Don’t fear customer complaints about CVTs
Continuously Variable Transmissions, or CVTs, are more common than you think. Audi, Subaru, Nissan, Ford, GM and many other automakers use CVT transmissions in cars and SUVs. There is no way to avoid them. Chances are there is one in your shop right now. What does CVT mean for technicians? On the maintenance side, a
A guide to common GM, Ford and Nissan programming issues
One of the most common complaints I hear from shops when trying to install a new GM TCM is, “The module will not communicate.” While that might be partially true, by design they won’t communicate until they are programmed. If programming fails, there will be an “E” code set which will help you get to
Are you down with CVT?
The continuously variable transmission has its critics, but it’s probably here to stay.
Shift Pointers: Nissan’s no throttle response
Nissan vehicles using continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are notorious for defaulting to a no throttle response when the vehicle is engaged into gear. There are several malfunctions that can cause this protective failsafe feature to be initiated. A brake switch (stop lamp switch) stuck on, a double-footed driver, blown or incorrect brake bulbs, and wheel
Watch: CVT modules and programming
CVTs usually will require a reset to the basic factory programming after repairing a major component. You can typically use a scan tool to help complete this. Watch the latest video from Transtar, above, for more.
Watch: CVT fluid diagnostics
CVT fluids are different than automatic transmission fluids. Learn why the requirements for these fluids are different and how to select the right fluid for your vehicle. Watch the latest video from Transtar, above, for the answer.
Watch: CVT electric and communication codes
Find out if your transmission module is not sharing information properly. Different codes will indicate different issues within the transmission. Watch the latest video from Transtar for more information.
Watch: CVT diagnostic strategy and codes
Understand the codes you may see when working on a CVT and the tools and software needed to diagnose and fix the issues. Watch Transtar’s latest video, above, to learn more.
Watch: The basics of CVT repair
How do you know if you’re working on a CVT transmission? Let Andrew Markel explain how to spot them and some best practices when completing the job. Watch Transtar’s video above for the explanation.
Dealing with the increasingly common pin-fit problem
I want to talk a little bit about a common diagnostic misstep or overlooked problem that is prevalent in the automotive repair industry and seems to be on the rise. Pin-fit or tension can deal us a fit sometimes (pun intended), especially if we do not have the proper tools to determine if this mode
Podcast: Talking CVTs with Transtar, part 2
Following part one of Andrew Markel’s discussion of the ins and outs of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) with Dave Hritsko of Transtar, part two of Andrew and Dave’s conversation gets more in depth on the topic, including a discussion on programming transmission modules for CVTs. Tune in to their conversation in the video above.
Podcast: Talking CVTs with Transtar, part 1
CVTs, or continuously variable transmissions, have long been a hot topic in the transmission repair industry, but we can safely say they’re here to stay. So what do you do when one shows up at your shop? In this podcast, with Dave Hritsko of Transtar as featured guest, we dive in to the ins and