2018 C-HR Hybrid - Gearbox fluid replacement?

[Hypabl]

Greetings everyone,

I have lately purchased a CHR. This is kind of a narrative, but I believe it is important to elucidate my circumstances.


I transitioned from a Mercedes to a C-HR, where the gearbox was designated as "sealed for life." Upon consulting Mercedes regarding fluid replacement at 85,000 miles, I was informed that it was effectively sealed for life, and changing it may potentially lead to complications. We will not alter anything and recommend that you refrain from making any modifications as well. If the gearbox malfunctions, it will not be due to the fluid not being replaced. Shortly thereafter, after 7,000 miles, I began to observe gear slippage and irregular gear transitions. I conversed with several individuals, and it became evident that despite the makers' claim of "sealed for life," one must disregard this assertion and nonetheless perform replacements; had this been done, it is likely that the current issue would not exist. The fluid has deteriorated and adversely affected the internal materials, thus replacing the fluid at this stage—while symptoms are evident—has a 30% likelihood of exacerbating the situation. Possibly engaging the gearbox into limp mode. Nevertheless, even if it addresses the sliding issue, it is quite probable that it will recur within one to two years. Particularly if yours is experiencing tremors, like mine did intermittently. Although infrequent, it did occur.


I now possess a 2018 C-HR and am thoroughly enjoying it! To save a recurrence of history, I reached out to Day One today, and, disappointingly, they are reiterating the same information. The fluid will not be changed as it is designed to remain sealed for life. I contested this and expressed my desire to pay for a modification, despite its permanent sealing due to the aforementioned issue and my wish to prevent recurrence. May I request a modification?

Their reply was:


Good morning,
I appreciate your reply.

I have consulted with our service team regarding this matter, and they have indicated that it is not within their capabilities to execute.
This is a sealed unit, preventing access for execution of this task.

Please inform me if there is anything further with which I can assist you.

I find myself in a predicament once more. I have extensively researched these particular gearboxes and 'ECVT'; yet, it appears that there remains fluid within this "sealed" unit, leaving me uncertain about the next steps. I lack the technical aptitude to undertake this task alone, particularly one as critical as the gearbox. I have a tenuous faith in mechanics, as they might commit errors that may not become apparent until three months later, leading to a situation where they assert, "It cannot be a result of our work, or it would have manifested immediately."

I am enquiring about the activities of others. The vehicle has reached 59,000 miles. Is there a reputable ECVT/CVT Toyota specialist in the Kent area who is proficient in performing fluid changes correctly?

Thank you for your perseverance in reading this narrative of a post. Amusing.

[Patagil]

My 2019 CHR recently underwent its 60,000-mile service at 42,000 miles, and while the spark plugs were replaced, the technicians showed no interest in changing the CVT fluid.

The annual servicing of the vehicle by Toyota ensures the continued validity of the 10-year guarantee, which ideally would encompass the expense of a new CVT in the event of failure. If I have someone else change the fluids, I believe Toyota would deny any further repairs.

[Messand]

The likelihood of marrying Drew Barrymore is less than that of a Toyota hybrid E-CVT malfunctioning.

[Messand]

The E-CVT employed in a Toyota hybrid is fundamentally robust owing to its mechanical simplicity.

I have not encountered a single instance of failure, despite the existence of millions, many of which are utilised for extensive taxi travel.


The E-CVT is a mechanical epicyclic gearbox devoid of friction components that could contaminate the oil.

[Hypabl]

I understand. I am apprehensive about potential issues arising later, similar to my previous vehicle, however I have received positive feedback regarding the ECVT. I observe others suggesting that the fluid ought to be replaced, leaving me uncertain on the appropriate course of action.

My primary worry is that I was unaware, until I arrived at the store to purchase the vehicle, that it was equipped with a tow bar. This suggests that the car may have been utilised for towing a caravan at some point, which I recognise is not optimal for this particular model. Consequently, I felt there was an increased justification for changing the fluid.



You are correct; the Uber and taxi services in my vicinity predominantly utilise Toyota vehicles. I may endeavour to alleviate my concerns and derive greater enjoyment from the car. I am pleased with my final decision to get this car. I was unprepared for the elevated revolutions produced by the hybrid, as I have never owned one before. Aside from that, I adore the vehicle.

[Messand]

If I recall correctly, the official legal towing capacity for a first-generation C-HR hybrid is merely 750 kg.

It should have solely been towing a modest trailer or a bicycle carrier.

[Hypabl]

Indeed, that is my apprehension. I am unaware of what they towed. If they were towing an inappropriate load, it could have exerted additional strain on the gearbox. Do you believe that the fluid change is warranted?

[Squirrrel]

You may consult an independent automotive gearbox specialist for guidance, and if you decide to change the fluid, Toyota would remain unaware unless you disclose this information.