Torque Converter Blamed For Nissan Pathfinder Transmission Shudder
We are getting a number of Nissan Pathfinder drivers calling the 1-800-LEMON-LAW hotline complaining of a transmission shudder, a violent shake which seems to worsen at higher speeds.
Sadly, the message boards are ablaze with Nissan Pathfinder transmission shudder claims going back to 2009, but we are seeing a number of 2013 models with this particular problem. Nissan dealers appear to be blaming the issue on the torque converter and telling drivers that Nissan does not have a fix at this time.
If you are sensing a vibration or shudder with your Nissan Pathfinder, make sure you bring your Pathfinder into a Nissan dealership as soon as possible to have the issue verified and addressed. If you feel the shudder occurs at higher speeds, or on wet surfaces, or after the car is warmed up, make sure you share these details at the time of repair. You can also offer to take the adviser on a test drive so you can illustrate when the transmission shudder occurs. The more information you can provide the service adviser, the more chance of him diagnosing the problem.
After every repair, make sure you receive a repair invoice which outlines that you brought the transmission problem to their attention. Even if they say they cannot diagnose the problem, or there is no fix, it is essential that you receive an invoice. These invoices provide the proof that you have continuously brought the matter to Nissan’s attention.
If you are back repeatedly with the Nissan Pathfinder transmission shudder, or your Pathfinder is in the shop for an extended period of time while they try to fix it, you could be entitled to a new car, a complete repurchase or significant monetary compensation under State Lemon Laws or Federal Warranty Laws. Feel free to fill out our Get Rid of Your Lemon form so we can review your situation and see if and how we can help.
May 23rd, 2013 at 9:56 am
I bought my 2013 Pathfinder on April 19 and have just put 1100 miles on it. Since buying it it has shuddered at least a dozen or more times. The shudder lasts for about 2 to 3 seconds usually while trying to accelerate from a slow roll. The car has no power while the shudder is going on. Very Dangerous! I brought the car to the dealer and they told me that Nissan is aware of the problem and that it can take approximately 2 weeks to 2 months for Nissan to come up with a solution. I told the dealer that the car is unsafe to drive. They told me that Nissan told them that the car is safe to drive and that I need to “floor” the gas pedal when accelerating to bypass the shudder issue. This also puts the car’s driver into an unsafe position. I asked my dealer if Nissan is going to be liable considering their statement that “the car is safe to drive” should I get into an accident while trying to accelerate onto the New Jersey Turnpike.
May 28th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
@Michael: If you have the matter addressed three or more times and it is still not fixed, please contact us at 1 800 LEMON LAW.
July 15th, 2013 at 10:54 pm
Mine came unexpectedly on the freeway. Major shudder in the transmission and the vehicle instantly overheated. Grey sludge was pouring out of the radiator overflow. I had the car towed 75 miles to my mechanic who alerted me to the class action lawsuit and warrantee extension. Because I was over 100,000 miles this did not apply to my vehicle. Transmission and radiator on my 2006 Pathfinder SE were completely ruined.
I called Nissan Customer Support and was redirected to the Transmission Claims center. Both customer Service reps were miserable and unhelpful. After bouncing back and forth I finally got a callback from the Northeastern Representative for Nissan Customer Service. She flat out told me there was nothing she would do because of the mileage and let me know the conversation was over. When I asked her to connect me with her direct supervisor she told me she did not report to anyone.
3 weeks and $6,300 later I am trying to trade in the Pathfinder for a comparable (not Nissan) Vehicle. I’m told the vehicle is worth $6,700. Nearly $10,000 less than I paid for it a year ago. Needless to say I will not be receiving any compensation for a factory defect that Nissan refuses to take responsibility for.
The saddest part of the story: This is my third Pathfinder and will definitely be my last. Brand loyalty is non existant and Nissan joins the ranks of disreputable companies that subscribe to the PT Barnum school of business: There’s one born every minute.
August 24th, 2013 at 1:54 pm
I have a 2013 Pathfinder. The shudder started about 1000 miles, then it stopped. It came back at about 6000 miles, now I can make it happen on demand. It will happen between 20-23 MPH and 40-43. This is about where it the trans wants to change gears. Nissan replaced the torque converter. Now it has good power and my MPG city went from 19.8 to 20.5. It seemed like it happened once since but I cannot reproduce it.
October 28th, 2013 at 2:37 pm
I have the same shudder with my 2013 Nissan Pathfinder, and have had it in the shop 3 times, readjust CVT, replace torque converted, replace transmission. is there a class action suit? i cannot enact the lemon Law in my state, (Colorado) until its been in 1 more time. here’s hoping…
January 12th, 2014 at 12:25 pm
To all that are having the shudder problems on the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder.I purchased vehicle new in March 2013, As soon as I noticed
The problem I contacted the dealership and took it in.I make sure that
What i was reporting to them was noted on the service invoice.I make sure that I never left the service center without the invoices.It was frustrating what I went through with this problem vehicle that first time they said it was low on fluid, next reprogramming the TCM, then replacing the torque converter and finally replacing the CVT. I contacted a lemon law lawyer,I did it cause the problem was still there after all the said repairs were made.I did not feel safe driving or driving with my children and grand daughter an infant it,which I had to pick up and drive her home for my wife to baby sit for some days a week.A great vehicle at one time I had owned a 1998 SE,2002 LE and a 2011 Silver Edition which I traded in for the 2013 SL.I used to change the oil, gas up.I finally was contacted by my lawyer on Friday that Nissan has contacted him with an offer.I will post the ending to this frustrating ordeal soon.
