Are CVT Transmissions Reliable? The Truth About CVTs (Good And Bad)

[@Subie-Driver]

Just sold our 2011 Subaru Outback that had a CVT. 11 years, 257,000 kmand zero problems with the CVT. Regular maintenance and fluid changes is the key. When it comes to transmissions there is no such thing as a lifetime fluid.

[@blondspike74]

Lexus Australia said that it’s not necessary to change the fluid…the last 3 services. Now I’m taking my NX hybrid to my old family mechanic to change the fluid.

[@voz-mak]

the ideal CVT transmission fluid change interval is 30k miles!

[@mikeessary4925]

How often to change transmission fluid in my new subaru? Subaru wants $600.00 to do it..

[@AbleMable]

@@jjm2948 follow the Japanese market service maintenance schedule. Every 30,000 mi.

[@AbleMable]

@@mikeessary4925 Every 30k miles.

[@tomdrummy4984]

CVT is not for anyone that needs to stomp on gas from a dead stop. Gradual acceleration is key to CVT from stop. Heat is generated, which is enemy for any transmission when you stomp on it. Once you are moving, 30ish mph then you can get on it more. Sometimes mechanical problems comes from the way a person drives.

[@ray-al15]

I heard that Toyota and Honda have a true first gear on their CVT. I wonder if that solves that issue.

[@rcrinsea]

Only true for high-performance sports cars. Not the QX-50.

[@MegaGeorge1948]

Subaru solves that problem by using a high ratio final drives like 4.11:1 for the standard Subaru products and 4.44:1 on their Wilderness models. It makes them feel "punchy" off the line.

[@Tinrs80]

i had an altima and i agree it took off faster if i didnt gun it.

[@realestatenow]

@@ray-al15 yes. That prolongs the life of the CVT.

[@richardtannehill5106]

I have a 2015 Forester with CVT with 125,000 miles on it. I drive it hard and fast, and have had zero problems with he transmission.

[@Tragick_Sin]

The thing with subaru is that they make QUALITY CVTA, unlike jatco that's in most nissans and hyundais

[@jeffthevideoguy23]

So they put CVTs in thousands of cars and no one knows how to repair them and no parts are available? SMH

[@annagreco7470]

That's what I'm thinking. This is crazy it's hard to find a car without a cvt.

[@daniel2064]

CVT don't break...they explode...,think!!! like a couple connecting rods breaking in a engine.....

[@LollyCz450]

I’ve had 3 Nissan vehicles with CVT and I’ve had no problems

[@raiyantyrone5132]

Mileage?

[@marvin7533]

133k on my 2016 Altima SR and never had CVT issue. Keep hating.

[@raiyantyrone5132]

@@marvin7533 is that in miles or KM? I love how the sylphy feels interior wise and the handling as well. Thinking of getting it

[@marvin7533]

@@raiyantyrone5132 in miles. And she's still going strong.

[@21550spurs]

​@marvin7533 how often did you have the cvt fluid changed?

[@raynash4748]

2015 Honda Accord..... 312,000 miles. Not one issue with my CVT. Change the fluid every 75k

[@jesseandersen4055]

Glad to read some positive comments. I just bought a new Honda and came from a manual transmission, which are allegedly reliable but mine failed and I had to replace it. That was expensive. I bought a Honda for the reliable reputation but am only just now reading about the potential issues with the cvts

[@destinyatkins7957]

Me too cause I just got a 2015 Honda civic with cvt and I just want it to last me a long time 😬

[@cm1133]

I have a 2017 Accord Sport SE. I drain and fill the CVT fluid with Castrol TransMax every 10,000 miles. It costs me $25.32 for one gallon of fluid at Walmart.

[@cm1133]

The root cause of the Nissan Jatco CVTs is the Nissan CVT fluid is garbage. If you own a Nissan with a CVT, flush your CVT fluid with Castrol TransMax CVT fluid.

[@keithallsop]

Could also mention: most cvt's are push belt style, Subaru is pull chain which seems to be more reliable. Toyota's now have direct-cvt too, with a normal 1st gear and a clutch to engage the cvt which then takes over for higher speeds. Advantage being the cvt does not take the initial starting torque and covers a narrower ratio spread. More reliable.

[@Matt-ne6de]

audi and subaru use chains but are known to often fail before 40k miles and within warranty. The parts to rebuild the Subaru unit are not available and Subaru must supply a rebuilt unit but it is not clear for how long these units will be available. Japanese makes often do not supply important parts after 10 to 20 years. You cannot install a used cvt or dsg transmission in a modern audi without special security permission from VW and dealers refuse to install used. The old unit must be rebuilt, replaced with a virgin unit(not sure about this) or rebuilt with parts from German dealers. Perhaps these chain boxes are more comparatively reliable to other cvts but as early failure is common and rebuild and replacement difficult it appears many cars fitted with these boxes are destined for the crusher asap.

[@bennieyee6215]

@@Matt-ne6de i

[@hollowdonte]

@@Matt-ne6de you can also buy the cords a laptop and a cracked program to do whatever Parts you want and disable whatever security protocols you want. If they're not going to fix the car why keep it under warranty at that point when it would be cheaper to void it

[@653j521]

@@Matt-ne6de I check on carcomplaints for the problems reported per year, from clunker to pretty good to awesome, with a lot of no "awards" in between. They were right about my Cruze and right about my Subaru.

[@Jose_hernandez970]

@M 30 year master mechanic with import shop. 90% of my transmission problems in my shop are from Subaru. I see Subaru issues now. 10 years ago I saw Nissan’s.

[@shanelyon414]

My 2017 corolla CVT began to break down at 300,000km, I replaced with a used CVT with only 30,000km. My 2005 corolla had a traditional automatic transmission and went 600,000km with never a single problem.

[@toyorobo]

Wow, where do you drive??

[@ritardstrength5169]

9th gen Corollas had the most reliable trannies ever. My car was not powerful, but the transmission’s sturdy performance gave you confidence to floor the gas when needed. My new Corolla has a traditional CVT, not the fancy one with the first gear. But it feels just fine too.

[@tlhumm]

Our Toyota transmission went out at 65k. Anecdotal evidence means nothing.

[@thomasward00]

My wife's 2020 Toyota CHR, Made in Japan.. bought new, babied and dealer serviced. At 67K miles started making a slight noise.. Toyota dealer diagnosed it needed a new CVT Transmission, cost $10,500.... Sold it the next day at CarMax for an excellent price. About to buy a Mazda CX30 with No CVT. I will never own another CVT vehicle.

[@Zdiri281]

in indonesia, multiple japan brand with cvt same problem too

[@brianfantana8510]

Feel sorry for the unfortunate buyer of your lemon.

[@powertools2375]

Sounds dishonest but good for you

[@nut2964]

ur first mistake was buying a toyota chr

[@jimsix9929]

yes, they can not be repaired, something to be avoided

[@thegamingtraderr]

In 2013 I bought a new Nissan Altima. The CVT broke down at 57k miles. I’ll never give Nissan another dime.

[@mrgurulittle7000]

You won't find a car brand that offers the best features and the lowest price in the market than a good old 2022 refreshed Nissan Altima. C'mon! The new Nissans have decent transmissions now that Ghosn is gone. The car would be so great, you'd offer two dimes instead of one, lol!

[@littlestinker9716]

Stay away from Subaru, too. A lot of Subaru CVTs fail at less than 50K miles.

[@mrgurulittle7000]

@little stinker. Subaru makes very reliable transmissions now. They are also well tuned for better acceleration. You are right about old Subaru's though.

[@williesteele4503]

@@mrgurulittle7000 Nissan made very good cars when the Japanese owned the Company. After Renault got involved, Nissan took and nose dive. People want more than just a "decent" transmission. Toyota and Honda are the Best and most reliable of the Asian brands. Many people lost tons of hard earned money buying that Nissan junk Transmissions.

[@arevireba]

If you spend upwards of $30k on a vehicle and it fails at 60,000 miles, you don’t give that manufacturer another chance. They don’t deserve it.

[@joelvalenzuela981]

I bought a Honda HRV model 2015, a crossover SUV with CVT transmission last 2015, and now it's year 2023, I used my vehicle for 8 years with the mileage of almost 90,000 km and I have not yet encountered any problems with my vehicle's CVT transmission. For me, it's reliable.

[@markmeador]

Honda is not Nissan. If Honda has a problem with a component they fix it. Subaru is the same way

[@Jagshemasher]

I would hope not because that is still very low mileage - a transmission should last at least 400,000 km.

