Correct operation of the variator. Learning to use the variator The variator operating rules

There are many types of transmissions in the automotive world. The vast majority are, of course, mechanics and automatic transmissions. But in third place was the variator. This box can be found in both European and Japanese cars... Often, the Chinese also put a variator on their SUVs. What is this box? How to use a variator? Consider in our today's article.

Characteristic

So, the CVT is a continuously variable vehicle. Main feature it is the absence of specific stages - the gear ratio changes gradually, as the car picks up speed. This feature eliminates jolts and jerks when shifting, which are possible when driving mechanically, and also provides high acceleration dynamics. Indeed, when you press the gas, the car keeps constantly stable rpm, at which peak torque is reached.

But due to power limitations, these boxes are placed mainly on cars and only for some crossovers (often these are representatives Chinese stamps). As for the types, there can be two variators in total:

• Toroidal.
• V-belt.

Device

Generally speaking, the design of this checkpoint includes:

• CVT transmission.
• A mechanism used to disconnect the gearbox from the engine and transmit torque.
• Control system.
• Reversing mechanism.

In order for the torque to be transmitted from the engine to the box, the unit can use:

• Automatic centrifugal clutch.
• Electromagnetic with electronic control.
• Torque converter.
• Multi-disc wet clutch.

Now the most popular is the torque converter. It smoothly transmits torque, which is positively reflected on the resource of the box.

The variator design includes one or two belt drives. They are two pulleys that are interconnected by a V-belt. Conical discs are formed that can move and expand. This changes the diameter of the pulley. Spring force or hydraulic pressure is used to bring the cones closer together. The discs themselves have a certain angle of inclination (usually 20 degrees). This contributes to the least resistance as the belt moves over the pulley.

Note that the belt material varies. The first models used rubber. Due to its high flexibility and elasticity, it did not have a large resource. Therefore, most CVTs come with a metal belt. It consists of ten steel strips. And the torque is transmitted due to the frictional forces between the pulley and the side surface of the belt.

How the device works

The algorithm of action consists in changing the diameter of the pulley depending on the load and the operating mode of the engine. So, the diameter is changed by means of a special drive (most often hydraulic). At the start, the drive pulley has a small diameter, and the driven pulley is maximized. As the speed increases, the dimensions of the elements change. So, the leader increases in diameter, and the follower - vice versa. When the machine slows down, the pulleys are resized back.

How to use the variator correctly? The basics

First of all, you need to understand that a car with a CVT does not have a clutch pedal. Drivers who change from mechanics to such cars have a habit of using the left pedal. When using the variator, it is sufficient to work with only the right foot. The left one always rests with the driver. This seemingly insignificant nuance needs to be remembered. As for the operating modes, everything is the same here. automatic box:

• R. It is used in situations when the car arrives at a place of long-term parking. In this case, a special blocking element is used, which prevents further movement of the car.
• D - drive. This is a mode in which the car moves forward as usual with sequential gear changes.
• N is neutral. It is used in cases when the machine stands for a long time on an inclined surface. To do this, you need to enable hand brake and move the lever to the appropriate position. This eliminates the need to keep the brake pedal depressed all the time. The mode is relevant when the stop time is more than half a minute.
• R - reverse gear.

Additional modes

It is worth saying that many variator boxes have several more operating modes. Among them it is worth noting:

• L. In this case, the engine runs at higher rpm with maximum braking effect. This mode is relevant for long descents in the mountains and when towing.
• S. This is a sport mode. In this case, the full potential of the engine is used. As a rule, the car accelerates 0.3-0.5 seconds earlier to a hundred. The mode is suitable for those who want to get a sharp start from a traffic light.
• E. Economy mode. The machine will run at minimum RPM. At the same time, the acceleration dynamics deteriorates, but the consumption also decreases. Usually this mode is used with a calm, measured driving style.

How to get started?

We continue to study the question "how to use the variator". On Toyota and other cars of foreign production, the scheme of using the variator is the same. Therefore, these instructions can be applied to any brand. So, we get into the car and install the key in the ignition lock. Check if the car is parked (mode P). If the lever is in the "neutral" position, the engine should be started after installing the car on the handbrake.

