CVT fluid analysis
Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2018 4:04 am
Flushed my CVT and changed filters at 94K miles. No symptoms, just wanted to prevent anything catastrophic in light of recent reports of CVT failures. Submitted an oil sample to Blackstone Labs for an analysis. I wrote of our concerns with the CVT and to tell me how bad the damage might be so far. Here's their response...
"Our universal averages for Suzuki's CVT are based on ~70,000 miles of oil use, so it looks like
you're not the only one doubting the "lifetime" oil claim. That being said, this oil was still in great condition
after 94,000 miles of service. The viscosity is correct and insolubles (oxidized solids) were low. Next to our
averages, your metals are in great shape. Copper is elevated slightly, but this certainly isn't an excessive
reading, and lingering wear-in likely added to that level. Overall, the transmission really looks to be in great
shape. Try ~120,000 miles next time. Nice report!"
I don't know about that 120,000 mile claim, but it is a breath of fresh air to hear the CVT is okay for now.
"Our universal averages for Suzuki's CVT are based on ~70,000 miles of oil use, so it looks like
you're not the only one doubting the "lifetime" oil claim. That being said, this oil was still in great condition
after 94,000 miles of service. The viscosity is correct and insolubles (oxidized solids) were low. Next to our
averages, your metals are in great shape. Copper is elevated slightly, but this certainly isn't an excessive
reading, and lingering wear-in likely added to that level. Overall, the transmission really looks to be in great
shape. Try ~120,000 miles next time. Nice report!"
I don't know about that 120,000 mile claim, but it is a breath of fresh air to hear the CVT is okay for now.
I'm just enjoying the new-found joy of driving the car 
and w/o the whine.