A reader asks: Can AMSOIL Engine & Transmission Flush be used in CVT transmissions? I’ve got a 2017 Nissan Altima. Wondering if this product will give my transmission a thorough cleaning?
Our answer: The short answer is no. AMSOIL Engine & Transmission Flush is NOT compatible with CVT transmissions (also known as “continuously variable transmissions”). This flush product is suitable for regular automatic transmissions and engines only.
CVT transmissions have very little in common with traditional automatic transmissions. This flush product is not compatible with the inners workings found in a CVT unit.
How To Prevent Deposits In A CVT Transmission
The first way to keep your CVT transmission clean and operating smoothly is to change the fluid on a regular basis. CVT oil needs to be changed more often than many would guess. See our article When To Change CVT Fluid In Your Brand Of Vehicle.
The second way to prevent deposits in CVT units is to use a good synthetic CVT oil. AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid is highly resistant to fluid breakdown and extreme heat. This prevents the conditions that cause deposit formation in the first place.
In conclusion, changing your CVT fluid on a regular basis will prevent expensive repairs in the future. Using a good synthetic CVT fluid will protect against wear and deposits. It will also maintain consistent transmission performance.
We can sell AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Contact us for a price list using the form on this page.
The oil change interval for CVT transmissions varies for each automaker. Below is a list of car brands and models along with the suggested CVT fluid change schedule.
CVT fluid certainly wears out over time. It should be changed much sooner than automatic or manual transmission oil. CVT fluid has to be in acceptable condition to protect against metal-to-metal contact. It also has to provide the correct frictional properties. Once the CVT fluid has broken down, poor performance and accelerated wear can start.
CVT transmissions are very expensive to replace. Being mindful of regular CVT fluid changes will pay off in the long run.
In fact, changing fluid a bit earlier than the recommended interval is prudent for most motorists. This will help provide consistent operation and improved transmission longevity. If you intend to keep your car for a long time, it’s a good idea to schedule regular CVT fluid changes.
List Of Cars And Their CVT Fluid Change Interval
Note that the recommendations below apply to models with CVT-type transmissions only. Service intervals are subject to change. Consult your car dealer for the latest recommendation for your model.
Chevrolet- Malibu, Spark- 45,000 miles (72,000 km)
Ford/Mercury-60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Honda- Accord, Civic, CR-V, HR-V- 25,000 miles (40,000 km)
Hyundai- Elantra- 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Infiniti- JX35, QX60- 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 36 months, whichever comes first.
Kia- Soul, Forte, Rio- 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Mitsubishi- Lancer, Mirage, Outlander, Eclipse Cross- 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Nissan- Cube, Altima, Juke, Maxima, Micra, Murano, Pathfinder, Qashqai, Rogue, Sentra, X-Trail, Versa- 60,000 miles (96,000 km) /Severe service 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, whichever comes first.
Subaru- Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, XV Crosstrek, WRX- 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years whichever comes first.
Toyota- Corolla- 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
What Is Severe Service For CVT Transmissions?
Some vehicles are used in conditions that could be defined as “severe service”. In those cases, consider changing the CVT fluid at half of the interval suggested by the car manufacturer.
Regular operation in the conditions shown below would be defined severe service.
Steep climbing
Operating in heavy mud or snow
Off-road use
Carrying heavy loads
Towing
Operating in a very hot climate
Why Should CVT Oil Be Changed?
CVT fluid is bombarded by extreme heat and shearing forces during its service life. Over time, the viscosity breaks down, the frictional properties decline and deposits may develop.
We have been told by customers that “shuddering” during deceleration and has been eliminated by fluid changes.
Why Use A Synthetic CVT Fluid?
A synthetic CVT fluid should be used because it is highly resistant to the damaging effects of extreme heat. Many CVT designs are susceptible to damage from heat. Using a fluid that is able to withstand heat only makes sense.
When choosing a replacement CVT fluid, make sure to use only products that meet the specification suggested by your owner’s manual.
We offer AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid. It is truly an elite product and a considerable upgrade over original equipment CVT Fluids. It is also available at a price that is often lower than the CVT fluid found at your car dealership.
AMSOIL CVT Fluid is compatible with numerous popular industry specifications. We have received fantastic customer feedback on its performance capabilities. AMSOIL CVT Fluid resists transmission slippage, is very resistant to extreme heat. It meets most all of the original equipment CVT fluid standards. See the product page link for complete details.
Contact us using the form on this page for pricing and questions.
AMSOIL has just released a Synthetic CVT Fluid for “continuously variable transmissions”. This product will be a replacement fluid for most all major automakers using CVT’s. CVT transmissions have been prevalent in Nissan vehicles for several years now and other brands such as Honda, Toyota, Dodge, Subaru and Suzuki have been integrating this technology. AMSOIL has used their vast synthetic oil expertise to create a CVT Fluid that is an upgrade over OEM fluids at a very reasonable price. The new fluid will be available in US quart bottles or 9.45 litre jugs.
How Does a CVT Transmission Work?
The basic concept of the CVT has been prevalent in snowmobile and some industrial applications for generations. Automakers have moved to this technology for the smooth operation and fuel economy benefits. This video produced by Suzuki Motors gives a brief overview of the concept.
A CVT fluid’s main task is to prevent wear in drive belts (or chains), pulleys, clutches and bearings. Another chore is to provide cooling for transmission components. It is vital that the CVT fluid is able to conduct these tasks without interfering with the torque transfer duties of the transmission.
Nissan NS-2 vs. AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid
As Nissan is one of the forerunners in CVT technology, AMSOIL performed comparison testing with their Synthetic CVT Fluid versus Nissan NS-2 CVT Fluid. In the FZG ASTM D-5182 anti-wear test, AMSOIL CVT achieved 11 load stages, while NS-2 CVT Fluid only survived for 7 passes before failing.
Another test was the JASO LVFA Anti-Shudder Durability Test. In this trial, AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid survived a testing interval that was six times that of Nissan NS-2.
Where Can I Buy AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid in Canada or the US?
Oildepot can offer this product shipped from the closest of 2 warehouses in Canada or 11 in the United States. Simply request a price list using the form on your right or call us at 1-800-748-5781.
