List of Nissan CVT Transmission Problems (5 Expert Solutions)

In this brief guide, we are going to provide you with the common Nissan CVT transmission problems and how you can solve these before they cost you.

Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT seamlessly shifts through unlimited range to gear ratios while driving. However, there are many bad Nissan CVT transmissions and how you can fix them.

What are the common problems with Nissan CVT transmissions?

Most of the common Nissan CVT transmission problems are:

  • Jerking
  • Stalling
  • Shuddering
  • Slow to respond
  • Premature transmission failure

Why is jerking of the Nissan CVT transmission a problem?

Jerking will cause you some discomfort while accelerating and that can be very unpleasant that is why it is a problem with Nissan CVT.

What common signs of problem are shown by this CVT transmission?

Jerking itself is a sign that the Nissan CVT is not functioning as it should also sometimes you will get an error message on the screen if there are more significant problems associated with the CVT.

How to fix this CVT transmission problem?

Visiting the nearest service center or your trusted mechanic would be the only way to solve this problem because this might be a serious CVT problem you are facing.

Why is stalling of the Nissan CVT transmission a problem?

If any car is stalling while accelerating then it is having problems as CVT transmissions are not meant to stall especially while moving forwards.

What common signs of problem are shown by this CVT transmission?

The Nissan also might go into limp mode if the car is stalling too much and this can be taken as a sign of the stalling problem with the Nissan CVT transmission.

How to fix this CVT transmission problem?

If you are expressing such a type of stalling then it may need a trip down to the dealership or workshop, and it will certainly necessitate a replacement. We highly recommend that you do not drive your car if its transmission is failing.

Why is shuddering of the Nissan CVT transmission a problem?

Because shuddering would mean the CVT is not functioning smoothly as CVT transmissions are designed for a smoother drive than manual. Therefore if you’re experiencing shuddering when you accelerate then it means your CVT has a problem.

What common signs of problem are shown by this CVT transmission?

Shuddering itself can be taken as a sign of this CVT transmission problem because CVTs are not meant to shudder when loaded or accelerated. 

How to fix this CVT transmission problem?

Visiting your trusted mechanic or service center at the earliest is possibly the only way to fix this issue as the weights that control the pulleys might be worn out and it requires experience and expertise to repair this problem.

Why is premature transmission failure of the Nissan CVT a problem?

You need your Nissan CVT transmission in acceptable condition otherwise you won’t get the drive you need from the engine and this is a serious problem with the transmission. 

What common signs of problem are shown by this CVT transmission?

The first sign you would notice is that you would not get the desired drive from the car when you press the throttle pedal. In case of a complete failure, only the rpm would go up and the car would not move at all.

How to fix this CVT transmission problem?

To fix this problem you would need to replace the entire transmission so that the same problem will not arise later. Repairing is a temporary solution as with vibrations the same problem will arise again.

Why is the slow response of Nissan CVT transmission a problem?

As your car is accelerated by using its belt and pulleys and torque converter which is the part of the CVT transmission, therefore if you experience a slow or no response it is definitely due to the transmission.

What common signs of problem are shown by this CVT transmission?

Usually you would instantly notice this sign of the problem as you get slow response from the car when you press the throttle pedal. 

How to fix this CVT transmission problem?

Visiting the nearest Nissan service center or your trusted mechanic would be the only way to solve this problem because this might be a serious CVT problem you are facing. 

How to diagnose these common CVT transmission problems precisely?

WIth a Nissan recommended diagnostic software tool which can be plugged to the transmission control unit, you can precisely get the error code for your CVT transmission problem you are facing.

Also, there is a failsafe mode that Nissan have fitted to prevent further damage to the vehicle transmission. The causes related to these malfunctioning could range from mechanical to electrical or fluid pressure inside the gearbox.

How to prevent getting these problems in the first place?

The most important thing you can do is to first keep the CVT transmission fluids up to the required levels. Also, maintaining the quality of the transmission fluid is also equally important to prevent getting these major CVT transmission problems in the first place.

Driving style also has a huge impact on the transmission life and its usability. Anticipatory driving will result in smooth gearshifts and prevent premature damage. Also, braking has an influence on CVT transmission as the clutch might damage if you press your accelerator and do not release the brakes.

FAQs: Nissan CVT transmission problems

Did Nissan fix the CVT problems?

Nissan settled the class-action for faulty CVTs with this one affecting 2013-2016 Altimas. The automaker extended the vehicle warranties and reimbursed people who had already paid for transmission repairs or replacements.

What years did Nissan have CVT transmission problems?

Generally, the issues have been reported between 2012/2013 and 2018. There were also some problems in 2003 when Nissan first began using this transmission and also in the 2007-2012 CVT generation. Specific models include the Murano, Sentra, Altima, Rogue, Versa, and Versa.

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we provided you with the common Nissan CVT transmission problems and how you can solve these to save yourself future trouble.

If you have any questions or comments please let us know.

Citations: