What is a CVT Transmission?

A new GMC with a CVT transmission is a great choice if you’re looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle that can deliver a smooth, quality driving experience in Eagan. You may have heard the term while searching for a car, but what is a CVT transmission? A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission that changes gear ratios without interruption. CVTs are also known as shiftless transmissions, stepless transmissions, and pulley transmissions. Mauer GMC goes into more detail about everything you need to know about CVT vehicles, how they work, and they can benefit specific Woodbury drivers like you.

More About CVTs

What is a CVT transmission? As mentioned earlier, CVT stands for continuously variable transmission, and is also known as a shiftless transmission, stepless transmission, and pulley transmission. CVTs are automatic transmissions that alternate fixed-gear ratios for infinitely variable ratios, two pulleys, and an interceding chain or belt. CVTs are frequently found in compact and fuel-efficient vehicles, but you won’t find a CVT in high-performing vehicles.

How Does a CVT Work?

So, how does a CVT work, and how does it differ from the standard automatic transmission? Unlike regular transmissions that power vehicles using a series of different gears, CVT transmissions do not have your typical high and low gears to shift between. Rather than using gear systems, CVTs utilize cone-shaped pulley systems that are connected by an intervening belt or chain. The fixed side of a CVT remains still, while the other side adjusts its movement to the speed of your vehicle by using a hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder alternates the distance between the pulley’s two sides, so the belt moves higher or lower depending on your speed. Shifting using a shift knob or shift paddles isn’t necessary for CVTs.

What are the Benefits of a CVT?

The primary benefit of a CVT is increased fuel efficiency. This is because a CVT doesn’t have to switch between gears, and can operate within the ideal power range without depleting additional fuel. Another benefit of CVTs is that they have a simpler design and fewer parts, which results in a smoother driving experience. The simple design of CVTs also makes it lower maintenance, so that you can expect to enjoy lower costs the next time you need to schedule transmission service near Saint Paul.

Find a GMC with a CVT at Mauer GMC!

Now you know what a CVT transmission is, Mauer GMC invites you to test drive a vehicle to give you an idea of what a CVT car can do for your Cottage Grove drives. Have any more questions about CVTs, or would like to schedule a test drive? Contact us online or call us at (651) 645-9474 today.