Blog

CVTs are relatively new and many drivers are uncertain about how they work, so here are five things you should know about CTV transmission service.

1. CVT Transmission Service Is Not All That Different From Automatic Transmission Service.

CVT transmission service is largely the same as automatic transmission service. This is because CVT transmissions are actually a kind of automatic transmission. CVT stands for “continuously variable transmission” and these are a slight innovation on the classic automatic transmission. Therefore, there isn’t a great deal of difference between CVT service and automatic transmission service. And yes, as you may have noticed, “CVT transmission” is technically redundant, but many people still say it, just like “ATM machine” or “SIN number”.

2. CVTs Can Require Service More Often Than Manual Transmissions.

While there is no great difference between servicing an automatic transmission and CVT, there are some slight, but noteworthy, differences to manual transmission service. Because CVTs are a type of automatic transmission, much of the innerworkings are automated. This makes them more complex and more elaborate than manual transmissions. Because there is more that can go wrong with a CVT and it may take longer to locate and access problem parts, CVT service and repair is, on average, costlier than manual transmission service and repair. This doesn’t mean manual transmissions are inherently better than CVTs, but it is something to consider and keep in mind.

3. Never Go Over 160,000 Km Without CVT Transmission Service.

Every model is different. Your vehicle owner’s manual should recommend how often your CVT should require routine maintenance. New models need less service than older models, but the absolute maximum you should drive with a newer model is 160,000 km before bringing it in for routine inspection and service. For older models, consider getting service every 45,000 to 80,000 km.

4. Sometimes CVT Transmission Service Is More For The Driver Than The Transmission.

One of the most common reasons drivers bring their CVT vehicles in for service is because they hear odd noises. Odd noises are often a symptom of transmission problems, so it is a good idea to bring your vehicle in for service when you hear bizarre whirring, grinding, or clunking noises. However, CVTs make different noises from other automatic transmissions. Because of this, new drivers of CVTs often think something is wrong when actually their vehicle is just making normal noises.

5. Mister Transmission Performs A Wide Range Of CVT Transmission Service.

At Mister Transmission, we can perform transmission repair, maintenance, and service on automatic transmissions, manual transmissions, and CVT transmissions. To learn more, please contact us. Please note that we have a comprehensive COVID-19 policy to keep everybody safe.