The Good, Bad & Ugly About Nissan’s 9 Speed Transmission

In this article, we explore the strengths, common issues, and ongoing efforts to address the problems with Nissan’s 9-speed transmission.

Whether you’re already a Nissan owner or considering a vehicle with this transmission, this guide will provide valuable insights into what you can expect from the driving experience and potential safety issues.

Which Vehicles Come with the Nissan 9 Speed Transmission?

Nissan’s 9-speed automatic transmission is featured in several models, enhancing performance, fuel efficiency, and driving experience:

• Nissan Frontier: Introduced in the 2020 model year, paired with a 3.8-liter V6 engine.
• Nissan Titan: This full-size pickup truck adopted the 9-speed transmission starting in 2020.
• Nissan Pathfinder: Transitioned from a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to the 9-speed automatic in 2022.
• Nissan Z: The latest generation of the sports car features this transmission.
• Infiniti QX60: Also equipped with this transmission, developed by JATCO for greater efficiency and responsiveness.

What Issues Do Owners Typically Experience with the Nissan 9 Speed Transmission?

Despite its advantages, owners of vehicles with the Nissan 9-speed transmission have reported several recurring issues:

• Hesitation and Lag: A noticeable delay in acceleration, especially from a stop, which can be both frustrating and potentially hazardous.
• Jerking and Lurching: The vehicle may jerk or lurch, particularly at low speeds or during gear changes.
• Hard Shifting: Some owners have reported harsh or abrupt shifts, especially when downshifting or transitioning through the lower gears.
• Clunking Noises: Many have complained of clunking sounds during gear shifts, which can be unsettling.
• Shift Shock: Sudden, harsh shifts that disrupt the driving experience and make transitions feel jarring.

These issues have led to the issuance of multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and even a class action lawsuit as owners seek solutions to these persistent problems.

If you’re facing any of these issues, visiting your local Nissan dealer for a diagnostic check might help determine if any TSBs apply to your vehicle.

Problem #1 Hesitation & Lag

• What It Is: A delay in acceleration, especially noticeable from a stop.
• Possible Causes: Transmission control module (TCM) software glitches, faulty sensors, or internal transmission issues.
• Symptoms: A noticeable delay in acceleration, particularly from a stop or low speeds.
• Potential Fix: Reprogramming the TCM, updating software, or replacing faulty sensors.

Problem #2 Jerking & Lurching

• What It Is: Sudden, jerky movements during gear shifts.
• Possible Causes: Problems with the transmission valve body, software glitches in the TCM, or hydraulic issues.
• Symptoms: Jerking or lurching during gear changes, especially at low speeds.
• Potential Fix: Replacing the transmission valve body, reprogramming the TCM, or addressing hydraulic issues.

Problem #3 Harsh Shifting

• What It Is: Abrupt, harsh transitions between gears.
• Possible Causes: Worn transmission components, TCM calibration issues, or low transmission fluid.
• Symptoms: Abrupt gear shifts, particularly when downshifting or transitioning through the first few gears.
• Potential Fix: Replacing worn components, recalibrating the TCM, or ensuring proper fluid levels.

Problem #4 Clunking Noises

• What It Is: Loud, unsettling sounds during gear shifts.
• Possible Causes: Loose or damaged transmission parts, drivetrain issues, or low fluid levels.
• Symptoms: Clunking noises during gear shifts or while driving.
• Potential Fix: Tightening or replacing loose parts, inspecting the drivetrain, and checking fluid levels.

Problem #5 Shift Shock

• What It Is: Abrupt, hard shifts that disrupt smooth driving.
• Possible Causes: Software issues with the TCM, mechanical problems within the transmission, or improper fluid levels.
• Symptoms: Abrupt and harsh shifts, particularly noticeable when transitioning between gears.
• Potential Fix: Updating TCM software, addressing mechanical issues, or checking fluid levels.

Is There a Nissan 9 Speed Transmission Recall?

As of now, there has been no official recall for the Nissan 9-speed transmission. However, several TSBs have been issued to address ongoing transmission concerns:

• November 2020 (NTB20-077): For 2020 Frontier and 2020-2021 Titan trucks, advising valve body replacement.
• April 2021 (NTB21-028): Addressed delayed acceleration in 2020 Nissan Titan models.
• August 2021 (NTB21-073): Focused on hesitation and shift shock in 2020-2021 Frontier trucks.
• September 2021 (NTB21-086): Addressed A/T warning lights in certain Titan and Frontier models.

These bulletins primarily involve software updates and reprogramming the TCM but have not fully resolved all issues.

Is There a Nissan 9 Speed Transmission Lawsuit?

Yes, there is an ongoing class action lawsuit, Boone et al. v. Nissan North America, Inc., that involves the 2020-2021 Nissan Titan and Frontier models.

The plaintiffs allege that the GE9R01A 9-speed transmission is prone to hesitation, lag, jerking, and lurching, all of which create significant safety concerns.

These issues have reportedly led to unintended acceleration and difficulties in maintaining consistent speeds, posing potential risks for drivers.

The lawsuit asserts that Nissan was aware of these defects but chose to address them through software updates and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) rather than issuing a recall.

If you are experiencing similar issues with your Nissan, consulting a legal professional could help you better understand your rights and available options.

How the Lemon Law Can Help Your Nissan 9 Speed Transmission Problems

If you’re struggling with persistent transmission issues in your Nissan vehicle and have not received satisfactory assistance from the dealership or manufacturer, it may be time to explore your legal options.

A qualified lemon law attorney can help you pursue compensation, a replacement vehicle, or a refund if your vehicle qualifies as a lemon under the law.

The Lemon Law Experts specialize in helping individuals navigate lemon law claims and secure the best possible outcome.

Since 2009, we’ve supported clients in understanding their rights and finding effective solutions to automotive problems, including cases involving Nissan vehicles.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts to learn how we can assist you with the transmission issues affecting your Nissan—your path to a resolution starts here.

If you have been dealing with ongoing problems with your Nissan’s 9-speed transmission and the manufacturer or dealership has not provided a satisfactory solution, you may be entitled to relief under Lemon Law. This could include a refund, a replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement.

With extensive experience handling cases related to Nissan’s transmission problems, our team is ready to support you.

Contact the Lemon Law Experts today to discuss your situation and take the first step toward resolving your Nissan’s 9-speed transmission issues.