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How reliable are Constantly Variable Transmissions, I've heard rumours of disintegrating belts and expensive rebuilds ?

These transmissions have definitely developed an unwanted reputation for known problems and expensive repairs in recent years.

Most of these problems however pertain to older models and used imports.

In the last 4- 5 years there has been a marked improvement in most CVT’s and we are seeing more and more new car manufactures adopting this technology.

In summary, be very wary of any used European import with a CVT, particularly Audi. Used imported Nissan Primera’s are also best avoided as are any Rover’s fitted with this trans.

Honda has had its share of problems as well but they do have several options depending on vehicle age as to what needs to be done to overcome their ‘shudder on take-off’ issues.

I would be very nervous buying any used import Honda with a CVT. The NZ new ones are not totally bullet proof either but after about 2006 there did seem to be a marked improvement.

Be very careful, it’s not a silly idea to get any automatic checked out by a specialists before committing to purchase. Like the CVT’s a ‘standard’ hydraulic/electronic auto transmission can sometimes cost more than a cars total value to repair properly.

Thanks for the info. I will definitely be careful. Cheers