Summary
- 10 models have severe transmission problems, including CVTs and faulty automatics.
- Common issues include CVT overheating, shuddering, slipping, and high repair costs.
- Alternatives like Toyota, Honda, and Lexus offer greater reliability and longevity.
- Notable examples include 2013+ Chevrolet Traverse and 2016+ Nissan Altima with issues.
The transmission is one of the most complex and costly components of a car. A major transmission failure can mean thousands of euros in repair, and some car models are known for recurring problems in this area. In this guide we analyzed data from Car Guide and owners’ experiences to identify the 10 cars with the most serious transmission problems.
Before making a decision to buy a used car, it is essential to know these problematic models and the recommended alternatives. If you are looking for a reliable car, this article will help you avoid costly repairs.
10. Chevrolet Traverse (2013+) - Transmission durability issues
Estimated mileage until major failures: 175,000–225,000 km
Common problems:
- Weakening of internal components of the automatic transmission
- Gears slip or stick during engagement
- Oil leaks from the transmission
Alternative recommended:
- Toyota Highlander offers superior reliability and can easily exceed 300,000 km with proper maintenance.
9. Nissan Altima (2016+) - Short lifespan
Estimated mileage until major failures: under 100,000 km
Common problems:
- CVT transmission operates unevenly
- Unusual noises (whining, vibrations)
- Loss of power during acceleration
- Delayed or abrupt gear shifts
Alternative recommendations:
- Toyota Camry - proven reliability, can exceed 400,000 km
- Volkswagen Passat - DSG or traditional automatic transmission, more durable
8. Nissan Rogue (2011-2012) - Frequent repairs
Estimated mileage: 200,000 km (with frequent repairs)
Common problems:
- CVT transmission overheating
- Delayed or uneven acceleration
- Vibrations at steady speeds
- Need for complete transmission replacement between 120,000-180,000 km
Alternative recommendations:
- Honda CR-V - classic automatic transmission, extremely reliable
- Toyota RAV4 - few owners report transmission problems up to 300,000 km
7. Infiniti QX60 (2014) - High maintenance cost for a luxury SUV
Estimated mileage until major failures: under 150,000 km
Common problems:
- CVT that requires full replacement
- Very high repair costs (8,000-12,000 euros)
- Vibrations and noises on acceleration
- Loss of power in traffic
Alternative recommended:
- Lexus RX offers Toyota’s legendary reliability in a premium package, with traditional automatic transmissions that can easily exceed 300,000 km.
6. Ford Fiesta (2011-2014) - Faulty PowerShift transmission
Estimated mileage: 235,000 km (with frequent problems)
Common problems:
- Shudders at startup and in slow traffic
- Complete loss of traction
- Sudden and unpredictable gear changes
- Premature clutch wear
- Repeated software resets required
Alternative recommendations:
- Honda Fit - spacious, economical and extremely reliable
- Hyundai Accent - extended warranty and reduced maintenance costs
5. Nissan Murano (2011/2013) - Problematic CVT
Estimated mileage until major failures: 200,000 km
Common problems:
- Transmission that “slips” during acceleration
- Rattling noises from the transmission
- Elevated transmission fluid temperature
- Repair costs between 5,000-8,000 euros
Alternative recommendations:
- Ford Edge - more reliable traditional automatic transmission
- Toyota Highlander - industry-standard reliability in the segment
4. Kia Forte (2019) - Premature problems
Estimated mileage until major failures: 20,000-40,000 km (!)
Common problems:
- Complete transmission failure at very low mileage
- Metallic noises from the transmission
- Inability to shift gears
- Warranty-covered issues but a negative ownership experience
Alternative recommendations:
- Honda Civic - decades of proven reliability
- Toyota Corolla - the most reliable compact on the market
- Kia Soul - paradoxically much more reliable than Forte
3. Ford Focus (2012-2017) - The PowerShift saga continues
Estimated mileage: variable, issues starting from low mileage
Common problems:
- Clutches wearing out prematurely
- Severe shudder in urban traffic
- Complete loss of traction
- Sudden and unpredictable gear changes
- Burning clutch smell
- Repair costs between 3,000-6,000 euros
Alternative recommendations:
- Honda Civic - reliable CVT or manual transmission
- Toyota Corolla - reliability leader
- Mazda 3 - classic automatic transmission, enjoyable to drive
2. Nissan Pathfinder (2012-2014) - Major CVT problems
Estimated mileage until major failures: 90,000–175,000 km
Common problems:
- Complete CVT failure
- Constant whine noises
- Delayed or nonexistent acceleration
- CVT overheating under load
- Replacement costs between 6,000-10,000 euros
Alternative recommended:
- Toyota Highlander remains the safe choice for a reliable family SUV, with traditional automatic transmissions that easily exceed 400,000 km.
1. Nissan Sentra (2012, 2013, 2015) - The most problematic model
Estimated mileage until major failures: just over 100,000 km
Common problems:
- CVT requiring multiple replacements
- Complete power loss while driving
- Unusual mechanical noises
- Gears that slip constantly
- Cumulative repair costs exceeding the car’s value
- Class-action complaints in several countries
Alternative recommendations:
- Honda Civic - the most reliable compact in its class
- Toyota Corolla - globally recognized reliability
- Mazda 3 - classic automatic transmission, zero reported issues
Conclusion - How to avoid transmission problems
Brands to avoid for transmission issues:
- Nissan (7 in 10 models on the list) - CVT problems are systematic
- Ford (PowerShift models 2011-2017)
Brands recommended for reliability:
- Toyota - undisputed leader in transmission reliability
- Honda - very reliable CVT and automatic transmissions
- Mazda - prefers traditional automatic transmissions
Tips for buyers:
- Verify service history – look for evidence of preventive transmission maintenance
- Avoid Nissan CVT – repair costs are prohibitive
- Prefer traditional automatic transmissions over dual-clutch or CVT for used cars
- Do a thorough test drive – listen carefully for transmission noises
- Check specialized forums – learn common issues before buying
- Check warranty – some manufacturers have extended warranties for problematic transmissions
Before buying any used car, invest in a professional inspection that includes a thorough check of the transmission. The cost of an inspection (100-200 euros) is negligible compared to the cost of a new transmission (3,000-12,000 euros).
Note: a car with transmission problems is never a good deal, no matter how attractive the price may seem.
