What is a Toyota CVT Transmission?

You may be unfamiliar with them, but many new Toyota models come with a CVT option. CVTs, or continuously variable transmissions, operate like automatic transmissions, but they can offer improved acceleration and enhanced fuel economy. CVTs function without any physical gears, instead utilizing a belt and pulley system, providing an unrestricted range of gear ratios.

A continuously variable transmission turns engine rotations into torque. This enables a car to drive at variable speeds. At Mister Transmission, our technicians know how to service CVTs and they know how to service Toyota transmissions.

What are the common problems in a Toyota CVT transmission?

First, let’s state that “CVT transmission” is technically redundant, but it’s how many people refer to them. Second, let’s state that even though Toyota models are known for being reliable, and even though CVTs offer improvements on traditional automatic transmissions, Toyota’s with CVTs still incur problems. Transmissions are complex, so they all need occasional repairs and routine maintenance. Whether Toyota CVTs need more than their fair sure is uncertain at this time.

Overheating appears to be the key problem for Toyota CVTs. But this is a common problem for all transmissions. Control module errors also seem somewhat common.

How we diagnose transmission problems

If you think there’s something wrong with your Toyota CVT, let us know. Sometimes we can diagnose transmission problems just by hearing about what has been going on. Some common signs of Toyota CVT transmission problems include:

  • Overheating
  • Clunking sounds
  • Slipping out of gear
  • Check engine light turning on

CVTs also make odd noises, but they’re supposed to, so don’t fret if the first time you drive your Toyota, the transmission sounds funny. Toyota CVTs are also connected to an onboard computer. The computers make vehicles more efficient, but they can make repairs more complex. Thankfully, we at Mister Transmission have diagnostic technology that allows us to interface with your Toyota’s onboard computer.

To determine your transmission’s problem, we’ll connect your Toyota’s onboard computer to our diagnostic equipment to generate a code indicating where to look for a problem. After an inspection and a possible adjustment, we can perform a test drive. Afterward, we may decide that a lift inspection and/or a pan examination are necessary.

How Mister Transmission Can Help

At Mister Transmission, we are experts at Toyota transmission service, repair, and maintenance. We have 60 years of institutional experience and we provide our technicians with top-quality, up-to-date training, so they know how to fix CVT Toyota transmissions.

Whether you have Toyota transmission problems or just need some routine maintenance, you can contact Mister Transmission. Our Multi-Check Inspection can find any problem your CVT Toyota transmission may have.

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Customer Reviews
Gus was very professional and...
Mike Long
Gus was very professional and took the time to patiently review a number of documents that were provided by the dealership so that I fully understood all the codes being displayed with respect to recalls from Dodge. He was very approachable and forthcoming in answering all my questions.
Date: April 21, 2025
Website: Google
Absolutely GREAT service. Honest and...
Paula Cziranka
Absolutely GREAT service. Honest and efficient- communicates exactly what is happening and your options. I can’t say enough about how much I appreciate their service.
Date: April 20, 2025
Website: Google
While on vacation our transmission...
David Janiszewski
While on vacation our transmission failed as soon as we arrived from Ohio. Ken and team sourced a transmission, stayed after hours and Ken himself came in on a holiday morning so we could drive our car home rather than me having to drive back 6 hours one way the following week.Communication throughout the process was excellent and the customer service was second to none. Highly recommend this shop. Excellent experience over all.
Date: April 20, 2025
Website: Google
Brought my 06 mitsu lancer...
Isaiah Presingular
Brought my 06 mitsu lancer in with a 4th gear popout and slipping clutch, a mechanic took the car out for a test drive and diagnostic free of charge and the gentleman at the front desk went above and beyond to take care of me with part sourcing and extremely good pricing. Five business days (realistically just 3 as they had to wait for some parts to arrive), a swapped transmission and new clutch later, and now she goes through all the gears perfectly, absolutely no issuesHighly recommend, you can't beat the price to workmanship you get here, mechanics we're super chill and very qualified, everyone there takes pride in their work and they should, very impressed 👍
Date: April 18, 2025
Website: Google
I was in the area...
Dupuis Family
I was in the area and had an issue with my Hyundai Tucson shifting. I called and the Manager - Jason offered to squeeze me in. Jason listened to my complaints and with his expert trained staff were able to diagnose and fix the problem immediately. They had me on my happily way in no time. Thanks guys!
Date: April 16, 2025
Website: Google
Very awesome customer service!!! Very...
Kelsey Larsen
Very awesome customer service!!! Very quick and easy to get in and out for services. Was supposed to have a refurbished tranny put in my car but it was a brand new one they replaced with in the end!! Thankyou soooooooo much. I will forever send any and all that need their tranny or driveline diagnosed to you guys.
Date: April 16, 2025
Website: Google
After talking with Kris on...
Chris Richards
After talking with Kris on the phone, I felt comfortable that he knew the particular issues related to a 24-year old (2001) 4R100 Ford transmission, coupled with a 7.3 diesel, and gained my trust that they had the knowledge and expertise to overhaul it. I questioned him in advance about the parts they would use and the staff member that would do the work. Was a good experience. He knew that I used the truck for trailer-towing and recommended some specific parts/upgrades for hauling. I'll be towing across Canada this year, and if you don't see any further comments or a rating less than 5-star, assume that the transmission is tugging away nicely without issues. Thanks Kris and Dawn.
Date: April 15, 2025
Website: Google
Great guys, never had an...
Ashley Wilson
Great guys, never had an issue here, friendly staff that know what they are doing 👍
Date: April 15, 2025
Website: Google
This is a fantastic team...
Volodymyr Brykanov
This is a fantastic team of true professionals! Ken is not only a great person but also an incredibly knowledgeable mechanic. Highly recommend their services!
Date: April 15, 2025
Website: Google
Thanks to Raman and his...
G W
Thanks to Raman and his team for taking care of fixing our van. Would highly recommend this shop. They are trustworthy, honest and do great work.
Date: April 15, 2025
Website: Google
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