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Checking the CVT transmission for problems?


paqman
07-28-2020, 04:35 PM
I'm looking at buying a 2008 Altima with the CVT transmission. The car only has 105k miles on it, and looks to have been maintained very well. The autocheck report shows regular lube & oil and filter changes for most of the years of ownership. One thing it did not mention was the CVT fluid being replaced. I called up the dealership where it was serviced, gave them the VIN, and they were actually able to pull up the history and confirm that it was indeed serviced there regularly throughout the years, along with a few minor recommended repairs here and there. However, they couldn't find anywhere saying the transmission was ever serviced.

I currently own a 2010 Maxima with the CVT, and haven't had any issues. But I got it before the recommended CVT fluid replacement interval, so I was able to get it replaced on time, and it hasn't given me any problems. The recommended interval for CVT fluid on my Maxima is 60k miles, I replaced it around 55k. But not sure about the service interval for the Altima. I'm assuming it's the same, but can anyone confirm?

My guess is that the CVT fluid in this Altima has never been replaced. However, with its well documented maintenance in other areas, I'm still tempted to buy it. I will be driving it tomorrow or the next day, so I will be able to inspect the fluid, and how the car drives and everything, but am told it drives perfectly smooth with no issues.

The fluid is very easy to replace, so that would probably be the first thing I'll do if I buy it, but wondered if you all had any tips to look out for to tell if the transmission might be having issues, besides the obvious shuddering or lack of acceleration and whatnot. It seems that most of the CVT's that had issues happened fairly early on, so I'd like to think that this one is "broken in", although I know it won't be immune from issues. Just curious on your input. Thanks!

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