[@jimsix9929]

as long as you do not drive hard and change the filters and fluid they will last, and they do help with fuel economy, just avoid hard acceleration and try to keep speed steady, no on and off with the gas pedal

[@Dougie1969]

​@@markmeador I'd be willing to bet there are many Honda and Subaru with cars in garages that % 100 disagree. These 2 car companies haven't cornered the market of reliability. All manufacturers have their issues.

[@larryburton1489]

You better grab you back pocket buddy

[@jcollins2826]

A couple of things to consider. 1. Yes, Nissan had reliability issues with some of their their CVTs. (Some really bad issues) Mitsubishi used the same CVTs and didn’t have reliability issues. Mitsubishi used transmission coolers. This is a known root cause for Nissan’s problems. Nissan has since started using transmission coolers as well as a more robustly designed CVT. It isn’t entirely fair to say “stay away from Nissan” because they had issues in the past. With this logic, we couldn’t drive any car today. 2. In one part of the video, it is suggested that parts aren’t even available for eCVTs “because they are so reliable”, yet in an earlier statement in the same video, regular CVTs are a bad idea because parts aren’t available. This is a fallacy that suggests parts shortages are related to something other than transmission reliability. In my view, and based partly on information from this video, a CVT transmission is much more reliable today than when they were first introduced. This is true for every system in a car.

[@MrCheesywaffles]

Good points, I think newer technology tends to have more issues than better understood tech. That said I think newly introduced tech can get less reliable, if they start making it less well, lengthen service interval, or just switch up the programming when caught cheating on emissions (VW group has caught a lot of flak, but there are many others - Mercedes etc.).

[@Vostro123]

Totally agree. I have ~110k. miles on my Nissan with cvt and changed fluid the second time at 100k miles (1st time was on 50k.). No issues so far. If you don’t accelerate and brake like crazy, it will last

[@gree9963]

thanks god , no more Carlos Ghosn

[@jfltech]

Nissan went to crap after Renault takeover using the infamous Jatco transmissions

[@geraldscott4302]

CVTs are anything but reliable, parts are not readily available for them, because they are not designed to be repaired. They are throwaways. Yes there are some shops that rebuild a small number of models of CVTs, but it costs as much or more in most cases to repair them as it does to just get a new one. And because of the design, when they fail, and they all do, it quickly fills the entire unit with small pieces of metal, destroying pretty much everything. As for everything in a modern car being more reliable, that is absolute hogwash. It was true for a while, back in the 1980s cars did start becoming more and more reliable and longer lasting. They also became a lot more expensive to fix when something did go wrong. But cars designed and manufactured during the past 10 years or so are absolute junk. The quality is worse than anything from the '70s, and they are loaded with so much trash technology that things constantly fail. The cost of something that used to be simple and inexpensive like replacing a water pump can now cost over $2000, because you have to almost completely disassemble the engine to even get to it. Fords 5.4L 3 valve Triton engine is one of the worst engines ever made, with over a dozen different design problems. Things like variable valve timing and direct injection are also highly failure prone, as are pretty much all the Chinese made electronics. Almost any newer engine with a few miles on it will have constant check engine light problems. Even one slight misfire will trigger the check engine light. And there are an almost infinite number of things that can cause it. I worked in a government fleet services department with around 800 vehicles, all relatively new, and we got 7-8 vehicles a day coming in with check engine lights on. These were all American brand vehicles, but made out of mostly Chinese parts. Don't believe me? Just check out the Car Wizards channel. I also recommend Scotty Kilmer's channel. Both highly experienced mechanics, and both tell it like it is. Oh, as far as Nissan's problems, only part of them are CVT related. Nissan merged with Renault back in 1999, and they have been JUNK ever since.

[@08VaNupe]

To make your CVT reliable make sure it has a transmission cooler if not have one installed and perform transmission fluid services. Problem solved. Great video btw

[@flagmichael]

Toyota hybrid transaxles have a full time cooling loop that is shared with the inverter.

[@08VaNupe]

@@flagmichael Toyota ECVT is different. I was referring to regular CVT's by Nissan, Honda and Subie

[@TheOne214]

@@08VaNupe Honda CVTs are way more reliable compared to Nissan

[@ericvid]

​@sikandarali9785 just blew out my cvt belt. Luckily honda has a 150 extended warranty

[@geraldthompson4633]

Truth is, even conventional transmissions are so complicated that even they’re not easy to diagnose or repair. Experienced transmission techs are dying off or retiring and the newbies don’t have a clue sometimes

[@corindikevcorindikev]

My 2012 Mitsubishi CVT has over 220,000 km on the clock. Excellent economy, quiet and totally reliable. Most major transmission issues are now fixed by replacing the transmission. Mechanics who know how to repair things are rare. Car service people now call their so called mechanics, Technicians. They identify where the problem is and replace the whole component.

[@christiansoto9755]

That's not the mechanic's fault. This is how the car industry has changed over the years. It is more profitable to buy parts from them than to repair it at the shop where they don't see any money. So every car they make now makes sure if anything breaks, they have to buy the new part from them. Same thing happened to computers and cell phones.

[@corindikevcorindikev]

@@bobkearsley5931 Any mechanical device can fail & unfortunately your CVT did. I have had 2 conventional autos fail over the years. The replacements were never as good as the original even after I went back for adjustments so I eventually gave up & sold the cars. As you see the cost of repair is going to be uneconomical. A new replacement transmission would be best but they may no longer be available and even if they were the cost is likely to be more than the resale value of the vehicle.

[@aastanton251]

That's not the case , the reason is cost effectiveness. Why fix something that costs the same to replace . I think that's just automobile technology now. Trade Tech Student

[@Dougie1969]

We own Mitsubishi outlander with a 128,000 on the odometer. CVT is flawless in it

[@eugoganys]

I bought a Suzuki Swace in the UK, it's a rebadged Toyota Corolla with an E CVT system, purchased for the joy of driving the smoothest most reliable system out there. I'm glad that you covered the E CVT reliability for the viewers and strongly recommend anyone testing a Toyota hybrid. The fuel consumption is another huge benefit too.

[@keithwolstenholme4238]

My sister works for a transmission company. Her advice is, “Don’t buy a Nissan”.

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Big Altima energy

[@mikekendall841]

Yep nissan will go bankrupt soon because of there cvt transmissions.

[@Deploracle]

"Don't buy a Nissan ... unless it has a Manual Transmission".

[@mrgurulittle7000]

Buy a Nissan in 2022! The CVT quality has improved drastically!

[@JDMSwervo2001]

@@mrgurulittle7000 we won’t know that until 5-10yrs from now

[@tedbale3530]

I drive a Chevy Cruze 2011 eco model with 6 speed manual transmission. Best car I ever had. Great gas mileage and I am in control of which gear I am in. Manual shift extremely reliable and fun to drive. Over other advantage. Unlikely to be stolen as hardly anyone can drive a standard.

[@birddog3130]

Thanks

[@haaxxx9]

Unless you live outside of America, manual transmission are the best anti-theft equipment you can have in your car because the typical criminals ain't that smart to begin with. I'm going to try to get a BRZ or a MX-5 with a manual transmission for my daily!

[@hahamasala]

@@haaxxx9 It's funny because I had a manual transmission car stolen. Saab 9-3 V6 Turbo 6-spd.

[@haaxxx9]

@@hahamasala That shit sucks. Sorry that have to happen to you regardless of my joke. Did you find any traces or the car yet? How long did this jacking occurred?

[@Schcarraffone]

Thats why in Italy we drive usually manual gear cars... to be ready when we have to steal your american or japanese cars in any case

[@robbbarnett4978]

Cvt in nissan made it even more unreliable. It was already plagued with catalytic issues. When they stopped making them in Japan, they stopped being reliable.

[@mammydammy]

ive got a 2013 honda accord lx cvt. it has 336,750 miles on it and the cvt belt just broke last week. i bought it used with 67,000 miles at two years old. i changed the trans fluid 3 times since i had it. never had any issues with the trans or warning that it was going to break. i suppose thats pretty good for a cvt. the cvt belt was the weakest link in the whole car. nothing wrong with the rest of the car.

[@richardwolin4098]

Your video is spot on. My 2013 Subaru' s CVT Transmission went. Became noisy around 120,000 miles. With labor, will cost between $8000 and $9000 to replace it. My first and last Subaru.

