Don't delay changing the CVT fluid any longer | Car Doctor
Q: Unfortunately, I have not followed the service recommendations outlined in the owner’s manual for my 2015 Nissan Murano. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid has never been changed, and the vehicle now has 110,000 miles on it. The vehicle runs great. Should I have the fluid changed?
A: The automatic transmission fluid should have been changed at 60,000 miles. The CVT in Nissan vehicles is either great and lasts a long time or it's very problematic.
If this were my car, I would change the fluid.
Why did Subaru of America change guidance on CVT fluid?
Q: I am curious about your opinion on Subaru of America's recommendation to not change CVT fluid in the 2018 Subaru Forester at three years and 36,000 miles, but to wait until 100,000 miles.
I understand Subaru Canada and Japan do recommend this service at three years or 36,000 miles. Would you recommend that a Subaru dealer do this service if they agree to do it at 36,000 miles, due to it being a tricky procedure?
A: Certainly, changing the transmission fluid early isn’t going to cause any harm and could in fact extend the life of the transmission.
It is curious that in Canada and Japan, the service is performed much earlier than it is here in the U.S. I suspect it has more to do with marketing and perceived cost of ownership.
Regarding where to get the fluid changed, it really isn’t a particularly complicated service, and any good repair shop should be able to perform it. I would only use Subaru transmission fluid, based on this warning from Subaru: “Be sure to use the recommended transmission fluid; using fluid except the recommended one could cause trouble.”
How can I protect car's battery in very cold weather?
Q: How do I protect my car’s battery on an extremely cold night? Hopefully, we are past the very cold weather, but it is New England, so you never know.
A: The best method to protect a battery against cold temperatures is to make sure it is fully charged. When a battery becomes discharged, it is possible the liquid (electrolyte) can freeze. In years past in very cold areas, people would use electric battery warmers.
If you are truly concerned, keeping the battery fully charged using a float-style battery charger will help preserve the life of the battery.
What's the best time to trade in my Chevy Traverse?
Q: I have a 2012 Chevy Traverse with 140,000 miles. It’s been on my agenda to trade it in. With the high price of used cars and now the high rates for auto loans, the timing still seems off.
The Traverse has done relatively well so far, with not too many mechanical needs. I have it regularly serviced by a mechanic. I'm deeply skeptical of how long a U.S.-made car can last.
Can I get your thoughts on what mileage should I be looking at before definitely offloading the car?
A: A few year back, I was at the driveline testing lab at General Motors and asked how long they test their engines and transmissions (there were engines running on dynamometers). The engineer told me that, at the time, all driveline components are tested to 175,000 miles.
Using that number, you still have some relatively trouble-free time left. That being said, I routinely hear from readers that their General Motors vehicles have 250,000 to 300,000 miles on them and are generally trouble free. What seems to be more of a problem is electronics and overall fit and finish. Some GM vehicles are prone to rattles, squeaks and other annoyances.
Avalon makes shrill noise when backing out of driveway
Q: My 1998 Toyota Avalon, when I'm backing out of the driveway, sometimes makes quite a noise, more than a shrill. I am thinking brakes, or is it more than that?
A: Certainly, brakes are the first place to look. Many disc brake pads have a metal tab that will contact the brake rotor when the pads are worn. This will produce a loud noise.
Should I upgrade to a newer model of Mazda CX-9?
Q: I've been driving a 2014 Mazda CX-9 Touring AWD, which I bought new. It has 55,000 miles on it and I love it.
Other than routine maintenance, my only repairs have been a blower motor replacement (drain hose was clogged and condensation buildup shorted out the blower motor), and a rear wheel hub bearing replacement.
I've been looking at a more recent year, same type replacement. I am looking at a 2019 Mazda CX-9 with virtually the same options as my 2014, right down to the "sand" interior seat color.
Other than your overall thoughts on the 2019, which I'd like to hear, what do think about the four-cylinder turbo engine? I really like the Ford V6 Duratec engine in my 2014.
A: The four-cylinder engine in the newer CX-9 is a good engine and has been quite trouble free, although you may miss the extra horsepower of the V6 engine. With only 55,000 miles on your car and a known history versus a 4-year-old used vehicle with limited history, I think you should be tempted to keep what you have.
By the way, readers, I try to reply to every email, so if you don’t hear from me in a couple of days, resend the email. It may have been overlooked or stuck in the "interwebs."
John Paul is the AAA Northeast Car Doctor. He has more than 40 years of experience in the automobile industry and is an ASE-Certified Master Technician. Write to John Paul, The Car Doctor, at 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904. Or email jpaul@aaanortheast.com and put “Car Doctor” in the subject field. Follow him on Twitter @johnfpaul or on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: What's the best time to change the CVT fluid? | Car Doctor
