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2018 Outlander CVT acting up: jerking and weird noises

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Ashley M. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:35 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Hey everyone, I'm having some serious concerns with my 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL's CVT transmission. Lately, it's been feeling really jerky, especially when accelerating from a stop or at lower speeds. It almost feels like it's slipping sometimes.

I've also started noticing a strange whining noise coming from under the hood, which wasn't there before. It gets louder as I accelerate. I'm worried this might be a sign of a bigger problem with the transmission.

Has anyone else experienced similar issues with their Outlander CVT? What was the diagnosis, and what did it take to fix it? I'm trying to figure out if this is a common reliability issue for this model year.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:35 AM

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ClearTheCode guidance (Mitsubishi · Buying & ownership)

Summary: For 2018 Outlander CVT acting up: jerking and weird noises, work through these steps on your 2016+ vehicle:

  1. Confirm the symptom — note when it happens (cold start, highway, after fuel fill, etc.).
  2. Scan codes — save all pending/stored DTCs; don't clear until you've recorded them.
  3. Check TSBs & recalls — look up your VIN for open campaigns and known fixes.
  4. Inspect the obvious — related fuses, connectors, fluid level, and recent repairs.
  5. Test the common fix — follow model-specific service procedures; one change at a time.
  6. Escalate if needed — burning smell, no brakes, overheating, or stalling in traffic → shop visit.

Owner reported: Hey everyone, I'm having some serious concerns with my 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL's CVT transmission. Lately, it's been feeling really jerky, especially when accelerating from a stop or at lower speeds. It almost feels like it's slipping sometimes.

I've also started noticing a strange whining noise coming from under the hood, which wasn't there before. It gets louder as I accelerate. I'm worri…

This is educational guidance, not a substitute for hands-on diagnosis.

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