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2017 Q60 3.0t in Limp Mode - Transmission Warning

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:46 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Infiniti Q60 3.0t Premium

Hello forum, I'm having a serious issue with my 2017 Infiniti Q60 3.0t Premium. While driving yesterday, the car suddenly felt like it lost power, and a 'Transmission Malfunction' warning appeared on the dash. It felt like it was stuck in a higher gear, and wouldn't shift properly. I pulled over, turned the car off, and restarted it, and the warning was gone, but it came back after a few minutes of driving. I believe it's in 'limp mode.'

I don't have a scanner that reads transmission codes, but the regular OBD-II scanner shows no active engine codes. The car has about 70k miles on it.

Has anyone experienced this with their Q60? Could it be a transmission fluid issue, a sensor, or something more serious? Any advice on what to check or what to tell the dealership would be helpful.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:46 AM

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ClearTheCode Admin Answer:

Experiencing 'limp mode' and a 'Transmission Malfunction' warning on your 2017 Infiniti Q60 3.0t Premium is a serious issue that requires prompt attention. Limp mode is a protective feature designed to prevent further damage to the transmission by limiting engine power and gear selection.

Here are common causes for transmission limp mode and what to consider:

  1. Low Transmission Fluid: While the Q60's transmission doesn't have an easily accessible dipstick, low transmission fluid is a common cause of shifting issues and limp mode. Leaks or insufficient fluid can lead to overheating and poor hydraulic pressure. A professional can check the fluid level and condition accurately.

  2. Faulty Transmission Sensors: The transmission relies on various sensors, such as input speed sensors (TSS) and output speed sensors (OSS), to monitor its operation. A failure in one of these can confuse the Transmission Control Module (TCM), causing it to enter limp mode. Other sensors like the transmission fluid temperature sensor can also cause issues.

  3. Valve Body Issues: The valve body is the 'brain' of the automatic transmission, directing fluid pressure to engage different gears. Solenoids within the valve body can stick or fail, leading to shifting problems and limp mode.

  4. Wiring or Connector Problems: Damaged wiring or loose connectors to the transmission or its sensors can interrupt communication with the TCM, triggering a malfunction.

  5. TCM Malfunction: In some cases, the Transmission Control Module itself can fail, leading to erratic shifting or limp mode. This is less common but possible.

When to See a Shop: Since your standard OBD-II scanner isn't showing codes, it indicates that the issue is likely within the transmission's dedicated diagnostic system. It's crucial to have your Q60 inspected by a qualified mechanic or Infiniti dealership as soon as possible. They will need to:

  • Connect a specialized diagnostic scanner (like Nissan's CONSULT-III Plus) to read transmission-specific trouble codes (P-codes that start with a P07xx or P08xx series).
  • Check transmission fluid level and condition.
  • Perform a thorough inspection of transmission wiring and connectors.
  • Diagnose sensor functionality and valve body operation.

Driving in limp mode for extended periods can potentially cause further damage to the transmission. Get it checked out quickly.

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