[@TOUGHLOVEFINANCE]

Cyz yr a fool. 1st subaru says to change their transmission fluid second drive normal 🙄 jesuschrist I have a 2015 subaru legacy with cvt 233,475 to be exact miles not km. Every 50 k miles change fluid simple every 5k oil.change every 100k change the coolant only use 93 premium gas . Simple

[@johnnn.darrelll2746]

@@TOUGHLOVEFINANCE how is your cvt still good? Is it luck or u really took care of it

[@recoveringnewyorker2243]

Speaking as a retired auto mechanic (admittedly not a transmission specialist) my maintenance schedule always far exceeded the manufacturer recommendations. Mainly because now that I’m retired I drive for a living (Airport transportation) Example : My 2013 Hyundai Sonata has 215,000+ miles on the original engine and transmission. Synthetic oil changes every 3000 miles. Synthetic transmission fluid changes every 15,000 miles. Spark plugs and serpentine belt changed every 50,000 miles. etc. It should be noted I performed most of the maintenance myself. when I needed a somewhat bigger vehicle I opted for a new (Leftover)2020 Mitsubishi Outlander purchased in March 2021. It was a leftover because it didn’t have all of the “Wizbang” electronics everyone wants nowadays. I am not a fan of the CVT design just like I’m not a fan of timing belts (my wife’s 2010 Accent has one of those). However, that’s the way the industry is going and it is what it is. With almost 70,000 mostly highway miles on my Mitsubishi Outlander I have to admit I am getting phenomenal (average 34 mpg) gas mileage! However,the “mushy” feeling of the Mitsubishi CVT took some getting used to. If you have a car with a CVT don’t expect to be doing any “burnouts“ with it. I’ve learned you have to drive it like a 90-year-old grandmother. Again, being a maintenance fanatic I am changing the CVT fluid every 15,000 miles (Mitsubishi recommends every 30,000 miles). Since the CVT was introduced in 2003 by JATCO (Japanese Automatic Transmission Corporation) hopefully in 17 years they’ve worked out the “kinks.“ We’ll see.

[@srobeck77]

Im confused as to why anyone needs to do "burnouts" on 4-cyclinder commuter vehicles. That in itself is a big issue.

[@FrankC76]

@@srobeck77 A point was being made that CVTs lack the punch of a traditional automatic transmission. I would argue it feels like your car is propelled by a giant rubber band. It's not a pleasant experience.

[@mr3800regal]

Thank you for the info!

[@Frank289100]

I'M ALSO A NEW YORKER LIKE YOU. 15,000 MILES FLUID CHANGES ARE A MUST AND THESE TRANSMISSIONS AND THEY WILL LAST LONG. THIS IS WHAT PEOPLE WITH THE CVT TRANSMISSION REFUSE TO DO IS CHANGE THE FLUID. CHANGING THE FLUIDS EVEN ON NONE CVT TRANSMISSIONS IS A MUST. THIS IS THE REASON MY 200K V-6 MARINER AND MY 200K E-250 WORK VAN. BOTH HARD DRIVEN HAVE THE ORIGINAL TRANSMISSIONS AND I CHANGE THE FLUIDS BETWEEN 25 TO 50,000 MILES. FLUID CHANGES ARE A MUST.

[@dreamznaspiratons7064]

Maybe they want us to drive slow and be more controlled in the interest of climate change. They can use that as an excuse to do many severe things, it’s a slippery slope.

[@charlesharnois3684]

My '15 Outback has over 100 thousand change the fluid every 50 thousand, so far no problems. These trans, aren't for everyone, but I'm happy with mine. Clean fluid is the key!

[@darrensmith8673]

I agree, I had mine changed on my 15 OB at 80k at the dealer for peace of mind. The car drives a lot smoother. I just don't believe the lifetime fluid nonsense.

[@TheSchmed]

@@darrensmith8673 “Lifetime of Warranty” fluid. I change my trans fluid every 25k, especially if a simple drain and fill type.

[@terrificspokesman7416]

Some CVTs are good some are bad.

[@KenRuns09]

My 2017 Outback reached 300k and with just basic maintenance. It all depends on the owner :)

[@roadk88]

They tried to replace the timing chain with a timing belt. That did not work out too well and they are going back to chains. So now, in their infinite wisdom, they have decided to put a belt to drive the whole vehicle and bury it where it is totally inaccessible without taking half the engine apart. Genius!

[@BurntFaceMan]

Drove a car today for the first time ever with a CVT. It felt super odd to drive so here I am researching them. Excellent video thank you. We will stick with a 5speed auto. tyvm

[@ronaldderooij1774]

I hoped you would get into the question of why Jatco CVT transmissions fail in Nissans but not in Mitsubishis. The main difference is that Mitsubishi mounts an transmission fluid cooler on all their CVT equipped cars. Nissan does not. The second, less important difference is that Mitsubishi limits the torque put into the transmission by giving their cars less torque and power. I have now 70.000 miles on the clock in a Mitsubishi Mirage CVT. No complaints, zero defects. Just drive normally and change the fluid according to the book.

[@1enhanced1]

I fell limiting power is detrimental to my pocketbook. I want everything I pay for and they should beef up the trans to take all it has for at least 150k miles.

[@DS..69]

As far as I know, honda doesn't either. I have 146k on my Civic Cvt. No issues. Also, I wouldn't necessarily follow the recommendations in the manual. I'd change it before what ever the timeline says to change it. Half that time line.

[@chadbachelder7008]

I have 280,000km on my versa note with no issues. Never an tranny oil change.

[@jmp0428]

Nissan has a trans fluid to water cooler. It is mounted on the front of the unit right behind the engine radiator. some Nissan models have it on top at the rear of the unit back by the firewall.

[@anonymoususer1824]

70,000 miles is nothing. I'm at 234,000 on my Honda suv. You haven't hit anywhere near high mileage.

[@bryanjones3089]

Had a Nissan with a cvt The thing is you have to be on top of the maintenance with changing the fluid in it They recommended changing the fluid at 65 k miles I changed it at 50 k miles and never had an issue with it . It changed like new always Was told multiple times that they would go bad at around 100 or 150 k miles Never was the issue If you don’t keep the fluid changed at regular intervals it will fail jut like not changing oil in the engine .

[@davidb8657]

You are 100% correct. I seriously believe most Nissans with tranny problems were originally rental cars and never ever had proper maintenance including the buyers once the rental company sells them

[@josephkelleher8820]

I change the CVT fluid in my 12' Altima every 30,000 miles.

[@h2opower]

As a Automotive Technician since 1986 I can say with confidence that all need to go back to the drawing board as they truly have longevity problems when compared to the old ways of doing things. Most CVT's simply will not make it too 100k miles no matter how well they are taken care of, some don't even make it too 60k miles. The problem as I see it is they oil used and the cooling system for the transmission oil needs to be redone as the oil breaks down as these type of transmissions get a lot hotter than a standard automatic type transmission and once the oil breaks down it no longer does it's job for the transmission and failure is all but guarantied.

[@iceshadow625]

Idk, my 2004 Honda Civic with a normal automatic transmission crapped out at 120k miles. My 2014 Toyota Corolla with a cvt is at 142k miles and still going.

[@dq7143]

Recommended Subaru CVT fluid changes are every 30K miles in other countries - except America.

[@indridcold8433]

@@h2opower I wonder why the ridiculous abomination came out for the automotive market anyway. There is nothing wrong with the hydraulic, gear driven, automatic transmission, and definitely nothing wrong with the venerable manual transmissions. If it is not broken, why fix it? At the shop I work, CVT transmissions are kept in stock because they are so problematic. This shortens the wait time for the vehicle. We like to keep about 10 to 15 transmissions in stock. We also keep Bronco oil pans and GM trubos in stock. Today's cars are not oy hideous, they are junk.

[@indridcold8433]

@@dq7143 In Canada, the days of CVT are just about over. Nobody wants them. Only companies that need fleet vehicles, or company cars are buying them. People are refusing to buy them, except for some people that have more money than sense. The manual transmission vehicles are flying off the sells lots and the hydraulic, gear driven, automatics are, also. There are new Nissans, in sells lots, that are from 2022 and 2021 that are very discounted, probably below what the dealership bought them. Nobody wants them. They will likely be going to auction soon, with less than 20 kilometres on the odometer.

[@workwillfreeyou]

When asked by the car dealership sales person why I wanted a car with a manual transmission my reply was, I have two close friends that are automatic transmission mechanics.

[@wearethelandrovers9014]

Amazing! This is about the only video I have seen where the narrator actually acknowledges the difference between a belt CVT and a Toyota hybrid system. Just about everybody else lumps them together and condemns the Toyota. The Toyota system is probably the most reliable one on the planet.