After that, you need to squeeze the brake with your right foot. Without letting go of the pedal, we move the key in the lock to the "start" position. We are waiting for the engine to start (as a rule, this is no more than two seconds). Next, we transfer the gearbox lever to the "drive" mode. Do not let go of the brake pedal. After the "drive" mode has turned on, you can start driving. We transfer the right foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator. Here's how to use the CVT on Qashqai and other cars. Do not forget about the handbrake (if it is on, remove it). The car will make further changes on its own.

CVT neutral

Can the lever be reset to neutral on this box? Everything here is similar to the automaton. There are cases when this can be done, and there are when it is unacceptable. So, it is strictly forbidden to use the neutral mode when trying to coast. When trying to re-engage "drive" at speed, there is a significant impact on the clutch, and the transmission is subjected to stress. Therefore, switch to neutral only when the car is in a traffic jam and the idle time is more than 30 seconds.

Warming up

Many questions arise about how to properly use the CVT on a Nissan in winter. It should be said here that this gearbox also has oil that plays the role of working fluid... However, if the vending machine contains about ten liters, then the variator contains only seven. That is, you need to warm up the box, but less time is spent on it. So, how to properly use the CVT in winter? Heating can be carried out both in the parking mode and in neutral. These modes are practically the same, except that "parking" blocks the wheels. Therefore, we just start the car and wait five minutes for the internal combustion engine and gearbox to warm up. It is worth saying that the lower the temperature, the more time you should devote to warming up (and vice versa).

If snow / ice

How to use a variator on this type of coating? Here you need to know that when the wheels slip on a slippery surface, they may mesh with a harder surface. So, the driver mechanically presses on the gas when the car “grabbed” and was about to drive through the snow. But here on the way comes across asphalt, and the wheels meet it at a high speed. As a result - a significant blow to the grip. The fluid coupling is worn out. For a couple of such techniques, it can even wear out. The same goes for driving with chains. Do not step on the gas abruptly when the car is about to start. All this is significantly displayed on the clutch of the box, especially if it is a chain-bracelet. Therefore on slippery road we move as smoothly and accurately as possible, even if the car has already started to go after it has skidded. And of course, you need to monitor the temperature of the oil in the box. The box will definitely not withstand prolonged slippage.

About sharp loads

Many have heard that sharp loads on the box led to its imminent failure. This is really true. By virtue of their design, these transmissions are not capable of "digesting" high torque. However, how can this be prevented? How to use a variator? It's simple. It is necessary to give up frequent aggressive driving and warm up the box in winter time... Also note that on many boxes, electronics are capable of signaling overheating. So, if the oil temperature is above normal, the corresponding lamp on the instrument panel will light up. And on some cars, the electronics will not allow you to budge at all until the box cools down.

CVT and off-road

This is also worth talking about separately. Many people wonder how to use the CVT on Mitsubishi Outlander and other SUVs. The variator is not intended for use on a dirt road or off-road. Just a few slips are enough to overheat the transmission. Therefore, if you often drive in such terrain, it is better to choose a car with a mechanic. But how to use the variator on the Outlander in such a situation?

If the car sits on its "belly", do not make desperate attempts to move it from its place. Otherwise, the gearbox will overheat. Only evacuation is relevant. Also, do not often switch from R mode to "drive", trying to rock the car. Because of this, the splined joints of the box wear out significantly.

Towing

Considering the question of how to use the variator, it must be said that this box is also afraid of towing. So, a car with a variator cannot be transported in tow - only a tow truck. As in the previous case, splined joints are severely broken here.

Trailers

How to use a variator on a Nissan X-Trail if it is equipped with a towbar and you need to transport the load on a trailer? In this case, it is worth adhering to the rule that the weight of the loaded trailer should not exceed one ton. As for cars, it is worth refusing to transport them (meaning in tow).

Service

You need to know the nuances of maintenance, and not just how to use the variator. On Mitsubishi, as well as on other machines with this gearbox, the oil must be changed regularly. The regulation is 60 thousand kilometers. It is important to know that the oil must meet all tolerances and specifications. It is recommended to use only original products... The fact is that the variator is more demanding on the quality and properties of the oil than the automatic and mechanics. Therefore, only liquid from a trusted manufacturer is poured here. As for the repair, for any signs of slipping or other incorrect operation of the gearbox, you need to go to the service station for detailed diagnostics. The device of the variator is rather complicated, therefore, the repair of the box should be carried out only by professionals.

