Are you on the search for top-notch CVT transmission fluids for vehicles in 2023? There is a plethora of transmission fluids available in the market, however, your purchase should be determined by various factors. The most crucial one is the fluid’s compatibility with your transmission system, as not all transmission fluids are universally compatible.
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Your vehicle will not run smoothly without using appropriate transmission fluid. The fluid lubricates moving parts, protects your transmission system, and aids smooth gear shifting. It also helps in power transfer from the engine to the transmission.
So, what is the best CVT transmission fluid? Let’s dive in!
6 Best CVT Transmission Fluids For Automotive 2023 Comparison Chart
| Level Of Oxidation Resistance | Viscosity | Degree Of Fluidity | Resistance To Heat | Anti-foaming | The Ability To Withstand Extreme Pressure | Action | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Castrol - 15B652-6PK Transmax ATF Black CVT Transmission Fluid | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | Check Price |
| Valvoline CVT Full Synthetic Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 | Check Price |
| Idemitsu CVT Type N (NS-2) Transmission Fluid for Nissan | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | Check Price |
| Triax CVT Full Synthetic OEM Grade Transmission Fluid | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | Check Price |
| Genuine Nissan Parts - Ns-2 CVT Fluid | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | Check Price |
| Lubegard 68115 Complete Universal CVT Fluid | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | Check Price |
6 Best CVT Transmission Fluids For Automotive 2023 Review
No transmission system can operate without transmission fluid. Regardless of the transmission system in your car, it is upon you to take care of it by using the appropriate transmission fluid. If your vehicle has a CVT transmission, you can consider any of the following CVT fluids:
Castrol – 15B652-6PK Transmax ATF Black CVT Transmission Fluid
The main highlight of Castrol is high friction durability for an extended period of the smooth ride, even when climbing steep hills. It also offers maximum protection against possible chain or belt slippage at the torque converter, thanks to its unrivaled variation torque.
Other features of Castrol transmission fluid include enhanced wear protection, oxidative stability, and superior performance at high temperatures. This kind of transmission fluid also helps extend the service life of your transmission.
Though Castrol transmission fluid is compatible with many different vehicle models, it may not deliver top performance only in some.
Pros
- Enhanced friction durability for a smooth ride
- Offers superior high-temperature protection
- Resists oxidation and corrosion
- Provides excellent variator torque capacity for smooth gear shifts
- Usable with compatible power steering pumps
Cons
- May void warranty of some vehicle models
- Pricier compared to other products in the market
Final verdict
Castrol is a premium CVT transmission fluid with a wide range of compatibility. Ones can use it universally. Castrol is a compound of base oils and special in-house additives that improves its lubricating ability and keeps your transmission healthy.
Castrol – 15B652-6PK Transmax ATF Black CVT Transmission Fluid
Read more: Best Transmission Additives For Automotive In 2022 [Review And Buying Guide]
Valvoline CVT Full Synthetic Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid
You will forget about engine shudder when you buy Valvoline CVT Full Synthetic CVT Fluid. That is a common problem if you use low-quality transmission fluid in your vehicle. But with Valvoline, you will have a smooth driving experience even in overdrive or when going up the hill. The Valvoline CVT fluid also offers better friction protection and reduces wear and tear between the moving parts of your CVT.
However, the Valvoline CVT Full Synthetic CVT Fluid is best only for belt and chain-drive CVTs. Thus, a vehicle with a hybrid CVT would not benefit from this kind of transmission fluid. Also, its strong smell may not be something you want to linger in the air in your garage. Lastly, this transmission fluid can easily break down at higher temperatures. It has a relatively low flashpoint compared to other brands.
Pros
- Highly resistant to stress
- Offers better film protection
- Does not cause jamming in winter
- Has advanced anti-wear technology
- Keeps CVT healthy for long
Cons
- Not for hybrid CVTs
- Low flashpoint
- Unnecessarily strong smell
Final verdict
Valvoline CVT Full Synthetic CVT Fluid is the best choice for belt and chain-drive CVTs. Due to its formulation, Valvoline CVT Fluid is a top performer in maintaining the health of your transmission. Furthermore, this CVT fluid is relatively stable and offers better film protection.
Valvoline CVT Full Synthetic Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid
Read more: Automatic Transmission Vs. Manual Transmission
Idemitsu CVT Type N (NS-2) Transmission Fluid for Nissan
Idemitsu has excellent sludge control with unrivaled oxidative stability. It also offers the best protection of metal surfaces against corrosion and wear and tear caused by friction. Furthermore, all the belts and pulleys in your CVT will have an extended service life and operate smoothly throughout their lifespan. Additionally, Idemitsu CVT transmission fluid offers high performance even in high torque and demanding applications, as is the case when driving up an inclined plane.
Idemitsu also boasts high lubricant strength during high temperatures and unrivaled fluidity during low temperatures. Additionally. it has excellent fluidity control. With it, you don’t have to worry about freezing in cold winter or breakdown when engine temperature gets high.
