some may have read my posts , in a nut shell i have a 13 altima 3.5L with the CVT shudder and getting no help. i would like to have everyone just 1 post showing what car and what CVT issue your having . i have an opportunity to meet with a nissan rep and i want to show them this problem. thank you in advance. maybe we can get some help.i'll start it.
Bob H. 3.5L 13 altima has a CVT shudder and hesitation. I live in Florida.
2.5 SL w/ tech package. Accelerating from start, loud transmission rumble. Best description is the sound a manual transmission car makes shifting from 1st directly to 4th gear.
2.5sv w/ nav rumble sound and vibrates at 1,200-1,500 rpms when engine is under load like when accelerating from stop or when already moving, similar to what previous poster whozplaying described.
3.5 SL w/ tech. I notice this rare hesitation usually while decelerating while coming to a stoplight for example. just 3 really small jerks would be the best way to describe it. That being said it doesn't happen often.
2.5 SV with convenience package. Getting "lugging" sound and vibration when engine is under load around 1500 RPM very similar to what posters
Whozplaying and Tater2000 are describing. I am very dissapointed, I live in North Carolina, Thanks
I live in Upstate NY. Same symptoms as above, 2.5 SL 1700 miles, 9/12 Smryna build, 1200 to 1500 rpm vibration, moaning sound. Not what one should expect from a 30K+ car. I have had people ask me how I like the car. They tell me they heard there is what they call a CVT problem, as described, and they are waiting to see what Nissan does before buying. If I didn't already own it, I'd wait also. Nissan needs to wonder how long will they wait. And, unhappy customers can magnify the sales issue. If they fix this, I'll be their best salesman, I love everything else about the car.....
Oh and they need to correct the heated seat issue, which I understand is being looked at.
There are at least two completely different issues being discussed here:
The "lugging", more noticeable with the 2.5, is inherent in the current programming of the CVT. This is mostly done to achieve the good EPA numbers and is very much a characteristic of all 2.5's. Very doubtful this is causing any damage. Nissan could easily reprogram the cvt to raise the rpm somewhat to alleviate this - they provided an alternative program for the previous cvt for Maxima owners presenting the same complaint.
The 3.5 uses a different CVT and is experiencing shudder on torque converter lockup - originally being discussed here:
This is more of an intermittent problem that seems to develop after some miles are accumulated. This might be corrected with a reprogram if Nissan addresses it quickly enough. If they wait until these transmissions are damaged by the slipping converter clutch, costly replacement will probably be necessary.
As I posted in the other thread, my car is doing this. The dealer contacted Nissan and they dismissed the complaint as - "characteristic" of the 3.5 CVT. Eventually they will be forced to address the problem as more owners complain.
There are at least two completely different issues being discussed here:
The "lugging", more noticeable with the 2.5, is inherent in the current programming of the CVT. This is mostly done to achieve the good EPA numbers and is very much a characteristic of all 2.5's. Very doubtful this is causing any damage. Nissan could easily reprogram the cvt to raise the rpm somewhat to alleviate this - they provided an alternative program for the previous cvt for Maxima owners presenting the same complaint.
I agree,,,,,the sooner the better. It seems that at least for me it's at the most common "cruising" range. I'm always increasing throttle to make it stop...annoying.
yes it is definetly associated with torque converter lock up. in the campaign they call it a "judder" guess thats a fancy word for jerking and shudder. anyway i will be seeing a rep in about 2 weeks so please keep the reports coming. would like to see some from the 3.5 owners that have posted in other threads. Thanks again i will keep everyone updated on the outcome.
There are at least two completely different issues being discussed here:
The "lugging", more noticeable with the 2.5, is inherent in the current programming of the CVT. This is mostly done to achieve the good EPA numbers and is very much a characteristic of all 2.5's. Very doubtful this is causing any damage. Nissan could easily reprogram the cvt to raise the rpm somewhat to alleviate this - they provided an alternative program for the previous cvt for Maxima owners presenting the same complaint.
I agree,,,,,the sooner the better. It seems that at least for me it's at the most common "cruising" range. I'm always increasing throttle to make it stop...annoying.
It is very annoying cruising down the interstate and having to have to listen to this awful noise and vibration in a $30,000 new car. Personally, I would gladly give up a little MPG than put up with the noise and annoyance. Will not reccomend these cars with this unresolved issue.
I've complained about it in other threads but the lugging/vibration/noise of the transmission is so depressing since otherwise we really love the '13 altima.
So my complaint is the drone/vibration/lugging sound of my 2.5SL tech pack.
2.5 SL w/ tech package. Accelerating from start, loud transmission rumble. Best description is the sound a manual transmission car makes shifting from 1st directly to 4th gear.
Hi I too have exactly the same issue on my 2013 altima SL 2.5 and totally agree with you about how it feels , certainly doesnot feel like a very refine drivetrain , very dissapointing here in southern Rhode Island. What ever the fix may be it doesnot sound like it will be forthcoming anytime soon it seems.
It's doubtful that Nissan will provide a fix for the torsional NVH (rumbling) issue on the 2.5. A reprogram, slightly raising the rpm, would solve the problem but would lower the fuel mileage a little. They are very proud of that 38mpg rating.
You could trade it for the 3.5. I did this and the larger, smoother, 6 almost completely eliminates the problem - but you'll soon be dealing with the transmission shudder that is being widely reported here.
They need to keep in mind, "A satisfied customer is your best marketing tool, a dissatisfied customer is your competition's best marketing tool"...When potential buyers are aware of a issue that delays them from buying or drives ( pun intended) them to the competition, Nissan can stick their 38mpg where the sun don't shine....there will be a lot of 38 mpg cars on dealer lots. Just my opinion...I know people in that position, now. If they were had to buy today...It would not be Nissan, because of the vibration/moaning issue. Sad, EVERYTHING else about the car is hands down better than the competition, IMO
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