This article discusses the Nissan Rogue transmission problems & solutions.
Especially for individuals thinking of adding a Nissan Rogue to their garage anytime soon and desire a comprehensive report about the transmission system.
Although the innovation behind the Nissan Rogue design and the versatility each model offers is undeniable.
However, none of these attributes denote a perfect vehicle (no vehicle is perfect or totally free from issues).
Over the years, the most common issue reported by Nissan Rogue owners across all models or generations has to do with the transmission.
Most especially in the models released between 2008 and 2015.
The newer Nissan Rogue models (from 2017 upwards) are less likely to encounter or run into transmission problems.
As you read along, we will explore the Nissan Rogue problems associated with the transmission.
This ensures you have a vast/crucial knowledge of what you should expect.
Most importantly, the models that are most likely to be affected by these issues and how you can solve them, including the repair cost.
Contents
Common Problems Associated with Nissan Rogue Transmission
The Nissan Rogue is equipped with a CVT transmission.
The CVT is an acronym for Continuously Variable Transmission.
The main feature or attribute of the CVT transmission is that it operates using a combination of pulleys and a belt instead of gears.
As a result, it delivers smoother vehicle operation.
Nevertheless, this transmission has faced a lot of criticism from Nissan Rogue owners over the years due to some inadequacies in its operation & functionality.
Some notable issues with the Nissan Rogue transmission include the following:
- Oil overheating
- Fluid leakage
- Noisy transmission
- Slipping transmission
- Unusual vibration & premature wear
- The engine’s RPM & power output are lowered
- Loss or acceleration or lack of response, and many more
After realizing the accuracy of the numerous complaints about the transmission, Nissan immediately doubled the warranty by adding an additional 5 years to it, making it 10 years altogether.
The initial 60K miles warranty was increased to 120K miles in terms of mileage.
Symptoms of Typical Transmission Problems on Nissan Rogue
A bad/faulty Nissan Rogue transmission is accompanied by several signs or symptoms.
Some of the most popular instances are highlighted below.
1. Loss of Power
You may find climbing an incline/hill difficult.
Also, the vehicle may not accelerate, even when you raise or intensify the throttle input.
2. Limited RPM
You may experience a decline in RPM while the accelerator pedal remains untouched/unmoved from its initial position.
3. Check Engine
You may experience an unusual vibration or shock while driving up the hill, which may trigger the check engine light.
4. Vehicle May Stop Abruptly
This issue may occur once the transmission oil overheats.
5. Annoying Sound Or Whining
You may experience this when slipping occurs in the transmission system.
6. Changing Gear
When the gear changes for no actual/clear reasons.
A slipping transmission system may also be responsible for such an action.
7. Early Wear Or Unusual Vibration
The transmission may wear out earlier than expected (about 100K miles) due to excessive friction.
If you encounter/perceive any of the situations stated above.
You may have to take your vehicle to a certified Nissan technician for proper diagnosis.
A corrective measure may involve a transmission repair, replacement, or rebuild.
Different Transmission Problems of Nissan Rogue (Detailed Discussion)
01. Transmission (CVT) Failure
When the transmission system fails or goes faulty, it impacts the RPM significantly.
As a result, it becomes impossible for the Nissan Rogue to move beyond three thousand (3000) RPM.
Symptoms
At first, this issue may go unnoticed until you attempt to drive over an incline or drive across sloppy/irregular terrain.
You may experience a sudden loss of power during these periods, bringing your vehicle to an immediate/unexpected stop.
This issue is mostly experienced in the older Nissan Rogue models, extending between 2007 and 2015.
Although the newer models may also run into this problem, the possibility is pretty low.
Solution
When the CVT fails to allow the vehicle to operate beyond 3000RPM, a repair/replacement of this unit will have to be considered to get your Nissan Rogue back on the road.
The replacement should only be conducted by a certified Nissan Rogue workshop or a Nissan dealership.
On average, the cost of replacing the CTV with a new one may cost about $4,500 if you have a valid warranty in place.
02. Transmission Oil May Overheat
This is another issue that has been recorded across the Nissan Rogue models.
