To warm up or not to warm up?
The variator design uses a mix of materials—steel, aluminum, plastic, and rubber. Each component responds to temperature changes, and every part has its own operating temperature limits. Even when starting the engine at very cold temperatures, around minus 35 degrees Celsius, these materials stay usable.
The working fluid inside the variator is specially formulated. As temperatures drop, its viscosity rises, placing more stress on the pump drive. This can push the system to generate higher pressure, which a pressure-reducing valve alone cannot handle. The valve body flaps may fail and rubber seals can lose their tightness, potentially leading to leaks or loss of sealing integrity.
Cold fluid also fails to provide normal friction to transmit a fixed torque, which compromises performance. Because of this, warming up before loading the variator is essential.
For the variator, the fluid temperature must reach at least 60 degrees Celsius; otherwise the belt may slip and wear marks can appear on the cones and belt.
How to warm up according to science
The internal combustion engine heats itself through continuous hydrocarbon fuel combustion. In a variator, nothing similar occurs. Some heat transfers from the engine to the variator, but it is a small amount. In normal cold weather, the fluid in a continuously variable transmission does not reach operating temperature during standard operation.
One approach is to warm up the vehicle in a parking lot when possible. Move the selector to position D or R, and lightly apply the brakes to keep the car stationary. In this mode, the variator warms quickly because the working fluid mixes actively inside the torque converter, a feature present in almost all modern CVTs. Temperature in the engine also rises more when under load.
Expert commentary
Roman Timashov, Director of Service, Avtodom Altufievo
“Until the temperature reaches around 0 degrees, warming the variator can be unnecessary. Drive calmly until the car fully warms up. From 0 to minus 10 degrees, it is advisable to keep the engine idle briefly and then begin moving with smooth acceleration. If the temperature is above minus 25 degrees, warming up at idle should be considered.”
What if you have to leave immediately?
Often there is little time. It is not ideal to run the engine while parked near other cars. After a brief engine and gearbox warm-up, you can start moving smoothly—avoiding sudden accelerations. If the yard is long enough, it can help warm the variator at low speed and without load, but this is not always sufficient. Once on the road, avoid flooring the accelerator right away. It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to bring the variator to full temperature.
Expert commentary
Daniil Belyaev, Master Consultant at AutoSpecCenter Nissan Vnukovo
“Some Chinese CVTs tolerate higher loads. In production, components are built to withstand prolonged exposure to low temperatures, and CVT belts and cones often feature wear-resistant coatings that extend component life. If parts fail, some manufacturers recommend replacing the variator. Preheating helps prevent premature failures when air is below freezing. Also, avoid abrupt starts; a measured driving style minimizes extra load on the transmission and engine.”
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