Is Honda CVT fluid synthetic?
Yes, Honda recommends using a synthetic continuously variable transmission (CVT) fluid in their vehicles equipped with a CVT. The Honda CVT fluid is a specialized fluid designed to meet the unique requirements of the CVT transmission system.
What is a CVT Transmission?
A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a type of automatic transmission that uses a belt or chain system to provide an infinite number of gear ratios, rather than the fixed gear ratios found in a traditional automatic transmission. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient rpm range, improving fuel economy. CVTs are commonly found in many modern Honda vehicles, including the Civic, Accord, and CR-V.
Why Does Honda Recommend Synthetic CVT Fluid?
Honda specifies the use of a synthetic CVT fluid for several reasons:
- Improved Durability: Synthetic fluids are more resistant to oxidation and thermal breakdown compared to conventional mineral-based fluids. This helps maintain the fluid's lubricating properties for longer, extending the life of the CVT transmission components.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Synthetic CVT fluids have lower viscosity and better flow characteristics, which can improve the transmission's efficiency and further boost fuel economy.
- Reduced Wear: The advanced additive package in Honda's synthetic CVT fluid helps protect against wear and deposits, ensuring smooth, reliable operation of the CVT system.
Using the recommended Honda CVT fluid is essential to maintaining the proper function and longevity of the CVT transmission in Honda vehicles.
Proper Maintenance of Honda CVT Fluid
Honda recommends changing the CVT fluid at regular intervals, typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the vehicle model and driving conditions. It's important to only use the Honda-approved synthetic CVT fluid and to avoid mixing it with other transmission fluids, as this can damage the CVT system.
Proper maintenance of the CVT fluid is crucial for the long-term health and performance of your Honda's transmission.
Who makes CVT fluid for Honda?
While American Honda Motor Company sells the fluid as a branded product, companies like Idemitsu and ENEOS are known to be manufacturers of the actual fluid that is sold under the Honda brand. Other aftermarket brands like Valvoline also produce compatible fluids for Honda CVTs.
- Idemitsu: A manufacturer of aftermarket and OEM-spec fluids for various vehicle brands, including Honda.
- ENEOS: A leading supplier of automotive lubricants for Asian manufacturers and produces a "genuine match" fluid for Honda and Acura vehicles.
- Valvoline: Produces aftermarket CVT fluids that are designed to be compatible with Honda transmissions.
- Other manufacturers: Companies like ConocoPhillips are also mentioned as being manufacturers of the fluid sold by Honda, notes Reddit users.
How often does Honda CVT fluid need to be changed?
The typical interval for changing Honda CVT fluid is around every 30,000 miles, but this can vary. The exact interval depends on driving conditions, and severe use like driving in mountainous or stop-and-go traffic may require a change as frequently as every 25,000 miles. Always check your owner's manual or the vehicle's Maintenance Minder system for the most accurate recommendation for your specific model.
Typical change intervals
- Standard: 30,000 miles is a common recommendation for the fluid change.
- Severe conditions: 25,000 miles is often recommended for vehicles driven in heavy traffic, mountains, or other stressful conditions.
Factors that influence the interval
- Driving style: Frequent stop-and-go driving can require more frequent changes than highway driving.
- Environment: Driving in dusty or mountainous areas can shorten the service life of the fluid.
- Maintenance Minder: Many newer Honda vehicles use a Maintenance Minder system that will notify you when service is due, which can be more or less frequent than the 30,000-mile estimate depending on driving habits.
Important considerations
- Always check the manual: The manufacturer's recommended service interval in the owner's manual is the most reliable source of information for your specific vehicle.
- Drain and fill is standard: A Honda dealership service may perform a "drain and fill" multiple times with a short drive in between to replace more of the old fluid, but a traditional "flush" is generally not recommended.
- Clean the drain plug magnet: The drain plug has a magnet that collects metal particles. Be sure to clean it during the fluid change.
Do you have to use genuine Honda transmission fluid?
The simple answer is yes. It's all about corrosion, and Honda fluids will be the best fluid to minimize corrosion and keep your Honda reliable.
Can I use Valvoline CVT fluid in my Honda Civic?
Recommended for use in the following CVT applications: Audi and VW (TL 52180 G 052 180), Ford (CVT30/Mercon C), Subaru (Lineartronic CVTF), Honda (HMMF), Nissan (NS-2 and NS-3), Mitsubishi (CVTF-J1/SP-III), BMW Mini Cooper EZL 799), Hyundai and Kia (SP-III), Suzuki (TC/NS-2/CVT Green1), Dodge, Jeep (NS-2/CVTF+4), GM ...
