CVT Transmission Assembly for 2021-2022 Honda Accord

A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right transmission shows up:

• Verify the transmission code on the white barcode label on top of the original transmission case reads BA7A.
• Check the 8th digit of the VIN is either M or N (confirms 1.5L Turbo engine).
• Confirm the engine block stamp reads L15BE.
• Confirm the vehicle is Front-Wheel Drive (FWD).

What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:

Special tools this job needs:

• Engine support fixture or hoist
• Subframe jack/stands
• CV axle popper tool
• Professional bi-directional scan tool (Honda i-HDS, Launch X431, or Snap-on equivalent)

Budget for these consumables at install:

• Honda Genuine HCF-2 CVT Fluid (Part #08200-HCF2) - approx. 7.6 to 8.0 Quarts for dry fill
• External CVT cartridge filter and associated O-ring
• Torque converter input shaft seal
• Both CV axle output seals
• High-pressure transmission cooler line flush solvent

What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:

What’s involved: TCM Adaptive Relearn / Start Clutch Calibration

While ECU/PCM reprogramming is not required if reusing the original TCM, you must perform a TCM Adaptive Relearn / Start Clutch Calibration using a dealer-level scan tool (like Honda HDS) to clear stored EEPROM adaptive values and calibrate internal solenoids.

Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:

• Torque Converter Seating: Ensure the torque converter is fully and deeply seated into the input shaft and oil pump gears before bolting to the engine. Forcing it will crack the oil pump and destroy the transmission.
• Strict Fluid Level Check: No dipstick is present. Fluid level must be checked via the overflow check bolt on level ground with the engine idling and fluid temperature strictly between 95°F and 113°F (35°C to 45°C).
• Subframe Alignment: Subframe alignment pins must be used during reassembly to maintain correct steering geometry.
• Mandatory Cooler Line Flush: You must perform a high-pressure flush of the transmission cooler lines to prevent old metal shavings from contaminating the replacement unit.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Using the Wrong Fluid: Using standard ATF (like DW-1) or generic CVT fluid instead of Honda Genuine HCF-2, which causes immediate belt slippage and failure.
• Severe Underfilling on Startup: Only purchasing/adding 4 quarts (standard drain-and-fill capacity) instead of the required 8 quarts for a dry replacement unit.
• Reusing a Contaminated Cooler: Failing to flush or replace the external cooler, washing old metal debris directly into the new transmission.
• Skipping the Scan Tool Relearn: Driving immediately without clearing TCM adaptive memory, leading to harsh shifts and diagnostic trouble codes.

Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every transmission of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer: