If you’ve been shopping for a new vehicle, you’ve probably noticed the letters CVT in the transmission specifications. CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a relatively new design in today’s vehicles.
You may have also heard that CVTs are not as reliable as the traditional automatic transmission, which begs the question – how long does a CVT transmission last?
I will explain the CVT design, how it works, and then give you the average longevity amount; I will also show you which car manufacturers build a CVT that last longer than others.
How Long Do CVT Transmissions Last?
In a modern vehicle, CVT transmission longevity varies, but with proper maintenance, many can last 200,000 miles or more, while some can fail around 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
CVT transmissions have no real durability standard and average life is based on multiple factors.
These inexpensive transmissions are much more reliable since the designs have been altered and perfected.
The additional funding that automakers are pouring into CVT development will only continue improve life. Following any type of maintenance recommendations in an owner ‘s manual will help life as well.
What is a CVT Transmission?
The CVT (continuously variable transmission) is an automatic transmission method that utilizes a variable number of gear ratios.
With a conventional automatic transmission, you may have four available gears in a four-speed, or six gears in a six-speed. The CVT may have any combination of gears depending on the limits in the programming.
The CVT has been programmed to shift like a regular automatic; however, there is no shifting.
When the gear ratios change, they change seamlessly, even while under load. This allows for a smoother power delivery, similar to an electric vehicle.
For those that are used to manual transmissions, in a CVT, it may feel like the clutch is slipping when pressing the gas, most noticeable under full throttle.
When the accelerator is pressed to the floor, the engine will speed up rapidly and remain at high RPM. While this operation is normal in a CVT, it can cause alarm for some drivers that are not used to this operation.
How Does a CVT Work?
There are numerous types of CVTs available. One of the best known is a belt or chain connected to two conical pulleys and whenever the cones are moved further apart or closer together, the theoretically, the gear of the pulley also changes.
A toroidal CVT is used by Nissan and some other manufacturers and is designed for higher torque. This is similar to what would be used for an RWD sports car.
The toroidal CVT works by moving two rollers which transmit torque between two disks. The rollers rotate and as they do, drive the conical disks to rotate at different speed.
Toyota uses a CVT design with a conventional first gear and will eventually go into CVT operation after one upshift. This design is used in Corolla Hatchback models.
In addition to these, there may also be some form of a hydrostatic or magnetic CVT with either performing the torque transfer through either magnets or fluids, etc., but these are much less common.
Are CVT Transmissions Reliable?
While the CVT transmission is reliable, it depends on the vehicle and the type of CVT transmission used. That said, older CVTs had a a few issues compared to classic automatic transmissions, which are typically more reliable.
#1. Toyota.
Toyota is one of the best brands with regard to CVT reliability. Toyota has the highest ratings for reliability as it does not bring a brand-new change to their vehicles without doing extensive testing first.
Toyota is also known for producing one of the best CVT’s on the market. Furthermore, some Prius have been known to last over 300k.
#2. Honda.
Honda also has a reputation for reliability, however sometimes Honda takes a risk and uses a new technology that ends up having bugs.
If you were to purchase a 2016-2022 Civic 1.8 L turbo with CVT, then you would enjoy acceleration and reliability out of the vehicle.
#3. Subaru.
The CVT in Subaru’s is designed for better fuel economy, and it does just that. That said, Subaru is a vehicle that people enjoy going off-road and adventures, but the CVT probably is not designed for that type of driving.
CVT ‘s don’t hold the torque as much as manual or automatic transmissions. It will overheat if you push it too hard and has reliability issues.
#4. Mitsubishi.
Mitsubishi gets people because of low cost. If you’re looking for a budget vehicle, Mitsubishi will be in your budget wheelhouse.
However, you also get what you pay for. The CVTs in the Mitsubishi lineup don’t seem to have the other construction and reliability to last as long as some other CVT’s. You will want to do your research and be part of the decide sketch and understand what you will be getting into when buying a Mitsubishi.
#5. Nissan.
Nissan had a very good reputation prior to the CVT. However, the first cvT models were far from stellar. in fact, a lot of the first CVT’s had a common failure rate of around 80000 miles.
As time has gone on, Nissan has tried to improve some of the construction of the CVT trans. Still, they should be improved; however, you may just want to wait until they are more perfected.
Is a Transmission Fluid Flush Necessary with a CVT?
Most manufacturers do not recommend a CVT transmission flush as part of regular maintenance. Many manufacturers even say the CVT fluid is designed for the lifetime of the vehicle.
If you put on a lot of miles, or suspect a leak, you may consider it at some point. If you observe burnt fluid, fluid particles in the fluid, or the vehicle is getting older, I would recommend a professional look at it.