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2018 Outlander CVT Shudder and Hesitation - Is this normal?

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:37 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 started noticing some concerning behavior from the CVT. When accelerating from a stop, especially after the car has been running for a bit, there's a noticeable shudder or hesitation. It feels like the transmission is struggling to engage smoothly.

It's not constant, but it's happening more frequently now. Sometimes, when I'm cruising at highway speeds and then try to accelerate gently, there's a slight delay before the power kicks in, almost like a slip. I'm worried this could be a sign of a bigger problem.

Has anyone else with a 2016-2020 Outlander experienced anything similar? Is this just a characteristic of Mitsubishi CVTs, or should I be concerned about a potential issue? I'm trying to figure out if this is something I need to take to the dealer immediately or if there are common fixes or TSBs for this kind of behavior. Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:37 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing common symptoms associated with Continuous Variable Transmissions (CVTs) that are starting to show wear or issues, particularly in the 2016-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander models. While some CVT characteristics can feel different from traditional automatics, persistent shuddering or hesitation is usually a sign that something needs attention.

Here's what could be happening and what to do:

  1. CVT Fluid Degradation: The most common cause for these symptoms is degraded or low CVT fluid. Unlike conventional automatic transmission fluid, CVT fluid is highly specialized and critical for the belt/pulley system. Over time and mileage, it loses its lubricating and friction properties.

    • Action: Check your service records. Mitsubishi typically recommends CVT fluid inspection or replacement at specific intervals, often around 60,000-90,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. If it hasn't been changed, a professional fluid exchange using genuine Mitsubishi CVT fluid (e.g., DiaQueen CVT Fluid J4 or J3) is often the first step.

  2. Valve Body Issues: The CVT's valve body controls fluid pressure and flow. Issues here can lead to incorrect pressure, causing shuddering or delayed engagement.

  3. Torque Converter Lock-up Clutch: A failing torque converter clutch can cause shuddering, especially during light acceleration or when the clutch is trying to engage. If a diagnostic scan reveals a P0741 (Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance or Stuck Off) code, this is a strong indicator.

  4. Software Updates/TSBs: Mitsubishi has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) in the past for CVT performance issues, sometimes involving software updates to refine shift logic or address specific shudder concerns.

    • Action: Ask your Mitsubishi dealer if there are any outstanding TSBs or software updates applicable to your 2018 Outlander's CVT.

When to See a Shop: You should take your Outlander to a reputable mechanic specializing in transmissions or a Mitsubishi dealership as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with these symptoms can exacerbate the problem and lead to more costly repairs. They can perform a diagnostic scan (looking for codes like P0741, P0776, P0715), check fluid levels and and condition, and assess the overall health of the CVT. Early intervention can often prevent a full transmission replacement.

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