[@nobodycaresaboutyourfeelings]

I own a 2018 Nissian xtrail, first owner, 128,000 miles, no issues at all

[@AudiophileTubes]

Nothing like a manual transmission for long term reliability. My daily driver for 20 years now has been a 2003 VW GTI VR6 with a 6-speed manual. It's fun and engaging to drive, and the transmission has given me 0 problems over the years. The great reliability of the 24v VR6 is a story unto itself, but the manual has been flawless. VW claims it's a sealed transmission as well, and i've never changed the tranny oil in the 20 years i've owned this vehicle.

[@aa777flyer]

Agree! Stick with manual transmission if you can find one!

[@siliconinsect]

With the used car market the way it is I've found a secret for something cheap: Find a model known for CVT failures and buy the manual version. Just scored a Subaru Crosstrek 6MT.

[@lawlelo]

Yeah but not ideal for city hectic traffic

[@Vanessinha91Pucca]

You guys are outdated, a normal Automatic is as reliable if well maintained.

[@AudiophileTubes]

@@Vanessinha91Pucca Yes, a 'conventional', old-school automatic, if well made (perhaps one made by Aisin). There are many subpar auto transmissions out there too.

[@Windows98R]

Don’t forget to consider “feel” as well. Some people like knowing the kickback and when it occurs like when you put the foot down. CVTs can give you anything from decent to terrible response to sudden surge in throttle. This leads to the pretty common “hurry up, shift”

[@scrambler69-xk3kv]

CVT's do not shift. Instead they spool up which is basically one pully is opening up or getting wider while the other is closing up or getting narrower. This keeps the tension on the belt consistent. When a pully opens or gets wider, the belt goes further into the pully which is the same as a small diameter pully. While the pully closing up or getting narrower makes the belt think it is on a larger diameter pully. And because this happens in like slow motion that is the reason for sluggish acceleration.

[@scrambler69-xk3kv]

CVT transmissions do not shift. They spool up. Two pullies connected by a steel belt. When you press on the accelerator one pully spreads apart or opens up while the other closes or gets narrower. Which allows the belt to go deeper into the groove simulated a smaller pully while the other forces the belt up out of the groove simulating a larger gear. They cannot do this instantly, it is gradual thus the time lag. Smacking your accelerator instantly to the floor actually slows the rate of acceleration. Better off pressing aggressively but in a measured time frame.

[@misha4422]

I prefer a manual transmission. I have not owned an automatic of any type in 30 years.

[@5610winston]

I inherited two auto cars when my Dad (Dodge Omni) and Mom (Buick Roadmaster) passed about 25 years apart. I unloaded those cars within a year for each of them. In all my years of driving, I have never driven an automatic that gave the same level of control (hence safety) as a manual. No clutch pedal, no sale.

[@jimsix9929]

I love handshakers, what I call manuals, more fun, more control

[@don8244]

Transmission fluid changes typically are most common for the smoothest ride, NOT flushes. If you get a car from a reliable make like Honda or Toyota with a CVT, it'll run smooth as long as you get that extra fluid change maintenance done

[@judihouchens4056]

They have a plug not dip sticks and plug pops out but the magnet holds it to transmission at least 2015 civic. Cost close to 8k to have rebuilt one. Looking for a car without cvt

[@ginayoung5964]

This was very helpful. In 2014 my 2002 For Focus was in need of replacement. I test drove various makes and models but didn't like the automatic transmissions. So I purchased a manual Subaru Forester. I have been very happy with the car but, now my left knee and right shoulder have suffered some issues due to repetitive motion of driving a manual in stop and go traffic. Today when test driving both the Subaru Ascent and Outback; and the Toyota Highlander the subject of CVT came up again. This helped me trust my experience; avoiding the CVT might be worth it!

[@MyerShift7]

I don't mean to be a nosy internet person, but as someone who drove stick shift cars for years and years I'm wondering how is that possible? Do you have a medical condition? Because it's not like any of those movements put that much strain on your body. These components are not super stiff or heavy. Just curious!

[@shawnlavigne9069]

I recently chatted with a cab driver about his 2017 Toyota Prius hybrid. It had 600,000 km on it and was still running the original engine and CVT transmission. Regular maintenance was the key.

[@DynamteKid316]

So true! Regular maintenance is key! 🙂

[@RichardWagenknecht]

Prius’s don’t really have a CVT. There’s no belt involved at all. The engine and two electric motors are joined by a planetary gear set which is amazingly reliable.

[@dystopia-usa]

The "eCVT" in hybrids is a completely different (& far better) design than the regular belt/chain CVT found in regular ICE vehicles. Apples & oranges.

[@z1az285]

@@dystopia-usa exactly. Not all E-CVT are the same. Honda had a recent major recall on the accord hybrid among other models but Toyota's E-CVT is exceptionally reliable

[@Zdiri281]

whatever brand, change oil regular, filter and little maintenance, use ford 300k miles

[@mikekendrick7981]

I had a 2007 Nissan Murano SL AWD that I gave to my parents. It's still going strong on the original transmission and original trans fluid. I was wrongly told it was lifetime fluid. I gave to them with 230,000 on it and it currently has just over 250,000 miles. Lots of front suspension issues over the years though

[@prasad9732]

Hi, did you change cvt fluid?

[@mrofnocnon]

The Murano was the only Nissan with a half decent CVT. But overall the system is useless for vehicles.

[@mikekendrick7981]

@@prasad9732 I never changed my CVT fluid but you are supposed to apparently. A mechanic mistakenly told me that was a lifetime fluid. It's still going at 260,000 mi on the original fluid though

[@prasad9732]

@@mikekendrick7981 thank you for reply, even in my nissan sunny cvt car manual it was written cvt fluid is life time fluid. Service center manager told me not change it. Even in there service schedule there is no schedule for changing cvt fluid.

[@simba_AMD]

250k that's impressive most of toyotas and Hondas known as reliable has ton of issues before even 200k

[@BeingRomans829ed]

Good video. Informative. I am also impressed with the fact that the man asked for the like and subscribe at the end of the video rather than at the beginning like so many do. That's like asking you give a good review for a product and commit to it for the future without even trying it out.

[@scrambler69-xk3kv]

As far as I am concerned if the video is worth a damn, they should not have to ask you to like ans subscribe.

[@DATo_DATonian]

I've thought the same thing many times. I don't buy anything before I've seen it: why should I "like" something before I've even seen it?

[@danconnors8961]

did not know of the added warrantee on the Nissan Altima, thanks! We have 113k miles on a 2015 Altima, hardly an issue with it, been a great car.

[@an0nycat]

Nissan-Infinity is number one on this top 10! 🤩🤩

[@forfluf]

The one sensible rule of thumb for a CVT, double the maintenance interval or more. If the CVT maintenance schedule is longer than the car's drivetrain warranty change the filter and oil every 2 years. Ignore the manual's recommended schedule.

[@MehZehLee]

My 2012 Nissan altima CVT blew at 135k. Since I got the car from my parents I asked when is the last time they serviced the transmission oil. They replied "transmission oil?" Since I only put about 10,000 extra miles on it since I bought it from them they were kind enough to mostly pay for a replacement. Now I replace the oil in it every 30-35k. I'm shocked that the original CVT in it survived that long with no oil change!

[@raymondleung9271]

Manual transmission is best for fun, driver engagement and anti-theft/hijacking.

[@mbryson2899]

I agree, but finding one in a non-sport vehicle in the U.S. is very difficult.

[@BartoszRybacki0]

For me AT is best for fun. I have always driven manual (cheaper cars), and it was really bad in traffic jams. Constant changes between 1, 2, N, 1, 2, N, 1, 2, 3, 5 and pressing clutch pedal again and again, and the need to drive half clutch sometimes in really heavy traffic jam. Now, that I have AT, driving is fun again. Anti-theft? Interesting idea. But not here, in Poland, where 90% of cars have Manual transmission because people are afraid of ATs.

[@mylesgalos6465]

Still drives a manual transmission

[@mbryson2899]

@@mylesgalos6465 My better half insists on mixing her own gears, we haven't had anything automatic or CVT since 1988. It was hard to find a decent stick car when we last bought in '11, but she managed to find a six-speed Sonata. Looks like a granny car but she can wring that car out on twisty roads and surprise people at stoplights.

[@jblb237]

Buick cvt is amazing very powerful works better than a conventional transmission instant power I have mine 4 years no problem yet can out run a conventional transmission very smooth running

[@jimsix9929]

CVT transmissions are for fuel economy, if you run them hard you will get a ten thousand dollar wake up call

[@stephenhall3515]

Direct and sound advice. Over 50 years ago it was normal to follow the servicing intervals recommended and because the routine with garages and their customers was predictable it was possible to keep costs well down.

[@parimalpurohit6805]

Sir, You have precisely explained about CVT. Thanks for the video 👌👌 eCVT or old school torque converter automatic transmission is preferred over other automatic transmissions in my opinion.

[@bensonwu1238]

I will encourage those who want to buy a Japanese car that use CVT transmission to buy a Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura and Subaru with a CVT transmission.

[@davothegreat9990]

eCVT are usually only for Hybrids.

[@paulholterhaus7084]

@@davothegreat9990 Negative...........CVT's are EVERYWHERE...............Paul

[@ranvosnsuaj]

@@paulholterhaus7084 keyword is “E cvt” not CVT

[@jaimelima2420]

@@davothegreat9990 I a big advantage of the hybrid approach I would put.

[@cruzin6123]

I owned a 2015 Honda CRV with a CVT tranny. I had no issues and traded it for a 2017 Honda CRV. I'm still driving it with 65K and the tranny and car run like the day I drove it off the lot.

[@L3x4Pr0ne]

That’s great that your car is running so well. It really is. But 65K is still a relatively young age for an engine/car. I have a Honda manual transmission that’s over 250K now and still runs fantastic. My wife’s Honda CVT, though, is starting to show it’s age and I’m concerned for it. That car is pushing around 100K. I consider that terrible transmission performance. Just baby that CVT, particularly from a dead stop, and you’ll extend it’s life.

[@wimschoenmakers5463]

Those Toyota E-CVT's are really bulletproof.... BUT..... change the transmission oil every 100.000 km, ( 62.000 miles ) so it keeps working for the next decades. 😉

[@Healthliving1967]

My mum has a 2010 Mitsubishi lancer with a cvt transmission in it,she bought it new 13 years ago and it has 200,000 kilometres on the odometer and she has had no problems with it whatsoever. Its been serviced at regular intervals and i believe these Mitsubishi transmissions were well made unlike a lot of the other ones today.

[@ronaldderooij1774]

Mitsubishi uses the same cvt's as Nissan (Jatco cvt's). The difference is, that Mitsubishi engines put less power through the transmission and put sufficient cooling on the transmission. Nissan does not. So Mitsubishi (Jatco) cvt's go on up to 300.000 to sometimes even 500.000 km, and Nissan's (Jatco) cvt's break down only after a fraction of that distance.

[@Healthliving1967]

@ronaldderooij1774 that is true.

[@garyclark979]

I was happy to learn that the eCVTs are very reliable because I own a hybrid Camry and RAV4. I change the fluid every 60-65K miles, so these transmissions should last a long time. I perform oil changes every 5K miles and the radiator/inverter coolant every 50K miles. Fluids are cheap, repairs are expensive. I also use Shell gasoline.

[@CeeTeeUSA]

7K for a CVT transmission means many cars are totalled if they need a transmission. That sounds crazy to me..

[@MrBenHaynes]

Sounds crazy but is the reality. Ask me how I know....

[@bassinbillRC5300]

$4,175 for a "rebuilt" CVT to replace the failed one in my 2013 Nissan Rogue SV AWD. I had 112,000 miles on it when the cvt failed.

[@alanmartinez488]

@SekaCity Nissan is Jatco

[@spol1622]

@@alanmartinez488 I think that Nissan owns JATCO.

[@no1lineman]

@SekaCity Subaru is inhouse ..not Jaco

[@TAMPA234]

Thank you for your explanation of the e-cvt. Makes me feel a lot better as I had been fearing my e-cvt was in the same class as the Nissan cvts.

[@flagmichael]

Very different!

[@davidyang9902]

Came here to say the same. Many decade old prius taxis still on the road and are known as some of the most reliable vehicles despite having a "cvt" which I now know is different

[@CarlosRodriguez-hb3vq]

Correct. The eCVT that Honda puts in hybrids is a completely different transmission. It does have a wet clutch pack to lock up direct drive at highway speeds, but that’s old, proven technology

[@eugenehong8825]

My old 2007 Altima CVT was high maintenance nightmare. It took me 10 years and over $2,500 to work out all the bugs. Basically you have to change the fluid every 30-50k miles (and I HIGHLY recommend Redline CVT), remove 1 quart of fluid during the summer to prevent the transmission from overheating, and always listen for the dreaded whining noise. That means you need to change the fluid STAT!

[@xTWISTED_WAYZx]

My 2011 went 250,000 miles. It had whining issues and makes sense with what you're saying. However, we were told that it was not a cvt that you serviced. So it never had the fluid changed lol. I laugh because with m 2017 civic , the cvt has made it to 230,000 miles and ive been tuned and modified for much of its life. Both i drove pretty hard but the Honda cvt has never slipped and never flinched with all that I've thrown at it. The nissan would slip when you drove it to hard it let you know. I wish Honda would put more r & d into making them more robust to make it past 300 hp more reliably but i get it . The design is the limiting factor i suppose

[@KhanJoltrane]

I'm confused, why would you remove a quart of transmission fluid?

[@eugenehong8825]

@@KhanJoltrane I found that the fluid expands as the transmission runs during the summer. 100 degree weather caused my CVT to enter safety mode unless I removed a quart. I found that hack from the forums.

[@thagoldplater]

@@eugenehong8825 The shops can't get my Nissan Quest out of limp/safety mode😫

[@eugenehong8825]

@@thagoldplater My guess is that all the Jatco CVTs overhead during the summer. Try removing a quart like I did. Tell your mechanic I told you it's ok. 😅

[@MrRensan404]

Regular gear type transmissions are durable and reliable and do withstand the test of time. I have a 1993 Toyota Previa with 280K miles on the same original 4 Speed transmission and it still performs seamlessly to this day. All I did was regular fluid changes per the owner’s manual interval requirements. I would recommend going for the tried and tested transmission and stay away from CVTs.

[@unwoke1652]

My own Toyota's manual gearbox failed just 400km/250mi out of warranty, with no love from Toy Mama.

[@anaroman3831]

Thank you for providing the problems on a CVT transmission, and for explaining how the E-CVT is better.

[@frankcoffey]

My 2013 Altima CVT had to be replaced at 5000 miles but after that it was fine. I loved the constant pull accelerating up a ramp on to the freeway. I have a Tesla now and it’s that same feeling only with more power.

[@timmck6352]

I appreciate your content. I prefer standard geared transmissions exclusively for their reliability and simplicity. I'm not lazy so I and don't mind clutching and shifting. Also am perfectly satisfied with this time proven reliability, mechanical simplicity, and most importantly allows total control of matching engine rpms at my discretion for best power train match to load conditions without the computer/transmission incorrectly applying ratio changes. I have driven more than 2,225,000 miles conservatively . Many vehicles accumulated 250,000 or much more without any significant issues if any.

[@peterwilson8039]

If you live in North America you will be finding that manual transmission cars are going to be much harder to find, unless you want to pay a premium price for something like a Civic SI.

[@ahis3233]

You typed like my dad

[@vesperv.9458]

Manual Transmision is great, but when you get daily traffic jam in dense city the M/T is not too good. CVT is best option because it's efficient but require more maintenance.

[@leecowell8165]

They're going bye-bye I bet in 10 years they'll no longer exist. maybe in big trucks but that's gonna be it.

[@dubiouswords7851]

I’m holding to the last Acura with a manual transmission (a 2015 Acura ILX Dynamic). It’s my daily driver and I love it. Solid car with no maintenance worries. But alas like others have mentioned, few manuals are being sold anymore.

[@GraemeWant]

I have a 2007 Honda Jazz Sport and have done 230K Kilometers. This one has a Clutch rather than a Torque Converter connecting the CVT to the Diff. I really like the CVT idea. As for Power Loss that is not a problem for me I just put my foot to the floor and it goes really well. However I have had the Clutch Shudder Problem. New oil fixed it for a while, but now I just live with it. Not really a problem for me. I have had no other problems with the car. At the time I bought the car it had to be a CVT or I was not interested. That is still the case. I have also driven the 2021 Honda Jazz Hybrid and I really that that CVT concept. It went very well. Could well be my next car. Good Video on the subject.

[@chienchichen2313]

I'm an old school guy, I preferred a stick shift or manual transmission, I'm in control of the car & not the other way around, & it's more fun. Once in your muscle memory to feel the engine & timing to shift, carculation of the car, everything comes instinctively. Just like a photographer, it's more fun using manual mode on camera than in automatic or P/Program mode. Manual transmission is more reliable, low maintenance & more fuel efficient, cheaper model.

