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2018 Outlander CVT Hesitation and Shuddering

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Sarah K. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:31 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL with about 75,000 miles on it, and I've been noticing some concerning behavior from the transmission lately. When accelerating from a stop, especially uphill, there's a noticeable hesitation before the car really gets going. It feels like the CVT is slipping or struggling to find the right ratio.

Also, at highway speeds, around 60-70 mph, I sometimes feel a slight shuddering sensation, almost like a mild vibration coming from the drivetrain. It's not constant, but it's definitely there and makes me worried about the long-term health of the transmission. Has anyone else experienced this with their Outlander?

I've kept up with all the regular maintenance, including transmission fluid checks, but I'm wondering if this is a common issue or if I should be preparing for a major repair. Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:31 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Your description of hesitation and shuddering in your 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander's CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) points to common symptoms of wear or fluid degradation. This is a frequent concern for higher-mileage CVTs.

Common Causes:

  1. Degraded Transmission Fluid: Over time, CVT fluid loses its lubricating and friction-modifying properties, leading to slipping and shuddering. Mitsubishi CVTs are particularly sensitive to fluid quality.
  2. Worn Belt/Pulleys: The internal components (belt and pulleys) of the CVT can wear down, causing inefficient power transfer and the sensations you're describing.
  3. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues: Less commonly, the TCM might be sending incorrect signals, affecting shift points and engagement.
  4. Torque Converter Problems: The torque converter can also contribute to shuddering if it's not locking up correctly.

Troubleshooting Steps & When to See a Shop:

  1. Check Fluid Level and Condition: While you mentioned checks, ensure the fluid is at the correct level and visually inspect its color and smell. Burnt-smelling or dark fluid is a strong indicator of an issue. This is a good first step, but often requires a professional to do it correctly for CVTs.
  2. Professional Diagnostic Scan: Even without a check engine light, a professional scan tool can read pending codes or specific transmission codes (e.g., P0741 for torque converter clutch performance, P0715 for input/turbine speed sensor circuit) that might not illuminate the dashboard light.
  3. CVT Fluid Flush/Replacement: If the fluid is degraded, a complete fluid replacement (not just a top-off) with genuine Mitsubishi CVT fluid is often recommended. This should be done by a shop experienced with CVTs, as specific procedures are required.
  4. Transmission Inspection: If fluid replacement doesn't resolve the issue, an internal inspection of the CVT by a qualified transmission specialist is necessary. They can assess the condition of the belt, pulleys, and other components.

Recommendation: Given the symptoms, it's highly recommended to have your Outlander inspected by a Mitsubishi dealership or a reputable independent shop specializing in transmissions as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a slipping CVT can lead to more severe and costly damage.

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