2018 Nissan Altima: Cvt failure
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2018 Altima report: cvt failure. CarComplaints.com lists 1 owner complaints, average mileage 98,000 miles.
NHTSA has 24 owner complaints for the 2018 Altima in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11768824 (filed 10/04/2026): “While operating my 2018 nissan altima on september 19, 2026, at approximately 9:20 a.m., during daytime highway traffic, the vehicle suffered a sudden and complete loss of propulsion, leaving me entirely immobilized on a highway ramp with no ability to acceler…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11748872 (filed 07/07/2026): “I am currently experiencing cvt failure as of i have filed a case with the nissan consumer affairs unit, case number 56846043. i was advised that even though there was a class action suit in 2022 for cvt issues, my cvt warranty extension expired on 12/09/2024…”
Likely causes
Sources do not establish a single root cause; diagnosis is needed. Owner-reported fixes are listed below.
Fix, in plain English
Most common owner-reported solutions on CarComplaints.com: replace transmission (1 reports). Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
CarComplaints.com owners report a typical repair cost of about $6,500 (owner-reported average, not a quote).
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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