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2018 Nissan Rogue CVT Shuddering and Jerking at Low Speeds

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 1:20 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Nissan Rogue SL

Hey everyone,

I'm experiencing a really frustrating issue with my 2018 Nissan Rogue SL. Lately, when I'm driving at lower speeds, especially between 15-30 mph, the car feels like it's shuddering or jerking. It's not a violent shake, but it's definitely noticeable and feels like the transmission is struggling to engage smoothly.

It's most apparent when accelerating gently from a stop or when cruising at those lower speeds. There are no warning lights on the dash, and it seems to drive fine once I'm up to highway speeds. I'm worried it might be a CVT issue, as I've heard those can be common with Nissans. Has anyone else with a 2018 Rogue or similar model experienced this? Any ideas what it could be before I take it to the shop?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 24, 1:20 PM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're describing a common symptom associated with Nissan's Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), often referred to as 'judder' or 'shudder.' This issue typically manifests as a vibration or jerking sensation, particularly during light acceleration or at specific low speeds, as you've noted.

Here are the likely causes and recommended steps:

  1. Degraded CVT Fluid: Over time and mileage, CVT fluid can break down, losing its lubricating and friction-modifying properties. This can lead to improper belt-pulley engagement, causing the shudder. Nissan CVTs are particularly sensitive to fluid quality.
  2. Valve Body Issues: The valve body within the CVT controls fluid pressure and flow. Malfunctions here can lead to incorrect pressure application, resulting in erratic transmission behavior.
  3. Torque Converter Lock-up Clutch: Problems with the torque converter's lock-up clutch can also cause a shudder, especially at consistent speeds where the clutch is supposed to engage to improve efficiency.
  4. Software Glitch: Less commonly, a transmission control module (TCM) software issue could be contributing. Updates are sometimes available from the dealership.

Diagnostics & What to Do:

  1. Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Even without a check engine light, a pending or history code might be stored. Common codes related to CVT judder or performance include:
    • P0741 (Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance Stuck Off)
    • P17F0 (CVT Judder)
    • P17F1 (CVT Judder - Secondary)
  2. Professional Inspection: It is highly recommended to have your 2018 Nissan Rogue inspected by a qualified Nissan technician or a transmission specialist. They can perform a comprehensive CVT diagnostic, which includes checking fluid level and condition, scanning for codes, and potentially performing specific diagnostic tests while driving.
  3. CVT Fluid Service: If the fluid is old or degraded, a genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid flush and fill might resolve the issue, but this should only be done after proper diagnosis to ensure it's the right solution. Simply draining and refilling might not be enough if the issue is more severe.

Ignoring a CVT shudder can lead to accelerated wear and potentially more costly repairs down the line. Address this promptly to prevent further damage.

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