We also note that even with regular maintenance, the resource of such a transmission does not exceed 200 thousand kilometers. This must be taken into account when purchasing a used car.

Causes and signs of breakage

Let's consider the most common ones:

• Inability to include any transmission. This indicates a failure of the gearbox selector. There may also be problems with the wiring (oxidation of contacts, connectors, or mechanical damage to the wires).
• Shocks when switching from "neutral" to "drive". A defective pressure solenoid valve is present here. Also, kicks occur due to a faulty control unit.
• Drop in acceleration dynamics. The car cannot move when the accelerator is pressed. In this situation, there may be problems with the torque converter, control unit, or with the forward clutch.

Conclusion

So, we found out how the variator gearbox is arranged and works, as well as how to use the variator. In order not to "sentence" this box ahead of time, it is necessary to avoid increased loads and service it on time. This is the only way to save the resource of this complex automatic transmission.

CVT transmissions for many motorists are an incomprehensible and complex thing. No wonder, because in our age, a person does not have to understand a car in order to drive it. One way or another, it is better to know some of the specifics of using these checkpoints, otherwise the box may not live up to the very 200 tkm that the manufacturer promised, because cases of breakdowns up to 100 tkm are by no means rare.

In order to understand how to properly drive a variator, you need to realize that weakness this type of gearbox - chronic incontinence of high torque and sharp peak loads. But that's not all. Behind the efficiency and smoothness of continuously variable transmissions lies a host of features that dealers do not warn about when they put their brainchildren in the hands of the user.

Do not drive

Most CVTs use a torque converter that doesn't like missed oil change times

As already mentioned, the VKPP does not like high torque, which means that in order to drive the variator correctly, you need to learn how to hold the horses. Even the vaunted Lineatronic Subaru, with proper control of the gas pedal, drives 300 tkm and often "punishes" the riders up to the turn of 100 tkm. The variator is smooth and economical. Do not force him to work outside his specialty.

Cruise control is the "killer" of the variator

"Battered" cone - a verdict for the variator

The variator serves the longest when the entire working area of ​​the cones is used evenly. During acceleration and deceleration, the belt (chain) constantly moves along the surface of the cones, using all sections. Standing in traffic jams forces the "tape" to wipe a gap in a certain part of the cones, and once an invisible to the eye, but quite perceptible "step" during acceleration is formed on it. Although there is at least some movement of the belt in traffic jams, the CVT suffers most of all during monotonous movement along the highway at the same speed, especially on cruise control. In this case, the wear of the rubbing parts is maximum, plus all the axle bearings are included in the risk group.

Smoother, please

Chain variators are somewhat more durable. The belt will have to be changed every 150 tkm.

As you probably already understood, when owning a car with a variator, it is better to forget about a trailer, overloads and off-road conditions, since in such cases the checkpoint will be the most weak link transmission and not only a belt with cones, but also a torque converter or a package of frictions, depending on what is used in your box, can suffer.

Apart from everything. The variator does not like a sharp peak load. For example, skidding on ice, the drive wheels hit the dry asphalt and hit the box. The same goes for a frantic raid on the curb. One such incident with a belt slip could sentence the VKPP to be replaced.

Change oil

During the operation of any mechanical units, wear products appear that play against the parts themselves. VKPP, if not the most reliable site, these "grains of sand" are especially harmful. Changing the oil in the variator is useful not only for preventive properties, but also allows you to diagnose impending problems in time until they make themselves felt. For example, you can see chips on a pallet and decide for yourself to sell a car or not.

Such a "hedgehog" means that either you delayed the timing of the oil change, or the wear of the variator is already excessive

I hope these simple tips will help you keep your car in the condition in which we, auto pickers, recommend our customers to buy.

How to properly drive a variator (CVT) updated: April 21, 2019 by the author: Stop-autohlam

Russian drivers got acquainted with the rules of driving cars with variator boxes relatively recently. Many managed to get used to the lack of a third pedal in the car (conventional automatic transmission). But those who equate the automatic and continuously variable transmission are mistaken. The nuances of the variator operation require the most careful consideration. How to drive a variator?

