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2018 Outlander SEL CVT jerking and slow acceleration - anyone else?

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Kim L. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:37 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL

Hey everyone,

I'm having some concerning issues with my 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL, which has about 75,000 miles on it. Lately, I've noticed a distinct jerking sensation, especially when accelerating from a stop or at lower speeds. It feels like the transmission is struggling to engage smoothly.

On top of that, the acceleration feels really sluggish. It takes a lot more pedal input to get up to speed, and the engine just revs higher without the corresponding increase in speed. I'm worried this might be a CVT issue, as I've heard those can be problematic.

Has anyone with a 2016-2026 Outlander experienced similar symptoms? What was the diagnosis, and what kind of repair was needed? I'm trying to gather some information before I take it to the dealership or an independent shop. Any advice on what to look out for or specific questions to ask 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 describing classic symptoms of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) issue, which can be a common concern in various vehicles, including some Mitsubishi models. Given your 2018 Outlander SEL's mileage, it's definitely something to address promptly.

Here are the potential causes and steps to take:

  1. Low or Contaminated CVT Fluid:
    • Cause: Over time, CVT fluid can degrade, become contaminated, or simply be low. This can lead to improper lubrication and cooling, causing the transmission to slip or jerk.
    • Action: Check your CVT fluid level and condition. If it's dark, smells burnt, or is low, it needs attention. However, checking CVT fluid often requires specific procedures and tools, so it's best left to a professional.
  2. Faulty Transmission Speed Sensors:
    • Cause: The CVT relies on input and output speed sensors to determine the correct ratio. If one of these sensors is faulty, it can cause erratic shifting, jerking, or sluggish acceleration.
    • Diagnostics: A diagnostic scan tool can often reveal codes like P0715 (Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction) or P0720 (Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction).
  3. Worn CVT Belt or Pulleys:
    • Cause: The internal components of the CVT, specifically the steel belt and conical pulleys, can wear down over extended use. This wear can lead to slipping, loss of power, and jerking. This is a more serious internal issue.
  4. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues:
    • Cause: Less common, but a faulty TCM can misinterpret sensor data or fail to command the transmission correctly, leading to performance problems.

When to See a Shop:

YouYou should take your Outlander to a qualified mechanic or Mitsubishi dealership as soon as possible. CVT issues can escalate quickly, turning a potentially manageable repair into a full transmission replacement if neglected. If your check engine light comes on, or if the jerking becomes more severe, do not delay. Request a full diagnostic scan for any stored trouble codes (even if the check engine light isn't on) and a thorough inspection of the CVT fluid and transmission system.

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