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2018 Outlander CVT Shuddering - Is this normal?

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Jason D. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:37 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander ES

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander ES, and lately, I've noticed a strange shuddering sensation, especially when accelerating from a stop or at lower speeds. It feels like the transmission is hesitating or slipping slightly. It's more noticeable when the car is cold, but it can happen after driving for a bit too.

I'm a bit worried about the CVT transmission's long-term reliability. Is this a common issue with these Outlanders, or Mitsubishis in general? I've heard some mixed things about CVTs.

Should I be concerned? What steps should I take? I'm trying to figure out if this is just a characteristic of the CVT or if it's a sign of a bigger problem. Any advice from other 2016-2026 Outlander owners 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's understandable to be concerned about shuddering in your 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander ES's CVT. While CVTs can feel different from traditional automatics, a distinct shuddering sensation is usually not considered normal and often indicates an underlying issue.

Here are the common causes and steps to take:

  1. Degraded CVT Fluid: The most frequent cause of CVT shuddering is old or degraded transmission fluid. CVT fluid is highly specialized and loses its lubricating and friction-modifying properties over time and mileage.

    • Action: Check your service records. If the CVT fluid hasn't been changed according to Mitsubishi's recommended schedule (typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions), a fluid and filter change is often the first step. Ensure only genuine Mitsubishi CVT fluid (e.g., J4 or J4+) is used.

  2. Valve Body Issues: The valve body controls fluid pressure and flow within the transmission. Issues here can lead to incorrect pressure, causing shuddering or hesitation.

    • Action: This requires professional diagnosis.

  3. Worn Belt/Pulley Components: Less common but possible, internal wear within the CVT's belt and pulley system can cause these symptoms.

When to see a shop:

  • Immediately: If the shuddering is severe, accompanied by warning lights (like the 'Service Engine Soon' or transmission warning light), or if you notice any strange noises or a burning smell.
  • Soon: Even if there are no warning lights, persistent shuddering should be addressed promptly. Ignoring it can lead to more extensive and costly transmission damage.

Diagnostics: A professional shop will typically:

  • Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). While not always present for early shuddering, codes like P0741 (Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance - Stuck Off) or P0776 (Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Performance/Stuck Off) can sometimes appear with CVT issues.
  • Inspect the CVT fluid level and condition.
  • Perform a road test to observe the symptoms under various conditions.
  • Check for any relevant Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Mitsubishi that might address this specific issue for your model year.

Addressing this early can prevent more significant transmission problems down the line.

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