Pros
- Superior sludge deposit control
- Advanced anti-wear technology
- Excellent anti-shudder performance
- Excellent frictional properties
Cons
- Not widely compatible with different vehicle models
Final verdict
The Idemitsu CVT transmission fluid formulation makes it an ideal choice for Nissan and some older Suzuki and Isuzu vehicles. With its excellent fluidity, anti-wear property, superior deposit control, and anti-shudder performance, Idemitsu is the best if your vehicle model is supported.
Idemitsu CVT Type N (NS-2) Transmission Fluid for Nissan
Read more: What Transmission Fluid Do I Need?
Triax CVT Full Synthetic OEM Grade Transmission Fluid
Triax CVT Full Synthetic transmission fluid excellent performance in low and high-temperature conditions. Regardless, this CVT fluid can control shuddering and offer excellent vehicle drive compatibility.
The transmission fluid has high viscosity stability, providing adequate lubrication without breaking down even in high temperatures and severe stress. It also does not freeze or thicken in low temperatures, which means you always get a smooth ride regardless of the temperature changes in your CVT.
TRIAX CVT Synthetic provides engineered anti-shudder performance for smooth power transfer and gear shifting even in complex CVT systems. It is a universal CVT fluid recommended for belt and chain-drive CVTs.
Pros
- Extreme shear resistance and viscosity stability
- Superior performance in cold or hot temperatures
- Excellent protection against rusting and corrosion
- Superb lubricating characteristics
- Wide vehicle coverage
Cons
- Not for hybrid CVTs
- Relatively expensive
Final verdict
Triax CVT Full Synthetic transmission fluid is widely compatible with Japanese, German, and US vehicles with CVT transmissions. If you have a belt or chain-drive CVT fitted on your car, then, it is definitely the best option. Triax is also compatible with transmissions manufactured by Mercedes, Suzuki, Hyundai, Kia, and others. It, moreover, provides better, more reliable, longer-lasting performance.
Triax CVT Full Synthetic OEM Grade Transmission Fluid
Genuine Nissan Parts – Ns-2 CVT Fluid
The formulation of this transmission fluid makes it ideal for protecting your CVT from jiggling, whining, and slipping when shifting gears. It is designed specifically for Nissan vehicles and delivers more than the expected performance.
If you live in cold regions or are worried about winter, then consider Genuine Nissan Parts NS-2 CVT transmission fluid. It has excellent fluidity and maintains its performance even at low temperatures. You will still get a smooth gear shift even at the freezing point.
This CVT fluid is also formulated with additives and friction modifiers for stable operation. And above all, it is affordable.
Pros
- Relatively affordable
- Does not have a strong odor
- Excellent low-temperature fluidity
- Easy to use
- Maintains appropriate pressure even in hot weather
- Protects CVT from slipping, whining, and shuddering
Cons
- Only works efficiently with Nissan vehicles
Final verdict
Genuine Nissan Parts Ns-2 CVT Fluid is a cost-effective transmission fluid for Nissan vehicle models made by the Japanese Automaker. It is uniquely formulated and proven for its performance in keeping your transmission healthy. The CVT fluid also offers a smooth ride, even on bumpy roads.
Genuine Nissan Parts – Ns-2 CVT Fluid
Read more: What Does Transmission Fluid Smell Like?
Lubegard 68115 Complete Universal CVT Fluid
Lubegard CVT Fluid is a universal transmission fluid compatible with many vehicles fitted with CVT transmissions. This all-around product is designed with advanced anti-shudder technology to offer minimal or negligible friction between the moving parts of your CVT transmission. What’s more, the anti-wear formula used is one of a kind that ensures all the moving parts, including belts and pulleys in your gearbox, remain in perfect working condition over time.
Another remarkable feature of Lubegard CVT Fluid is its immunity to extreme cold weather. You don’t need transmission heaters because the CVT fluid will remain liquid, even if the temperature drops below freezing point. Additionally, Lubegard CVT Fluid does not easily break down in high temperatures that your engine can subject to the CVT transmission. Its superior heat threshold is due to the LXE technology used in the manufacturing process. That gives it a higher capability to protect your transmission from wear and tear.
Pros
- Does not freeze even in cold weather
- Has superior shudder protection
- Inhibits sludge and varnish formation
- Has high shear and oxidative stability
- High compatibility with 60 CVT applications
Cons
- Makes noise after a long-time use
- Relatively short lifespan
Final verdict
Lubegard CVT Fluid is compatible with over 60 applications and solves overheating and freezing problems. It is obviously a perfect choice for reducing the engine shudder and making a smooth ride uphill. Despite its short lifespan, it offers maximum protection to your CVT transmission system at its prime.
Lubegard 68115 Complete Universal CVT Fluid
Read more: Dirty Transmission Fluid: Signs And Causes
Recommendation
Products detailed in this article are specifically for CVT transmission, and some are not universally compatible. If you are looking for a CVT transmission fluid with high compatibility, then choose Castrol – 15B652-6PK Transmax ATF Black CVT Transmission Fluid. It delivers the best performance, a smooth ride, and extended service life.
If NS-2 transmission fluid is what your CVT uses, Idemitsu CVT Type N (NS-2) Transmission Fluid for Nissan is the best choice. It features advanced anti-wear technology, superior deposit control, anti-shudder performance, and frictional properties. Idemitsu is also compatible with some older models of Isuzu and Suzuki.
