When to change, how much and what kind of oil to fill
It is stated that the acceptable frequency of changing the oil in the variator is 40,000 km.
To replace, you will need a pair of 4-liter canisters of Toyota CVT transmission fluid (oil). About 5 liters will be consumed, more accurately the filling volume will be known after measuring the drained oil . As much as was drained as a result, that’s what should be filled in.
The necessary consumables for changing the oil in the variator, in addition to the fluid itself, are the variator gasket and the oil filter. Although the latter is often not changed, but only washed and purged.
What is needed to change the oil in the K111F variator:
- Original oil for Toyota CVT variator - 0888602105.
- Original pan gasket - 3516820010.
When should you change the transmission fluid?
Alexander, the Toyota manufacturer claims that transmission oil is filled for the entire life of your vehicle. The manufacturer does not provide for the replacement of this consumable. However, in practice it is necessary, since only in this way can possible breakdowns characteristic of automatic transmissions be avoided.
Toyota RAV 4 2014
The consumables should be changed for the first time after a mileage of 100 thousand kilometers. Further, ideally, the transmission fluid should be replaced every 40-50 thousand kilometers. In this case, the consumables in the unit will always be clean and fresh. Accordingly, he will perform all the functions assigned to him without any problems.
However, in practice, the substance can be replaced every 90 thousand kilometers, subject to several conditions:
- proper operation of the automatic transmission;
- using high-quality products that will not lose their properties after several years;
- the correct approach to replacement, that is, changing the filter and flushing the system if necessary.
As for the substance itself, it should be purchased from a dealer or in special stores. Toyota produces its own transmission fluid, called Toyota CVT Fluid TC. The use of other products is not permitted as this may cause damage to the vehicle. And remember - without experience, it’s better not to get involved in this matter. It is always more profitable to pay a specialist and be confident in the result than to spend your energy on a result that may not please you later.
How to change the oil in a Toyota RAV 4 variator
Changing the oil in the Toyota RAV 4 variator begins with dismantling the protection that prevents you from getting to the sump. You can also dismantle the traverse for convenience; this is not difficult to do.
Next, you need to place a container to drain the oil and unscrew the plug with a 6mm hexagon. This way, about a liter of oil will drain, so when the oil stops dripping, you need to unscrew the level plug , which is a small plastic cylinder. You should unscrew it by hand so as not to break it.
After this, more oil will drain out, but to carry out the replacement more thoroughly, you need to remove the pan by unscrewing the bolts around the perimeter. Remove carefully as there is still some oil left.
You should also remove the old oil filter for replacement or cleaning. It is secured with three bolts. After washing and blowing the filter (or taking a new one), you need to install it in the reverse order.
The next step is to install the pan gasket. Due to its design, it does not require sealant; you only need to wipe and degrease the contour along which the gasket adheres to the pan. Then install the pan back and tighten the plugs.
The filler plug is located on the side, so for convenience you should also remove the protective shield. Then unscrew the plug and, using a hose and funnel, fill in as much oil as drained . Then you need to tighten the plug.
Now you need to start the engine and run the gearbox through all modes. There is no need to turn off the engine - you need the box to warm up to 43-45 degrees. Then place the container and, with the engine running, unscrew the plug - this will make it possible to drain the excess oil. More oil than necessary will not leak out, thanks to the level plug.
Video “Replacing TM using the example of Renault”
How to change the TM using the example of a Renault car - watch the video.
We will demonstrate to you the work of changing the oil in the variator of a 2011 Toyota Rav 4 car. A car with a CVT does not have a dipstick for checking the oil level, unlike a classic automatic transmission. In this regard, on the Internet you can often find harmful advice that the oil in the variator is designed for its entire service life and cannot be replaced. In fact, this is not the case; over time, the oil oxidizes and begins to lose its properties; if it is not replaced in time, the variator will simply break.
