Question on CVT Driving Technique

1697 Views 3 Replies 4 Participants Last post by Rally_it, Feb 19, 2005

23Bull

Discussion Starter · Feb 18, 2005

I've had my 2003 Mini (non-S) with the CVT for almost two years now. I have been using the SD mode to slow in traffic as a substitute for braking, then shift back into D when the traffic picks up. My guess is that I do this, almost subconsciously, about 40-50 times a day. I guess it's the same as one would downshift with a manual transmission. I've spoken to several other Mini owners with the CVT who also do this. So far, I've had no problems with the CVT, but I'm wondering if this driving technique may have long-term effects on the transmission.

Thanks in advance for any replies. :silk:

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Rogier

· #2 · Feb 18, 2005

i don't think it should cause problems, cos, as you say, it will have the same effect on the engine as down shifting before/while braking in a manual car. asfor the CVT, i guess that it could have negative consequences. i hope not, though, cos i do it every day as well. i think it is one of the great advantages over a "regual" automatic (previous car was a peugeot 307/auto), whereby it often feels the car wants to move ahead when you want it to stop.

rogier

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nonsequitur

· #3 · Feb 19, 2005

23Bull said:
So far, I've had no problems with the CVT, but I'm wondering if this driving technique may have long-term effects on the transmission.

There is a small "mechanical" aspect to this, which is the actual Selection movement of the shifter and the connections to gearbox and computer; back and forth, back and forth. Eventually, there may be some effect from these movements, but don't worry about it.

The gearbox itself should be completely protected. An advantage of the CVT.

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Rally_it

· #4 · Feb 19, 2005

nonsequitur said:
There is a small "mechanical" aspect to this, which is the actual Selection movement of the shifter and the connections to gearbox and computer; back and forth, back and forth. Eventually, there may be some effect from these movements, but don't worry about it.

The gearbox itself should be completely protected. An advantage of the CVT.

This is true, there is a small plastic pieces that allows it to "slip" over into SD...but i have looked at it and it seems to be rather strong, and would be easy to fix if it ever wore out. That being said, i do the same thing. I subconciously "downshift" into SD all the time now, and its been working great

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