How much does a Honda CVT transmission cost?
Prices to replace a Honda CVT transmission vary by model, year, and supplier, but installed costs typically range from about $3,000 to $6,500, with aftermarket/remanufactured options often cheaper and OEM new parts more expensive.
CVT stands for continuously variable transmission, a belt-and-pulley system designed to operate smoothly across a range of engine speeds. When a CVT fails, owners face sizable repair or replacement bills, so understanding the cost landscape—plus available options and warranties—is essential for planning. This article breaks down what drives price and provides model-specific context for common Honda configurations.
What goes into the price
Prices reflect several factors: the source of the parts (OEM new vs remanufactured vs used), whether the replacement includes the torque converter, labor costs in your region, and any ancillary work such as fluids, seals, and software updates. The list below outlines common price categories.
- OEM new CVT transmission (Honda part) — The highest upfront parts cost, often supplemented by installation labor. Expect roughly $2,000–$4,500 for the part itself, plus $1,000–$2,000 for labor in many shops, depending on the model and region.
- Remanufactured or rebuilt CVT — A lower-cost option that restores the unit to good working condition. Parts typically run $1,500–$3,500, with labor around $800–$1,600.
- Used or low-mileage CVT (with warranty or shop inspection) — A budget-friendly pathway, usually $1,500–$2,800 for the unit plus $800–$1,500 for installation.
- Additional services (fluids, cooling lines, torque converter, software updates, and inspection) — These can add a few hundred dollars to the total, especially if extra labor is required for related components.
The numbers above are broad ranges and can vary by vehicle model, year, and local labor rates. Always request a written estimate that itemizes parts and labor before authorizing work.
Model-specific price expectations
Honda CVTs are used in several models, with Civics, CR-Vs, and certain hybrid or low- to mid-range trims more often equipped with CVTs. Here are typical installed-price ballparks, noting that actual quotes depend on your exact model and location.
Civic (recent generations)
For a Civic with a CVT, replacement costs commonly fall in the mid-range of the overall spectrum, with installed totals commonly between $3,500 and $5,500 when using OEM parts or remanufactured units.
CR-V
The CR-V’s larger drivetrain can push the price higher, with installed costs often ranging from about $4,000 to $6,500 depending on parts choice and labor rates.
HR-V or Insight (hybrid/e-CVT variants)
Hybrid or e-CVT systems can be more complex. Expect installed totals in the general range of $3,500 to $6,000, depending on the repair path and model year.
Note: If your vehicle is still under Honda's warranty for powertrain or has an active recall/extended coverage on CVT components, some or all costs may be covered. Always check with your dealer or Honda customer service and review any open recalls or extended warranties applicable to your car.
How to approach the decision
When facing a CVT failure, you have options beyond a straight replacement. A factory reman or aftermarket CVT with a solid warranty can offer a balance of reliability and cost, while a used or rebuilt unit can save money but may carry more risk. A reputable shop should inspect the existing transmission to determine if a repair (like a valve body rebuild or software update) is sufficient to extend service life, potentially saving you money.
Summary
Replacing a Honda CVT transmission is a major repair with costs that vary widely. Expect installed totals in the roughly $3,000–$6,500 range for most common Honda models, with higher-end CR-Vs or hybrids toward the upper end and some remanufactured or used options at the lower end. Always get multiple quotes, confirm the parts source, review warranty terms, and check for any applicable recalls or warranty extensions that might offset the cost.
By staying informed about options and getting a transparent estimate, you can navigate the cost of a Honda CVT replacement more confidently, choosing a path that balances reliability and value.
