Transmission Issues & Cooler Installation in 2009 Nissan Rogue with CVT Transmission

Question:

Good afternoon, I own a 2009 Nissan Rogue, and I have been encountering loss of power on long drives wont go past 80km/h after 2-3 hours of driving, along with a whining that starts at this time. I keep reading that this is a common occurrence with 2008-2014 Nissan Rogues, due to the CVT overheating the transmission fluid and triggering a limp mode. As my mileage is over the extended warranty kilometers for a replacement transmission, I was thinking of having this installed to cool the transmission. I am looking at your Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient, Item # D13503, which does say it is compatible with my model. Can you confirm that this would be a good solution to the issue, and that all parts are included for installation to my model? Thanks!

asked by: Arwen B

Expert Reply:

CVT transmissions can pose a challenge for installation of an aftermarket auxiliary transmission cooler like the Derale # D13503. It can be tough to find the external return line (from the radiator's integrated cooler) which is where a Derale unit will be installed. Some Nissan CVT transmissions are completely sealed, with no way to access the fluid at all. The other issue is that some CVT fluid is very costly and in some cases you may need to spend a substantial amount on fluid for the system which now will have a higher fluid volume capacity due to the cooler core and hoses.

If you can find an external return line which takes cooled fluid back to the transmission then you can install a cooler like # D13503 to further drop its temperature. This kit includes all parts needed to mount it. You will first need to confirm that your Rogue has external lines that will allow you to tap into the system.

According to our several techs I spoke to Nissan transmissions are not exactly renowned for their durability. So if you have 200,000 miles on the vehicle, and/or if you tow near its maximum capacity, then the issue may simply be a worn out transmission. A cooler will not correct for existing wear or damage but it will help a transmission in good condition stay that way.

expert reply by: Adam R