The oil will be drained when the pan is removed; it is recommended to measure the amount of drained oil so that you can then fill in exactly the same amount of new oil. The level is set using a level tube in a box on a warm car, about 40-45 degrees. To get to the box pallet, you need to remove the plastic protection and one traverse. Using a 6mm hexagon, unscrew the drain plug:
In our case, approximately 1 liter of used oil drained through the plug. Again, take the 6mm hexagon and unscrew the level tube:
The level tube is plastic, so you need to unscrew and tighten it by hand. We wait until more oil has drained, after which we begin to unscrew the pan using a 10mm socket. Then we unscrew the 3 bolts securing the oil filter; in our case, we do not change it, but simply wash it. Be prepared for oil to also pour out from under the filter. We screw the new filter back on. Wash the tray thoroughly and clear its magnets of accumulated chips. We take a new gasket (parts catalog number 35168-20010), we have the original:
The total amount of waste oil drained from the variator was approximately 5 liters. We remove the side plastic boot; it is held on by clips. Using a 24mm socket, unscrew the filler plug:
We insert the hose and funnel there.
We will fill with original oil from Toyota (approximately 5 liters 200 grams):
We tighten the plug, start the car and run the variator in all modes. Then, when the car is warmed up to operating temperature, with the car running, unscrew this plug:
Drain off excess oil.
Video of changing the oil in the Toyota Rav 4 variator:
Backup video on how to change the oil in a Toyota Rav 4 variator:
Although you can often come across statements that the automatic transmission oil is filled for the entire service life of the box (about 250,000 km or more), many believe that a partial oil change in the Toyota RAV 4 variator will benefit the car.
The need to change the oil in the variator
A CVT gearbox (common name - variator) is a continuously variable gearbox. The international name for this structural element is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The functions of the variator are:
- Receiving informative signals from switches and sensors and processing them;
- Stabilization of pressure in the engine during vehicle operation;
- Switching gears while driving.
Manufacturers of Toyota Rav 4 state that changing the oil in a CVT transmission is not a mandatory procedure. However, the official point of view differs from the position of the majority of car owners. If you do not change the technical substance once every 2 years (approximately 45,000 kilometers), the Toyota Rav 4 systems may overheat, which will entail the risk of an emergency breakdown.
Below are signs of the need to change the oil in the Toyota Rav 4 variator :
- The used transmission lubricant has changed its original shade to a more cloudy one. The oil used has a burning and soot smell, a thick, heterogeneous consistency and foreign metallized particles;
- When the Toyota Rav 4 engine is running, significant noise is heard;
- When driving, the vehicle moves unevenly - jerkily. In some cases, the car does not budge at all;
- When starting the Toyota Rav 4 engine, excessive vibrations are felt.
The car enthusiast should take into account that problems when operating a Toyota Rav 4 car can arise not only when there is a shortage or low quality of transmission lubricant, but also when there is an excess of it. In this case, unexpected difficulties appear when changing gears. If you suspect any problems with this technical fluid, you should check the oil in the Toyota Rav 4 variator. This procedure is performed as follows:
- The vehicle is placed on a flat surface. It is recommended to ensure that the vehicle is in the most horizontal position possible, without ups or downs. Otherwise, there may be errors in the oil level reading;
- Start the Toyota Rav 4 engine;
- Stop the engine, but do not wait for it to cool down. It is necessary to measure the oil level in the car's variator until it has cooled down;
- A dipstick is removed from the hole in the variator. Most often, the outer part of this part is presented in the form of a yellow ring. The dipstick should be thoroughly wiped with a dry cloth or towel and immersed back in the transmission lubricant;
- Take out the dipstick again and check which of the marks located on it reaches the oil in the variator. If the technical fluid level is at the middle mark of the dipstick, slightly higher or slightly lower, this is a good indicator. If the transmission lubrication indicator exceeds o or is at or below o, then it is necessary to take action.
Replacement procedure
Changing the CVT oil lasts approximately thirty minutes. If you once understand how it is done, then later you will have the opportunity not to contact a car service and not pay money.