January 16th, 2014 at 10:12 pm
I got my nissan pathfinder 13 last jan.2013…i got no problem with ky car the until i got a recall for abs! They did the recall while im on the 2nd time changing my oil. As soon as im going home and going up the hill, i felt this vibration shuddering which is unusual to me. I called them right away and told me to bring back the car to the shop so they could take a look at it. I bought them in 1, 2…then went 3, 4 to different dealership, then called again bring back to the 1st dealership and left my car for two days….wasting my time, effort, my gas, mileage….and the result is—> they cant duplicate what ive said and theres nothing that they cant do. I have my 3 kids almost everyday riding in this vehicle but then they dont care about the safety! Please help me, the vibration shudderinfg is occasionally but im the one who always experiencing it because im always driving it. Please i want them to repurchase my car unless they could fix it. Im really rally frustratwd about my so called new car!
January 22nd, 2014 at 12:36 pm
@Path_13: You need to be assertive and take the service adviser out on a ride so he can duplicate and verify the condition. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rights.html for more info on your rights.
January 29th, 2014 at 4:24 pm
i have a 2013 pathfinder bought january 30th 2013 and just experienced the shudder issue this morning. I also experienced almost like a stall when starting my vehicle. My problem is that my year is up tommorow and i am just experiencing these issues today. i just found this forum and also read the lemon law…If i get the dealership to document these issues does that mean i would still be covered under lemon law even though they will try fixing it past the expiration. i had just dropped my 2 kids off at daycare when this issue happened and i was pulling out in front of traffic. Very scared.
January 29th, 2014 at 4:45 pm
@Chuck: Get to the shop, get the car fixed. If it can not be fixed after three attempts, get in touch with us at https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and you may have a claim under Federal law. First, concentrate on having it addressed.
February 11th, 2014 at 7:03 pm
I purchased my 2013 Pathfinder in November 2012, we have already needed to replace the entire transmission, Nissan said there was a recall an replaced it for us. We are now experiencing the vehicle’s acceleration stall at low speeds. There is a 2-5 second stall and the vehicle finally moves. We’ve taken it to the dealership on numerous occasions and they cannot diagnose the problem. No one but Nissan has touched the vehicle. It has a little over 22k, I’m fed up. Any suggestions?
February 14th, 2014 at 4:46 pm
@Deanah: It’s time to reach out to a lemon law lawyer to review your rights and potential remedies. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state.
February 25th, 2014 at 5:10 pm
I purchased a 2014 Pathfinder on Nov. 21, 2013. The dealership has already replaced the transmission once due tot he shuddering and it is now doing the same thing again. It is currently sitting at the dealership. I understand there is a backlog for the transmissions there are so many that need to be replaced. This is crazy that Nissan can get away with out being accountable for the obvious defect.
February 26th, 2014 at 3:22 pm
@Ashley: Depending on the amount of time your car has been in for service, you may want to look at your lemon law rights. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html to have your claim reviewed for free.
March 1st, 2014 at 10:28 am
I purchased a new 2014 Pathfinder in Nov 2013. At About 4,000 miles the vehicle started to vibrate(shutter) usually when turning right & accelerating from slower speeds. As someone else described it feels like U are going over “rumble strips”, as found on the side of highways. At first I thought it was just rough pavement, but it is something mechanical. It almost feels like there is trans. Slippage. Does not happen on straight acceleration or at higher speeds. Does this sound like Torque converter issue. Any help or advice would be appreciated. Plan to call dealer on Monday. Currently have 6,000 miles. HM, (N. Carolina) Vehicle has FW, Auto 4W, & full 4W dr.
March 21st, 2014 at 2:36 pm
I purchased my 2013 Pathfinder SV a couple of months ago. After a couple of weeks of having it, I noticed that it shook like crazy when I slowed down and took a right turn into a parking lot, I guess this is what people are referring to the shuttering. At first, I thought it was the ground that could have been icy. It happened again, but this time the roads were clear. I called the dealer and brought it in. The service guy said that he drove it and nothing happened, so they were not able to do anything about it. I took the car back, and it’s been happened a few times randomly. It always happens when I try to accelerate and I stay under 20mpg. Once I reach 20mpg, it stops. It usually lasts abut 3-4 seconds. The worst one was yesterday, lasted a few extra seconds. I called the dealer again today and brought it in. I just got a call back from the service department, just to tell me that they found nothing wrong it. He said 2 people drove it and did not happen to them. I explained to them that it randomly happens. I asked them if anyone else has complained about this issue and he said no. I find that hard to believe, with all the complaints that I’ve been reading about, there’s no way that they have not heard any other case like this. I’m hoping that they find a solution on this and get my new car fixed.
March 26th, 2014 at 10:14 am
2013 Nissan Pathfinder with 2700 mile
I ALSO HAVE THE SAME CVT ISSUES AND NISSAN THINKS YOU HAVE LOST YOUR MIND YOUR HEARING THINGS.
THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE WILL NOTICEABLY BEGIN TO MOVE UP AND DOWN RAPIDLY AT SPEEDS OVER 60MPH–IF ITS WINDY THE MOVEMENT BECOMES EVEN WORSE. I TOOK IT THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD NISSAN IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE AND THERE IS NO FIX FOR IT. THAT THE RAPID MOVEMENT DOES NOT REPRESENT A SAFETY ISSUE SO THE CONSUMER WILL HAVE TO ACCEPT IT. I WAS NOT TOLD OR WARNED ABOUT THIS ISSUE PRIOR TO MY PURCHASING THE VEHICLE, BUT THE DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF IT. NISSAN CORP. HAD ALREADY NOTIFIED THE SERVICE DEPT. OF THE DEALERSHIPS THAT THIS WAS AN ISSUE THAT COULD NOT BE CORRECTED IN BOTH THE 2013/2014 PATHFINDERS. I HOPE THE HOOD CATCH AND MOUNTS CAN HOLD UP TO THE CONSTANT VIBRATION AND MOVEMENT. IT IS ALSO AN UNNECESSARY DISTRACTION AND UNNERVING TO THE DRIVER WHEN IT IS DRIVEN ON THE HIGHWAY.
March 28th, 2014 at 4:32 pm
I commented earlier on my new 2014 Pathfinder. Since my comment on Feb. 13, my pathfinder has been back in the shop twice. It is currently there now. They just called and said they are going to have to replace the transmission for a second time….Really….I am starting down the Lemon Law path with mine…this is crazy. I have an email from the owner of the dealship admitting there are problems and they don’t have a fix and he wishes Nissan would issue a recall.I had one Nissan technician tell me they had over 17 transmissions in their dealership alone that needed to be replaced and they are having a hard time getting replacements because of the backlog. I wish we could all get together and make public awareness of this issue. Nissan needs to be accountable!
April 3rd, 2014 at 1:51 pm
Shudder problems started at around 2.5K miles for our 2013 pathfinder. Replaced transmission at 3.5K and now it’s starting to happen again. Went to another dealership and they found nothing. File a buyback with Nissan and they refused. Today, they told me they’ll be sending me a letter of refusal. Offered me 100K powertrain warranty with 1 month’s payment to keep the car. With 4 kids, I told them I’ll be seeing them in court.
April 11th, 2014 at 9:02 pm
This is the letter I have written Nissan to express my case. I have also opened a case file with their corporate office as well. NO RESPONSE!!! And I still don’t have my 2014 pathfinder back yet.
My name is Justin Key, and I have been in automotive manufacturing for sometime now working for Hyundia, KIA, and Mercedes. I truly understand the manufacturing process and quality system due to the fact that I manage day to day operation for a large automotive manufacturing. My wife and I have always done business with Toyota purchasing more than 4 vehicles in roughly 8 years or so. I convinced my wife in purchasing a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder due to the improvement that were made to the new model change in 2014. When we purchased the vehicle it only had 24 miles on it, and that was probably just test track miles. We purchased the vehicle in February and was very excited. After driving the vehicle for a month or so we noticed that there was a sharp jerking motion when the vehicle was stopped to acceleration up to around 30 miles. My wife took the car back to the dealership and they told her that they could not duplicate the error and sent her back home. About two weeks later my wife was leaving the bank on a Friday with daughter and she was trying to pull out into the highway, and she pushed the accelerator and the vehicle did not move or anything. She released the accelerator and pressed it again and the vehicle demonstrated a strong jerking motion and more or less just through into traffic. She returned the vehicle back to the dealership a left it. They called the next day and they were able to duplicate the same type of problem. They called Nissan and Nissan said they admitted to having a serious problem with this and did not have a solution and just told the dealer to replace the torque converter and give it back to us. This is not a safe situation for my family, so I went to the dealership expressing my concerns and just wanted a even trade to just get out of that vehicle and to get into a different or the same model. They told me that the value of the vehicle had decreased and it was going to make my payment increase in a large amount. The vehicle only has 3000 miles and it is not my fault that the vehicle has a defect. This is a very unsafe situation for me and my family and I do not want any thing extra, but only just a new vehicle which I thought I was buying to begin with. For example, if you are working in an OEM and you are being supplied with transmission and you get I defect with in the manufacturing process due to a supplier defect, you will return that defect and issue a DMT or NCR and then request immediate replacement so that you can continue production. I am the customer and I have defect that I paid $35,000 out of my pocket and my families pocket. So in fair practice I should be entitled a equal trade, or the supplier should find a way to make it right. My are paying for a $35,000 vehicle and we are driving around in a $20,000 KIA as a rental. There is something about this picture that is not painted just right. I am a believer in Nissan and want to continue to be a believer. I understand that everyone manufacture makes defects and that is the point of calculating PPM, but in that process there most be countermeasure put in place to make thing right and retain the confidence of the customer base. I have opened up a case with consumer relations and I have not heard a word from them. Please support me because I should not have to concern myself with wasting $35,000.
April 22nd, 2014 at 11:47 am
@Justin: What state are you from? Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html for a free case review.
