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2017 Nissan Rogue CVT Shudder/Hesitation - Seeking Advice

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 1:21 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Nissan Rogue SV

Hey everyone,

I'm experiencing a concerning issue with my 2017 Nissan Rogue SV, which has about 85,000 miles on it. Lately, when accelerating from a stop or at lower speeds (around 20-40 mph), the car sometimes shudders or hesitates quite noticeably. It feels like the transmission is struggling to engage smoothly.

It's not constant, but it's happening more frequently now. I've heard some things about Nissan CVTs, and I'm worried this could be a sign of a bigger problem. The car otherwise runs fine, but this shudder is really making me nervous about its long-term reliability.

Has anyone else with a 2016-2020 Rogue experienced something similar? Is this just a characteristic of the CVT, or should I be looking into a repair? Any advice on what I should check or tell a mechanic would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 24, 1:21 PM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing a common concern with Nissan's Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), particularly in models from that era. A shudder or hesitation during acceleration can indeed be a symptom of various underlying issues.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and what to do:

  1. CVT Fluid Degradation:

    • Cause: Over time and mileage, CVT fluid can break down, losing its lubricating and friction properties. This can lead to improper belt/pulley engagement, causing shudders or slips.
    • Action: Check your service records. If the CVT fluid hasn't been changed according to Nissan's severe service schedule (typically every 60,000 miles or less depending on driving conditions), a fluid flush and refill with genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid might be necessary. This is often the first and least expensive step.

  2. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues or Software Glitches:

    • Cause: The TCM manages CVT operation. Software bugs or sensor malfunctions can lead to incorrect pressure or ratio adjustments, resulting in hesitation.
    • Action: A diagnostic scan at a Nissan dealership or a reputable independent shop can check for stored codes (e.g., P0740 - Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction, P0776 - Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Performance/Stuck Off). They can also check for available software updates for the TCM.

  3. Valve Body or Torque Converter Problems:

    • Cause: Internal components like the valve body (which directs fluid pressure) or the torque converter (which connects the engine to the transmission) can fail. A failing torque converter often causes a shudder, especially under light acceleration.
    • Action: If fluid changes and software updates don't resolve the issue, internal transmission components may be failing. This typically requires professional diagnosis and potentially a transmission rebuild or replacement.

When to See a Shop: You should take your Rogue to a qualified mechanic or Nissan dealership as soon as possible. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe and costly transmission damage. Be sure to describe exactly when and how the shudder occurs. Request a full diagnostic scan and a thorough inspection of the CVT fluid condition. Early intervention can often prevent a complete transmission failure.

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