CVT driving rules

CVT is a Latin abbreviation for the type of box we are interested in. Functionally, it does not differ from other types of gearboxes, but it fundamentally differs in the principle of operation. The gear change is smooth, without jerks, thanks to the correction of the diametrical plane of the discs (driven / driven). The car accelerates without jerking. The person sitting behind the wheel is not distracted by gear shifting. The operation of the automation reduces the acceleration time, saves fuel, and selects the optimal engine operating mode.

Noise level regardless of the degree of motor load power plant indistinguishable. You will never hear the rolling sound of a sports car on such cars, even if the accelerator is "drowned" to failure. "Smart" electronics compensate for a sharp change in the parameters of the operating unit, removing unnecessary load.

Details about the pros

A vehicle equipped with a CVT has a number of positive aspects that distinguish it favorably from cars with "mechanics" and automatic transmission. The benefits unambiguously include:

• speed picks up well;
• more economical fuel consumption;
• critical engine loads are optimized;
• the period of routine maintenance and repair work is increasing;
• the class of environmental safety has been increased.

It's about the oil

It is the responsibility of the car owner to monitor the level and quality of oil in the gearbox. In the case of a continuously variable transmission, you need to be especially careful about this. Absolutely all variator boxes "painfully" react to inattentive attitude to the specifications and the working volume of the filled oil. You will have to change it often.

CVT oil is a separate category. The peculiarity of the material is the antagonism of the function (ensuring lubrication of the rubbing surfaces while preventing them from slipping). Exoticism transmission oil does not affect its value, it will not ruin motorists.

Changing a liquid in a box with characteristics that are not identical to the specifications is a big risk. Technical documentation the car contains accurate information about the type and parameters of the oil for the gearbox. Ignoring this aspect with high degree the likelihood will lead to unplanned expenses, their size can greatly upset the owner of the car. If it was not possible to clarify the information about the consumable on your own, you should contact the dealer or the official technical center for explanations, where cars of the required brand are serviced.

It is recommended to completely replace the fluid on the variator at marks of multiples of 60 thousand kilometers, depending on the manufacturer, these data may differ up or down. Russian realities significantly adjust this indicator downward (about 30 thousand km).

Operation of the variator (short instruction)

Latin letters, instead of numbers on the manual transmission shift knob, mean the following:

• "P" - parking mode. Parking for a long time, the control system is blocked. When igniting, make sure that the lever is set at the same mark;
• "D" - car in motion. The car goes forward with a characteristic smooth change of steps;
• "N" - analogue of "neutral". In the stepless version, the gearbox is used for parking with an incline.

The algorithm of the driver's actions is as follows: depress the brake pedal to a full stop → set the gearbox handle opposite to “N” → lock the car on the handbrake → suddenly release and press the brake again → switch to parking mode “P”. The unusual order of manipulations is due to the specifics of the interaction of mechanical assemblies when stopping: the shaft in the CVT is blocked by a rod of small thickness, which is easy to deform (completely spoil) when parking carelessly "at speed".

• "L" - overspeed and engine braking effect. Recommended when driving off-road, downhill, towing a trailer (similar to 1 step on "mechanics").

Many automakers add two more items:

• "S" - sports. The engine is brought up to full power;
• "E" - economical. Fuel consumption is minimized.

Do not overload it

For machines with variators, sharply increasing loads are contraindicated. They become the culprits of extraordinary service station visits and subsequent repairs. The designers have not yet solved this shortcoming of CVT-boxes.

Warming up the variator is required at low temperatures. Cold oil in the transmission is poorly distributed within the system, some of the elements and parts remain without lubrication. It is not recommended to warm up by type by switching the modes "P-R-N-D" and vice versa, as this does not improve the heating. Remember the variator is designed in a completely different way than other gearboxes. Alternatively, you can turn on neutral - "N" for a few seconds, this will slightly warm up the fluid coupling (clutch).

You need to get under way after making sure that the car has warmed up to the required limit. After the start of the movement, adhere to a calm driving style for at least a kilometer, this will completely allow all the elements of the box to warm up. Excess fuel costs will save the cost of installing a new gearbox.

The lower the ambient temperature, the longer it takes to warm up the box. If the temperature is -35 ° C, it is better not to operate the car with a CVT. If you nevertheless decide on a trip in severe frost, then it is recommended to warm up for at least 30 minutes and adhere to a very gentle driving mode all the way.