Do not work with the variator immediately after turning off the engine. Wait six to seven hours. Also in the Toyota Fielder variator there is a filter that needs to be changed. You will need gloves and a waste oil basin. The replacement algorithm is as follows:
- Place the vehicle on a viewing ditch/overpass that allows the driver to stand completely. Place a board transversely under the drain, on which place a basin for used motor oil.
- Prepare fresh synthetics. You will need six and a half liters of petroleum product.
- Unscrew the drain plug.
- When the grease stops flowing, unscrew the measuring tube located near the drain. The basin must remain under the drain, as the lubricant will again begin to flow from the hole.
- Unscrew the installed CVT pan. This is necessary to carry out cleaning, eliminate wear products, contamination, and change the oil filter with lining.
- After cleaning the tray, remove dirt from the magnetic elements.
- Remove the hydraulic unit. To do this, turn off the solenoids located there and unscrew the fourteen bolts. Remember how the bolts are positioned.
- Unscrew the ten valve body bolts. It will split into a couple of parts. Do not turn them over to ensure the springs stay in place. Otherwise, you will have to assemble and install them back for a long time.
- Remove the old filter and replace it with a new one.
- Assemble the variator and mount it back.
- When you change the pan lining, install a new oil filter, be sure to make sure that the variator pulley fits exactly into the hydraulic block cylinder. To do this, switch transmission modes when you get into the car. If everything is fine, you can start filling the variator with fresh oil fluid.
- The oil filler neck can be found by unscrewing and dismantling the left front wheel of the car. Pour in as much grease as you drained.
All these actions can be carried out with your own hands in half an hour; it is important to be vigilant when changing the oil. Remember that the variator is considered a fairly significant device that ensures the normal functioning of any vehicle, regardless of its model.
Every owner from time to time is faced with the need to change the oil in the Toyota Corolla CVT. To change the car oil yourself, you need to understand the types of lubricant and the stages of work.
When to change, how much and what kind of oil to fill
It is stated that the acceptable frequency of changing the oil in the variator is 40,000 km.
To replace, you will need a pair of 4-liter canisters of Toyota CVT transmission fluid (oil). About 5 liters will be consumed, more accurately the filling volume will be known after measuring the drained oil . As much as was drained as a result, that’s what should be filled in.
The necessary consumables for changing the oil in the variator, in addition to the fluid itself, are the variator gasket and the oil filter. Although the latter is often not changed, but only washed and purged.
What is needed to change the oil in the K111F variator:
When should you change the transmission fluid?
Alexander, the Toyota manufacturer claims that transmission oil is filled for the entire life of your vehicle.
The manufacturer does not provide for the replacement of this consumable. However, in practice it is necessary, since only in this way can possible breakdowns characteristic of automatic transmissions be avoided.
Toyota RAV 4 2014
The consumables should be changed for the first time after a mileage of 100 thousand kilometers. Further, ideally, the transmission fluid should be replaced every 40-50 thousand kilometers. In this case, the consumables in the unit will always be clean and fresh. Accordingly, he will perform all the functions assigned to him without any problems.
However, in practice, the substance can be replaced every 90 thousand kilometers, subject to several conditions:
- proper operation of the automatic transmission;
- using high-quality products that will not lose their properties after several years;
- the correct approach to replacement, that is, changing the filter and flushing the system if necessary.
As for the substance itself, it should be purchased from a dealer or in special stores. Toyota produces its own transmission fluid, called Toyota CVT Fluid TC. The use of other products is not permitted as this may cause damage to the vehicle. And remember - without experience, it’s better not to get involved in this matter. It is always more profitable to pay a specialist and be confident in the result than to spend your energy on a result that may not please you later.
How to change the TM using the example of a Renault car - watch the video.
Watch an interesting video on this topic
And with what frequency and what special oil is filled? Thank you. (Alexander)
Good afternoon, Alexander. Our resource specialist has prepared an answer to your question and is ready to provide it to you.
