
The transmission brand used in the Livi is Aisin. Established in 1969, Aisin is a world-renowned professional developer and manufacturer of automotive automatic transmissions. In the field of automotive automatic transmissions, Aisin's products hold the highest market share globally. The Livi manual transmission uses a 5-speed manual, while the automatic transmission employs a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). A CVT does not have specific gear positions; its operation is similar to an automatic transmission, but the ratio changes continuously rather than through discrete gear shifts, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted power delivery. When using the Livi's transmission daily, pay attention to the following points: Do not delay transmission fluid changes for extended periods. Prolonged intervals without changing the transmission fluid can damage internal components such as bearings and the housing. Avoid coasting in neutral for long durations. While many experienced drivers coast in neutral with manual transmissions, doing so with an automatic transmission can cause overheating and create a jolt when shifting back to Drive (D). Never shift into Drive (D) or Reverse (R) before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Some drivers shift into reverse while still moving to showcase "smooth" operation, but this severely damages transmission gears and can lead to gear grinding over time. Avoid frequently climbing steep slopes in Drive (D). Automatic vehicles may overheat under high load or shift too early, reducing climbing power. Instead, use manual mode to lock in lower gears or switch to sport mode to protect the transmission. Do not tow the vehicle long distances. If the automatic vehicle breaks down, use a flatbed tow truck with the transmission in Neutral (N). Never tow it directly with a rope or another vehicle.

I've been driving the Livina for several years, and it has a CVT transmission, which is the common continuously variable automatic transmission. It drives very smoothly, without the gear-shifting jerks of traditional automatics, especially saving a lot of hassle during traffic jams in Beijing. The fuel efficiency is also good, with my average fuel consumption around 7 liters per 100 km, even lower on highways. However, maintenance in the later stages is important. If not well maintained, CVT transmissions can easily develop problems, such as chain wear or hydraulic fluid deterioration. It's recommended to change the transmission fluid every 40,000 kilometers. Additionally, the earlier models of the Livina also had a manual transmission option, but most people chose the automatic version for convenience. Avoid stomping on the accelerator; CVTs are suited for smooth driving.

As a car enthusiast, I've studied the transmission system of the Livina, which primarily features Nissan's in-house CVT technology. This continuously variable transmission design keeps the engine in the optimal RPM range, delivering linear acceleration and fuel efficiency. Compared to manual transmissions, CVT offers quicker response during traffic light starts and overtaking, making driving more effortless. Advantages include high transmission efficiency and low noise, but drawbacks include frequent minor issues like gearshift noises or overheating. Different model years have variations, such as the use of Jatco transmissions around 2010, which were later upgraded with electronic controls. For maintenance, it's crucial to use specialized transmission fluid and avoid cutting corners.

Having repaired cars for over a decade, I've encountered numerous transmission issues with the Nissan Livina, mostly with the CVT type. Common faults include oil seal leaks or sensor failures leading to rough shifting. When owners come to the shop complaining of jerking or lack of acceleration, we check the fluid levels and run computer diagnostics. My advice when buying a Livina is to pay attention to the model year—earlier manual transmissions are more robust, but CVT is the mainstream now. Regular oil changes can extend its lifespan; don't wait until there's abnormal noise to get it fixed.

I use the Livina for family purposes, opting for the automatic CVT version, which makes it effortless for picking up kids and grocery shopping. There's no gear shifting sensation, so elderly passengers don't get carsick. Fuel efficiency is crucial, and the commuting cost is slightly lower than that of a manual transmission. However, choosing the right configuration is important. CVT maintenance is expensive, with an oil change costing several hundred yuan, but I perform minor maintenance every 30,000 kilometers on average, and the failure rate is low.


