Short answer
There is no single industry standard for continuously variable transmission fluid. Each automaker specifies its own, such as Nissan NS-2 and NS-3, Honda HCF-2, and Toyota CVT Fluid TC and FE. These fluids are different from conventional automatic transmission fluid, and automakers generally warn against substituting or mixing them.
Why CVTs need their own fluid
A belt- or chain-type CVT transmits power through steel-on-steel contact between the belt or chain and two variable pulleys. The fluid has to provide enough friction at that contact to transmit torque without slipping, while still lubricating bearings and gears and operating the hydraulic controls. That friction requirement is very different from a conventional automatic’s clutch packs, which is why ordinary ATF is not a substitute.
Common OEM CVT fluid names
Nissan uses NS-2 and NS-3 designations for its CVT fluids, tied to different generations of its CVTs. Honda specifies HCF-2 for many of its CVTs, and Honda’s owner’s manuals say not to mix it with other transmission fluids. Toyota names CVT Fluid TC and CVT Fluid FE for its CVTs. Subaru, Mitsubishi and others have their own names.
These names are not interchangeable across brands, and even within one brand the generations differ. Some aftermarket fluids list several OEM names; that list is the supplier’s claim.
Not every “CVT” is the same kind
Hybrid “eCVT” or power-split transmissions, such as those in many hybrids, are not belt CVTs and usually use their own specified ATF. Belt-drive CVTs on ATVs and UTVs use a dry rubber belt and have no CVT fluid at all, though their gearcase still needs lubricant. Always confirm what kind of transmission the vehicle has.
Picking the right fluid
Use the owner’s manual or a dealer VIN lookup to identify the exact CVT fluid name. Honda’s manuals note that damage caused by a non-equivalent fluid isn’t covered by the new vehicle warranty, which is worth keeping in mind for a car under warranty.
If you consider an aftermarket CVT fluid, check that its current product data names your vehicle’s specific fluid, not just “CVT” in general.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use regular ATF in a CVT?
No, not unless the manufacturer says so. CVT fluids are formulated for the belt-and-pulley friction a conventional ATF isn’t designed to provide.
Are Nissan NS-2 and NS-3 the same?
No. They are different Nissan fluids for different CVT generations. Use the one your manual lists.
General maintenance information. Always follow your vehicle or equipment manufacturer’s requirements and the current product data. Questions? Email [email protected].