[@raygowan1968]

I have had 2 CRV's with CVT transmissions. My 2016 I traded just shy of 90k miles with zero transmission issues. My 2020 CRV currently has 55k miles on it (yes I put a lot of miles on a car a year) mostly highway driving. I do take numerous trips up the mountains of NC & TN, mostly highway and mountain driving does seem to wear out a CVT more quickly than flat road driving. Fingers crossed for no issues.

[@shaftwood]

That doesn't sound like much mileage to me, quite honestly. I'd be pretty unhappy if I was having transmission problems in 90k miles, that's for sure. My latest Honda with a normal Automatic has 358K on it and I've had no problems with the transmission at all. I do religiously change the fluid, though.

[@raygowan1968]

@@shaftwood I didn't have any issues at 90K, that is just when I traded the car. 358K is awasome!! I play to keep my current CRV for at least 200K miles. right now I have about 63k on it, so a long way to go.

[@andrewdonohue1853]

I bought a Subaru crosstrek, and I bought the manual 6 speed. I enjoy driving it, it makes better use of the 2.0. I think it's more reliable

[@billyrock8305]

Super reliable 400,000 on mine. No issues. 👍.

[@carhelpcorner]

Nice! Which model?

[@billyrock8305]

@@carhelpcorner Honda

[@tyeohno]

@@billyrock8305 Which model (Accord, Civic, etc.)?

[@georgesrisomsak9650]

We will need a video for proof. I smell sarcasm, or bullshit. I've never witnessed in person, or other, any Nissan new or old make it 400000 miles. Not once, I've e seen at least thousands of Nissans over the years.

[@DynamteKid316]

Our Nissan Sentra cvt is almost 20 years old and We NEVER had an ISSUE with our NISSAN car unlike other brands i used to work for. Lot's of recalls & weak safety features. Thank you! Plus the engine is very quiet too!

[@francoisjutras6481]

I had a lot of Nissan's cars without any problems with cvt's.

[@supersmash6058]

Is the altima one of those cars

[@redcraze]

I’m surprised you didn’t mention GM. I had an 04 Saturn Ion Quad Coupe with a CVT. I absolutely loved it. Paired with that 2.2 ecotec, it worked great. Zippy and quick. I averaged 38-40mpg too. Really loved that engine/transmission combo. Had it til 190k and NO ISSUES. Only performed required maintenance on it. Which wasn’t cheap because back then there was no aftermarket fluid for it. But there was no excessive noise or anything. Just the nice smooth one speed.

[@dennishassler605]

You are incredibly lucky - with this luck, you'll live healthy to 150!!!!

[@jeffjo8732]

2:38 "Because the CVT keeps the engine more or less at the same rpm as you're accelerating the noise is a little bit more obvious when compared to a normal transmission" I beg to differ. The "normal" transmission's volume ramps up and down, sometimes softer and sometimes louder than a CVT. What people notice, and are bothered by, is not having that change. And there is more difference between the Honda eCVT that is shown in your video at 7:25, and the Toyota eCVT that you describe while showing Honda's, than there is between the Toyota and a belt-and-pulley CVT. The Toyota simply replaces the belt and pulley set with a planetary gear set. It is controlled thru electronics by varying the power split in the planetary, rather than moving cones. In fact, the "e" in Toyota's "eCVT" stands for "electronically controlled," although their marketing department shortened it. Honda's is not a mechanical system at all. The "e" stands for "electrically coupled" (again, blame marketing for shortening it. There literally are no mechanical parts to fail in the eCVT mode of operation. "Virtual CVT" is a better name (Credit:I first heard that name in a CNET review of the 2017 Accord Hybrid.) 7:48 "The type of eCVT system that Toyota and Honda [use] is not really a transmission at all." This statement is true about a Honda hybrid. It is blatantly false about a Toyota hybrid.

[@pbasswil]

Some traditional (geared) transmissions are more reliable than others. Same for CVTs. I think Toyota has had good reliability with theirs. As someone said below, it also depends on sensible implementation, like matching with the car's power, and other factors.

[@michesbianan]

Agree. I drive a 12 yr old Toyota with CVT. Fluid change is key.

[@reallifeengineer7214]

@@michesbianan Similar here. I drive a 2010 (12yr old) Mitsubishi with CVT. Fluid changed religiously every 60K mi. Still running strong & reliable. In fact I take it autocrossing since a couple years ago, using the manual override paddle to keep in 1st or 2nd "gear".

[@techjdu]

Toyota also has an actual "launch" gear from what I understand.

[@michesbianan]

@@reallifeengineer7214 Great to hear yours is going strong as well man. If i'm being honest, I prefer the linear feel of CVTs. Comes with age I guess.

[@michesbianan]

@@techjdu Indeed, this initial launch gear is the newer version. Mine (K111 CVT) does not have this. Mated to a 2.0 3ZRFE engine, it has decent oomph.

[@396375a]

Excellent video! Recently I watched a video from a used car dealer in VT where he was faced with buying a remanufactured CVT transmission for a pristine auction car he took a chance on buying. To his surprise, he found out he could buy a brand-new CVT from the Nissan for $2200.00 Transmission shop wanted $4800 for rebuilt with them installing it. He could have bought a rebuilt for $2800 with him installing it. Just an FYI!!!

[@396375a]

@@user-3tf67bk46u KZbin site is Flying Wheels, video was made 2 months ago. Name of video is 'Nissan Disappointed me again.' I do not know if this guy is telling the truth or not, but he sounds like he might be. NOT everything on the internet is a lie. Try not being so condescending the next time you interact with someone!!!!!

[@396375a]

@@user-3tf67bk46u I called the local Nissan dealership here in Ct. (Napoli Nissan) and was quoted $2500 for a new CVT transmission for a 2013 Sentra. Don't believe me? Call yourself!!!!

[@396375a]

@@user-3tf67bk46u I guess not everything on the internet is a lie, is it???

[@ColinAdventures]

I bought a 6spd manual Crosstrek and a big part of that decision was because it’s one of the few small crossovers with a manual. Most of my cars have been manual transmissions and were low maintenance, efficient, and more fun to drive. The two auto transmissions I’ve owned and the vehicles at work cost more to maintain and drive way worse. I actually think the cvt transmissions drive better than traditional autos but it seems like a solution to a non-existent problem. Just get a manual.

[@5610winston]

I test-drove the Crosstrek 2.0 liter CVT today. It was worse than the six-speed auto in my company-issued Silverado. There is a reason why conventional autos are called slush-boxes, and the CVT felt like it was driving through a plate of applesauce. It was a cold day and the throttle response was jerky from a standing start, no matter how gently pressure was applied. This seemed to wane after the engine warmed up, but a manual clutch gives better control over torque. Also, I have some hearing loss and ringing, but I could clearly hear a whining from the non-gearbox while backing into a parking space. My judgement is that I haven't bought an automatic in over fifty years of driving, and I never will.

[@christopherrichards1025]

A manual tranny is fun on an open road. Different story stuck in traffic. I will take the auto any day.

[@scrambler69-xk3kv]

Biggest issue with buying a manual transmission, is you really take a hit at trade in time, because dealers know it will be harder to sell a manual car.

[@joesbarandgrill5393]

Not too many manuals offerred any longer, unfortunately. No thanks on a CVT.

[@unwoke1652]

We aren't always given that choice. Luckily, Suzuki and Mazda still offer manual transmissions here.

[@robertkubrick3738]

I have several cars with DCT transmissions. CVT that use a metal strap like a bandsaw blade with drive keys slotted to them are weak. Only weak engines are available with those CVT for good reason, the belt snaps. Nissan owns JATCO who also provides CVT of the weak type to Mitsubishi. My Hyundai DCT transmissions will reliably transmit over 200 foot pound of torque to the ground, which is more than most 3.0L V6 put out at the flywheel. I do prefer a traditional torque converter and wet clutch automatic transmission. Instant response, meaning you actually get significant acceleration immediately and if you change the fluid often in these transmissions, like every 50k miles, they can last 300k miles or more without issue.

[@thebrewsterblock]

Fantastic! I have dreamt for years about the concept of CVT but did not know how to go about it. Decades ago the Dutch had a DAF that used pulleys like certain variable speed lathes. I assumed unleashing hundreds of modern horsepower engines on these would rip them to shreds and that was probably why CVT was late in coming. Never heard of e-cvt so Thanks. Will have to look further!

