If you've been looking at new cars or searching for upgrades for your current vehicle, you may have come across the term "continuously variable transmission. This term is often abbreviated as "CVT" and refers to the type of transmission installed, which is the component that controls how your car shifts gears. Learn more about CVT in the article below.

How CVT Differs From Other Transmission Types

There are two main types of transmissions installed in modern vehicles; automatic or manual. The traditional form is the manual type, which requires a driver to physically change gears when accelerating and deaccelerating a vehicle. 

Automatic forms are different than manual designs in that they don't have a clutch pedal and don't require the driver to gear shift. Instead, these systems use a torque converter to lock and unlock different sets of gears that automatically change gear ratios while driving. 

Technically, CVT is a form of automatic transmission. However, it doesn't have a set number of gears like traditional automatic systems. Instead, there are many gear variables, making gear shifts more fluid and smooth than standard transmission installations.

What You Should Know About CVT Installations

This type of transmission is a relatively new invention, meaning it's still being innovated and improved within the car manufacturing industry. The smooth gear shifts lead to better fuel economy, and it makes your car give off fewer emissions, making it a more environmentally-friendly choice. You also have more control over the acceleration and de-acceleration of your vehicle while driving.

You should keep in mind that because it is a newer concept, there are also some downsides to these installations. With a more controlled acceleration, the car cannot speed up as quickly as other types of transmission. It's also prone to many of the same problems you'll find in other transmission systems, such as overheating, excessive wear and tear on the belt components, and emitting a low humming sound. 

However, you can prevent these issues by driving your car efficiently. Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal, don't perform abrupt braking and acceleration, and keep up with general car maintenance; get oil changes, wheel alignment, and swap filters as needed.

If you want to upgrade your transmission system, you should go to Northgate Transmissions LLC in Cincinnati, OH. This transmission shop has years of experience and uses state-of-the-art equipment to offer high-quality repairs and replacement parts. Their technicians are highly certified, and they adhere to the ATRA Member Code of Ethics. Call (513) 385-4400 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their manual and automatic transmission services.