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Replacement procedure
In addition to the oil recommended by the manufacturer, you must have a new pan gasket, as well as a filling hose, a set of wrenches and hexagons. It should be taken into account that there is no control probe in the variator, so it is extremely important to fill in a volume of liquid equal to the drained volume.
- Remove the plastic protection covering the variator housing. It is held in place by bolts and plastic clips.
- After this, carefully remove the longitudinal beam located to the right of the variator. It is secured with four bolts. After removing the beam, access to all the bolts holding the pallet is available. It is also easier to remove the pan cover without it. Be careful - there will be some oil in it.
- Remove the pan, you will have access to the drain plug, which must be unscrewed with a 6mm hexagon.
Not the full volume of oil will be drained through the plug, but only part of it (about one liter).
After inserting a 6mm hex into the drain hole, without applying force, unscrew the plastic level tube.
After removing it, oil will continue to pour out.
After unscrewing the bolts around the perimeter of the pan, there is no need to tilt it; carefully drain the remaining oil inside.
Please note that the height of the drain hole thread is about 1.5 cm. This means that during a partial replacement, a certain volume of old oil will continue to be in the box, since it is impossible to drain it completely without dismantling the pan.
The oil filter is secured with three bolts. After removing the filter element, the remaining oil located under the control unit will flow out.
After the oil filter is removed, it and the pan must be washed. After installing the filter, install a new gasket on the pan. Return the pan to its place by tightening the bolts, then screw in the plastic level tube and tighten the drain plug.
- To fill the oil, remove the side protection held on by two clips. Unscrew the nut (24mm head) located on top of the variator housing. It is necessary to pour 200-300 ml more oil through the hose than was drained.
Sequence of work
- Warm up the engine to operating temperature, after which the car is installed on an overpass or pit. Alternatively, you can use a lift
- Prepare a container for draining the waste liquid
- Use a 6mm hex to unscrew the oil drain plug located under the bottom of the vehicle. After this, the old liquid will flow out into a pre-prepared pan. Please note that about 3 liters of liquid should flow out
- Next, you need to unscrew another so-called level plug - it looks like a cylinder. It is advisable not to use a tool for removal, so as not to damage the thread.
- After removing the plastic cylinder (level plug), a large amount of oil will flow from the hole. Here you need to act carefully and work with gloves. This will avoid getting burns.
- Now let's move on to adding oil. We find the filler hole - it is located on the side. To gain access to the neck, you need to remove the protective shield, and then unscrew the plug. Next you will need a hose and a funnel through which the oil will be poured. It is necessary to introduce as much liquid as drained.
- Tighten the plug and turn on the engine. It should run for 10-15 minutes at idle speed. It is important that at this moment the gearbox warms up to 45 degrees.
- It is possible that more oil was added than necessary. In this case, there is protection - the so-called level plug, which makes it possible to drain excess oil. The process of changing the oil in the Toyota RAV4 CVT is completed.
Complete oil change in the Toyota Rav 4 variator
Preparing for a complete oil change in the Toyota Rav 4 variator requires extreme care and consistency. A car enthusiast who wants to independently update the transmission lubricant must follow the following algorithm of actions:
- Place the machine on a horizontal platform;
Regarding the last point regarding the Toyota Rav 4, changing the oil in the variator will not take much time and will keep the car in working condition for a long time. The main thing is not to make a mistake in choosing a technical fluid.
Oil selection
On Toyota Rav 4 cars, starting in 2010 (only the European market is taken into account), a CVT began to be installed instead of a standard automatic transmission. The variable transmission in Toyota models is made in Japan, by the specialized company Aisin.
For CVTs of this company, TOYOTA TC oil (code - 08886-02105) or Toyota CVT Fluid TC is most suitable. This gear lubricant is original to Toyota vehicles. Many car enthusiasts prefer to use technical fluid CVT Fluid FE (08886-02505), but its use is not recommended, since this substance is gasoline-saving, which is not fundamentally important for the Toyota Rav 4 engine. Filling will require 5-7 liters of oil.
