Ask an expert


ssryder01

Hi my partner is looking to buy a new car... And thought we had found the right one for her (fuel efficiency kms price and practicality) until I read an earlier post on cvt transmissions. The car: 2005 Nissan wing road 1500cc 77000km $8.5k. Perfect for her commute to work 40mins approx each way. What is the rate of failure on these transmissions? And would you say this is a deal breaker. Any other alternate options you suggest? Thanks.

Anon

The mileage is still low-ish at 77,000kms and if it hasn't done any towing it does help reduce the risk of early failure but from the feedback we have had it's safer to rather avoid CVTs in this year range . A safer bet is a conventional automatic transmission or manual gearbox. The Toyota Corolla wagon in this year range is a good option as well as the Mazda Atenza.