How do I know if my truck has a CVT transmission?

If you're unsure whether your truck has a continuously variable transmission (CVT), there are a few key signs to look for. A CVT is a type of automatic transmission that uses a belt or chain system to provide seamless, stepless gear changes, rather than the distinct gear shifts of a traditional automatic transmission. Identifying a CVT in your truck can help you understand its performance characteristics and maintenance needs.

Recognizing a CVT Transmission

Here are some ways to determine if your truck has a CVT:

• Check the Transmission Fluid: CVTs typically use a special type of transmission fluid, often a continuously variable transmission (CVT) fluid. This fluid is usually bright red or green in color, unlike the typical reddish-brown color of regular automatic transmission fluid.


• Listen for the Engine Sound: When accelerating, a CVT-equipped truck will typically make a high-pitched, whining sound as the engine revs up, rather than the distinct gear shifts you'd hear in a traditional automatic transmission.


• Observe the Gear Indicator: Many CVT-equipped vehicles don't have a traditional gear selector. Instead, the gear indicator may show "D" for drive, rather than specific gear numbers.


• Consult the Owner's Manual: The best way to confirm if your truck has a CVT is to check the owner's manual or other manufacturer documentation. This will provide the most accurate information about your vehicle's transmission type.

Knowing whether your truck has a CVT can help you understand its unique maintenance requirements and driving characteristics, ensuring you get the most out of your vehicle.

How do I tell if I have a CVT transmission?

You can tell if you have a CVT transmission by looking for a PRNDL gear selector without numbered low gears or by observing the engine's behavior while driving. With a CVT, the engine RPM will stay relatively constant while accelerating, without the distinct "jerks" or up-and-down shifts of a traditional automatic transmission. 
On the gear shifter

• Look at the gear indicator on the shift lever. 
• Most CVTs will display "PRNDL" (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low/L). 
• A traditional automatic transmission often shows a sequence including specific gear numbers, such as "PRND21". 

While driving

• Listen to the engine: When accelerating, a CVT will often make a steady whining or humming sound, and the engine's RPM will stay high and consistent as you gain speed. 
• Watch the tachometer: With a CVT, the tachometer will rise to a certain RPM and stay there while the car accelerates, instead of the RPM dipping each time a gear "shifts" as it would in a traditional automatic. 
• Feel the acceleration: A CVT will feel smooth and continuous, without the distinct "jerks" that occur when a traditional automatic transmission shifts gears. 

Other methods

• Check the owner's manual: The owner's manual will specify the type of transmission. 
• Look for a "zero gears" indication: Some vehicle specifications may list "gears: 0" for a CVT, as it has no physical gears. 
• Check the VIN: The transmission code in the vehicle's VIN or on a sticker may identify the transmission type. For example, in some Toyotas, a code starting with "K" indicates a CVT, while one starting with "A" is a traditional automatic. 

How to tell the difference between CVT and non-CVT transmission?

To determine if a vehicle has a regular automatic or CVT, check the owner's manual or transmission dipstick label. CVTs lack traditional gear shifts and may have a continuously variable ratio indicator. Symptoms of CVT issues include rubber-band feeling during acceleration and shuddering.

Which vehicles do not have CVT transmission?

Many cars, especially those with manual or traditional automatic transmissions, are available without a CVT. Examples include a wide range of domestic and foreign models, such as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and many modern Mazdas, Porsches, and Teslas. Some manufacturers, like Ram and Mini, do not use CVTs at all in their current lineups.
 
This video discusses car models with traditional transmissions and avoids CVTs: 1mGarage IQYouTube · Sep 8, 2025
American brands

• Ford: Many models, like the F-150 and pre-2020 Escape, have traditional automatics. The Mustang is also available with a manual transmission. 
• Chevrolet: The Silverado, Equinox, and Trax often use traditional automatic transmissions. 
• Lincoln: Non-hybrid models like the Corsair do not have CVTs. 
• RAM: No modern RAM trucks use CVTs. 
• Tesla: No modern Tesla vehicles are equipped with a CVT. 

European and Japanese brands

• BMW: Many models, including the M2, M3, and M4, offer manual transmissions. 
• Lexus: Non-hybrid models like the 2021 ES 250 use traditional automatics. The 4Runner and Highlander (non-hybrid) also do not have CVTs. 
• Maserati: No modern Maserati is equipped with a CVT. 
• Mazda: No modern Mazda vehicle has a CVT, which are known for their traditional automatic transmissions. 
• Mercedes-Benz: No modern Mercedes is equipped with a CVT. 
• Mini: No modern Mini is equipped with a CVT. 
• Porsche: No modern Porsche is equipped with a CVT. 
• Subaru: The BRZ and manual-transmission versions of the Impreza are the only Subaru vehicles that are not equipped with a CVT. 
• Toyota: Many models are available with traditional transmissions, including the 86, Supra, 4Runner, and Tundra. 
• Volkswagen: No modern Volkswagen is equipped with a CVT. 

This video highlights reliable car models without CVTs, such as the Mazda CX-5: 1mAuto WheelsYouTube · Sep 12, 2025
Key takeaways

• Look for manual or traditional automatic transmissions. CVTs are more common in mainstream sedans and SUVs, particularly those focused on fuel efficiency. 
• Check specific model years. Some manufacturers have transitioned to CVTs in newer models, so it is important to check the specifications for the specific year you are interested in. 
• High-performance and heavy-duty vehicles often use traditional automatics or manuals, as they can be better for towing and aggressive driving. 
• Manual-transmission options are becoming less common but are still available on select models from a variety of brands. 

How do I know what transmission I have in my truck?

You can identify your truck's transmission by checking the owner's manual, the sticker inside the driver's door jamb, or by using your truck's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). For a manual vs. automatic identification, look for a clutch pedal and a floor-mounted gear shifter for a manual, or check for an automatic transmission code tag or label on the transmission itself.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to identify the transmission model number from the VIN: 58sLambda One FilmsYouTube · Jan 27, 2021
1. Check your owner's manual

• The owner's manual contains a comprehensive list of your vehicle's specifications, including the transmission type. 

2. Find the sticker on the driver's door jamb 

• Open the driver's side door and look for a white or black placard with a lot of information on it.
• This sticker often includes a code for the transmission, sometimes labeled with "TR". 

3. Use your truck's VIN 

• The 17-character VIN is a unique identifier for your truck. You can use it to look up your transmission type online. 
• Websites like the NHTSA VIN decoder allow you to enter the VIN and find vehicle specifications, as shown in wikiHow. 
• Some manufacturer websites, like Ford's support page and Mopar's VIN lookup, also offer this service. 

4. Visually inspect the transmission (if comfortable) 

• Look for a metal plate or tag attached to the transmission with a code on it, especially on an automatic transmission. 
• Some models, particularly General Motors (GM) transmissions, can be identified by the number of bolts on the oil pan, which is shown in the Classic Industries GM transmission identification guide. 
• If you have a manual transmission, you will see a clutch pedal, and the shifter will be on the floor.