April 25th, 2014 at 12:56 am
We bought our 2014 Pathfinder Platinum (w/Premium pkge) with only 27 miles on the odometer. The transmission starting the “shuddering” issue at 19-20 mph just 2 weeks later with less than 1,000 miles on her. About 2 weeks after that, it started doing it at around 40-45 mph too. I spoke to our salesman about another topic and also asked him about the shudder, to which his answer was “it must be human error”. So, at first I just thought it was me, a fluke, or a little bug getting worked out but then it continued to happen and happen more frequently. Needless to say, I took my Pathfinder back to the dealership again for the service dept to check into it. They couldn’t duplicate the issue but they kept my car overnight to try again the next morning. That is where she is, at the dealership right now waiting for a whole new transmission. We spent $42,000 on a brand new vehicle from Nissan and we are having to deal with such a major replacement only 7 weeks after our purchase. Seriously, replacing the entire transmission at 3,000 miles? It’s ridiculous. I’m afraid of the theory “once you replace something major, a vehicle will never be the same again, it goes downhill from there”. I’m saddened and discouraged that Nissan is refusing to publicly acknowledge that there is a serious problem with the CVT. *fingers crossed* it is fixed after this, I know I still have a couple more visits after this before I qualify for the Lemon Law =(
April 30th, 2014 at 5:43 pm
I have a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder purchased in Oct 2013. I started noticing the shudder factor about 2 – 3 months after purchase. It feels as though you are going over highway rumble strips. I just passed thru 10,000 miles and was due my 2nd oil change. The problem seems to have gotten worse over time, happens mainly when turning right from a dead stop, and on wet pavement. I took it my dealer a couple of days ago, and they told me a software update had already been done (evidently for the 2014 models), and they could not duplicate the problem. I went for a test drive with the mechanic, and could not duplicate the problem. He told me they could a data monitor on the car, and keep it for a couple of days and see if they could duplicate the problem. Well, they called me today and said they were going to replace the transmission (under warranty), and they had duplicated the problem. They were very nice about it and said to keep my Loaner until they finish ( he said a couple of days after they get a new transmission. So we will see how that works. I live in NC and am familiar with the the Lemon law..Hopefully, the problem will be fixed…FYI, HHM
April 30th, 2014 at 8:35 pm
I am in the same boat. We got our 2013 Pathfinder in August. I just brought it home from the dealer for the fourth time regarding the same shuddering in the 20-35 mph window. Every time I take it in the mechanics are not able to duplicate the problem. Yesterday I even had the technician in the car with his computer plugged in. They kept the car and spoke with Nissan who said that the shuddering was part of the fuel efficiency programming built into the car. Without fail it began shuddering on my way home from the dealership. How is a bucking bronco fuel efficient. I am in a lemon law state and ready to start seriously looking into this option. This is my first new car and I certainly did not go new to have to keep going to the dealership every month. VERY FRUSTRATED!!!
May 2nd, 2014 at 8:23 pm
HI Tim,,,Understand your frustration,,,that excuse about fuel efficiency, sounds like total nonsense. In NC,,if we take it back 4 times without a fix, then we can activate the Lemon Law sequence. Make sure you keep all of your documentation. Still waiting for the call to come and get my vehicle with its new transmission, to see if this rectifies the problem. I am not overly optimistic, as it seems some of the others on this Blog have already had this done, and still have issues. I have had 3 Nissan vehicles in the past 10 years, the last two being Murano’s. I had zero problems with either of those cars, just wanted something that could tow a ski boat. Good luck with your Pathfinder. Maybe we should be calling the National Customer folks. Hal M
May 8th, 2014 at 8:17 pm
Well I bought a 2014 pathfinder 6 months ago and now has 9,000 miles and is having a new transmission being put in it as we speak. It’s doing everything that everyone is saying on here. So if you are reading this stay away they have not fixed the problem yet. Can anyone tell me if nissan ever bought the car back from having these issues of anything like that. This was my first nissan and will be my last. Oh and what can I do legal wise??? Thanks everyone.
May 13th, 2014 at 8:15 am
@Matthew: 1 800 LEMON LAW has had a number of Pathfinders bought back due to the transmission shudder. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/ and select your state to find someone who may be able to help.
May 21st, 2014 at 12:03 pm
Which state does the lemon law apply to? The state where you purchased the vehicle or where you reside?
May 21st, 2014 at 10:13 pm
I am having the same issues as everyone above. Nissan now has put in 2 new transmissions on my car. So technically the carvusbon its 3rd trans already conting the one it came with. I just had the new one put in a month ago and I’m already having issues with this one as well. When I hit the acceleration the car just jerks back and doesn’t want to go anywhere. Took the car back to the dealer and of course they can’t dupliate the issue. This is so frustrating and I feel so unsafe in my car. I have a 3 month old daughter that was in the car with me when it happened. I opened a case with Nissan to repurchase mu car. They denied it saying not enough reason for them to repurchase the car. How many transmissions will I need before they realize my car is not safe.
May 22nd, 2014 at 11:29 am
@Ania: How many days has the car been in the shop total? It’s time to look into your state’s lemon law. You can read about it by clicking here: https://www.lemonlaw.com/state-lemon-laws/
May 22nd, 2014 at 11:30 am
@Kevin: Each state is different. Read about your state’s lemon law by clicking here: https://www.lemonlaw.com/state-lemon-laws/
June 6th, 2014 at 12:54 pm
Bought my loaded 2013 Pathfinder last June 2013. Had a first slight shuddering during test drive. Didn’t make much of it. The issue hasn’t been persistent enough and I mentioned it twice during two other recalls when I brought the car to the dealer. The latest recall visit about air bag sensor (or some such thing), complained again — the dealer confirmed the problem with transmission. It took them a week to order and replace the entire transmission blaming torque converter. The dealer says that new transmission has a redesigned torque converter. It is a known issue with Pathfinders at this point and I hope they really fixed the root cause. Does anyone know what the warranty is on this power train?
June 28th, 2014 at 11:23 pm
The more I read the reviews the more I am convinced that there is a serious problem with my pathfinder that has not been addressed by Nissan.
I finally convinced my wife to buy a new SUV because we were having our second child and we’re looking for a bigger SUV, (we previously owned a Ford explorer for 13 years). We wanted a trouble free roomier & dependable car, so we purchase a 2013 SL Pathfinder in July 2013.
