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Nissan Rogue: Problems by Year, Recalls and Repair Costs

By the Boca Auto Care Editorial Team 路 Reviewed October 28, 2026 路 How we write guides

Known problems by yearGet repair quotes
Short answer

Whether a used Rogue is a good buy depends mostly on its year and its CVT history. 2011-2013 and 2014-2018 Rogues have the most transmission complaints, and the extended CVT coverage on those years has run out. 2021 and later Rogues have far fewer CVT reports so far, but 2022-2025 models with the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo three-cylinder have engine recalls that must be done.

RepairPal rates the Rogue 4.0 out of 5, 13th of 26 compact SUVs, with average unscheduled repairs near $467 a year and a 12 percent chance that a repair is a major one. That puts it in the middle of its class: cheaper to run than many rivals day to day, with a bigger tail risk when the transmission goes.

Every Rogue sold in the US has used a continuously variable transmission. The first two generations used Nissan's 2.5-liter four, and the third generation moved to a turbocharged three-cylinder with variable compression from 2022. Complaint counts on CarComplaints peak at 209 for the 2013, stay between about 119 and 169 for 2014-2016, then drop to 27 for 2019, 15 for 2020 and low double digits since.

This page lays out the CVT record by year as fairly as the evidence allows. Some years were genuinely bad, some were average, and the newest have not been on the road long enough to judge completely.

Nissan Rogue generations

Third generation (T33)

2021-present
2.5-liter four, 181 hp, for 2021; 1.5-liter VC-Turbo three-cylinder, 201 hp, from 2022; CVT throughout

Refreshed for 2024. A plug-in hybrid based on the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was added for 2026. VC-Turbo cars are covered by engine bearing, oil breakdown and throttle body recalls.

Second generation (T32)

2014-2020
2.5-liter QR25DE four, 170 hp, with CVT; Rogue Hybrid 2017-2019 with a 2.0-liter four and an electric motor

The best-selling Rogue generation and the one most Boca shoppers will find. 2014-2018 models were covered by a class action CVT warranty extension that has now expired. The smaller Rogue Sport is a different vehicle.

First generation (S35)

2008-2013
2.5-liter QR25DE four with CVT

Sold alongside the new model as the Rogue Select for 2014-2015. 2008-2010 cars were in Nissan's 10-year, 120,000-mile CVT extension; 2011-2013 cars were not.

Known Nissan Rogue problems by year

CVT failure on first-generation Rogues

2008-2013, worst on 2012-2013

Loss of acceleration on the 2012 and 2013 Rogue are two of the three most reported problems for the whole model on CarComplaints, at average bills of $4,700 and $3,200 around 76,000-82,000 miles. The 2013 is rated the worst Rogue year. Nissan doubled CVT coverage to 10 years or 120,000 miles on 2008-2010 Rogues, so those cars often had a transmission replaced already. Any coverage has expired; on a survivor, the CVT condition is the whole story.

Guide: Why does my CVT shudder or whine?

CVT judder, whine and failure on 2014-2018

2014-2018

Transmission failure is a top complaint on the 2014 and 2015 Rogue, at about 90,000 miles and $3,400-$4,200 on average. A class action settlement extended the powertrain warranty on 2014-2018 Rogues from 60 months or 60,000 miles to 84 months or 84,000 miles, with final approval in March 2022. Even the youngest 2018 has now aged out. Many of these units last fine with fluid changes; the ones that fail usually warn first with a shudder from a stop or a whine that climbs with speed.

Guide: Why does my CVT shudder or whine?

A/C and heater not working

2014-2015

The top 2015 Rogue complaint is the A/C or heater not working properly, at around 32,000 miles and $2,200 on average, and the A/C is also a top 2014 complaint. Causes range from a slow refrigerant leak to a failed compressor. In Boca that is a summer you will not want to drive through, so start with a leak test and a check of the condenser.

Guide: Why is my car A/C blowing warm air?

Emergency braking that triggers for no reason

2018 and 2021 complaints

Owners of the 2018 report the automatic emergency braking system slamming on with nothing in the way, which ranks as the second and third most reported 2018 problems, and AEB faults also top the 2021 list. No stopped vehicle has to be present for it to happen. Keep the radar sensor in the grille clean, ask the dealer for any software updates, and report events to NHTSA.

