1. Scan and Road Test
We pull transmission codes and live data, then drive the vehicle to feel the symptom ourselves. A shudder at 45 mph and a hard 1-2 shift point to different causes, and a description over the phone rarely tells the whole story.
2. Check Fluid Condition and Level
We inspect the fluid for color and smell. Dark, burnt-smelling fluid means heat damage has already happened. On sealed Toyota and Lexus units, we check the level at the correct fluid temperature through the overflow plug, which is the only accurate way to measure it.
3. Diagnose the Actual Cause
We separate electronic faults from mechanical wear. A solenoid, sensor, or valve body issue is a contained repair. Internal clutch or gear damage is not. We tell you which one you are looking at, and we do not quote a repair we have not confirmed.
4. Service or Repair With the Correct Parts
We use the fluid your manufacturer specifies. Honda Genuine CVT fluid for Honda and Acura CVTs, Toyota ATF WS for most Toyota and Lexus automatics. Parts are OEM or OEM-equivalent. Fluid changes are usually done the same day, and most electronic repairs take one to two days.
5. Verify and Document
We road test again to confirm the repair, reset adaptive shift settings where the vehicle calls for it, and record the mileage and next service interval. If we find a condition worth watching, we tell you rather than waiting for it to come back.
