Although a continuously variable transmission is not like a traditional automatic transmission, it still has to be maintained. There is a very complex pulley system, not to mention the CVT belt that must be kept clean and lubricated at all times. So let’s take a closer look at CVT maintenance and make sure all of your bases are covered.
What Transmission Do I Have?
CVT Maintenance 101: The part you can do yourself… Maybe
If you’ve ever owned a vehicle with a traditional automatic transmission, then you should be familiar with the process of checking your transmission fluid. If you are not, click here for our handy guide on how to check your transmission fluid. CVT transmission fluid is a bit different in composition to standard automatic transmission/ATF. But the process of using the dipstick to check the fluid level is largely the same.
Depending on the age of your vehicle, you may have what’s known as a sealed transmission. This means that there will be no transmission dipstick under the hood, therefore you will be unable to do any sort of DIY maintenance. If this is the case, only a dealer or trained mechanic will be able to check the CVT transmission fluid level, and add some if necessary. If you are unsure, refer to your owners manual.
CVT Maintenance 102: How often should a CVT transmission be serviced?
In terms of maintenance intervals, a CVT transmission is not much different than a standard automatic transmission. If you operate your vehicle in a normal manner, under normal driving conditions, then you should have a CVT transmission service performed at least every 30,000 – 50,000 miles. This involves changing the CVT transmission fluid and the filter. You may also elect to have a transmission flush performed, which is a bit more expensive. However it can help to extend the lifespan of your CVT.
If you do a lot of severe driving, that is; sitting in stop and go traffic, driving in mountainous/hilly terrain, towing heavy loads or driving in extremely heat or cold, then you’ll want to have your CVT transmission service performed at least once a year.
What Transmission Do I Have?
CVT Maintenance 103: Why CVT maintenance is so important
Although a CVT transmission is completely unique in the way that it operates, it is still a mechanical component that must be maintained. CVT transmission fluid generally uses a synthetic base, but even that will break down due to heat and mileage. When this happens, the excess heat allowed by the dirty CVT fluid will start to damage the CVT pulleys, CVT belt, clutches, valve body, seals and other vital components. Needless to say, the cost to repair a CVT transmission isn’t ycheaper than a regular automatic transmission. So it is in your best financial interest to maintain your continuously variable transmission. For a list of reputable shops in your area that can help you with this, click here.
