NHTSA Complaint #11642622 — 2017 NISSAN SENTRA

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) in my vehicle failed prematurely, leading to significant safety concerns. The car experienced severe jerking, hesitation, and loss of power while driving, especially at highway speeds. Eventually, the transmission stopped functioning properly, making it unsafe to drive. There were no warning lights, messages, or dashboard indicators to alert me of any issues before the failure. A dealership confirmed that the transmission fluid was burnt, contaminated with metal shavings, and the internal components had failed. However, due to the vehicle’s design, the CVT fluid is sealed and inaccessible to consumers for routine checks or maintenance, meaning the issue was undetectable until complete failure occurred. This defect poses a serious risk, as many drivers have reported sudden power loss, delayed acceleration, and unexpected breakdowns in traffic. Nissan has had a history of CVT failures in previous models, leading to warranty extensions, but similar issues persist in newer models without proper acknowledgment. If left unaddressed, this could lead to more drivers experiencing dangerous situations on the road.