Will Water Enter the CVT Transmission When Driving Through Water?
2 Answers
Driving through water can cause water to enter the CVT transmission. Here is some relevant information: Transmission: Most transmission failures are caused by the deterioration of transmission oil. The deterioration of the oil can directly lead to increased wear and tear on various components of the transmission, resulting in slipping, abnormal noises, and impacts. Once water enters, the mixture of oil and water can have severe consequences. Transmission Oil: Transmission oil is the lifeblood of an automatic transmission. It not only lubricates various friction plates, valves, gear mechanisms, and other components inside the transmission but also plays roles in heat dissipation, oil pressure transmission, and cleaning. It is more advanced than engine oil and has different performance characteristics, but it can also deteriorate. CVT Transmission: CVT transmissions are not exclusive to Japanese cars but are favored by them. Currently, in the automotive market, about 80% of Japanese cars are equipped with CVT transmissions.
This scenario of driving through water is quite common, and I'm actually quite concerned about whether water might get into the CVT transmission. Based on my experience, as long as the water level exceeds the chassis or the depth is more than half of the wheel height, water can seep into the transmission components. This is because the CVT transmission has a vent hole specifically designed to regulate the pressure difference between the inside and outside. If the water is too deep or the car is driven too fast through the water, it's easy for water to backflow into the transmission. Once water enters, at best, the transmission fluid will become cloudy, leading to rough gear shifts, and at worst, the steel belt and pistons may rust, requiring major repairs that can cost thousands to start with. I recommend checking the weather forecast and road condition maps before driving to avoid forcing your way through deep water. During regular maintenance, have the technician check if the transmission seals are aging. Developing good habits is the best way to protect both your beloved car and your wallet.
