I noticed the newer version 4EATs have a spin-on external filter.  

 

Is it a standard oil filter or someting specific to the transmission?

 

 

Is it worthwhile changing it?

 

 

--Damien

Subaru says no replacement unless damaged.

 

It is not like an engine filter, they cost like $20 - $30 each and basically have another screen in them, the fluid having already gone through the one filter/screen in the pan that's still in place like older trans.

 

They eventually moved them a few years later into the drivers side fender well rather than side of the transmission.

 

the people i've seen that have cut them open before haven't found anything in the screens.

I have read discussions about this before - DO NOT try to use an "engine oil" filter. It's internal construction is definitely unique. There may be a proper aftermarket unit, but I don't know.

 

safest bet is dealer sourced.

 

DOH! beat while typing.

Edited June 8, 201411 yr by 1 Lucky Texan

Right...that's what I thought.

 

I read about other guys who did just that and it leaked.

 

 

Cheers!

 

--Damien

They have a paper element and a screen section, some of the fluid going through gets filtered 'fer reals' but the screen section is necessary because the filter is on the output side of a control circuit, or the output of the converter (forget which).