What are the symptoms of CVT slippage?
3 Answers
The main manifestation of CVT transmission slippage is that when the accelerator is pressed, the engine speed increases, but the vehicle's acceleration feels weak. To put it vividly, it's like "the engine roars loudly but delivers little rain." At the same time, modern CVT transmissions are quite intelligent and will illuminate a fault warning light on the car's instrument cluster when slippage symptoms occur, alerting the driver. Reasons for CVT transmission slippage: Unlike conventional transmissions that transfer power through gear meshing, CVT transmissions rely solely on a steel belt. Therefore, when the vehicle is under excessive load, the steel belt is prone to slipping or even breaking. Solutions for CVT transmission slippage: To avoid this issue, owners can request the 4S dealership to check the CVTF (transmission fluid) degradation value using a computer during maintenance. If the degradation value divided by the total vehicle mileage is less than 2, it is still considered normal. However, if it exceeds 2, it is recommended to replace the transmission fluid.
As someone who frequently helps solve car problems, I've found that the most common symptom of CVT slippage is an abnormal increase in engine RPM without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed, as if the car is idling. The vehicle responds sluggishly during acceleration, with uneven power delivery. The car may suddenly jerk or vibrate, especially noticeable when climbing hills or at high speeds, sometimes accompanied by abnormal noises like squealing or humming. The cause is usually wear on the CVT's internal steel belt or pulleys, or insufficient oil pressure or poor oil quality can also trigger it. Ignoring it may lead to transmission overheating or even complete failure, affecting driving safety. If you suspect any issues, it's recommended to visit a professional repair shop as soon as possible to check the fluid condition and perform diagnostic tests, preventing minor problems from becoming major failures. During daily driving, smooth acceleration and regular CVT oil changes can help reduce the risk of slippage.
I've driven cars with CVT transmissions, and the slipping is really annoying. You can feel the engine revving up quickly when you step on the gas, but the car accelerates very slowly, as if it can't engage the gear properly. There's also slight shaking or vibration in the car body, especially during hard acceleration. Sometimes, you can hear creaking or whining noises coming from the transmission, which is quite alarming. This issue is usually caused by aging transmission fluid or component wear, and it can even occur if the car sits unused for too long. Once you notice these symptoms, it's best not to push it—shut off the engine immediately and inspect it or take it to a reliable repair shop. During regular maintenance, pay attention to the CVT fluid replacement schedule, as keeping the fluid in good condition can help prevent slipping.
