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How to tell if a Honda has CVT?

To determine if a Honda vehicle has a continuously variable transmission (CVT), you can look for several key indicators. A CVT is a type of automatic transmission that provides a seamless and efficient power delivery, unlike traditional stepped automatic transmissions.


Identifying a Honda CVT


Here are the main ways to tell if a Honda has a CVT:



  • Transmission Badging: Many Honda models with a CVT will have a "CVT" badge or label on the rear of the vehicle, usually near the trunk or hatchback.

  • Owner's Manual: Check the owner's manual or vehicle specifications to see if the transmission type is listed as a CVT.

  • Gear Selector: Instead of a traditional gear shifter with "P, R, N, D" markings, a Honda with a CVT will typically have a gear selector with "D" and possibly "S" or "L" settings, rather than numbered gears.

  • Driving Experience: When accelerating, a Honda with a CVT will typically have a more seamless, "rubber band" feel to the power delivery, without the distinct gear changes of a traditional automatic transmission.


Knowing whether a Honda has a CVT can be helpful in understanding the vehicle's performance characteristics and maintenance requirements.

How do I know if my Honda is CVT?


The best way to identify a CVT transmission in your vehicle is to look for the manufactures logos indicating one, such as Toyota's Synergy Drive, Honda's Multi Matic and Nissan's Xtronic.



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


Placard on the driver's side door
Open the driver's side door and look for a white placard with small black lettering. This card contains specific details about the year the car was made, its transmission, engine specifications and other details.



What does a CVT transmission look like?


This is only possible through the movement of the sheaves. When the pulley sheaves are far apart the pulley is just like a small gear.



What year did Honda go to CVT?


Honda recognized the benefits of the CVT and began using one in the 1995 Honda Civic HX. Since then, Honda has introduced CVTs to many popular models in its lineup. The Honda Accord first received a CVT with the introduction of its 9th generation in 2013.



How can you tell the difference between CVT and non-CVT transmission?


Easy, just drive the car. If it has a jerk between gears it's regular automatic. If you press on the gas pedal and it feels like you are accelerating through jello, it's a CVT.



Can my VIN number tell me what transmission I have?


Yes, the Vehicle identification number reveals information about the transmission of the vehicle. But not always. VIN decoding can sometimes be inaccurate because different car manufacturers sometimes code their cars differently.



Which Honda vehicles have a CVT transmission?


In our inventory, there are multiple exciting models that make use of thoroughly tested CVTs:

  • Honda Civic - Available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
  • Honda Insight - A small hybrid sedan.
  • Honda Clarity - Available as a plug-in hybrid.
  • Honda Fit - A compact hatchback (discontinued after 2020).



What Honda models do not have CVT transmissions?


Honda: The Civic Type R, Honda Fit (with the manual option), Honda Passport, Pilot, Ridgeline and the Odyssey are not equipped with CVTs.



Which Honda models have transmission problems?


If you've driven models like the Odyssey, the Civic, and the Accord, you've likely experienced transmission problems. This article provides a guide to Honda transmission issues and highlights the common ones.



What does a CVT look like?


A CVT gearbox has a straightforward arrangement of two conical pulleys, with a V-shaped drive belt connecting them. One of the pulleys is connected to the engine, with the other connected to the wheels.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.