Hello all,

New member, long time wrencher. I am most familiar with Toyota vehicles, especially every generation of Tacoma (currently own a 2016). However, I am avoiding racking up miles and having to purchase a $60k truck in the next few years by sharing time with a commuter car. Luckily, or maybe not so much, I found and purchased a 2015 Fit EX CVT. It was a trade in and in pretty rough shape. In fact, they had not even brought it through the reconditioning department and I bought as-is. 154k on the clock, not a straight body panel, but appeared mechanically sound. I had them put it on the hoist so I could inspect the undercarriage. No active leaking, but signs of previous 'wetness' around the LH axle seal and back side of the timing cover. I also noticed a wet area on top of the CVT, but didnt think much of it. Drove well, started fine and had potential. So I bought it with a grocery list of maintenance items needing completion.

First up was changing the CVT fluid with some fresh HCF-2. I wanted to utilize the actual fill on the top of the trans, so off came the airbox. And thats where the concern began. The fill plug was missing! And that wet area was in fact fluid spitting out of the trans! I found the plug next to the hole covered in grime and I'm sure is absence introduce a wonderful amount of debris into the trans. I drained the fluid which was fairly dark, but minimal metal collected on the drain plug. So, fingers crossed that I can get another 150k out of the trans. I plan on doing one more drain and fill just to be sure.

I will continue to knock off my list but have a few questions.

I have the VTC rattle. It appears I shouldn't be concerned, correct?
Do these CVT trans Fits drive noticeably better ie. trans performance and feeling, when warm?
Are there any specific things I should check with a vehicle of this mileage, or any big expenditures I can expect?

Thanks!

 

I addressed the CVT with 2 drain/fill procedures. Surprisingly, there was minimal debris on the drain plug magnet during the first drain. Trans appears and feels to function as it should.

I replaced the broken fog lights, only to discover they would not illuminate. After searching the forums I was able to find links to wiring diagram PDFs and the location for the fog light relay (tucked way underneath the dash. I replacement relay has me back in order.

Parts have been ordered to hopefully correct the intermittent start/stop button issue. Its not often but the starter appears easy to replace and the pushbutton cant be THAT bad.

Another question: I suspect there may be issues down the road with the injectors and fuel rail, are newer models (2018+) sporting the updated injectors? I may try to locate a parts Fit and pull the parts in order to avoid buying from a dealer. The reason I suspect an issue is during acceleration when cold, there feels to be some hesitation. Idle is fine and when warm, the hesitation goes away. Perhaps another issue?

To this point:
CVT fluid change (x2)
Oil Change (Full Syn) w Purolator Filter
Sparkplugs (NGK)
Serpentine belt
Coolant drain and fill
Air Filter
Cabin air filter
New tire (to replace bulging sidewall)
Fog Lights
Wiper Blades
Interior deep clean

Heres the interior before





French fries... yep.