2021, CR-V, AWD. Just hit 20,000 miles and did the first drain/fill for the CVT transmission. After a drive (warm car), and with it parked & level, I pulled the CVT's drain plug and left it open for about an hour . Poured old fluid into a container to measure, finding that there was just over 3 qts (first concern). I then removed the CVT's inspection bolt and carefully poured in new Honda fluid. When I hit 4 qts, and no fluid dripping out the inspection/fluid level hole, I put the bolt back in and ran the engine, moving the selector though all the "gears". Shut it off, re-check inspection hole, still no fluid coming out. I continued to re-fill, and fluid came out the inspection hole only after I have poured in almost >6< qts of Honda fluid. I'm the original owner, 1st CVT fluid change, car was level for all procedures, no signs of leakage anywhere, CVT was working fine. Thoughts?

 

Why are you doing that at 20K? If this is scheduled maintenance why is the dealer not doing it?

 

the manual calls for a 30k miles change for the cvt fluid. Some folks like to change it early. I fall into that category mostly.

the dealer may or may not do it right. that's my experience talking. they also may or may not charge an arm and a leg to not do it right.

if you want something done right, do it yourself (if you research it and take your time that is).

 

maybe underfilled from factory. a quart or so usually doesn't make a difference, so i hear.