Again, this problem is more pertinent among the older models (2008 to 2015).
In several instances, transmission oil overheating has been reported to have occurred when you must have covered around 100K miles.
Also, there have been reports of situations or times when this issue is experienced at a lower mileage (80K miles).
Symptoms
When the transmission oil overheats, your vehicle may come to a sudden stop while driving.
There are loads of reasons why you may experience this issue.
For instance, it could result from a drop in fluid level or the use of the wrong transmission fluid.
Solution
Transmission oil overheating can be corrected in various ways.
The appropriate/ideal approach depends on how severe the issue is.
A drop in fluid/oil level may require adding more oil until it reaches the required level.
If the issue is traced to the use of an inadequate/wrong oil.
You may have to flush it out and replace it with the suitable/ideal oil.
These simple corrective measures may cost you around $150 on average.
If the situation fails to change after applying each of the methods we have explained above.
An experienced Nissan Rogue mechanic may suggest the installation of an external transmission oil cooler or a new oil cooling system for your vehicle.
Depending on the replacement/repair to be conducted.
You may have to part away with about $2500 (labor inclusive).
03. Acceleration Issues, Creepy Vibrations, And Noises
Here is another major transmission issue Nissan Rogue owners may have to deal with.
It is most common with the older models (2008 to 2013).
Symptoms
Even when the throttle input is amplified, the vehicle may suddenly halt or refuse to accelerate.
This experience isn’t only frustrating. It is also unsafe, especially when it happens on busy roads.
Also, your Nissan Rogue could start shaking or vibrating unnecessarily, even when operated on idling mode.
When describing their experience, most Nissan Rogue owners reported that this issue occurred in the mid-term.
On average, most individuals encounter this issue at around 90K miles.
It is commonly attributed to a problem with the transmission fluid.
Solution
A Nissan Rogue technician will have to diagnose the issue and conduct the necessary repair.
Correcting acceleration issues costs about $700 on average.
04. Transmission Slipping
Again, this is a top/common issue that individuals who own/drive a Nissan Rogue may encounter or run into.
Just as the previously discussed issues, transmission slipping is also rampant among the older models, ranging from 2008 to 2013.
Transmission slipping may become an issue whenever the transmission oil level drops or due to transmission oil overheating.
The Typical Signs/Symptoms You Will Experience When This Problem Occurs Include:
- Irregular gear activation/change
- The engine may start making a loud noise
- Change in the engine’s tone/pitch
Solution
Once you experience or perceive any of the indicated/discussed signs.
Say no to shilly-shally and contact an experienced/authorized Nissan Rogue technician to conduct the necessary repairs.
On average, it costs between $150 and $200 to initiate/implement the necessary changes/corrections.
05. Premature Wear
The Nissan Rogue transmission may experience untimely wear.
This issue is mainly experienced after completing about 100K miles.
While this issue is evident/shared across all models, the early designs (2008 to 2013) are mostly affected.
The cause of the problem is traced or linked to excessive friction that occurs or takes place in the transmission system.
Symptoms
The symptoms are similar to what you experienced when there is transmission failure.
Hence, the solution is also the same. I.e., an unexpected power loss.
Solution
The CVT system will have to be replaced with a new one.
On average, the cost of replacing the CTV with a new one is about $4,500 if you have a valid warranty in place.
It may cost higher without a warranty.
06. Faulty Transmission Speed Sensor
When the transmission speed sensor becomes bad, you will experience some signs.
Although this is an issue that cuts across all Nissan Rogue models, it is reported more by individuals who drive/own the older designs (2008 to 2013).
Symptoms
When the transmission speed sensor becomes faulty, it may prevent the gear from shifting.
Not only that, you may experience a loud noise when you attempt to move the shifter from one point to another.
Solution
A damaged/bad transmission speed sensor has to be replaced.
On average, it costs about $700 (labor inclusive) to fix the problem.
07. A Drop in Fluid Level
This issue may affect all Nissan Rogue models.
It is greatly attributed to maintenance negligence than a design fault.
Symptoms
When your Nissan Rogue vibrates or shakes when the transmission moves between gears.
There is a greater likelihood that the level of transmission fluid has dropped.
Another prevalent symptom that is associated/linked to a low fluid level is late or irregular shifting.
This is when it takes the transmission more than usual to click or engage when you change the shift lever from DRIVE to PARK or vice versa.
Solution
If you notice/encounter any of the warning signs mentioned above.
You may have to check the level of your vehicle’s transmission fluid.
You can consult your owner’s manual on how this assessment can be conducted.
How To Diagnose the Transmission Problems of Nissan Rogue?
This section discusses techniques you can adopt or follow to discover or troubleshoot the common/persistent Nissan Rogue problems that may affect the transmission system functionality or performance.
1. Observing/Checking The Transmission Fluid Level
When you experience some irregularities with your Nissan Rogue, especially when the symptoms point at a possible drop in the fluid level.
You may want to verify/confirm the condition of the fluid.
The owner’s manual contains the steps you can follow to have the level of your transmission fluid checked.
2. Read/Analyze The Fault Codes
A lot of Nissan Rogue owners may expect the check engine indicator light to always come on, informing them about possible issues with your transmission.
This is not always the case.
You do not have to wait until the light comes on before checking for possible fault codes.
Ideally, the fault codes are stored in a specific unit called the TCM or TCU (Transmission Control Module/Unit).
As a result, issues with your vehicle’s transmission may not always activate the error indicator light.
You can use a diagnostic scanner designed for Nissan Rogue to access these fault codes.
Using this tool, you will be able to read the fault codes, make necessary fixes/adjustments to identified errors/concerns and clear these codes accordingly.
3. Check The Transmission Fluid Cooler
If your transmission system only misbehaves or malfunctions whenever the engine is warmed up.
This is a strong signal of fluid overheating.
At this point, you may want to have your transmission fluid cooler checked or possibly replaced to prevent total transmission failure.
Are Nissan Rogue Transmissions Durable?
While the early/older Nissan Rogue models are known for various transmission issues, the manufacturer has implemented essential changes/upgrades in the newer models, ranging from 2015 to date.
The newer Nissan Rogue CVT transmissions are built to offer improved durability for more efficient performance.
Although the transmission may have its downsides/issues, adopting a great maintenance routine will make a difference.
When you pay attention to your vehicle’s performance and stay committed to regular maintenance, the Nissan Rogue transmission can last up to 200K miles.
Do Transmission Issues Make The Nissan Rogue A Less Reliable Car?
Transmission issues aside, the Nissan Rogue is equipped with reliable engines.
The newer models of the Nissan Rogue are rated above average by industry experts.
Thanks to impressive attributes such as adequate fuel consumption, enhanced comfort, and improved handling.
They can easily maneuver across various terrains, regardless of the conditions.
While we can’t deny the fact that the early models have a lot of complaints about the transmission system.
Nevertheless, all of these issues can be corrected or fixed to improve your vehicle’s performance.
Once the transmission issues are corrected or fixed, the new/upgraded unit should offer improved/efficient performance over a long period.
Is Buying A Nissan Rogue With Transmission Issue History A Good Idea?
There are a number of reasons why a transmission failure could occur.
Changing the transmission system without adequately diagnosing the root cause and fixing the issue appropriately may also affect the lifespan of the newly installed unit.
If the issues associated with the transmission have been fixed/corrected.
The transmission should perform optimally over an extended period.
When picking up a Nissan Rogue that has record (s) of a transmission problem.
Ensure the cause of the problem was identified and corrected accordingly.
You need to verify/get every vital detail about the issue.
If you do not have adequate technical and mechanical experience.
You can ask/hire an experienced Nissan Rogue technician to make necessary inspections and certify the vehicle okay before your open your purse or close the deal.
Depending on the intensity of the inspection, you may have to budget close to $200 on average for this task.
Tips And Tricks To Make Your Nissan Rogue Transmission Last Longer
1. Do Not Assume
Even when the symptoms are evident or possibly know the issue with your transmission system.
We advise that you do not act based on this knowledge alone.
