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2017 Altima CVT acting up, jerking and whining!

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:54 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Nissan Altima 2.5 S

My 2017 Nissan Altima 2.5 S, with about 85k miles, has been giving me some serious headaches lately. When I accelerate, especially from a stop or at lower speeds, it feels like the transmission is jerking or slipping.

There's also a noticeable whining noise that gets louder with acceleration. Sometimes, it feels like the car struggles to get up to speed, and the RPMs just rev without much power.

I'm really worried about this, as I've heard about common CVT problems with these cars. The check engine light hasn't come on yet, but the performance is definitely off. What could be going on here?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:54 AM

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  1. Initial Diagnosis: The symptoms you're describing—jerking, slipping, whining noise, and lack of power during acceleration—are classic indicators of issues with Nissan's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While a Check Engine Light (CEL) isn't on yet, these issues often precede diagnostic trouble codes.
  2. Common Causes:
    • Low or Degraded CVT Fluid: Over time, CVT fluid can break down, losing its lubricating and cooling properties. This leads to increased friction and wear within the transmission, causing slipping and jerking.
    • Worn Belt or Pulleys: The internal belt and pulley system in a CVT can wear out, leading to inefficient power transfer and the whining noise you hear.
    • Valve Body Issues: Problems with the valve body can affect fluid pressure and flow, impacting the transmission's ability to operate smoothly.
    • Software Glitches: Sometimes, a simple software update for the Transmission Control Module (TCM) can resolve minor shifting issues.
  3. When to See a Shop:
    • Immediately: Given the severity of the symptoms, it's highly recommended to have your 2017 Altima inspected by a qualified mechanic or Nissan dealership as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a failing CVT can lead to more extensive and costly damage.
    • Diagnostic Scan: Even without a CEL, a professional scan tool can often pull pending or historical codes related to transmission performance (e.g., P0740, P0776, P0797, P0840 for pressure issues, or P17F0/P17F1 for internal component issues specific to Nissan CVTs).
    • Fluid Check: Have the CVT fluid level and condition checked. If it's dark or smells burnt, a fluid flush and fill might be recommended, though this is often a temporary fix if internal wear is already significant. A professional assessment can determine the best course of action.
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