How to set the oil level
After filling, it is necessary to distribute the oil throughout the entire volume of the variator, and also get rid of excess. To do this, you will have to start the engine and hold the variator shift knob in each position for at least 10-20 seconds. During this time, the oil for the Toyota Rav4 variator should heat up to 45 degrees Celsius. Only in this case can you begin to drain the excess liquid.
To do this, without turning off the engine, unscrew the plug located on the pallet closer to the front bumper. Excess oil will drain out of the hole. After the leak stops, tighten the plug and turn off the engine. Reinstalling the plastic protection is the final operation and is not difficult.
This procedure is not suitable if you need to change the oil in a Toyota Rav4 automatic transmission. There is a slightly different replacement technology. Also, when starting this procedure, you will have to stock up on a large amount of lubricant.
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Changing the oil in a Toyota Rav variator of 4 different generations
The procedure for replacing transmission lubricant has not undergone significant changes since the Toyota Rav4 appeared on the Russian market. Thus, changing the oil in the 2011 Toyota Rav4 variator is no different from the corresponding process for the Toyota Rav4-2012. The same is true for updating the transmission fluid in the 2013 model and changing the oil in the 2014 Toyota Rav 4 CVT.
The individual characteristics of each individual vehicle, which may affect the procedure for changing the technical fluid in the variator, are indicated in the operating instructions for each specific vehicle.
How to check the status?
- Drop test. Drop a small amount of oil from the dipstick onto a clean white cloth. Cloudiness indicates a large amount of suspended wear products from the clutch packs, which negatively affects the oil channels and the operation of the solenoids. The smell of burning indicates repeated overheating of the working fluid, which happens due to a malfunction of the variator cooling system or a drop in pressure in the lubrication system. As the pressure decreases, the friction discs begin to slip, thereby overheating the oil. Depending on the year of manufacture and gearbox model, blue, green or red fluid may be poured into the variator. For a visual comparison with a drop test, it is advisable to have a sample of new oil.
- Transmission fluid aging counter. The operation of the electronic control unit of many, mostly modern, variators contains a mathematical algorithm for calculating the residual life of the working fluid. The calculation takes into account the total operating time of the variator, oil temperature and operating loads. We are talking about the balls known to many Toyota and Nissan owners that count down the period for replacing CVT fluid. For example, Toyota recommends changing the oil in the variator when the aging meter reaches 210,000 units.
Why shouldn't you trust indirect signs?
The methods described above are the only ways to check the condition of the oil. But color, smell, consistency, and even more so the aging counter, do not allow you to check the real physical properties of the transmission fluid in the variator. Therefore, we recommend adhering to the following rules:
- change the oil in the variator after purchasing a used car. Repairing CVT transmissions is too expensive to rely on the words of the former owner and even receipts for payment of work orders for replacing the fluid at a service station. There are often cases when craftsmen neglect to remove the pan and replace the filter elements;
- adhere to recommended replacement intervals. It is possible that you will have to go against the car manufacturer. Many operating manuals indicate that the oil in the CVT box is filled for its entire service life and does not require replacement.
When should you change?
CVT repair specialists recommend changing the oil every 40 thousand km. Having studied the operating principle and design of the variator, you yourself will understand why you should not count on a long service life without regular oil changes. In case of severe operating conditions, it is recommended to reduce the intervals to 30-35 thousand km. Negative factors include:
- trailer towing;
- dynamic driving with intense acceleration and deceleration;
- long periods of downtime during the hot season. When driving in a traffic jam, there is no airflow into the variator housing or cooling radiator, so the risk of overheating increases significantly;
- movement in rough terrain. Slipping of the drive wheels is the most debilitating operating mode for CVT gearboxes;
- driving on dusty roads in mountainous terrain.
Transmission fluid and filter for CVT gearboxes
For CVT, we recommend using only original fluid under the manufacturer's brand. You can fill in third-party oil only if the product meets the tolerances of the original fluid.