An alternative was found in Europe (Finland) idle engine to warm up. Cars are supplied with an electrical support system working temperature... The machine is powered from the mains via a standard plug. Cars with such equipment are easily recognizable by the characteristic cutouts on the bumper.

Off-road does not steer

It is not advisable to drive cars with a CVT off-road. Do not let the world famous crossover manufacturers be fooled by car enthusiasts. SUVs with CVT are automatically credited to SUVs.

CVT owners are better off sticking to city and paved highways.

You can damage the continuously variable transmission by driving over a ledge, a bump, when the wheels hit the pits and potholes and other roughness of the roadway. Such adventures are unsafe for a manual transmission, and in the case of a CVT automatic, the consequences can be fatal.

No towing

Skidding, as well as towing, is not worth it on the CVT. These actions are unsafe for the unit. There is an option of taking the car in tow - with the engine on (the lubricant will protect the parts from excessive friction), you should read the operating instructions. And even in spite of this, there are cases of breakdowns, especially a used checkpoint, so we do not recommend towing it, because a tow truck is much cheaper than repairs. An engine malfunction leads to inevitable communication with the evacuation service, there is another, but very time-consuming option, disconnecting the axle shafts from the driving wheels.

Accordingly, it is strongly discouraged to use the car as a pulling device for another car. The maximum permissible condition is the transportation of a trailer with a weight not exceeding the permissible one. The exact information about the carrying capacity and the distance at which the trailer can be towed, for a particular model, is indicated in the data sheet.

Slipping is a very harmful action. Having stalled on bumps or in the mud, you should stop trying to leave on your own. By moving the selector between the marks "D" and "R" you can achieve only fleeting wear spline connections... The resource of the gears will be noticeably reduced. To eliminate the breakdown, the unit will be disassembled, which will significantly hit the car owner's pocket.

Attention, sensors!

It is impossible to ensure the safety of travel without the correct operation of the control devices. It is imperative to monitor their condition constantly. The interruption of the functioning of one sensor can lead to the failure of the whole unit.

If the speed control sensor is damaged, the control unit automatically transfers the transmission belt to the middle emergency position, the engine brakes urgently. The threat of belt deformation is becoming more than real. It may even break the belt drive when driving at high speed. Reducing revs increases the CVT's survival rate.

For those who want to buy a used car, there is an immutable rule - change the speed sensor. It is strongly suggested to buy the original version from the manufacturer and a trusted supplier. The same should be done with the oil level and pressure sensors. The entire set of sensors must be in good condition.

Conclusion

Conclusions that do not require special justification:

1. It is impossible to "dare" with the variator. Breakdowns and shortening of the operating life are inevitable.
2. Limit travel to urban areas where the benefits of CVT are fully realized.
3. Do not start driving with cold oil.
4. Monitor the liquid level and the performance of the monitoring devices.

The driving style of the driver and the general condition of the roads in the region where the car owner lives are important factors influencing the final decision when buying a car with a CVT.

An article about a CVT transmission - its features, pros and cons, tips and tricks for use. At the end of the article - a video about the variator.

The CVT is the ideal of simplicity. The principle of operation is also not particularly complicated. There are V-belt and V-chain variators.

What surprises can you expect from them? The answer is in this article. Here we will talk about eight things you need to know about the variator.

This happens because the diametrical plane of the driven and driving discs is corrected, and the acceleration of the machine occurs smoothly, without jerks. The driver does not need to be distracted by shifting speed mode... Thanks to automatic system acceleration time is reduced, fuel is consumed more economically. The most optimal mode of the propulsion system is also selected automatically.

When using the variator, no noise will be heard even with a very high degree of engine load.

The obvious advantages of a CVT gearbox include the following:

• A car with a CVT picks up speed very quickly;
• The car accelerates smoothly, without jerking;
• Being in a traffic jam or rolling on a slope, the car will not stall;
• No noise is heard even when driving at high revs;
• The use of a variator is a serious fuel economy;
• The continuously variable transmission is much safer for the environment than its mechanical counterparts.