At first I felt a shook after 500 miles but I let it go because I thought we went over some rough pavement . My wife drives this car everyday to work and mention some kind of shuddering feeling, Then I was able to feel the shuddering at low speed between 15 and 20 mph in the expressway during stop and go traffic, it was until I surpassed 20mph that the shuttering stop. I finally took the car last March to the Nissan dealer, after my wife came one day from work and told me that the car loss power as she was entering the expressway She had pull over and then was able to continue . I took the car for a ride and in a complete stop light i was trying to accelerate but my foot was almost half way down into the pedal with no response of power . It was a very scary moment because I had cars behind me and my family inside the vehicle, moving only about 5 mph I pull over to let the cars behind me pass.
The following day I took my SUV to the Nissan dealer, The service technician and I took the car for drive and he was able to feel the shuttering . He look amazed stating he had not felt this shuddering before. We returned to the car dealer and I had to leave the car because they had to do “additional testing” to find the problem. I went home that day and started to search on line about this problem with my pathfinder and that’s when I found out that I was not the only person with this problem. I read many reviews with similar complaints as mine and apparently is coming from the transmission. As a result my pathfinder had to get a TCM reprogramming. Honestly, my wife and I are very disappointed and upset because again on 6/26/14 we had to bring in the car to the Nissan dealer for the same problem, the shuddering and trembling on and off more prominent between 15-20mph and especially when making turns. We did get a loaner because they had to keep the SUV again and this time it went as far as allowing the technician to drive it home because according to them they had to drive it longer to be able to plug in some type of device that records whatever is going wrong with the car. In our opinion this is unacceptable, There is obviously some serious problem that involves the transmission and it causes the car to lose power, which is extremely dangerous especially for my wife that has to drive this car to work 5- days a week. Nissan needs to resolve this matter once and for all!! This is not a cheap vehicle and is less than one year old, it should NOT be giving such problems, it is absurd that I have to keep wasting my time by taking my new car in and not getting the right answer or the proper solution for this problem. I’m seeking out for advice, we don’t know what to do, we want a reliable vehicle and obviously this is not a safe vehicle for my family.
July 21st, 2014 at 10:23 pm
Very disappointed, I buy the pathfinder 2014 a month ago and have the same issue. Tomorrow will be my first visit to the dealer shop. They said that need a tcm reprogramming. Any law at Puerto Rico for this kind of issue.
🙁
July 22nd, 2014 at 6:06 pm
I recently bought my 2013 Nissan Pathfinder and I complained about the issue where the car jerks upon slight acceleration. Its like ceasing and then picks up. Its dangerous because i was picking up, smooth and the jerks almost caused me to get hit. NISSAN denies the problem. They tell me they cant replicate the problem so everything must be fine. Its strange because everyone who drove my new NISSAN instantly discovered the problem. They all thought the pedal or the gasoline was the problem. To NISSAN this is NEWS. I am shocked many people online recognize this because i thought I was just strange and everyone who drove my car had a strange experience that ceases once the car gets to the dealer.
July 25th, 2014 at 7:31 am
Well, I posted earlier about my 2014 Pathfinder a couple of months ago. I took it in, & of course we could not duplicate the shudder with the mech.
riding with me. So left it with them to evaluate further. Soft ware update has previously been done (no help).
They called me 2 days later & told me they found the problem, & said I would need new trans & TC. Kept car 3 weeks ( gave me a nice loaner). That was @ 10,000 miles. At 14,000 now & so far so good. Seems fine! Hopefully this takes care of the issue. Dealer was 1st class about the issue. Michael Jordan Nissan in Durham,NC!
August 28th, 2014 at 1:59 pm
I purchased a new 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. I had the same problem. The can shakes when I accelerate. It feels like I was driving on a road full of potholes. I took it to the dealer. They found the problem in the transmission. They replaced my transmission. If you have the same problem, just take it to the dealer. There were too many complaints. The dealer knows about this problem.
September 4th, 2014 at 5:13 pm
I bought a 2013 pathfinder in February 2013 by April it started stuttering or shuddering at low speed took it to the dealer we are the only people to complain so far could find nothing wrong, came back about two weeks later same problem now other people are complaining but they have no fix told the tranny is good for 120,000 or fve years not true back and forth trying to get it fixed supposedly reprogrammed left for vacation this year gofers nuts grand junction co take it to the dealer can’t find any thing wrong on the computer but recommends new tranny that he doesn’t have return to wy still not fixed.nissan dragging there feet now have 30k on car hoping the tranny falls out and they have todo something
September 16th, 2014 at 6:00 pm
I bought my 2013 Pathfinder in October 2013. It started the shuddering one month after. I went to the dealer and they changed the whole transmission in November 2013. After that, I’ve taken to the dealer about 5 times and they just said that they couldn’t find any problem. Today, I went to the dealer again and now they found the shuddering and will change the transmission again. Also, it has the problem with the airbag in the passenger side, it have been reprograming 2 times but sometime the “passenger airbag off” is turn on when someone is sit. I really like the SUV but I need help to make a claim because I want another one. I don’t want to buy another vehicle, I just want to change for another one 2015 which has this problem fixed.
What do I have to do to make a successful claim?
Thank you in advance.
September 18th, 2014 at 3:40 pm
@Johan: I think you have a legitimate claim. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state that can help.
