What are the symptoms of CVT transmission slippage?
2 Answers
CVT transmission slippage symptoms include: 1. When the accelerator is pressed, the engine speed increases, but the vehicle's acceleration feels weak; 2. The vehicle's combination instrument panel will illuminate a fault warning light to alert the driver. The functions of the transmission are: 1. To change the gear ratio to meet the traction needs under different driving conditions; 2. To interrupt the power transmission to the drive wheels during engine start, idle operation, and gear shifting. The CVT transmission can achieve continuously variable transmission over a wide range, obtaining an excellent match between the drivetrain and engine conditions. It relies on the transmission's stepless speed regulation to adapt to various vehicle speeds, allowing the engine to operate under optimal conditions for extended periods.
I used to drive a car with a CVT, and the symptoms during slippage were quite noticeable: when stepping on the accelerator to speed up, the engine RPM would surge but the vehicle speed wouldn't budge, feeling like it was freewheeling; it struggled particularly when climbing hills or under heavy load, responding very sluggishly, as if being dragged along; during normal driving, fuel consumption would suddenly spike, possibly jumping from 8 liters per 100 km to over 10; sometimes, there would be metallic grinding noises or slight vibrations from the transmission area, especially during gear shifts. These conditions could make driving unstable, particularly during heavy rain or on mountainous roads, posing greater risks. A reminder to everyone: if you encounter similar issues, don't ignore them—it's best to check the hydraulic system or the drive belt immediately. Otherwise, prolonged slippage could lead to the entire transmission failing, and replacing it isn't cheap. Regular maintenance checks, including oil pressure tests, can help detect problems early, saving both hassle and money.