[@teoddyneillloren6029]

Proud Nissan Xtrail 2003 owner here! CVT chain type - transmission has never been opened uptodate for 20 years! I think it has something to do with driver it self on how he/she take good care of the unit :) just my two cents. Cheers!!!

[@48VAC]

I owned a 2005 Ford Freestyle. It has the 3.0 gas and Haldex CVT/AWD system. It was a great car and sold with 175k. Ran flawlessly. Had the fluid changed per the maintenance schedule. Sold it to my daughter for a $1 and she drove it to over 190k when she traded for new. Probably the most reliable vechile I've owned in 30 years.

[@ivannadler1789]

This was a very helpful video. I did know that Nissan had major problems with the CVT transmission and never wanted to purchase any car or SUV with a CVT transmission. But, my wife loved the 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid which gets around 48-50mpg. Even at the time of purchase, I asked a reliable Honda mechanic about the CVT and he said that the Honda CVT's has been very reliable for the past 10 years. But, now that I know it is an E-CVT (which is totally different than the belt driven Nissan CVT's), I am more relieved that we won't have transmission problems, because we will keep this car for at least 12-15 years. Honda's always last and now thanks to this video explaining the CVT's, I am confident that we won't have any major problems.

[@vesperv.9458]

make sure you change the CVT oil as require, if you get lot more traffic jam then you need more frequent cvt oil change.

[@ivannadler1789]

@@vesperv.9458 Thanks Vesperv, we take the Honda Accord to a trusted honda dealer where we purchased the vehicle. They just changed the transmission oil at 30,000 miles. We plan to keep the car for a long time.

[@jeffjo8732]

I also have a (2018) Accord Hybrid. Lifetime 48 mpg, all conditions. Its eCVT is completely different than was described, and even more reliable. It does not have a planetary gear set, or any gears for that matter. You can see the description that accompanies the video that was incorrectly described, at kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXm5emuoZdOfoZY.

[@jeffjo8732]

@@vesperv.9458 Any excess degradation in the Honda eCVT will occur during highway cruising, not stop-and-go traffic. I'm not saying there is any significant excess, but that is where there is more action in the eCVT.

[@kelsoistired]

My mom had a 2014 nissan rogue and it started shuddering upon acceleration a couple yrs ago I'm soooo glad she finally got rid of that thing

[@mrhondaboy]

i drive a Honda "Si", videos like this give me such security with a manual transmission😃

[@spgroh]

The CVT in my Mitsubishi blew up at 60K miles. It took them a month to get around to shipping a new one. I also had a Ford with a DCT that failed at about 89K miles. Ford did a rebuild on that and it failed again less than 12K later.

[@nonamesplease6288]

I have a 2020 Corolla and so far, so good. I was strongly urged by a friend to never, repeat, never buy a car with a CVT. However, I did my research and got the Toyota. Toyota's CVT has a gear instead of a belt for quick starts, such as when you need to merge onto a highway. The experience is smooth. The only time I really notice the difference is in reverse, but that's a small thing to live with.

[@sammyt3514]

The Corolla CVT still has a belt; it starts with an actual gear to minimize the CVT's rubber band effect when initially accelerating but then a conventional CVT (i.e. with a belt) picks up from there.

[@nonamesplease6288]

@@sammyt3514Yes, that's exactly what I was referring to. It actually works in situations like merging onto the expressway.

[@robertblack6630]

@@nonamesplease6288 no it only uses a gear when coming from stop it has a 1st gear then it's all CVT. When you accelerate on the highway your just high reving your CVT there is no gears after 1st.

[@Rocket9944]

I've had two Nissan's with CVT transmissions in both had problems

[@sagikxngrussian]

What I found with some reported issues with CVTs especially Nissan was that persons were not paying attention to the type of fluid being purchased, some models state NS-2 or NS-3 etc…so most people just buy CVT fluid without checking the owner’s manual or doing research.

[@markhammer1902]

Have a Nissan Versa with a CVT approaching 100,000 miles. So far I haven't had an ounce of problem with it. Mileage between 37 and 40 Mi to the gallon.

[@butchfajardo8832]

Proper maintenance and no overloading the vehicle!

[@jeffmorse645]

We had two 2010 Mitsubishi Lancers using a Jatco CVT. I had them serviced every 30K miles and neither has had any issues. We no longer have the cars - my sister drives one and her son the other, but they're both fine 12 years later with over 100K on each. I think a lot of problems with CVTs come down to servicing regularly. Mitsubishi may have better cooling for theirs vs. Nissan Jatco CVTs from the same era. For whatever reason they're holding up quite well.

[@fmmnta]

I bought a new Sentra cvt and sold It with 170.000 km. No drama.

[@volodymyrrubandynamokyiv]

I drive mitsu mirage cvt, 120 000 kms, no issues. just needs regular service.

[@stewartayvaliotis4848]

the other thing to look at was the Jatco transmission assembled in Japan or Mexico

[@hashimshaban4675]

Oooh thanks now I can order an OT

[@leonb2637]

When I bought a new vehicle last year, in significant part I chose a Mazda CX-30 as about the only vehicle in its class without a CVT. As far as I know, no Mazda model has CVT.

[@Baci302]

I was just about to post the same. I'm going to buy a CX-5 or CX-50 once the prices drop.

[@jbar_85]

Yes, that partly why I got a Mazda 3 myself lol! I HATE the way CVTs feel like a rubberband all the time.

[@mdavid1955]

Yep. Mazda has not gone for CVT transmissions yet. I wonder in the new CX-50 hybrid will have an E-CVT from Toyota?

[@francmedic7917]

Suzuki

[@AbleMable]

The problem is that Mazda's six speed transmission is horrible. So outdated. And at the same time a modern CVT is quite reliable. So there's that. Even Toyotas 8 speed transmission feels like garbage compared to a CVT. CVTs are always in the perfect ratio for the speed you are going. It's a wonderful thing. I was two seconds away from buying a CX-30. I insisted on taking it for a real drive before signing the paperwork. I knew it wasn't for me. Either the car wasn't too low RPM or too high RPM, and never found a good balance. Reminded me of the transmissions of the '80s, felt like a four-speed automatic.

[@andremontmartin7207]

After having tasted the CVT on a Subaru Forester turbo Diesel, I was conquered by its approval and its operation. And now I switched a few months ago to a Toyota RAV4 hybrid, which gives me complete satisfaction for its overall qualities, the operation of its eCVT and its reasonable consumption (5.8 liters / 100 km, or 40.55 MPG) . Sincerely, from France.

[@mrgurulittle7000]

Hey yo! From Japan bro!

[@mutantmanus1199]

seriously? CVT in a Diesel Engine? I dont believe you

[@andremontmartin7207]

@@mutantmanus1199 Yes. It was sold in Europe , not in North America. CVT with pad +/- on the wheel (7 simulated gears). II kept it for 4 years, from 2015 to 2019. I traveled 72000 km with this car, with great pleasure in France, in Italy and in Portugal. I parted with it because here, the legislation on emissions is more and more restrictive and the Diesel engine is no longer as interesting. In fact, Subaru vehicles, already little sold in France, become very expensive with the taxation on polluting emissions. Sales are anecdotal and Subaru garages are increasingly rare. Too bad Subaru didn't offer true hybridization on its vehicles (Toyota technology), because I was very happy with this vehicle and I would certainly have continued with this endearing brand.

[@robertlindsay9826]

It's a good idea on paper. I only know about Nissan Murano cvt . My drunk friends tried to pull start theirs and that was that

[@harryohe5844]

I have owned many vehicles (76 in total of cars, motorcycles, and boats) of all brands and years. I have never had a transmission or differential issue. I follow the following maintenance protocol: Change my syn. oil every 3500 miles, flush/change trans oil at 20K miles and the diff. and every 30K miles thereafter, brake fluid every 2 yr., test coolant and flush/refill every 2.5-3 years, drive belt every 50K miles, check hoses & replace 75K miles. I have never repaired a vehicle as result of need or breakdown, I have done recalls as prescribed. I would rather invest the money into reliability than stand on the side of the road and pay for an expensive tow as living in the NW or SW long distance hauls can really cost! Besides, breakdowns in summer in AZ are a very bad idea when it's 108F+. The rest is your driving style. If you "Jackrabbit" from lights all the time, use your right foot vs. your brain you will eventually pay the price and suffer poor fuel economy.

