CVT vs. Automatic Transmission – Everything You Need to Know

Even if you're unfamiliar with transmissions, you've likely heard of two main types: manual and automatic. A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a newer variation of the latter. It's often shiftless transmission due to its continuous range of gear ratios.

Benefits of CVT Transmission

One of the primary advantages of a CVT is its superior fuel efficiency compared to conventional automatic transmissions. In addition to this, CVTs often deliver a smoother driving experience for drivers and passengers alike.

Due to these benefits, CVTs are increasingly favored by automakers and are becoming a popular choice in many vehicles.

How Does a CVT Transmission Work?

To understand how a CVT works, it's helpful to compare it to a manual and a traditional automatic transmission.

A manual transmission has a fixed number of gears, and the driver manually selects the gear ratio. In contrast, a traditional automatic transmission also has a set number of gears but uses a hydraulic system to determine the appropriate gear based on driving conditions, without input from the driver.

A CVT (continuously variable transmission) operates similarly to an automatic transmission in that it doesn't require driver input to change gears. However, that's where the similarities end.

Instead of fixed gears, a CVT uses two pulleys connected by a flexible belt. One pulley is linked to the engine, and the other to the wheels. The width of these pulleys adjusts dynamically based on the vehicle's speed and power needs.

When one pulley expands, the other contracts, altering the effective gear ratio continuously. Because neither the pulleys nor the belt are fixed. CVT transmission can provide an infinite number of gear ratios.

There are three main types of CVTs:

1. Belt-Driven CVT: Uses pulleys connected by a belt.

2. Toroidal CVT: Uses disks and power rollers to achieve variable gear ratios.

3. Hydrostatic CVT: Uses pumps to control fluid flow, generating rotational motion.

Each type of CVT functions differently but shares the ability to continuously adjust gear ratios for optimal efficiency and performance.

What’s a Better Choice CVT or Automatic?

One advantage of a CVT is its ability to continuously adjust its gear ratio, ensuring the engine operates at peak efficiency regardless of its speed. This feature makes CVTs particularly fuel-efficient in city driving conditions.

Many drivers find that CVTs provide a smoother ride than vehicles with traditional transmissions. This smoothness is due to the CVT's seamless operation without gear shifts.

Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, CVTs avoid abrupt downshifts when more power is required, and they eliminate the sensation of gear hunting often experienced in regular automatics.

Downsides of CVT Transmission

If you're new to driving a CVT, you might miss the sensation of the vehicle shifting through gears, especially if you prefer a more engaging driving experience. The continuous variability of a CVT can feel less sporty compared to traditional transmissions with fixed gears.

Common issues with CVTs that owners face include overheating, slipping, sudden loss of acceleration, and shuddering. These problems can arise due to issues with the belts that CVTs use. Excessive stretching or wear of these belts can lead to transmission failure.

Experiencing any of these issues? Contact Mad Lab Automotive now for a quick inspection of your car or professional CVT transmission repair services in Edmonton.


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