The physical characteristics of transmission fluids have changed in accordance with the development of CVT devices. For example, in Nissan cars, depending on the CVT model, fluid of class NS-1, NS-2 or NS-3 can be used. Before replacing, refer to the repair and maintenance manual, where you will find complete information about the filling volume and type of oil.
The design of a CVT gearbox often contains a paper filter element (fine cleaning) and a metal mesh (coarse cleaning) of the oil receiver. Along with changing the oil, the fine filter should also be changed. If possible, the mesh is only washed and must be replaced only in cases where it is tightly clogged with friction lining adhesive or coked with deposits of overheated working fluid.
We change it ourselves
- Unscrew the drain plug and drain the old oil.
- Unscrew the variator pan to remove wear debris from the bottom.
- Replace the oil filter, wash it and, if necessary, replace the coarse filter.
- Having previously cleaned the mating surfaces, install a new gasket and screw the pan. Screw in the drain plug.
- Using a funnel inserted into the dipstick hole, fill in new CVT fluid. If the level was normal before replacement, the filling volume should correspond to the amount of old fluid.
- Check the oil level according to the instructions in the repair and operating manual.
- Reset the fluid aging counter. This can be done with many universal diagnostic devices.
As practice shows, after changing the oil without resetting the sensor, the variator begins to work with twitching and knocking. And the experience of repairing CVT boxes suggests a pattern according to which the belt breaks and the cones are damaged just after replacing the fluid without resetting the meter.
As you can see in the video, there is nothing difficult about changing the variator oil yourself.
Consequences of untimely replacement
If you violate the replacement frequency, or ignore obvious signals about the need to update the oil in the Toyota Rav 4 CVT gearbox, the following unpleasant consequences may occur:
- Contamination of the unit with metal shavings and dense mud masses;
- Sudden disturbances in vehicle movement while driving and, as a result, a possible traffic accident;
- System errors when shifting gears and breakdown of a technical unit;
- Complete failure of the variator.
To avoid possible breakdowns and emergency situations, it is recommended to periodically update the technical fluid in the Toyota Rav 4 CVT gearbox. Then the vehicle will last longer and the risk of losing control of the vehicle will be reduced.
Signs of the need to change the lubricant in the Rav 4 variator
The need to change the oil in the Toyota Rav 4 variator occurs when the following symptoms appear:
- a characteristic burnt odor emanating from the oil, as well as its turbidity;
- the consistency of the lubricant has acquired a thick structure; metal particles can be found in its composition;
- is louder than usual when operating ;
- the car moves jerkily , and sometimes does not move at all;
- increased vibration when starting the engine.
For stable operation of the variator, maintain the required level of transmission fluid, avoiding a decrease or excess. In the latter case, problems with gear shifting will occur.
Algorithm for checking the lubricant level in the variator:
- To obtain reliable readings, install Rav 4 on a horizontal surface.
- Start the engine and warm up the CVT . Further operations are carried out with the engine turned off, without waiting for the lubrication of the continuously variable transmission to cool down.
- From the hole in the gearbox, remove the oil dipstick , which is wiped dry with a rag or napkin. After this, the measuring bar is inserted back .
- The probe is removed and a control measurement is taken. It is optimal when the transmission fluid level is in the middle or with slight deviations between the minimum and maximum marks on the measuring bar. If you deviate from the set limits, you will need to adjust the level.
Consequences of irregular oil changes in the variator
Operation of the Toyota Rav 4 variator is accompanied by the need for timely oil changes. Otherwise, the following malfunctions may occur:
- formation in the lubricant of dense mud clots and particles of metal shavings, which is manifested by hum, vibration and knocking ;
- unexpected breakdowns in traffic, entailing the risk of an accident;
- periodic problems with gear shifting , which are accompanied by the car jerking even when the accelerator pedal is gently pressed;
failure of individual components and the entire continuously variable transmission.
Brand and quantity of oil to change
To replace the lubrication of the Toyota Rav 4 variator, you will need to use original Toyota CVT oil with article number 0888602105 . It is also recommended to immediately change the pan gasket - 3516820010 . In this case, it is enough to rinse the oil filter thoroughly; its part number is 35330-0W040 .