September 18th, 2014 at 10:56 pm
Just bought a new one pathfinder sv 2014 3 weeks ago. Been looking for a new car for couple months. Did lots of homework on others but wouldn’t you know it…not on this one! Just liked it! Bought it now freaked out a bit. Have not bought a new car in 10 years. I questioned the dealer on these issues but only after I researched after I freakin took delivery and seemingly know little about it or not an issue. My pF was built August 13th 2014 so I’m hoping it’s worked out. So far 1300 miles running great. I know that a dealer won’t likely tell you of past or current issues but I had explains to the sales rep I dropped the traverse search due to recalls on their transmission. Nothing of course came up except he loved his pf. Oh well… Lesson learned. Funny my wife passed on the PF on first look over 3 months ago without a test drive. Came around full circle after exhausted search… Now she loves it and thinks I’m crazy for being concerned. Long live the cvt on my PF…fingers crossed!
September 18th, 2014 at 11:06 pm
Oh and one more thing on my demo ride the salesman threw the transmission in reverse while I was driving down the road! I could not believe it! I figured he knew what he was doing and must be special feature of cvt or safety. He commented how I could check on tailgaters with the camera lol. Wow ! Then to hear about already issues with past cats from 2013/2014 I’m bewildered! It only felt like neutral. There are no gears so I guess it’s ok. I’ve called a half dozen alternate dealers and it was 50/50 that would not hurt anything. Never had heard of that feature but with no gears a couple said would not hurt but not advise it. Why would a salesman do something like that that was not a feature while impressive it was very scary. Then I bought the freakin same PF lol. Hey it’s been 10 years ok! I will say it’s a very nice vehicle so far and very stout. Hit a curb on a turn didn’t went up and over no issue. That was as scary as the reverse move by the salesman. But this was my dumb move on a ridiculous medium arrangement out of a parking lot. Geez…
November 18th, 2014 at 7:56 pm
I share the same problem my pathfinder only has 14K miles and purchased this vehicle this year….I’ve notice the shuddering while going through 20 mph school zones. It gets worse as time goes on….I did not notice it when it had 4K of miles. I have owned a 2003 nissan murano with 80K CVT and never seen this before. I SMH that Nissan could not get their act together on the pathfinder. I like the vehicle and the features in the pathfinder especially the CVT with gas mileage….but now am having my doubts. I will play the song and pony game with Nissan.
November 19th, 2014 at 10:50 am
@Richard: Depending on how many times you bring the car in for this, you could be looking at a potential claim. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a lemon law lawyer in your state to discuss the matter.
December 1st, 2014 at 10:19 am
Had my trans and torq converter replaced at lil over 3k miles…now have almost 6k on it and doing same thing…live in TEXAS. 2014 PATHFINDER SL…CAN ANYTHING BE DONE?
December 3rd, 2014 at 5:42 pm
What are the time frames on the lemon laws? I purchased my 2013 Pathfinder in July 2013. I do not remember when I first noticed the shudder and can’t remember every time I took it in. I’ve taken it in twice recently, to a Nissan dealer but not the one I purchased it from. They say they cannot duplicate the shudder so they can’t fix it. My husband took the mechanic for a drive and of course it didn’t do it then. So how am I supposed to get something fixed that they say they can’t fix because it doesn’t “shudder” when they drive it. We thought about selling it and looked into trading it in but we will lose $6k if we do. Frustrating to say the least because other than this stupid shudder I like the vehicle.
December 15th, 2014 at 2:36 pm
I have a 2013 pathfinder which I purchased feb of 13. I had the shuttering problem and they reprogrammed the trans. now I have an issue they I press the gas peddle on take off and the vehicle does nothing at all, i even have the pedal on the floor. The RPM’s do not go up or anything. I let go of the gas pedal and press it again and it seems to work fine. This happened once 2 weeks ago and I thought it was just me and this weekend it happened 3 times on Saturday with my wife in the vehicle and once on sunday. It is at the dealership now and they already called me stating they can not figure out the problem or duplicate it. I told them to have the technician drive it home and figure it out. i have 30k miles on the vehicle now. I have always been a nissan guy/family and this is the only vehicle I have ever had with issues.
December 17th, 2014 at 1:21 pm
@Erika: You have time to file. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a lemon law firm in your state.
December 17th, 2014 at 1:22 pm
@Ricki: Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state.
February 18th, 2015 at 12:40 am
We recently purchased a 2008 Nissan pathfinder that was previously owned and since purchasing it through a dealer we had a vibration that would occur when you come to a complete stop. If we put it into neutral it’d would go away. We took it into the dealership that we purchased the car from and they supposedly changed out the transmission but since we got it back it had a continuous vibration that sends to be worse than before taking it in!!! Any suggestions???
February 26th, 2015 at 12:41 am
Hola, yo tengo el mismo problema , el vehículo cuando arranco suave empieza una vibración fuerte, con el tiempo ha empeorado, veo muchas alternativas , pero , alguien sabe como resolverlos?
February 27th, 2015 at 1:23 pm
Purchased 2013 Pathfinder in December 2012. Each oil change I made the service department note the shudder in the engine. Each time they tried to treat my issue as something they were unaware of. Finally I told them I was not stupid and neither were they. They have a facebook site for pathfinders and it is all over the site about the same issue. I kept the car for 18 months and traded it for a 2014 Murano. The dealership tried to lowball my trade in value and I told them research my service records. It was noted on each oil change about the shudder and they had no solution. I was able to walk away with a reliable car and leave them with the Piece of Crap Pathfinder.