• Cars with CVTs cannot run at high speeds for a long time;
• The variator box requires constant maintenance. It requires frequent oil changes and oil filters- after 30,000 km, at least;
• In order for the transmission to work correctly, the variators must be filled special liquid, which should also be changed periodically. And it is not cheap at all, and it is not easy to find it either;
• The variator can fail if the driver often practices harsh braking;
• Installation of the variator is possible only on machines with a capacity not exceeding 220 hp;
• Automation repair will cost much more. The situation is further complicated by the fact that in our service centers you rarely meet real specialists who understand the device of variators;
• Even if one of the sensors fails, the entire gearbox may suffer.

3. About oil

The oil in the CVT is designed to lubricate the rubbing parts. Another of its functions is to prevent slippage. For all the exoticism of the oil for a continuously variable transmission, it is inexpensive.

The oil for use in the variator must be selected. If information about necessary consumables cannot be found, you should contact one of the service centers for the help of specialists.

Failure to follow this advice can lead to serious damage to the gearbox.

A complete oil change is recommended after 60,000 km. Of course, this data can change in plus or minus, depending on several factors. It is about the manufacturer and the operating conditions of the vehicle. If speak about Russian conditions, then here we can talk about a decrease in the period to 30,000 km.

• P- parking mode. The handle is put in this position when long stay car. The lever should be in the same position during ignition;
• D- this letter means movement;
• N is something like neutral. The lever must be in this position when parking on an incline;
• L- driving at higher speeds and when braking by the motor. The handle should take this position when driving off-road, downhill or when driving with a trailer.

• S- sports. The motor runs at maximum speed;
• E- economical. In this position, fuel will be consumed to a minimum.

The device of the variator is significantly different from the device of other gearboxes, therefore, it must be warmed up in a special way. Heating by type mechanical box in this case will not work.

The warm-up time of the box directly depends on the air temperature - the lower it is, the longer it takes to warm up. Experts recommend not to operate cars with manual transmission at all when the temperature drops to minus 35 degrees. But this is not always possible. If you happen to go on a trip in the cold, then you need to warm it up for at least half an hour, and the ride itself should take place in a gentle mode.

As you know, it is almost always cold in Finland, which is probably why it was there that an alternative way of warming up cars with manual transmission was invented. There, some car models are equipped with special plugs, through which they are connected to the electrical network. Thus, the vehicle warms up quickly. These cars have characteristic cutouts on the bumpers.

6. Off-road is bad

These are not just words, because the CVT can be seriously damaged if the car hits a bump or falls into a hole. Other irregularities of the road surface are not recommended for him either. Such adventures can be fraught with the most serious consequences for cars with a CVT.

The vehicle operating instructions provide for the option of towing another vehicle. If you cannot do without this, then towing should be carried out in strict accordance with the instructions. But even in this case, the option of the occurrence of breakdowns cannot be completely ruled out. This is especially true for vehicles with significant mileage.

Slip can also be dangerous. If the machine is stuck in the mud, it is best to let go of trying to get out on your own, otherwise it can lead to wear of the spline joints. The resource of the gears will also be significantly reduced. But the repair of this unit can hit your pocket hard.

If the speed sensor is damaged, the transmission belt is set to the middle position, which leads to emergency engine braking. In this case, the belt can be severely deformed. The drive may even break if the movement is carried out at a high speed. The CVT will last longer if the revs are slightly reduced.

For those who want to buy a used car, there is one rule: you need to change the speed sensor on time. You should buy only original versions of devices and from trusted dealers. You also need to do with all other sensors. They should be changed as necessary.

Summarizing the above, we can state:

• Recklessness will necessarily lead to a decrease in the service life of the variator box;
• Travel outside the city should be limited;
• Cold car - possible reason breakdowns;
• It is imperative to monitor the oil level;
• The status of monitoring devices also needs to be monitored.

Perhaps the risks indicated here will seem exaggerated to someone - some drivers say that they operate cars with CVT without restrictions, but it is still better to follow certain rules so that you do not have to spend money on repairs.

Video about the variator:

Stepless CVT gearboxes provide smooth gear shifting and do not have fixed first, second or fifth gears. Drivers got acquainted with the principles of driving cars with CVT relatively recently. Therefore, you should find out how to drive the variator correctly and what mistakes should not be made when operating the gearbox.

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CVT modes

First, we will analyze the main operating modes of the automatic variator box.