The ideal/appropriate measure is to have an experienced Nissan Rogue mechanic diagnose your vehicle to detect the main issue or support your claims.
2. Act Immediately
Once you start noticing/perceiving any unusual activity in your vehicle performance.
Especially if these signs point to a possible transmission issue. Act immediately.
If you fail to take your vehicle in for diagnosis or allow an expert to inspect and get it fixed.
It may lead to a severe/complicated issue such as engine damage.
3. Do Not Drive A Vehicle With A Faulty Transmission
Avoid the urge to keep driving your Nissan Rogue once you notice that the transmission is not working optimally.
If you keep on driving a Nissan Rogue with a faulty transmission.
This may result in an outright/absolute breakdown of the transmission system.
4. Use The Appropriate Transmission Fluid
Do not use any other fluid aside from the recommended product for best performance.
All Nissan Vehicles equipped with the CVT transmission must use the NS-3 Nissan CVT fluid.
Asides from avoiding the mistake of using an inappropriate transmission fluid, stay away from blending the NS-3 with any other kind of fluids.
5. The Transmission Must Not Run Out of Fluid
Do not wait until the transmission fluid runs dry or become empty before you consider topping it up.
Whenever it’s below the recommended level, refill it as soon as possible.
Also, pay attention to the replacement schedule.
Drain the fluid accordingly and replace it with a fresh one.
Related Questions
What Happens If I Drive A Nissan Rogue With Little Or No Transmission Fluid?
The transmission system is an indispensable and expensive component.
If your Nissan Rogue slips or finds it hard to move, the fluid level may be deficient, or there is no fluid in it.
It is advised to turn off the engine and resist any urge to drive in such a situation.
Inspect the fluid level and top it up accordingly.
Driving your vehicle in this condition may result in an outright transmission failure.
Which Nissan Rogue Model is The Most Reliable?
If you are thinking of adding a Nissan Rogue to your garage and want to avoid most of the issues linked with the transmission system.
You may pick up any of the newest models, starting from 2016.
In 2015, the manufacturer started getting things right by deploying various upgrades in their design for improved efficiency.
Since then, there has been a drastic drop in transmission-related complaints.
What Happens If I Use A Different Transmission Fluid?
If you refill or top up your transmission fluid using any other product asides from the recommended/ideal fluid.
Such action may lead to severe damage to the transmission system.
Your warranty (if active/valid) may not count in such a situation.
How Soon Should I Replace/Change The Transmission Fluid?
All the necessary details about your transmission system are indicated/specified in the owner’s manual.
You will find the timeframe for Nissan Rogue transmission replacement in there.
How Long Can A Nissan Rogue Go?
When you pay attention to your vehicle’s performance.
This involves conducting repairs and fixes as at when due and adhering to routine checks.
The Nissan Rogue can deliver reliable and excellent performance beyond 200K miles.
How Much Does it Cost (Per Annum) To Keep The Nissan Rogue in Top Condition?
Although the Nissan Rogue is known for numerous issues relating to its design, which may require several repairs to fix.
When you maintain this vehicle appropriately, it can deliver a level of reliability similar to what its competitors offer.
On average, you may spend close to $500 per annum to keep your vehicle running at a top-level.
What If The Nissan Rogue Seller Rejects My Inspection Request?
If you are interested in a second-hand Nissan Rogue.
You must request an inspection to know the state/condition of the vehicle.
Anyone who has nothing to keep away or is confident about the actual state of their vehicle won’t reserve any objection to your request.
If they do, the best thing to do at this point is to walk away or bring any form of negotiation to a stop.
https://autotrends.org/2021/02/19/highlights-of-the-2021-nissan-rogue/
Last Words
So far, we have discussed the most common/prevalent Nissan Rogue transmission problems & solutions you can adopt to solve/correct them.
This information is beneficial to individuals who own a Nissan Rogue and those looking at purchasing one, especially if you are thinking of buying a second-hand vehicle.
If you can identify the signs or symptoms associated with these common transmission problems.
You will know when your vehicle needs to be inspected or diagnosed by a technician before the issue escalates or results in an expensive repair.