March 4th, 2015 at 6:34 pm
Our 2006 Pathfinder just started having this problem. It is most noticeable around 35 – 43 mph. It doesn’t matter if cruise control is on or off. It never happens when decelerating only accelerating or trying to maintain constant speed. I notice the tachometer jumps up & down a little while the shuddering is happening. I plan to bring it into my mechanic to have it checked out. Thanks to all for sharing your experiences. Unfortunately it seems to apply to older vehicles as well.
April 23rd, 2015 at 7:47 am
I purchased A used 2014 Pathfinder w/18k mls. for my wife from a large reputable used car dealer . While riding with her we felt a rumble when making a right turn and both said at the same time “did you feel that?”, she stated that sshe had felt this one other time. She had put 13k mls on the car by this time with no problems. I then noticed a difference in the sound of the car at idle , shortly after noticing this the MPG dropped from 20.9 to 19.6. We are now noticing a vibration/ rumble in the drivetrain w/a fluctuation in the RPM. I scheduled a service to have these issues checked. I will also have a recall for a secondary hood latch addressed and have 2 service bulletins that are for flashing the computers that sound relative to some of my problems. I have 2 questions. 1. Would we be notified of these service bulletins? (I’m not sure if the first owners were). 2. I live in Pa. and I am wondering that if I have to go down the lemon law road, will the law apply to a second owner?
April 29th, 2015 at 4:22 pm
@David: Most likely, this would fall under Federal Law.
September 24th, 2015 at 10:02 am
I bought my 2013 Pathfinder in December 2012. Dealer fixed the shudder issue via a recall to reprogram the computer and now my gas mileage, which was not as in the sticker (21) went from 19 mpg to 17 mpg in city.
Nissan does not have a response to my complain as the computer does not register any failire
September 24th, 2015 at 4:21 pm
I have the same problem as all the above. However it is very evident Nissan has never fixed the problem. My Pathfinder is a 2015, it lasted just 280 miles. Nissan of Wichita Falls, TX states the repairs or replacement of the transmission cannot be made for 2 weeks to a month. after telling last week it would be repaired this week. They (the service department) told be to continue driving the vehicle, the transmission won’t get any worse. I wish every “Good Luck” with there repairs!
October 8th, 2015 at 7:19 pm
I have a 2015 Nissan pathfinder sv. About a month after getting it I’m noticing shuddering when I’m going anything under 30 mph. It gets so bad that my kids get scared cuz they think my car is going to break down. There’s only 3200 miles on it. I’ve had it since June 2015. I live the vehicle otherwise but is this something serious that is going to end up costing me a fortune that i do not have?
October 23rd, 2015 at 9:27 pm
I purchased my 2014 Nissan Pathfinder in October 2013. We replaced the transmission at 20,000 miles and it’s being replaced again at 23,000 miles. Does it qualify for the lemon law? It was only in the shop about 10 days the first time and we haven’t gotten it back with the second transmission yet. Do we have to go through one more transmission to qualify?
November 22nd, 2015 at 7:59 pm
Here we go again!! In October of 2013 I purchased a brand new 2014 Nissan Pathfinder from Michael Jordan Nissan in Durham, NC. At 2000 miles the transmission did the shutter thing and the transmission was replaced by Michael Jordan service department. Case #15450446 was opened up by Nissan Corporation (useless individuals). I wanted my $32,000 back or a brand new Pathfinder. Nissan Corporation would not budge one bit other than upping my warranty on the transmission to 100,000 miles. Still was extremely mad because who wants a brand new car with transmission taken out already at 2000 miles. No way I could sell it! Well guess what, at 18000 miles that transmission went out and this time my wife barely made it to Michael Jordan Nissan without it breaking (making all kinds of noise) down on her. Still corporation would not budge one bit! Service department replaced transmission again and wife was always scared to drive it far on a trip because she was afraid it would break down on her. Well guess what, at 46000 miles that transmission had to be replace again at Michael Jordan service department. I’m on my 4th transmission at only 46000 miles on Pathfinder. Case# 20757949 is now opened up and I’m waiting on a response back from them. Response back finally!! Guess what, Nissan is giving us a brand new 2015 Pathfinder with the new software update (D-Step Shift Logic). From reading I guess that makes the transmission feel more like a shifting gears transmission. Either way I getting rid of it. Still don’t trust Nissan one bit. Still don’t trust the CVT transmissions one bit. NEWS FLASH ALSO “””””Nissans factory warranty is 5yrs/60k miles. Nissan all over the country now has a lifetimepowertrain guarantee (engine/TRANSMISSION) “””””””
August 22nd, 2016 at 2:08 pm
My 2013 pathfinder is on its 3rd transmission in 3 years! How is this possible I want this car gone, but of course we own more then it’s worth now so we can’t even trader it in or sell it! So frustrated with Nissan!
August 25th, 2016 at 2:20 pm
@Kristy: I would certainly look into your state lemon law and federal warranty rights. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state.
October 12th, 2016 at 2:10 am
I purchased Pathfinder in June 2013. Within the first month, I felt the shuddering and took it back to dealership and they said, its fine and no issues. Later, it happened to me several times.
Just after the warranty expiration, I was going to rear end due to sudden loss of power. I took an exit from freeway and merge to the traffic, and there is no power. Fortunately, the following vehicle switched the lane and I had to wait for 20-25 secs to gain power.
