What is A CVT Transmission

Are you shopping for a new Honda around Novato? You’ve most likely seen “CVT” in the description of some of the models in our new vehicle inventory. Not sure what CVT is? You’re in luck! Our Marin Honda service technicians are eager to tell you all about what a CVT transmission is, how they work, and how they can take your San Francisco drives to the next level!

What is CVT?

So, what is a CVT transmission exactly? Continuously Variable Transmissions, or CVTs, are known by many other names as well:

  • Pulley transmission
  • Step-less transmission
  • Shiftless transmission

We here at Marin Honda understand your trepidation about buying a Honda equipped with a CVT transmission. Many Mill Valley drivers know next to nothing about this transmission type. Long story short, a CVT is an automatic transmission that replaces fixed-gear ratios for infinitely variable ratios, two pulleys, and an interceding chain or belt.

You’ll often find CVTs in compact, gas-optimizing models. Are you trying to reduce your trips to the gas station? Then you’ll want a Honda with a CVT transmission.

How Does a CVT Engine Work?

Regular transmissions propel vehicles using a series of varying gears. On the other hand, CVTs use cone-shaped pulleys that are connected by an intervening belt or chain. The fixed side remains stationary, while the other side moves according to your speed using a hydraulic cylinder.

As your speed adjusts, the cylinder alters the distance between the pulley’s two sides, so the belt moves higher or lower. That’s the major draw of continuously variable transmissions – they don’t have high and low gears to shift between. Therefore, using shift paddles or a shift knob is unnecessary.

Why Buy a Honda with a Continuously Variable Transmission?

There are plenty of great reasons to finance or lease a Honda equipped with a CVT. The three biggest benefits are:

  • Fuel Efficiency: A CVT doesn’t have to switch between gears, so the engine can operate within the best possible power range without using more fuel than is necessary.
  • Simpler Design and Fewer Parts: CVTs aren’t made up of various gears, which results in less complex maintenance.
  • Easier to Repair: Furthermore, if you do have to get your CVT repaired, you can expect a more affordable service charge than if you’d gotten repairs for a car with standard transmission.

Shop for Hondas with a CVT at Marin Honda!

Are you trying to reduce your fuel costs? Then you’ll want to purchase or lease a car with a CVT transmission. Fortunately, we have plenty of fantastic options available at Marin Honda – just fill out our remote auto loan application to get your car-buying experience started with us today!

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