Transmission Troubles: Navigating the Pitfalls of Problematic Powertrains

Nov 18, 2024 at 5:00 AM
In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, the transmission system plays a crucial role in the overall performance and reliability of a vehicle. However, not all transmissions are created equal, and some models have gained a notorious reputation for their subpar designs. Car enthusiast and reviewer Bev (@bevurly) has taken to TikTok to shed light on five vehicles that he believes are plagued by the "absolute worst transmissions" on the market.

Uncovering the Transmission Troubles: A Cautionary Tale for Car Buyers

Nissan Altima: The Curse of the CVT

Bev's first target is the Nissan Altima, which he claims is burdened by a continuously variable transmission (CVT) design that is "junk, trash, [and] terrible." According to the reviewer, Nissan stands out as the "biggest culprit" when it comes to these problematic transmissions, which have caused ongoing frustration for owners. Lemon Law Help corroborates this sentiment, stating that "CVT transmission issues are among the worst problems facing this particular car model."The Altima's CVT woes are not limited to Bev's assessment. Industry experts have also highlighted the transmission's shortcomings, with reports of issues such as loss of power, loud revving sounds without accompanying bursts of power, and overheating. These persistent problems have led many car buyers to steer clear of the Altima, wary of the potential headaches that may arise from its transmission.

Chevy Traverse: A Transmission Thorn in the Side

Next on Bev's list is the Chevy Traverse, which he describes as "notorious for bad transmissions, especially like older models." This sentiment is echoed by other car experts, who have identified transmission issues as one of the most common problems faced by Traverse owners.According to Slash Gear, Traverse owners have reported a range of transmission-related problems, including "loss of power while driving, loud revving sounds without accompanying burst of power, overheating," and more. These issues can not only be frustrating for drivers but can also compromise the overall performance and reliability of the vehicle.

Ford Focus: The Dual-Clutch Dilemma

Bev's third target is the Ford Focus, which he criticizes for its "terrible, emphasis on terrible" dual-clutch transmission. The reviewer points out that Ford has installed this transmission in other models as well, but the Focus remains the most notorious for its transmission woes.The issues with the Ford Focus's dual-clutch transmission have been well-documented. Car and Driver reported in 2019 that the 2012–2016 Ford Focus dual-clutch automatic transmission is the subject of a class-action lawsuit. The main problem, according to the site, is a "shuddering feeling while accelerating from a stop, followed by a rough 102 upshift that again sends a vibration throughout the vehicle."

Infiniti QX60: Nissan's CVT Curse Strikes Again

Bev's next target is the Infiniti QX60, which he claims is plagued by the same "junk" CVT transmission found in Nissan vehicles. As Nissan owns Infiniti, the reviewer advises consumers to "avoid the older Infinitis with the CVTs as well."Lemon Law Experts corroborates Bev's concerns, stating that "Certain 2019 Infiniti QX60 models are equipped with Nissan's notorious continuously variable transmission (CVT)." The most common problems associated with the Infiniti QX60's CVT include "jerking, shuddering, hesitation, overheating, and complete transmission failure."

Nissan Rogue: The Worst of the Worst

Rounding out Bev's list is the Nissan Rogue, which he claims has the "worst of all of the other CVT transmissions." The reviewer suggests that the Rogue's larger weight and mass likely contributed to its frequent transmission failures, further exacerbating the already problematic CVT design.While some viewers have shared positive experiences with Nissan vehicles, including the Altima, the overwhelming consensus seems to be that the brand's CVT transmissions are a significant source of concern. Maintenance and proper care may help mitigate some of these issues, but the inherent design flaws appear to be a persistent problem that many car buyers would do well to avoid.