Forward movement

On the variator transmission, forward movement is indicated by the symbol D. This mode is considered the main one in the operation of the gearbox, to activate it, the selector is placed in position D. The variator transmission automatically changes the gear ratio while driving, based on the speed of the power unit. The Transmission Control Module will monitor the machine and the machine motor to maximize the efficiency of the devices.

Reversing

To activate this mode, the gear selector is moved to position R. Design features transmission unit: there is no gearbox reverse driven shaft, which transmits rotation to the wheels of the car. Therefore, the unit is equipped with additional units and mechanisms that are included in the operation when the R mode is activated. To prevent malfunctions, the gear lever can be moved to this position after the machine has completely stopped. Depending on the type of car, to switch the selector to R mode, you must additionally press a special button. This can only be done after a complete stop. vehicle.

CVT transmission

"Neutralka"

Neutral gear is designated by the letter N. If you turn on the gearbox selector in this position, the engine is automatically disconnected from the gearbox. The use of neutral speed is allowed when driving in traffic jams and when the vehicle is idle for a long time. Also mode neutral gear applied to run car engine, but you cannot turn on neutral during a short stop.

Parking

The parking mode on CVTs is denoted by the letter P. When the driver moves the selector to this position, a special pin blocks the driven shaft of the transmission. This prevents the possibility of spontaneous driving of the car. The use of the parking mode is allowed when the car is completely stopped when the car is parked. In most cars, to activate the parking position, you need to press the brake pedal and raise the handbrake. This is a kind of protection. To disable this mode, you must perform the same steps in reverse order.

Manual control

For manual switching speeds use a special recess on the box body in the cabin with the symbols "+" and "-". As such, there are no gears in the CVT transmission, therefore, for convenience, the manual mode is used. A variator gearbox independently changes the gear ratio, which imitates the operation of a stepped transmission. The driver can change the engine torque while driving, switching modes, but in fact this is only a conditional gear change.

It will not be possible to achieve complete correspondence between the functioning of the variator transmission and the mechanical box, since the control module monitors the speed of the power unit. When necessary, he independently changes the gear ratio. This is done to prevent the impact of increased loads on the unit.

Scheme of changing the position of the rollers with increasing and decreasing revolutions

Additional modes

CVT gearboxes in most modern cars have additional modes of transmission:

1. Sports mode (S). When activated, it provides greater vehicle maneuverability and a more rapid start when the driver steps on the gas. This position is relevant to use when operating a car in an intensive mode of operation. But the problem is that CVT units change the gear ratio much more slowly. This ensures good traction with an increase in the number of revolutions of the internal combustion engine.
2. Economy mode (E). This is the opposite of the Sport mode. After activation, the Control Unit adjusts the transmission in such a way that power unit begins to interact with the checkpoint as much as possible. This ensures that the fuel consumption of the machine is kept to a minimum. Of course, compared to mechanics, CVT gearboxes work less economically.
3. Advanced Terms of Use (L). If the driver turns the gearshift lever into this position, then the gearbox provides the largest gear ratio, which contributes to an increase in the power of the internal combustion engine. This mode is useful when driving off-road, towing a trailer, etc.

Care and maintenance

What driving rules must be taken into account in order to properly operate the variator gearbox, we will describe below. Secrets for novice drivers correct operation indicated in service book... We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the technical manual for the machine in order to avoid mistakes during use.

Transmission oil

Always keep an eye on the amount of lubricant, as well as its condition in the gearbox. Keep an eye on the lubricant level, because it is important to keep it within the norm. If the amount of consumable is insufficient, the oil will not be able to effectively lubricate the friction parts and components of the CVT transmission. As a result, this will lead to their rapid wear and tear.

CVT transmissions are sensitive to the use of low-quality oil. Fill the unit with products from trusted manufacturers, and before changing the fluid, be sure to read the service manual. It contains all the tips for choosing the standards and specifications that must be met. consumable, of course, if its replacement is provided by the manufacturer of the machine. If these requirements are not met, such exploitation will lead to costly repairs in the future.

If the instructions do not provide recommendations for the choice of lubricant, contact your dealer. It is necessary to change the lubricant only at specialized stations. The design features and characteristics of the variators are such that it is very difficult to change the consumable on your own.

