How many quarts of fluid does a CVT transmission take?

There isn’t a single universal number for CVT transmissions—the exact fluid quantity depends on the vehicle and the service being performed. In general, drain-and-fill procedures commonly require about 4–7 quarts, while the full system capacity (including lines and the torque converter) typically falls in the 8–12 quart range. Always check your specific vehicle’s manual or with a dealer to get the exact figure for your model.

Why CVT fluid capacity varies

CVTs, or continuously variable transmissions, are built with a range of designs that influence how much fluid they hold. Factors include the size of the transmission, the cooling circuit, whether the torque converter is included in the fill, and whether you’re performing a partial drain/flush or a complete system replacement. Because of these differences, capacity isn’t one fixed number across all cars.

Typical ranges by operation

Below is a guide to the kinds of quantities you may encounter. The list reflects common ranges reported by manufacturers for many CVTs, but exact values should be verified for your specific vehicle.

• Drain-and-fill amount: Approximately 4–7 quarts are often needed when removing old fluid and refilling to the standard level for a routine service.


• Total system capacity: When performing a full fluid replacement that includes lines and the torque converter, capacities commonly run about 8–12 quarts, varying by transmission design.


• Model-specific outliers: Some compact CVTs may be toward the lower end (around 4–5 quarts total), while certain larger or more complex units can exceed 12 quarts. Always verify for your vehicle.

Conclusion: The exact amount depends on the make, model, and service type. Rely on official specifications for your car to ensure accuracy.

How to find the exact capacity for your vehicle

Use these steps to determine the precise CVT fluid quantity for your car:

1. Check the owner’s manual or service manual for the recommended CVT capacity and fluid type.


2. Visit the manufacturer’s official website or dealer service portal for model-specific specs tied to your VIN.


3. Consult a qualified technician or your dealership service department if you’re unsure, especially for model-specific drain-and-fill vs. full-system replacement.

Note: CVT specifications can change across model years and production revisions, so always confirm with the most current sources for your exact vehicle.

Tips for safer CVT maintenance

• Use the exact CVT fluid specification (viscosity, additives) recommended by the manufacturer; mixing types can affect performance.


• Do not overfill: Overfilling can cause fluid foam and shifting issues; fill to the specified level while the transmission is at the correct temperature.


• Be mindful of service intervals: Some CVTs require more frequent fluid changes, especially under heavy use or in extreme temperatures.

Summary

CVT fluid capacity is not universal and varies by vehicle. Expect drain-and-fill needs in the 4–7 quart range and total system capacities in the 8–12 quart range, with outliers possible. To avoid mistakes, always consult the exact specifications for your car in the owner’s manual or through the manufacturer/dealer, and have a trained tech perform the service when in doubt.

What is the best fluid for a CVT transmission?

The best CVT fluid depends on your vehicle's specific requirements, so always consult your owner's manual. While OEM fluids are a safe bet, many users report positive experiences with high-quality aftermarket brands like AMSOIL, Valvoline, and Lucas Oil, which they sometimes find to be more affordable or better performing. It is crucial to choose a fluid that explicitly lists compatibility with your vehicle's specifications, such as Nissan's NS-3 or Honda's HCF-2.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about what to avoid doing in a CVT vehicle: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Jul 27, 2024
Top-rated aftermarket fluids

• AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid: A highly-rated option, with users noting better performance compared to some OEM fluids. 
• Valvoline MaxLife CVT Fluid: A well-regarded and often more affordable alternative. 
• Lucas Oil Transmission Fluid: Some users have reported smooth shifting and good performance with this fluid. 
• Castrol Transmax CVT Fluid: Another cost-effective and widely available choice recommended by some. 

Other considerations

• Consult your owner's manual: This is the most important step, as CVTs are very specific about the fluid they need. Ensure the fluid you choose is compatible with your vehicle's specifications (e.g., Nissan NS-3 or Honda HCF-2). 
• OEM fluid: While aftermarket fluids are often recommended, the OEM fluid is a guaranteed fit. Note that some OEM fluids are made by third-party companies, such as Idemitsu for Nissan, but this doesn't mean the OEM version is necessarily the best or only option. 
• Change the fluid regularly: Follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule for CVT fluid changes, as this is crucial for the longevity of the transmission. 

Can you overfill CVT transmission fluid?

Transmission Damage
The excess pressure from overfilling can cause seals and gaskets to fail. These components are designed to hold a specific level of fluid, and the added pressure can lead to leaks. Over time, this can escalate into serious and costly damage to the transmission system.

How much fluid does a CVT transmission hold?

The amount of fluid a CVT transmission holds varies significantly by vehicle, with total capacities ranging from about 4 to 9.5 quarts, and a drain-and-fill service typically replacing only 3.5 to 5 quarts. To determine the correct amount for a specific vehicle, check the owner's manual and always measure the amount of old fluid that drains out, adding approximately the same amount of new fluid. 
This video demonstrates how to change CVT fluid on a Nissan Pathfinder, including tips on total capacity and drain and fill procedures: 43sdial2fastYouTube · Nov 11, 2022
General fluid capacity

• Total capacity: This is the maximum amount the transmission can hold, but it's not the amount you will replace in a typical service. 
• Drain and fill capacity: In a standard drain and fill, you will only drain a portion of the old fluid, so you will replace only that amount. 
  • This usually results in draining and refilling between 3.5 and 5 quarts. 
  • You should purchase 4 to 5 quarts to be safe, as some may be needed to top off the system. 

This video shows a typical drain and fill procedure, highlighting the amount of fluid drained: 30sMatt SRYouTube · Feb 18, 2023
How to determine the correct amount

• Check the owner's manual: The most accurate way to know the total capacity and recommended service procedure is to consult your vehicle's owner's manual. 
• Measure the old fluid: The best practice is to measure the amount of old fluid you drain out and replace it with the same amount of new fluid. 
• Use the overflow plug: When refilling, add fluid until it begins to drip from the overflow plug. Be sure the vehicle is as level as possible to get an accurate fill level. 

How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a drain and fill?

For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid. 
How to determine the right amount

• Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely. 
• Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling. 
• Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process. 
• Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid. 
• Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high. 
• Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading. 

Important considerations

• A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter. 
• You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage. 
• Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain.