Possible Consequences of Using ATF in CVT Transmission

Nowadays, many car manufacturers include in their lineups models equipped with continuously variable transmissions (CVT). This type of transmission not only significantly differs from standard automatics in terms of design and operation principles, but also ensures extremely smooth shifts and enhanced fuel economy. But CVTs are intended for smooth driving, while sharp accelerations and slowdowns can have a negative impact on transmission components. A crucial role in operability of CVTs is given to specific fluids (CVTF) used only in variable transmissions. These fluids have great lubricating properties and at the same time they prevent the belt from slipping on the pulleys. The achievement of such an objective is possible thanks to the use of unique packs of additives. But sometimes young drivers of CVT-equipped cars often wonder whether it would be safe to use automatic transmissions fluids (ATF) in their CVTs. Let us delve into this question and consider possible consequences of using ATF in CVTs.

Automotive gear shifting units are extremely sensitive devices. Each car model has its own guidelines from the carmaker on which type of fluid your vehicle requires. Some fluids are non-compatible with different gearboxes, as they include sets of additives intended for specific types of gearboxes. Your car transmission must be filled with the appropriate fluid, as stated in your car manual, to operate properly and not to fail before its due time.

While it is feasible to use ATF in manuals without serious harmful consequences for the operability of the unit, putting ATF in a CVT-driven car can actually damage the unit. Fluids for automatics and CVTs not only have different operating qualities, but they also differ in color: ATF fluid is red, while CVTF is commonly green, and it would be better for you not to mix them up.

Check out what can happen with a CVT transmission if it is filled with ATF

If it nevertheless happened, and an absent-minded technician (or a car owner) accidentally filled a CVT unit with ATF, it is highly likely to become a serious problem. ATF is applied for lubrication of automatic gear shifting units and it is not supposed to support the proper functioning of CVTs, which have design and operational peculiarities. CVTs require a special type of fluid which also includes friction modifiers that ensure the accurate friction required for the chain or belt to hold and drive the cones, otherwise these elements would just wear and tear prematurely.

One more opinion on using ATF in CVT transmissions

If you by chance fill a CTV with ATF, the time remained for the unit to work properly depends on the ratio of fluids. In a CVT unit, it is very unlikely that you’ll be able to drain it completely of all CVTF. If you have unintentionally added ATF, your gearbox would then be filled up with a mixture of two absolutely different fluids. Your gearbox will be able to operate properly for some time, but sooner or later your gearbox will get out of order, and in the best case scenario it will be necessary to recondition the unit.

If your CVT-equipped car is filled in with the inept fluid, it is necessary clear the mechanism from unsuitable fluid in order to minimize negative repercussions for the mechanism. If the car has been operating for some time with inappropriate fluid, it is highly likely that the only solution will be the CVT unit replacement.

All in all, a correctly selected fluid for your CVT ensures comfortable driving, service life expansion, and larger intervals between maintenance services. It is also important to remember that different types of CVTs require the use of specific fluids having particular properties. For example, chain-driven CVTs such as Multitronic and Lineartronic require the use of only original fluids, as these types of CVTs operate on a different principle compared to belt-driven units.