Nissan Rogue CVT Transmission Issues (Fixed)

The Nissan Rogue, introduced in 2007, quickly became popular for drivers seeking a reliable, comfortable, and fuel efficient SUV.

However, while the Rogue has many strong points, one common issue that continues to be discussed is its CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the common Nissan Rogue CVT transmission issues Rogue owners face, what causes them, and what you can do if you encounter them.

What is a CVT Transmission?

By way of introduction, however, as we are about to get into the problems, what is a CVT? In contrast to a regular automatic transmission, which shifts between a small number of fixed gears, CVT transmissions can provide an infinite number of gear ratios because they use belts and pulleys.

This enables smoother acceleration and complements fuel economy. In principle, this layout should provide a better driving experience, but in practice, it has created headaches for Nissan’s models that have used it, including the Rogue.

What Year Do Nissans Have CVT Transmission Problems?

Nissan makes the bulk of CVT transmissions (mostly models from 2007 to 2017) subject to transmission issues.

These issues are most common on the Nissan Rogue, Altima, and Sentra from these model years.

Design flaws and a lack of cooling systems caused overheating, shuddering, and mechanical failure in early generation CVTs.

Nissan then took the unusual step of extending that warranty on various models to cover CVT problems for 10 years or 120,000 miles after the first sale.

While Nissan improved the design of its transmissions after 2018, certain issues continue to plague newer models, albeit less often.

If you have one of these Nissan models, preventing expensive repairs will require staying up-to-date on regular preventive maintenance and ensuring that your service is covered under warranty.

Nissan Rogue CVT Transmission Issues And Fixes

The Nissan Rogue series has some common transmission issues. They are:

1. Transmission Overheating

• Symptoms: Loss of power, a “whining” noise, or the vehicle going into a “limp mode.”
• Causes: The CVT transmission is exposed to overheating in extended driving periods, especially during hot weather or heavy traffic. This can put the Rogue in limp mode when hot, which limits the vehicle’s ability to drive and prevent damage.

Fixes

Installing an external transmission cooler can help, but a complete transmission replacement may be necessary in severe cases.

2. Jerking And Shuddering

• Symptoms: Driving the car cold may cause it to shudder or even jerk when accelerating, mostly at low speeds.
• Causes: This is frequently associated with issues relating to the transmission’s belt or pulley configuration. Over time, wear and tear can cause this to slip, leading to jerking feelings.

Fixes

A transmission fluid flush can sometimes fix this problem, but further diagnostics and parts replacement may be necessary if the shuddering continues.

3. Delayed Acceleration

• Symptoms: Your car does not respond immediately when you press the gas pedal, or there is a noticeable delay before your vehicle moves.
• Causes: The transmission type is a continuously variable transmission that uses a belt and pulley system, which might not be able to react quickly enough. It’s likely because of worn down parts or low transmission fluid.

Fixes

Regular checks and transmission fluid changes can prevent this. However, if it persists, it could indicate a more serious mechanical fault.

4. Transmission Failure

• Symptoms: Total power loss, failure to shift gears, or grinding noise from transmission.
• Causes: Transmission Failure A bad but less common type of breakdown is a breakdown with the transmission. Like any automotive issue that might be damaged badly, prolonged exposure to high temperatures, mechanical wear, or manufacturing defects can cause catastrophic transmission failure.

Fixes

Unfortunately, only a replacement transmission is available in the event of a complete failure. Repairs can cost more than $4,000.

What’s Causing These Issues?

Here are a few reasons Nissan Rogue’s CVT transmissions have been so problematic:

Design Flaws

Nissan CVT problems, especially in earlier designs, have often involved overheating and rapid wear.

They utilize belts and pulleys for a portion of the transmission, which are not as strong as traditional gears, making them vulnerable to damage under heavy loads or high temperatures.

Inadequate Cooling System

For several Nissan Rogue models, the standard cooling system doesn’t supply enough coolant to the CVT during prolonged driving or hot climates. This results in overheating, which creates further mechanical issues.

Poor Maintenance

Unlike traditional transmissions, CVTs are a bit more picky about fluid quality. CVT fluid must be kept at the right level and condition for a CVT to work correctly, but many drivers are unaware of this fact, which can lead to problems before long.

Software Issues

Also, several transmission problems originate from the vehicle’s computer system and related software.

For example, improper programming can cause incorrect belt tension or gear ratios, leading to poor task performance or damage.

How Long Will the Nissan CVT Transmission Last?

A Nissan CVT transmission spans 100,000 to 150,000 miles, depending on maintenance history and driving habits.

A CVT should be able to last beyond 200,000 miles if it receives routine fluid changes and is handled gently without aggressive driving.

But many owners began having problems as soon as 60,000 miles, thanks to early design flaws in models from 2007-2017.

Newer models (2018 and on) are more durable but adhere to manufacturer maintenance recommendations.

Another surefire way to extend the life of the CVT is to install an aftermarket, dedicated transmission cooler, especially in hot climates or where hard use might be likely.

Nissan’s Response And Recalls

Nissan has addressed many common CVT-related issues over the years. The company increased the warranty on some models and sent out service bulletins so dealerships would know how to deal with certain issues.

Despite this attempt to fix the problem, many Rogue owners continue to have problems, leading to class action lawsuits against Nissan.

Nissan subsequently settled in 2020 as part of a class action lawsuit over the CVT issues, providing reimbursements for repairs and extended warranty coverage on select vehicles.

If you have a Nissan Rogue with transmission trouble, you might want to see if it falls under any warranty or recall.

What Can You Do If You Experience CVT Issues?

You can go through the following methods if you are experiencing CVT transmission issues:

Check For Recalls And Warranty Coverage

Determine whether your Rogue is included in any recalls or is eligible for Nissan’s extended warranty that covers CVT problems. This can help you avoid expensive repairs.

Maintain Your Transmission

Maintenance is important for the CVT. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s prescribed schedule for fluid changes. Importantly, use the correct type of CVT fluid. Using the wrong type could cause catastrophic damage.

Install an Aftermarket Transmission Cooler

Consider an aftermarket transmission cooler for hot-weather drivers or those driving many highways. It quenches overheating and ensures a long life for your transmission.

Consult a Specialist

If need be, get your car to an approved garage or a Nissan expert without delay if you have doubts about the transmission’s performance.

Not addressing early warning signs increases the likelihood of facing bigger and more costly problems down the road.

FAQs About Nissan Rogue CVT Transmission Issues

Conclusion

The Nissan Rogue is a well-equipped SUV in terms of bang for the buck, but owners have lamented the CVT transmission use as a consistent problem area.

Although Nissan has tried to fix these problems, they largely end up being there, especially in the old ones.

So, if you own a Rogue or are considering getting one, ensure you know about the possible transmission issues and how to preserve your ride.

By taking care of this Nissan, regular maintenance, and responding quickly as soon as the first sign of a problem arises, you can save yourself those costly repairs and, more importantly, allow your Rogue to run as it should.

If you are already experiencing transmission problems, see what recalls, extended warranties or lawsuits for damages are available to you.