‘You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission’: Mechanic reveals 5 cars known for having ‘major’ transmission failures (2024)

Buying a car can be a daunting task, but several helpful videos on social media can help consumers make the right choice. Recently, a TikToker and self-styled car expert, who’s known for sharing his opinions on various car models, went viral after he posted a list of five cars that he says are known for having major transmission failures.

As Bev (@bevurly) says at the start of his video, “You don’t wanna touch these cars with a 10-foot pole.”

Nissan Versa

‘You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission’: Mechanic reveals 5 cars known for having ‘major’ transmission failures (1)

According to Bev, “the Nissan Versa with Nissan’s legendary CVT transmission [is] absolute junk.”

“Look I could do Nissan dirty and list five of their cars on this list,” he says. But he says that since he’s feeling nice, he’s just going to single out the Nissan Versa.

Car shopping website Copilotsearch reports that Nissan Versa models from 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2012 tend to have frequent issues with their transmission, with the worst overall year being 2008.

Nissan Altima

‘You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission’: Mechanic reveals 5 cars known for having ‘major’ transmission failures (2)

“Look I said I’m feeling nice. I’m not feeling like a saint,” he says before also name-checking the Nissan Altima.

“Again, CVT transmission—junk,” he says, giving a thumbs down. He says these cars get to a hundred thousand miles and then the transmission blows.

Mechanic shop GT Automotive reports that one of the common complaints car owners have with their Nissan Altimas do indeed revolve around the transmission.

“Some drivers have reported that the vehicle’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) is causing shuddering or jerking when accelerating. In some cases, drivers have even reported total transmission failure,” GT Automotive reports. “This has been more common in earlier models. In fact, the warranty for Altimas from 2007 to 2010 was actually extended due to this CVT issue. If you’re looking for a newer model, though, you’ll be glad to know that this isn’t on the list of 2020 Nissan Altima problems.”

Bev recommends getting a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord instead.

Ford Focus

‘You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission’: Mechanic reveals 5 cars known for having ‘major’ transmission failures (3)

Bev says the Ford Focus, “came with their DCT transmissions, which were horrible. You kinda just wanna expect them to go out and prepare [for that].”

According to an article published by the law office of Kemnitzer, Barron & Krieg, a consumer law firm based in San Francisco, many consumers who purchased or leased a Ford Focus from 2012 to 2015 found a defect in the transmission that caused several issues. Although Ford did not provide any solutions or initiate a recall, many of these consumers were fortunate to find recourse through the court system.

Infinity QX60

‘You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission’: Mechanic reveals 5 cars known for having ‘major’ transmission failures (4)

The Infinity QX60 is next on Bev’s list, and he gives it that honor because, “If you know anything about cars, Infinity is pretty much Nissan.” He sarcastically adds that since Nissan has such a “great” CVT transmission system, they decided to put it in the Infinity as well, which is what earns the car its spot on his list.

The Infinity’s transmission issues are hardly a secret, and even an Infinity dealership in Oxnard, Calif., lists several transmission failure symptoms that customers should be on the lookout for.

Chevy Traverse

‘You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission’: Mechanic reveals 5 cars known for having ‘major’ transmission failures (5)

Bev specifies that the 2013 and 2014 Chevy Traverse models are the ones with the most issues.

“A whole bunch of owners reported at like 100,000 miles,” he says, adding, “Can’t say I’m surprised.”

Copilotsearch also says that the Chevy Traverse is a car with transmission issues, but according to the website, the worst year for the Traverse is 2009 with multiple owners reporting shaking, grinding, hard shifting, lack of response, low fluid levels, and more issues at 80,000 miles.

Bev received 1.8 million views on his video. Some viewers defended the cars and claimed that the car makers had already resolved these issues.

@bevurly 5 Cars Know For Having Major Transmission Failures! #cars ♬ original sound – Bev

“You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission,” one said.

“Everyone uses cvt, they fixed the main issues with them back in 21 and now all the new cars are good,” said another.

“2014 Nissan Altima 230k miles still going,” claimed a third.

“Owned several Ford Focus’. Never had a problem,” said someone else.

Some viewers thought Bev was missing a few cars from his list.

“How a Jeep/Dodge/Chrysler car isn’t in your top 5 is insane,” one said.

“Where’s the 10r80,” asked another, referring to the transmission used in other Ford cars like the Mustang, Expedition, Ranger, and a number of Lincoln SUV models.

The Daily Dot reached out to Bev via TikTok comments for further information.

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‘You think Nissan would abandon their CVT transmission’: Mechanic reveals 5 cars known for having ‘major’ transmission failures (2024)

FAQs

Are all Nissan CVT transmissions bad? ›

While the concept of CVTs are good, in practice they were often plagued with issues. This is particularly true for Nissan, which employed CVT gearboxes across its lineup. These transmissions ran into countless issues and were so poorly designed that a class action lawsuit was filed against Nissan.

