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2016 HR-V CVT Judder After Fluid Change - What's Next?

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David L. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:42 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Honda HR-V EX

Hey everyone, I have a 2016 Honda HR-V EX with about 90,000 miles. I recently had the CVT fluid changed at an independent shop because I was starting to notice a slight judder when accelerating from a stop. I made sure they used genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid.

However, since the fluid change, the judder seems to be even more pronounced, and it's happening more frequently. It's a distinct vibration or shudder, especially between 10-20 mph. I'm really frustrated because I thought the fluid change would fix it, not make it worse!

Has anyone else experienced this with their HR-V? Did the fluid change make it worse for you? What steps should I take next? Is my CVT on its way out?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:42 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's certainly frustrating when a maintenance item like a fluid change seems to worsen an existing problem. The CVT judder in your 2016 Honda HR-V, especially after a fluid change, points to a few possibilities that need investigation.

  1. Improper Fluid Level/Procedure: Even with the correct fluid, an incorrect fill level (over or under) or an improper fluid change procedure (e.g., not allowing the fluid to drain completely, not cycling through gears) can cause or exacerbate judder. Honda CVTs are very sensitive to precise fluid levels and specific procedures.
  2. Air in the System: If air gets trapped in the CVT hydraulic system during the fluid change, it can lead to inconsistent pressure and judder. A proper bleed procedure is crucial.
  3. Existing Wear: If the judder was already present, it indicates some level of wear on the CVT's internal components, such as the start clutch or pulley surfaces. While new fluid can sometimes help, if the wear is significant, the new fluid might not be enough to compensate, or it might even highlight existing issues by changing the friction characteristics.
  4. Fluid Contamination: Although you specified genuine Honda HCF-2, ensure there was no cross-contamination with other fluids or debris during the change.

Diagnostics:

  • There might not be a specific OBD-II code for judder unless it's severe enough to cause a transmission performance fault (e.g., P0730 - Incorrect Gear Ratio, P0741 - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance). However, a Honda-specific scanner can monitor transmission parameters and check for pending codes.
  • A visual inspection for leaks and a re-check of the fluid level and condition are essential.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately: If the judder is severe, accompanied by warning lights (like a flashing 'D' light or check engine light), or if you hear any grinding or whining noises. Continuing to drive with severe judder can lead to catastrophic transmission failure.
  • Return to the shop that performed the fluid change to have them re-evaluate their work, or ideally, take it to a Honda dealership. They have specialized tools and training for CVT diagnostics and can accurately assess the fluid level, check for air in the system, and determine if the judder is due to internal CVT wear requiring repair or replacement. They can also check for any relevant service bulletins for your specific model year regarding CVT judder.
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