I took the vehicle to dealership and they replaced some sensor charging me around $300. I told them that this problem has been happening when the vehicle was in warranty, but they said we cannot do anything. I am really pissed off with Nissan even after owning 2 vehicles, 09 Altima and 13 Pathfinder.
November 8th, 2016 at 9:55 am
Hi. I bought a used 2014 nissan pathfinder which still has the power train warranty I am below the 60k miles, I currently have about 46k miles on the vehicle. I am experiencing the shudder jutter , shaking of the transmission while driving at low speed. it usually happens when car is at stop and when I try to accelerate gradually to 20mphs and car will shake like a washing machine or as others mentioned going over tiny speed bumps on the highway. if the dealership fails to reproduce or fix the problem what are my options ? I did not buy the car new.
Thanks
November 20th, 2016 at 4:55 pm
I have the same problem on my 2015 Pathfinder. It shakes at under 15 mph.I love the car but it is sad that this happens in a kind of new car (under 30000 miles).I am planning to take it to the dealership because it is under waranty but I doubt they can do any fix.I will try to stay away from cvt transmitions in the future.
December 5th, 2016 at 4:35 pm
@Ken: Make sure that every time you go to the dealer, you get a repair invoice illustrating that you have been continuously bringing this to their attention and keep pushing. If you need to go to another Nissan dealer, do it. Sometimes, it takes a lot of persistence.
December 12th, 2016 at 9:25 am
@lemonLaw , I had bought the car to the dealer and they did some repairs and it looks like problem is fixed. but I am worried that this is a band-aid fix and problem will start again once my warranty is up. will I still have a case once warranty is up ?
December 14th, 2016 at 3:37 pm
@Ken: If you have repetitive repairs for the issue, I would still look into your rights. Even if the car is fixed, you still may have a valid claim and be entitled to compensation.
December 24th, 2016 at 9:19 pm
Hope this site is still monitored. I have a 2013 Pathfinder. 46,000 miles never had noticeable transmission problems. During recent trip to dealer they did a recall check on trans,said they code read in a way that means I get a new transmission.Apparently at no costs to me. Any thoughts or advice before they proceed?
December 26th, 2016 at 12:17 pm
I am having similar problems. After several trips to the dealer regarding my car stalling and not appearing to get in and out of gears I have found the below thread. It appears that the issues are being diagnosed as transmission related (which I am sure it is the root cause for several of the problems). However, I think some of the problems experienced by several Nissan owners may have to do with the fuel pump and mis-diagnosed:
Look for the thread mentioning “Problem Solved” at the forum below:
https://www.pathfindertalk.com/forum/87-pathfinder-warranty-service-issues/3745-fuel-starvation-issue-pump-injectors.html
Has anyone had the same issue and or resolution?
January 10th, 2017 at 4:51 pm
@Tom: Proceed and make sure you get a detailed invoice outlining the repair for your files.
March 8th, 2017 at 10:09 am
GM. We bought a 2013 pathfinder and recently we have been having the same issues everyone had. The transmission shuddering and not accelelating. It is super scary and dangerous when you are driving the car. We’ve brough in the car one time to Auto Nation Nissan and the ” fixed” the problem. Well my car is again with them and furthermore they kept the car for almost four weeks not. they said that they transmission is in back order.
I have been reading a lot of info and complains and it seems that the problem comes back. the transmission that they are replacing the defected ones are still having the same problems.
I don’t feel safe driving my car anymore, specially with my kids. I would like to get a new car, or trade it in for another that they know will not put my life or my family’s life in danger.
Can you let us know what are our chances of getting the a new car with Nissan without any problems now that we have leverage? I don’t want to sell this car to another person knowing that this could kill someone.
thanks so much
Ana
March 31st, 2017 at 3:14 pm
@Ana: You need to speak with a lawyer. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state.
June 9th, 2017 at 2:52 am
Hi I have a 2007 Nissan pathfinder with 121000 milles I have the same problem transmission problem I have done a lot research about it an I am not the only one with this matter
July 27th, 2017 at 3:07 am
Hey all same thing at 13 k one valve and chain replacement, and now a transmission. I know its only been 2 repairs but they have had it for already 30 days and crashed in the front bumper in their lot. Think i have a lemon case or just keep waiting for ky car? Thanks
July 27th, 2017 at 12:18 pm
2014 pathfinder 13 k in 30 days but 7 of those day’s are body repair does that count, also two repairs done. They crashed it in the dealership. Think I can win a lemon
November 27th, 2017 at 10:55 am
I’m having the same issue with my 2013 Pathfinder. I have a little over 64K miles. I took it to the Nissan dealership where I purchased it and they are telling me their machine isn’t kicking back a code, therefore I have to keep driving it until a code appears. My transmission warranty will expire once I got 84K miles. What can I do? Nissan is not helping at all.
July 23rd, 2018 at 8:20 am
Still issues seems to be 2013-2015 models based off the forum and internet reported issues. Our 2015 Pathfinder that we bought new started doing this shutter roughly around 20,000 miles but only did it once every few months so it it was very difficult to reproduce. Now with 55,156 miles on it it can be duplicated daily and has gotten worst over the past 3-4 months. Called my local dealer and they reported no tech bulletins or recalls for the my issue but said Nissan was replacing transmissions on Pathfinders with less than 60,000 miles under a special warranty. Current today our Pathfinder is in the shop this week getting the transmission replaced. When asked I was told the new transmission will come with a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty. The service writer told me that Nissan had improved the transmissions and that we shouldn’t have any other issues with ours.