Nissan Versa Transmission Problems and their Solutions

There are some Nissan Versa transmission problems that you should know about.

The Nissan Versa is quite underrated when you look at what it brings to the table for its price. One of its salient features is its good reliability, which is compromised sometimes due to starting problems, clicking noises, and clutch issues.

Amongst the complaints by its owners, there also exist several Nissan Versa transmission problems. These include but aren’t limited to several types of transmission noises, tachometer fluctuations, a bad torque convertor, a host of CVT problems, and leakages. A common issue is when the vehicle doesn’t go into gear and there are a number of reasons for this.

Before you take your Versa to a mechanic, make sure to check out the symptoms here:

Transmission Noises

Various noises can come from the gearbox of the Versa. These are the signs of bad components or much worse; they indicate that the transmission could fail soon.

Symptoms: The whining noises are the most common and they indicate either low gearbox fluid, or problems with the torque convertor. A clunking noise is much more serious and could indicate a bad transmission mount, or signs of early transmission failure, if you’ve got a CVT.

Solution: For whining noises, you should have the car’s transmission checked for leaks. Otherwise, then you need to have the torque convertor diagnosed (if there’s slipping as well). For the clunking noises, ensure that they’re not caused by the engine or the struts before looking at the transmission.

Cost: Because there are several types of transmission leaks, the cost can vary from $150 to $1800. If you’re looking at a new transmission, then you could be spending up to $3500 for more recent models.

Tachometer Jumps

Random changes in the RPM values can also take place on your Versa, which is quite dangerous. These are also caused due to the transmission, and are commonplace on the CVT.

Symptoms: You’ll notice the tachometer readings randomly jumping along with jolts, clunking sounds and shuddering.

Solution: You’ll have to get your vehicle’s belt pulleys replaced as they’re damaged.

Cost: The cost of parts in this case is about $600-700. Adding labor costs to the equation bumps this up to $4000.

Bad Torque Convertor

There are other Nissan Versa transmission problems, which include a troublesome torque convertor. This is one of the distinguishing features of an automatic gearbox and it is quite important.

Symptoms: In the case of a bad torque convertor, you’ll get the P0740 error code. Owners have observed transmission slipping and that their Versa stalls out, even at highway speeds.

Solution: You’ll have to get the convertor checked out to see if it can be repaired.

Cost: Replacing the whole assembly is pricey. The convertor costs between $1000 and $1800. Expect at least $500 for the labor costs if you don’t do the job yourself.

CVT Problems

The CVT on the Versa has proven to be the most problematic out of all its transmissions. There is a host of problems with it that turn out to be quite expensive.

Symptoms: While some drivers complain about performance issues and shuttering; what’s more common is the CVT failing prematurely.

Solution: The only recommended solution to the issue is transmission replacement.

Cost: The cost varies from $800 to about $2800, depending on the CVT you’re looking for. Adding labor to the mix could take it all the way up to $3500.

Transmission Leaks

Leakages are also some of the more common Nissan Versa transmission problems. The fluid can leak out and this has adverse effects on the gearbox.

Symptoms: Of course, you’ll notice visible leaks where your Versa has been parked. Apart from them, you’ll also get clunking sounds, grinding gears, and more.

Solution: You’ll have to identify where the leak is. If there is a bad O-ring, gasket, or line; replace it.

Cost: The fix should be quite cheap since a gasket should only cost about $36.

Miscellaneous Problems

The Versa is also prone to a couple of other transmission problems, which have been discussed in detail here. The reasons for them include a broken linkage, bad synchronizers, or a failed computer. A worn-out clutch can also be the culprit if the vehicle is manual.

Symptoms: While all of these issues have their own differing symptoms, a major one that’s common among them is when your Versa doesn’t go into gear.

Solution: You can replace some of the aforementioned parts such as the synchronizers and the clutch. The computer can be reset while the damage to the linkage has to be analyzed in depth.

Cost: The synchronizers are cheap, costing no more than $63. However, the parts required for a clutch replacement will set you back by $600. Check for the labor costs in your region. In

Conclusion

The more recent versions of the Nissan Versa have been plagued with transmission problems. The most commonly reported ones have been discussed in this article. You should definitely take a look at them before heading to a technician or going the DIY route.

To read more about our maintenance and repair tips, check out: https://automotive-articles.com/car-maintenance-tips

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