How do I know if my Accord has a CVT?
The quick way to tell: in most modern Honda Accords, the 1.5-liter turbo engine and the Hybrid version use a CVT (or e-CVT for hybrids), while the 2.0-liter turbo uses a traditional 10-speed automatic. To be sure, check your engine and trim, the window sticker or owner's manual, or pull the VIN and confirm with a dealer.
What determines whether your Accord has a CVT
Use these checks to verify the transmission type in your specific car:
- Check the engine and model year/trim: If your Accord has the 1.5-liter turbo engine or is a Hybrid, it is almost certainly equipped with a CVT (or e-CVT in the hybrid variant).
- Inspect the window sticker or the owner's manual: Look for a line that says "Transmission: CVT" or "e-CVT" in the specifications.
- Verify with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): A dealer can pull the exact transmission type from Honda's build data using your VIN.
- Look at the gear selector and labeling: CVT-equipped models often show a straightforward PRND layout, and some trims include an "S" (Sport) or "L" mode without traditional gear-number shifts.
- Consider the driving feel: A CVT tends to keep the engine RPM in a narrow range during acceleration, producing smooth but non-traditional gear changes; hybrids with e-CVT feel even more distinct due to the electric motor assist.
- Note the model year and generation specifics: For the U.S. market, 2018–2023 Accords with 1.5L turbo or Hybrid powertrains generally use CVT/e-CVT, while the 2.0L turbo uses a 10-speed automatic.
If you’re still unsure after these checks, contact a Honda dealership with your VIN for a definitive answer.
How to confirm via official sources
For a definitive determination, use official sources or documentation tied to your vehicle:
- Window sticker (Monroney label) or online build sheet: The transmission specification is listed there.
- Owner’s manual under the Specifications or Drive System section: It will state CVT, e-CVT, or 10-speed automatic, depending on the model.
- Honda’s official service portal or your local dealer: Provide your VIN to confirm the exact transmission installed.
- Honda hotline or customer support: You can request confirmation based on your VIN.
These official checks ensure you know the exact transmission configuration for your specific Accord.
Model-year quick reference (common configurations)
Here is a concise guide to the most common configurations you’ll encounter in recent Accords. Use these as a starting point, but verify with the sources above for your exact vehicle:
- 1.5L turbo engine — CVT (most LX/EX/EX-L trims in recent years)
- Hybrid variant — e-CVT (hybrid system, built around Honda’s CVT concept)
- 2.0L turbo engine — 10-speed automatic (not CVT)
In short, the engine choice and hybrid status are the strongest indicators of whether your Accord uses a CVT.
Summary
To determine if your Honda Accord has a CVT, start with the engine and trim: 1.5L turbo and Hybrid models commonly use CVT/e-CVT, while the 2.0L turbo uses a 10-speed automatic. Confirm with the window sticker, owner’s manual, or a VIN check at a dealership or Honda’s official resources. If you want a quick verdict, that trio of checks will usually tell you whether your Accord has CVT or not.
