound a bit steep compared to what I paid, but labor rates and parts costs can vary. The important thing is that these transmission sensor problems need proper diagnosis and repair to avoid more serious gearbox damage down the line.

Thanks everyone for the helpful replies. Just wanted to close the loop on my repair experience. After getting several opinions, I went with a certified transmission specialist who diagnosed the issue properly. Turns out it was a combination of problems, a failing transmission sensor and contaminated transmission oil. The total repair came to 425€, which included: New transmission temperature sensor, Complete transmission oil flush and refill, System diagnostics, Labor costs The repair took about 4 hours. The mechanic showed me the old sensor which was corroded and definitely needed replacement. They also pointed out metal particles in the old transmission oil, which explained the grinding sounds. Its been 2 weeks since the repair and the transmission is shifting perfectly now. No more warning lights or strange noises. While the cost was higher than expected, having a properly functioning transmission is worth the investment. Making sure to schedule regular transmission maintenance from now on to avoid similar issues in the future.