this post was submitted on 30 Aug 2025
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Mechanic Advice

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CVT lifespan (lemmy.world)
submitted 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) by WeebLife@lemmy.world to c/mechanicadvice@lemmy.world
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Hi everyone,

I have a 2012 Nissan versa which uses a CVT. I am close to hitting 100k miles and just had my transmission serviced. I'm not having any problems with the transmission, but just wanted to do routine maintenance on my car. When I was at the shop, the guy kept telling me how unreliable CVTs are and I'm lucky I got 100k miles out of it. He also made it sound like it could totally fail at any point in the near future. So I'm just curious how long do CVTs last? He said they typically fail around 70k miles. If they truly don't last much longer than 100k miles then maybe I should look into getting a new car while mine is still working. I tried looking it up online but I don't trust the AI content.

Thanks!

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[–] CaptDust@sh.itjust.works 2 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) (1 children)

There's a ton of factors to consider, but basically a CVT uses a belt and belts will always wear. The rate will depend on how you drive, how heavy the car is, etc. Usually they start slipping first rather than immediate failure. Truthfully 100k sounds about the time to me, especially in a Nissan, but if it's still accelerating properly ride it till it dies. And with the market the way it is it might be worth repairing anyway if the car is otherwise in good shape. They're labor intensive but shouldn't be any more than a traditional automatic to repair.

[–] WeebLife@lemmy.world 2 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

The guy at the shop said they cost around 6k to replace. As far as getting a new one, I'd rather get one when I have the time to look and get something I want and good deal, instead of drive my car til it dies then be in a rush to get a new one.

[–] CaptDust@sh.itjust.works 1 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

Is your shop a dealership? I was thinking more in ballpark of 3.5k but then I don't have context of your area or anything ofc. At 6k I think looking for something else is worth it, if you're in a good position to do it.

[–] WeebLife@lemmy.world 1 points 2 weeks ago

No, they aren't a dealership. I was pretty surprised by that price too.