Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles
Car tutorial (Do it yourself) Motorcycle tutorial (Do it yourself) Frequently Asked Questions

How a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) Works

Model: (Various brands) Various
Part: Transmission

Video tutorial

The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) does not use gears but instead employs movable pulleys connected by a belt; one is connected to the crankshaft, and the other to the drive wheels. The two elements are connected via hydraulic couplings, and through the belt, the ratios can vary continuously based on engine RPM. Thus, the CVT allows the engine to operate at its most efficient point, providing low fuel consumption and high comfort, along with exceptional engine performance.

However, they have a significant drawback, resembling a scooter's transmission, and customers often dislike the noise from the transmission; therefore, manufacturers create transmissions that simulate gear ratios by modulating the distances of the pulley components, making it seem as though there are actual ratios, like in a conventional gearbox.

Brands that use this type of transmission are mostly Japanese: Subaru, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, and also Renault.

They are excellent for cost, speed, and comfort, but unfortunately, there is little in terms of driver enjoyment.


Updated on 9 July 2026 by ScegliAuto


Related tutorials

The Differences Between CVT, ZF, and DSG Automatic Gearboxes
The Differences Between CVT, ZF, and DSG Automatic Gearboxes
(Various brands) Various In this video, a mechatronic explains the differences between various types of automatic gearboxes: the CVT is continuously variable and is found in …
How to choose the right lubricant for your gearbox
How to choose the right lubricant for your gearbox
(Various brands) Various Choosing the right oil for your gearbox is a really difficult thing, but this video comes to our aid, giving us some useful advice: starting from mot…
How to Reset the CVT Gearbox?
How to Reset the CVT Gearbox?
(Various brands) Various To reset the CVT gearbox, insert the ignition key to power on the instrument cluster. Once it is on, press the brake pedal, which must be held down t…

Other guides you may be interested in

How to Remove the Rear Seat of a Hyundai Tucson?

To remove the rear seat of a Hyundai Tucson, follow these steps. Start by moving the front seats to their most forward position to gain space. Next, locate the release lever on the underside of the rear seat, near the floor. Press this lever down while pulling the seat upwards to unlock it from the anchor pins. Once unlocked, tilt the seat upwards and forwards to remove it from its position. Repeat this process for both sides of the rear seat. Be careful of any electrical cables or components that may be connected to the seat during removal. Once the rear seat is removed, the disassembly is complete.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos