Why Nissan CVTs FAIL

Here’s an in-depth look inside a continuously variable transmission, how it works and what some of the common causes of failures are.

The continuously variable transmission made it to the mainstream thanks to Nissan’s push for CVT’s in its front wheel drive vehicles 18 years ago with the Nissan Murano. CVT’s employ the use of a steel belt with adjustable pulleys to achieve various drive ratios. Since the pulleys do not have steps or stages like a traditional automatic, manual or dual clutch transmission, it can continuously shift input / output ratios without abrupting power flow.

Nissan’s CVT’s have been the topic of many due to its extremely high failure rate. In this video, a continuously variable transmission from a 2006 Nissan Murano is taken apart, torn down and dissected to see how individual components are like and how they function as part of the transmission. We also discuss failure modes, advantages and disadvantages of Nissan’s CVT’s what you should do if you own a vehicle with one.

Skip to section in the video:
0:00 Introduction
1:02 Teardown
9:05 CVT Belt System
15:01 Failure Modes
16:54 Advantages and disadvantages
18:37 Final Thoughts

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[stout]

he taught an entire class on CVT transmissions via a toothbrush...

[drwhipit]

Note to self: Don't leave any laundry around this guy.

[erubielalanis]

I don't even have a vehicle with a CVT but this was so well done that i watched the whole video.

[mcakshar]

I work for the company that makes the CVT belts. Its amazing how complex that belt is given its unassuming simple look. Its the most vital link.

[jimandbeth]

Well done! I worked on Nissans for about 40 years and this guy should be working at a factory training center. This is one of the best classes I have ever seen and done with little to no equipment. Bravo!

[cowfrank]

How is it possible that you explained such a complex mechanism so complete and clear in less than 20 minutes? You even made it humorous.

[nodnarbuho]

9:32-11:51 showing how the diameters change is one of the best and most helpful explanations of the CVT I've seen. Great work!

[KingZoneOne]

You make by far the absolute BEST videos I've ever seen! Straight to the points, no excessive banter, filler, fluff, or unrelated rambling on. Very concise and detailed. Thank you!!

[bryanstellfox]

I love that he points everything out with an oil covered, destroyed bristle, bright green Oral B toothbrush haha

[aticusaticus]

jeez, this guy knows his stuff, nissan should employ him. no hesitation in his presentation, clear and precise. i could listen to him all day.

[kevinm]

Finally, someone who is able to demonstrate how a CVT in a way that makes sense to me! What a great video!

[admiral_marc]

This was amazing. I never knew I wanted to know any of this, but you're SO intelligent, know exactly what you're talking about and don't have a boring slow delivery. Bravo!!

[robpelick]

Has to be one of the best videos explaining how a CVT transmission works

...now really impress us and put it back together

[MdubFrederson]

OMG thatnk you for editing and speaking quickly. I actually watched your whole video because you kept things moving. Lots of people would make this a 1.5hr video which is PAINFUL to watch. Well done!

[davidkennedy]

I’m on my 4th Nissan with a CVT transmission. Never had a problem with any of them. The three before my current Murano I put over 200, 000 miles on them, regular maintenance is the key. I even put a hitch on one and towed a trailer with it. Drove it to Florida from Alberta three times, I’m sure that most of these issues are preventable my getting the vehicle serviced regularly. Spend a little now or spend a lot later.

[Nyck]

This is a great video where he explains everything about this sophisticate transmission. Very informative and specially when he talks about how drivers should take care while driving and those stop and go.
Great video. Congratulations for your very nice job.

[allenc.christy]

I learned so much from this video that I never had any idea about when it comes to CVT's. This man apparently is an absolute CVT expert and was a pleasure to listen to. Thank you.

[PIPEFITTERENGINEER]

I used to rebuild automatics, that motivated me to drive manual.

[colincarter]

This guy has the most straightforward, clear, entertaining explanation that I've ever encountered. Highly recommended.

[hbsbos]

the knowledge I gained about the CVT is good but this gentleman is an absolute best in how eloquently described and edited this video. my has is off to you Sir.