2017 Rogue CVT acting up - shuddering and loss of power

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Ryan M. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:48 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Nissan Rogue SL AWD

Hey everyone, I'm having some serious issues with my 2017 Nissan Rogue SL AWD. Lately, the CVT has been shuddering pretty badly, especially when accelerating from a stop or at lower speeds. It feels like the car is struggling to find the right gear, even though it's a CVT.

On top of that, I've noticed a significant loss of power. Merging onto the highway is a nightmare, and the RPMs often flare up without a corresponding increase in speed. The check engine light came on briefly last week but then went off. I'm worried this is a sign of a major transmission problem. Has anyone else experienced this with their Rogue?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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Hi Sarah,

It sounds like your 2017 Nissan Rogue's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) might be experiencing some common issues. Shuddering, loss of power, and RPM flares are classic symptoms of a struggling CVT, especially in Nissan models from that era.

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

  1. Common Causes:

    • Degraded CVT Fluid: Over time, CVT fluid breaks down and loses its lubricating properties, leading to increased friction and heat, which can cause shuddering and premature wear.
    • Worn Torque Converter: The torque converter can fail, causing shuddering during acceleration.
    • Valve Body Issues: Problems within the CVT's valve body can lead to incorrect fluid pressure and shifting anomalies.
    • Internal Component Wear: Excessive wear on the belt or pulleys within the CVT can cause slippage and power loss.
  2. Diagnostics:

    • Even if the check engine light is off, there might be stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). A common code for CVT issues is P0740 (Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction) or other transmission-related codes. A professional scan can retrieve these.
  3. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediately: Given the symptoms, it's crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified Nissan technician or a reputable transmission specialist as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a failing CVT can lead to more severe and costly damage.
    • What they'll do: They will check the CVT fluid level and condition, scan for codes, and perform a road test to diagnose the exact cause. They may recommend a fluid flush and filter replacement, or in more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement. Nissan did extend warranties on some CVTs, so it's worth checking if your VIN is covered.