What year were the Nissan CVT transmissions bad? ›

Nissan CVT Transmission Recall
  • 2013-2014 Pathfinder: In 2014, Nissan issued a recall for certain 2013-2014 Pathfinder SUVs equipped with CVT transmissions. ...
  • 2013-2016 Altima: In 2016, Nissan issued a recall for certain 2013-2016 Altima sedans equipped with CVT transmissions.
Jul 11, 2023

How do you prevent CVT failure in Nissan? ›

Yes, CVT Transmissions can be repaired, but the most effective way to avoid having to repair them is to make sure that you replace the fluid at Nissan's (or your own manufacturers) recommended Intervals and avoid putting unapproved load or stress on your CVT vehicle (towing or trailering).

Why do CVT transmissions fail? ›

Some of the common problems that owners run into include overheating, slipping, and sudden loss of acceleration. Shuddering is also a common problem. Since CVTs depend on the belts to operate, if these suffer from excessive stretching or too much wear, the transmission can completely fail.

Will Nissan replace my CVT transmission for free? ›

The existing powertrain warranty coverage of 5 years/60,000 miles will be extended at no cost to you, for CVT repairs, replacements or related towing, to 10 years/120,000 miles, whichever comes first. This extension is effective immediately and requires no action on your part.

How many miles does a CVT transmission last in a Nissan? ›

Generally, however, a well-maintained Nissan transmission can last up to 100,000 miles or more.

How to tell if your CVT transmission is going bad? ›

How To Tell if a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Has a...
  1. Strange Noises. Banging, clanging, screeching, gurgling and other strange noises during operation are a clear sign that your CVT has a problem. ...
  2. Burning Smell. ...
  3. Jerking and Lurching. ...
  4. Gears Slipping. ...
  5. Closing Thoughts.
May 1, 2022

How to fix CVT transmission slipping? ›

Many automatic transmission slipping issues can be fixed by adding more transmission fluid to the system. Draining worn-out fluid and refilling it with fresh transmission fluid can also be a remedy. If the transmission is leaking fluid, you'll need to find the source.

Can I sue a Nissan for CVT transmission? ›

In addition to extending vehicle warranties, the Nissan CVT settlement provides cash reimbursem*nt for owners or lessees who had to pay for transmission repairs out of pocket after their warranty expires. If the repairs fell within the new warranty time period, Class Members can collect up to $5,000.

How can I make my Nissan CVT transmission last longer? ›

Similar to conventional automatics, the CVT needs regular fluid replacement to function efficiently.
  1. CVT fluid is different from ATF. ...
  2. Replace the CVT fluid periodically. ...
  3. Check the transmission dipstick. ...
  4. Avoid heavy towing. ...
  5. Take it easy on the gas pedal.

How do I keep my CVT transmission healthy? ›

Regular maintenance, using the right type of transmission fluid, and avoiding harsh driving habits can significantly extend the life of your CVT. Mister Transmission provides preventive maintenance services designed to catch potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time and money in the long run.

What year do Nissans have bad CVT? ›

However, Nissan's warranty extension applies to all CVT vehicles from years 2003 through 2010. The models which may include defective Nissan CVT transmissions include Nissan model lines Sentra, Pathfinder, Quest, Versa, Versa Note, Altima, Rogue, Juke, Maxima, and Murano.

What is the life expectancy of a CVT transmission? ›

CVT Transmission Life Expectancy

In today's marketplace, new cars with CVTs can be expected to provide reliable operation up to about 100,000 miles. For most cars, overall reliability will be poorer than that expected with a conventional automatic or manual transmission.

Did Nissan extend the warranty on CVT transmission? ›

Nissan has extended the warranty coverage on the CVT assembly including: internal CVT components, gaskets, and seals, CVT control valve body, torque converter, cooler kit (if applicable) Page 4 ALTIMA, SENTRA AND VERSA CVT WARRANTY EXTENSION | REVISION 1 Page 4 of 9 and reprogramming of the Transmission Control Module ...

Is CVT with Xtronic a good transmission? ›

CVT DURABILITY

The XTRONIC CVT's innovative system, which gives it such exceptionally smooth and versatile performance. A CVT vehicle has fewer moving parts, which reduces friction and heat. This reduces wear and tear on your transmission, meaning it works harder, longer.

Which Nissans don't have CVT transmissions? ›

Nissan: The 370Z, GT-R, Leaf, Armada, Frontier and the Titan are not equipped with CVTs.

How often should Nissan CVT transmission fluid be changed? ›

A: The automatic transmission fluid should have been changed at 60,000 miles. The CVT in Nissan vehicles is either great and lasts a long time or it's very problematic.

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