[@condor5635]

Love your maintenance schedule! Not sure I change the belt every 50,000 miles they typically are good for at least 80K

[@billkonopacz8392]

Thanks for info on E-CVT. Will considerate going forward vs. ruling it out like I do with a CVT

[@darkgardener9577]

CVT OWnER: Hi I'm here to get my transmission serviced at 30k!!! Dealership: No.... you don't need to maintain anything or change any fluids or filters. Also we're ready to literally fight you to keep you from ever servicing that CVT. After CVT implodes at 80k...Dealer: Need a new car? We can get you into a new one TODAY for less than a CVT!!! Only a 19% interest rate too!!

[@robertkubrick3738]

The trick is, just change the fluid often. You don't actually need to change the filter often, it's just there to keep metal particles from recycling through the transmission and by the time it's full of metal, the transmission would already be trashed. The easy way to drain and fill with new fluid is check for leaks and if no leaks, measure how much fluid comes out and replace that much fluid using the exact manufacturers fluid so you know it will mix well with the fluid that never drains from the CVT because you don't want mismatched fluids to foam. I'd also drain and fill a CVT every 20k miles. You are saving $30 (and time!) on the filter and O-ring by leaving them be so spending $30 on fluid twice as often isn't the end of the world.

[@TakeOffV05]

The trick is stop treating your Nissan like it’s a charger or a super car, and don’t get scammed and get your vehicle serviced lol.

[@21550spurs]

Don't laugh, but I'm going in to the dealer this weekend to get my 2017 Nissan, with 25000 miles on it to get the C.V.T fluid changed.I want to make the transmission last as long as I can

[@darkgardener9577]

@@21550spurs No laughing, I'm 100% pro-maintenance. With regular if not early fluid exchanges. I was bashing all the Nissan dealerships in the Minneapolis/St.Paul area who literally got upset that I would dare try and change the fluids/filters in my car.

[@dcanmore]

Successful CVTs have been around since the 1950s. DAF introduced it in their cars (called the Van Doorne Transmission) or Variomatic and Volvo acquired it in the 1970s. Ford and Fiat used it under license from the '80s, a variant was developed by Williams F1 in 1993 but was banned under new racing rules. Audi started using an updated version from 2000 and eventually went into 40 other car brands.

[@alanhargreaves8974]

I had a DAF (they were all Variomatics) in 1972 and the transmission was great with stepless acceleration (bear in mind it was no road burner, having a Renault 1108cc engine) and very economical. I have just ordered a new Toyota Aygo CVT (warranty in UK 10 years or 100k miles......which us very reassuring).

[@BertrandVanderBerg]

Scooters have been using CVT for a looooong time as well.

[@antonpersson99]

Honorable mention to the Daf 555 used for racing with 4 wheel drive and 200 hp engine while using a modified variomatic gearbox. It was banned for competing since it was so successfull, mainly thanks to 4wd and the extremely quickly gear "switching" transmission

[@unwoke1652]

Yes, I'm old enough to remember them. There were a small number of them here in South Africa 🇿🇦.

[@5610winston]

And don'r forget the Subaru Justy from the eighties.

[@joeturnip4216]

This video makes me aware of how lucky I was to purchase my 2016 Honda HR-V with a manual 6-speed Transmission. Honda doesn't put manuals in the new HR-Vs so I'm going to keep my 2016 running for as long as possible.

[@briankim6148]

Damn didnt even know they made hrv with a manual. Sounds awesome to drive

[@srobeck77]

Ok so you really didnt watch this video and/or interpreted what you wanted from it. There was only ever problems with early Nissan CVTs, but not the current gen ones or from Honda......

[@markmeador]

I had a 2007 Nissan Sentra, that was the first year Nissan put cvt’s in the Sentra. .I had three transmissions before I hit 50k miles. Nissan informed me they won’t pay for another trans. I sold the car the next day. I had an old Datsun 510. Four wheel independent suspension, 1600cc 4 cylinder with a 4 speed manual transmission. I think my 67 model was a better car than the new ones they make today. I will never buy another car with cvt.

[@SRHTX]

I was born in a Ford Family when we use to own a Ford Dealership from the mid ‘60s to the and of ‘88. My father has been with Ford Dealerships for 55+ years and has yet to retire. FOR ME, I have turned into a Mazda person around 2010 and have remained a Mazda person since. Needless to say, I drive my cars hard since I use to Autocross and Road Race mine. I’ve NEVER HAD 1 issue with to Automatics or manual transmission. Before the Mazda’s, I have a 2003.5 Infinity G35 Sport & 2005 Infinity G35 Sport Sedans. One was a manual. The other was automatic. Never had an issue with those transmissions either compared to today’s issues with Infinity vehicles.

[@zahimiibrahim3602]

I think using the paddle shifters should be totally avoided with CVTs as it leads to sudden spikes of torque in the transmission potentially causing chain slip especially if driven in sporty way such as using engine braking before entering a corner and full throttle through the 'gears' coming out of corners.

[@santafepacifico-scaletrain6207]

It all depends on the transmission. I have a 2009 Murano SL AWD W/ 434 ish K. I change all the fluids regularly. I know CVTs are fragile so I baby the transmission. My coworker has a 2012 Juke W/ 278 ish K as of last night. In her defense, she doesn’t go over 40 MPH and doesn’t leave Aquidneck Island in RI. Her Juke should last forever lol.

[@2009skyline]

I bought a 2016 Maxima SR. It had a CVT. I had no issues. Lol I was always scared, because of what people said… but it never failed. I got rid of it two years ago, for a Kia K5 GT. I regret it. The maxima had 168k miles on it. It was the best car I’ve ever owned. (Yes, I got rid of the K5 GT) it was awful.

[@iashakezula]

We have a Nissan Cube 2010 with a CVT, it was even made in Japan. That car has been back and forth to the dealer .Never again. Thank you. I am now narrowing down my next car purchase. My current car is a Matrix clone over 150,000 miles and almost 15 years without transmission problems at all but I will getting it ready to give it to my sister.

[@Bobs2cents]

I currently have a 2013 Honda Fit with a 5sp manual transmission with a hair under 170k miles. I’ve had NOT one issue with my tranny or any mechanical parts since I bought it new. I will always buy a manual trans when I can because I just do not want the headache of CVTs. Yes, it is a tiny car and I am 6’4” 220 but for me, the fact that rain,sleet or snow, hot or cold that car just gets up and goes with no complaints is worth it to me.

[@winc06]

Friend with Corolla CVT with over 150k miles. No engine or CVT problems.

[@MyerShift7]

'16 Corolla CVT here: 230K miles so far with three fluid changes. No issues yet...

[@user-mn5hm3ez7o]

Nice video. I have a 2021 Subaru Impreza. 31,000 miles. So far so good. Not great on gas. Because it has AWD and I do mostly city driving.

[@alanle5369]

Hi William ! I am thinking about buying 2022 Subaru Impreza either base or premium. How may miles per gallon in city driving for your 2021 Impreza ? I also do a lot of city driving for food, grocery deliveries and sometimes Uber rideshare

[@danielfair4675]

I've got a '21 Crosstrek Limited, basically a jacked up Impreza. I do mostly city driving (although smaller cities 2,500 to 15,000 population). I'm averaging 31 - 32 mpg overall for the most part.

[@user-mn5hm3ez7o]

@@alanle5369 Great MPG on highway. Only 26 MPG city. However it is AWD.... pros and cons.

[@ilovetotri23]

I owed a 2017 Honda CRV. I was not excited to have a CVT. But it worked great! I sold the car over my worries of the engine not lasting very long. I got unbelievable mpg with the CRV! 34 over a 4 year period. I wish I had kept it! I loved the CVT...It made the car feel so responsive! As for people who like the feel of gears shifting, get over it! My replacement was a 2021 Toyota Highlander. I cant tell when it shifts, regardless of close I look at the tach.

[@CarlosRodriguez-hb3vq]

You should have opted for the hybrid CR-V instead of the turbocharged/direct injected/ CVT version. The hybrid has a port injected, non-turbo, Atkinson cycle engine and an eCVT.

[@kennethjacot8586]

As a owner of a 2014 Nissan Sentra (115k), 2017 Nissan Rogue (70k), and a 2017 Honda CRV (70k), I have had no problems with the CVT. Changed the fluid at 60k. Don't go to a discount oil place for a fluid change. Did this with the 2014 Nissan, trans started to slip. Don't know what they put in it. I changed the fluid to Nissan fluid, problem went away. Overall very reliable cars. Had GM and Chrysler cars before with many issues.

[@customer7575]

Original 2009 cvt transmission still running in 2024. First cvt transmission drain & fill was done at 87,000 miles. Nearly running 15 years now!😂❤😂