Abrupt loads

CVT transmissions do not tolerate high loads. Heavy loads on the gearbox will lead to malfunctions in the gearbox. In the case when you need to accelerate quickly, especially in winter, we recommend that you first warm up the gearbox to operating temperature. If the engine has warmed up, it does not mean that the oil in the gearbox has warmed up. The internal combustion engine and gearbox use the same cooling system, but since the gearbox is farther from the engine, it takes longer to heat up. Because of lubricant cold, it cannot pass through all channels of the system and lubricate all rubbing mechanisms. For a certain time, until the gearbox warms up, these parts will function without lubrication.

How to start driving?

When the car is parked for a while, lubricant flows into the transmission pan. In the cold season, the viscosity of the consumable becomes higher, so when you start the engine in cold weather, you do not need to start driving right away. Wait some time (at least three minutes) for the liquid to pass through all channels. Some manufacturers, for a faster heating of the lubricant, recommend turning on all transmission modes in turn, delaying each of them for a few seconds. We advise you to do so only if these recommendations are specified in the service manual.

Features when maneuvering and cornering

When driving a car with a CVT, keep in mind that such gearboxes are sensitive to an increase in the speed of the power unit. Initially, the driver increases their number by pressing the gas pedal. Then, according to the selected mode, the transmission will automatically adjust rpm for optimal performance. But the selection will take some time. If you make a maneuver while riding, then consider this factor first. First increase the engine RPM and then perform the maneuver. This also applies to entering a turn: the driver needs to step on the gas at the moment when the steering wheel is just starting to turn.

Transportation and towing

Towing by a car with a CVT, as well as slipping, is not allowed. Otherwise, these actions will lead to rapid wear of the transmission or it will completely fail. If the car manufacturer allows towing, then be sure to clarify this point by studying the operating rules. But we do not recommend doing this, since in practice there are cases when the transportation of other machines leads to a breakdown of the transmission, especially when it comes to units with high mileage... It is better to call a tow truck and pay more than overpay for repairs later. If the motor is defective, towing is allowed only when the axle shafts are disconnected from the drive wheels.

A car with a CVT cannot be used as a pull car. It is allowed to take on tow only one trailer, the weight of which does not exceed the permissible limits. More accurate information regarding the carrying capacity and the distance to which the trailer can be towed is indicated in the service book for the machine.

Off-road

CVT transmissions are generally not designed for regular off-road use. Even if you are the owner of a crossover or SUV, this fact must be taken into account. Such cars are considered SUVs. You can easily damage the transmission by hitting a ledge or bump. If mechanical damage occurs to the unit, the consequences can be serious: from grease leakage to the breakdown of the constituent elements. In both cases, the car owner will have a difficult and expensive repair. When driving off-road, you need to drive a car with a CVT carefully.

Slipping is also not allowed, since it leads to rapid wear of the gearbox. If you are stuck in mud or a snowdrift, then you do not need to try to leave the obstacle yourself. If you switch frequently between D and R modes, it will lead to rapid wear of the splines. Gears may fail.

The principle of operation of a variator transmission is shown in a video published by Sergei Ivanov.

Functioning of sensors

The operation of the sensors determines the correct functioning of the variator gearbox as a whole. All controllers must be in good working order for the machine to operate economically. A breakdown of the speed sensor can lead to malfunctions in the CVT transmission. If this element breaks, the control module transfers the gearbox to the emergency position, which leads to emergency engine braking. Such a problem will lead to deformation of the gearbox strap, sometimes this element breaks, which often happens when driving in high gear. It is necessary to monitor the operating condition of the gearbox oil level controller, pressure sensor and other parts.

Pros and cons of CVT

Advantages of CVT gearboxes:

1. These transmissions usually operate without jerking or jerking. They allow you to accelerate the car faster thanks to simplified handling.
2. A car with a variator is unlikely to stall at a traffic light or in a traffic jam, since such cars move smoothly.
3. Fuel economy compared to classic automatic transmissions.
4. CVT gearboxes are relatively environmentally friendly units. Such systems do not release into the environment as many toxic substances as traditional automatic transmissions and manual transmissions.

Flaws:

1. Transmission sensitivity to misuse. Failure possible when driving at high revs constituent elements boxes.
2. The need for periodic processing of the V-belt special means... Finding such a liquid in a metropolis is not a problem, but in small cities and towns, the search can be difficult.