Do CVT Transmissions Need Repairs More Often?

May 3, 2021 | By Mister Transmission

Do CVT Transmissions Need Repairs More Often?

CVTs are still relatively new so people often have a lot of questions about them. Most popular are questions about CVT repairs. Are CVT transmission repairs more common than other types of transmission repair?

What Are CVT Transmissions?

It will be handy to first describe CVT transmissions before we go into the specifics of their repairs. You’re probably familiar with automatic and manual transmissions, but here’s a brief overview: automatic transmissions automatically change the gear ratio as your automobile moves. This means that the driver does not have to shift gears manually. Manual transmissions require the driver to change gears by using a gear shift and clutch. Manual transmissions are more work for drivers, but some enjoy this because they have more control over their vehicle. Automatic transmissions are heavier and less fuel-efficient, but not to a major degree.

Automatic transmissions permit the engine to provide a range of speed and torque outputs while it itself retains a relatively high rotational speed. CVT transmissions do the same and are, technically, just another kind of automatic transmission. CVT stands for “continuously variable transmission”, so we should state that “CVT transmission” is actually redundant, but you’ll still see it referred to in this way, much like people say “ATM” machine”.

What’s The Difference Between A CVT And A Regular Automatic Transmission?

While most automatic transmissions provide a limited number of gear ratios in fixed steps, CVTs can shift faultlessly through an uninterrupted range of ratios. CVTs can operate at a constant RPM even while the vehicle moves at different speeds. Essentially, CVTs run more smoothly than previous automatic transmissions. Ultimately, these changes aren’t seismic, but you can think of CVTs as an improvement on the traditional automatic transmission and, as such, we’ll see more new vehicles made with CVT transmissions.

What Are Some Common CVT Transmission Repairs?

We don’t have decades of data on CVTs yet, but they appear to be more resistant to a lot of problems that manifest in other automatic transmissions. Given this, we can say with reasonable confidence that not only do CVTs not require more repairs than other transmissions, over the course of their life they’ll probably require fewer. Worn-out friction surfaces and overheating problems caused by a lack of transmission fluid are still probably the most common problems. Many drivers who are new to CVTs will bring them in thinking they need a transmission repair because it’s making different sounds compared to other automatic transmission vehicles they have owned.

Mister Transmission

To learn more about CVT transmission repair, please contact us.

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My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting and dealing with both Luke and Brian this morning (July 14th). They were both very professional and upfront about the process and timelines. Brian test drove and diagnosed my husband's vehicle and was very honest and transparent with his findings. We greatly appreciate his time, knowledge, and expertise, and we are very satisfied with our experience!!!
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Knowledgeable staff and prompt service. They diagnosed the issue and got the car back on the road within a few days. It's been a couple weeks and everything is running really well. Thank you!
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I couldn’t be more impressed with the service at Mr. Transmission in Barrie! After taking my car to a dealership I ended up with a substantial quote to fix the transmission issue. A friend suggested me to take my car to Mr. Transmission and I’m so glad I did. They performed a thorough diagnosis and found the issue that the dealership completely missed. Mr. Transmission team was professional, honest, and clearly very knowledgeable. I really appreciate that they were able to fix an issue on the spot without even charging me. If you’re looking for a place that truly knows what they’re doing and puts customers first, I highly recommend Mr. Transmission. Thank you again Jason for your expert help—I’ll definitely be back if I ever need transmission work done!
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Alex Pate
My family was passing through Canada and the transmission went on our minivan. Barry showed his care and concern for our situation since my wife and kids were stuck in another country. He rushed a new transmission in and made it a priority to get her back on the road. I never met Barry myself, but I want the world to know that they will get good quality service at Mister Transmission. Thanks for treating my family like your family, Barry!
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My car faced a shifter malfunction related issue. I was referred to Mister Transmission and I must say that Aki and his crew went above and beyond to assist. Every member of the team including Aki, Victor at Front Desk, the Technicians working diligently on the workshop floor were all supportive and keen to assist. Aki also took the time to explain the issue in detail and also demonstrated the problem my car faced with a diagrammatic representation to help me better understand. I am extremely pleased with the levels of service, support and reassurance offered. In addition, Aki’s knowledge of transmission systems reigns supreme and it is evident that this expertise has been acquired practicing his trade over decades. Customers benefit most from this experience as Aki has an extremely thorough understanding and a deep sense of what is causing the issue on hand. Would strongly recommend Mister Transmission (Dundas and Shawson/Britannia) in Mississauga.
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