CVT metal to metal!

[CROSSBOLT]

Wife had to have a second car and it has a CVT with a metal belt riding on metal variator faces. I knew Nissan had some models with CVT but was unaware how many have done this! Service interval for fluid change every 96400 miles!

Karl

[Forbes1964]

Nissans have used CVT for several years with good results. MUCH better than Ford’s disastrous 3 or 4 year experiment. As for fluid change intervals, I find that the manufacturer intervals are realistic. At first I was skeptical. But the fluids are MUCH better than several years ago. And when changed at the recommended intervals for the driving conditions, the fluid still looks and smells as if it’s good for many more miles.
CVT fluid is usually super expensive too. As for metal on metal, surprisingly, that’s not a problem. I believe you can relax as far as the engine and transmission for most modern cars. Now the electronics...


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[Forbes1964]

Nissans have used CVT for several years with good results. MUCH better than Ford’s disastrous 3 or 4 year experiment. As for fluid change intervals, I find that the manufacturer intervals are realistic. At first I was skeptical. But the fluids are MUCH better than several years ago. And when changed at the recommended intervals for the driving conditions, the fluid still looks and smells as if it’s good for many more miles.
CVT fluid is usually super expensive too. As for metal on metal, surprisingly, that’s not a problem. I believe you can relax as far as the engine and transmission for most modern cars. Now the electronics...


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[ole two wheels]

Yes , it would seem that metal on metal is contrary to logical thinking. What makes this possible, however, is the fact that the "belt" is not pulled by the Drive pulley, but PUSHED. The belt consist of a series of "elements", approx. 400 or more, held in place by bands, or rings inserted on either side of the elements. The more rings used the more torque that belt can handle. The elements push against each other in the direction of rotation. Also high pressure oil is sprayed onto the mating surfaces. There is no slippage. The sheaves are hardened steel and the elements are softer metal, so there is minimal scaring. Eventually all automatic transmissions will be of the CVT design. Nissan was one of the first to use CVT technology and has evolved into a quite reliable design. My manual says the have the fluid checked at 60,000 and if it's clean then nothing else needs to be done.

[CROSSBOLT]

Well put, Mac!

Karl

[Forbes1964]

Yes , it would seem that metal on metal is contrary to logical thinking. What makes this possible, however, is the fact that the "belt" is not pulled by the Drive pulley, but PUSHED. The belt consist of a series of "elements", approx. 400 or more, held in place by bands, or rings inserted on either side of the elements. The more rings used the more torque that belt can handle. The elements push against each other in the direction of rotation. Also high pressure oil is sprayed onto the mating surfaces. There is no slippage. The sheaves are hardened steel and the elements are softer metal, so there is minimal scaring. Eventually all automatic transmissions will be of the CVT design. Nissan was one of the first to use CVT technology and has evolved into a quite reliable design. My manual says the have the fluid checked at 60,000 and if it's clean then nothing else needs to be done.

Well said. Much better than I said it. A better explanation too.


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[ole two wheels]

I have a 2014 Pure Drive (CVT) Altima SL w/4 cylinder. The CVT's are much better now than a few years ago, but can still be problematic. The one I have is suppose to be as reliable as a regular geared auto Tranny, so the "Experts" say. We have a little over 31K on it now. I have drive train warranty up to July of 2019 or 60,000 miles WCF. Think I'll be shopping for an extended power train warranty, before long. Most all CVT failures result in complete replacement at the tune of about $3500. OUCH. This car needs to last as we will need one. You know the old saying, "Use it up' wear it out, make it do, or do without"