The volume of new lubricant must correspond to the drained amount of waste. Typically, this requires a little more than five liters. Taking into account the fact that the oil for the original production variator is produced in a four-liter volume, you will need to prepare two cans.
The procedure for changing the oil in the Rav 4 variator
Let's describe the oil change in the Rav 4 variator:
- The car is driven into the inspection hole.
- The crankcase protective casing is removed . To achieve even more space, you can additionally remove the crossbar .
- Use a 6mm hex to unscrew the drain plug , under which a container for receiving waste is pre-installed. About a liter of oil will drain.
- The next thing to unscrew is the level plug located in the opened hole. It is plastic, so as not to damage it, it can be dismantled by hand. This will drain the bulk of the oil.
- Then you need to dismantle the variator pan , which will allow for a high-quality replacement. To do this, you will need to remove the mounting bolts around the perimeter. Operations must be performed with caution, as lubricant remains in the pan.
- Clean the internal cavity of the pan, the magnets and the oil filter (washed, blown), which is secured with three bolts.
- The pan and a new gasket are installed.
- To fill the internal cavity of the Rav 4 variator, a hose and a funnel are used, since the filler hole is located on the side. For more space, you can remove the side plastic protection.
- The filler plug is unscrewed and new lubricant is poured in. The initial volume must correspond to the drained amount of waste.
Setting the lubrication level in the CVT
The final stage of changing the lubricant in the Rav 4 variator is adjusting the oil level.
- engine is started , followed by running the gearbox selector (with a twenty second delay in all positions) until the transmission fluid temperature reaches approximately forty-five degrees.
- Without turning off the engine, place a container under the drain plug and unscrew it . Thanks to the level plug, it will be possible to drain excess transmission oil.
- Subsequently, the plug is screwed into place and the protection is mounted.
Oil selection
As a rule, the transmission fluid itself comes in two types: HMMF/CVFT
. So, it is better to fill the type of oil according to the instructions. As for the brand of oil, all car manufacturers today recommend using only their original fluid. There are cars that do not accept any other transmission fluid at all, but only from the manufacturer.
As for the frequency of oil changes, the interval is again determined by the car manufacturer.
To carry out this procedure, it is enough to have the following tools and components on hand:
- The transmission fluid itself;
- New variator oil filters (there should be 2 of them);
- A jack or better use a pit. If it is not there, then it is better for beginners to go to the overpass;
The pan is removed to gain access to one of the filters (large). As a rule, we will see the filter in a plastic protection.
Again, it is noteworthy that on the 1st generation CVTs, the filter is protected by an iron housing, and on the 2nd generation – by a plastic one. There is practically no difference between the cases, but they are not interchangeable. Otherwise, they have a general purpose and are located in the same place.
Good to know
that the 1st and 2nd generation pallets differ from each other by the presence of a fine filter. So, on 2nd generation CVTs this same filter is not in the pan and is moved to the radiator area. That’s what it’s called – remote. As for the filter on the 1st generation variator, it is located directly in the pan and is a round object.
Many drivers who change the oil in a CVT for the first time wonder what this yellow stripe is that runs along the entire perimeter of the pan. This is a cardboard spacer that should be removed carefully. It is almost eternal if it is not damaged during dismantling. By the way, some experts use this strip to determine whether oil has been poured into the variator or not.
Let's continue:
- After the plastic protection has been removed, the user gains access to the variator control unit. This very block may be dirty or clean, depending on the age of the car;
- Drain the liquid and measure the volume. As a rule, the amount of oil added should be the same;
- It is recommended to change the oil filter at every oil change. On 2nd generation CVTs, its removal to the cooling system area is a smart solution. It is much more convenient to unhook it from here;
- We install the filters in their places;
- Fill in new oil.
Everything will take about 30 minutes. Having learned how to change the oil in a variator, you can calmly do this if the time has come and save a lot of money that would have been spent on paying for the services of a specialist.