Water and salt corroding the dash wiring

2014-2017

On 2014-2016 Rogues, water and salt can work in from the driver's footwell and corrode an under-dash harness connector, which is recall 22V-024; 2017 Rogues have a similar recall, 22V-875, for the dash side connector. Both carry a fire risk. Wet shoes after an afternoon storm count as a source of water. Electrical gremlins on these years should start with a recall check.

VC-Turbo engine bearing and oil breakdown

2022-2025 with the 1.5-liter three-cylinder

Two engine recalls apply. Recall 25V-437 addresses bearings that may have manufacturing defects, and 26V-080 says high temperatures can break down the oil on 2023-2025 Rogues until the bearings seize. Both are fixed with engine computer reprogramming, and on 26V-080 the dealer may inspect the oil pan for metal and replace the engine. In South Florida heat, on-time oil changes on this engine are not optional.

Guide: What is that knocking noise coming from my engine?

Notable recalls

  • 25V-437 (Rogue with the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo, NHTSA lists 2021-2024): Engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that lead to engine failure. Dealers reprogram the engine computer free.
  • 26V-080 (2023-2025 Rogue with the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo): Increased temperatures can break down the engine oil, causing bearings to seize. Dealers reprogram the ECM, check for codes, test drive, and may inspect the oil pan and replace the engine.
  • 26V-081 (2024-2025 Rogue with the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo): Gears in the electronic throttle body can break. Dealers reprogram the ECM and replace the throttle body as needed.
  • 21V-957 (2021 Rogue): Abnormal wear inside the fuel pump can make it overheat and fail, stalling the engine. Dealers replace the fuel pump assembly.
  • 22V-024 (2014-2016 Rogue): Under-dash harness connector can corrode from water and salt entering through the driver's footwell, a fire risk. Dealers replace the connectors and grease them.
  • 23V-093 (2014-2020 Rogue with a flip-out jackknife key): The key can fold while driving and turn the ignition off. Dealers fit a spacer in the key.

Recall repairs are free at any franchised Nissan dealer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls, since this list is not complete.

Maintenance that matters

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months in Boca drivingOil and filter at the grade on the cap. On VC-Turbo Rogues, treat this as the maximum, given the heat-related oil breakdown recall.
Every 25,000-30,000 milesCVT fluid drain-and-fill with genuine Nissan NS-3 on 2014 and later, NS-2 on 2008-2013. Ask the shop how it resets the CVT's learned values afterward.
Every 15,000 milesCabin filter and a look at the grille radar sensor and windshield camera area on cars with emergency braking.
Every 30,000 milesEngine air filter, brake fluid check, and an under-hood look for oil seepage on high-mileage 2.5-liter engines.
Each rainy seasonLift the driver's floor mat on 2014-2017 Rogues and check for damp carpet, the path water takes to the dash connectors.

Confirm against your owner's manual or maintenance minder for your exact year and engine.

Typical Nissan Rogue repair costs

JobTypical cost
CVT replacement with a remanufactured unit$3,500-$5,500
CVT fluid drain-and-fill$200-$320
CVT diagnosis and software update$150-$300
A/C compressor replacement$1,050-$1,500
Front pads and rotors$280-$480
12-volt battery$160-$280

Typical South Florida ranges for parts and labor, for budgeting only. Your quote depends on the vehicle and the shop.

Buying a used Nissan Rogue

  • For a CVT that has the best record so far, look at 2021 and later. The 2021 is the only third-generation year with the simpler 2.5-liter four, which keeps most of them clear of the VC-Turbo engine issues. Run the VIN anyway, since NHTSA's 25V-437 listing includes the 2021 model year, and confirm fuel pump recall 21V-957 was done.
  • On 2022-2025 Rogues, insist on proof that 25V-437 and, where it applies, 26V-080 and 26V-081 were completed, plus oil change records on a six-month or 5,000-mile rhythm.
  • The 2019-2020 Rogue sits in the middle: same generation as the troubled years but with far fewer complaints on record. It is a reasonable buy at the right price with fluid records.
  • A 2014-2018 Rogue should be priced as if it may need a transmission. Drive it hot, from a stop and up to highway speed, and have a shop scan for stored CVT codes. Paperwork showing a CVT replaced under the settlement is a plus.
  • Treat a 2011-2013 Rogue as a cash car unless it has a documented transmission replacement. Many 2008-2010 Rogues had theirs replaced under Nissan's extended coverage; ask.

The Florida factor

A Rogue CVT in a Boca summer runs in the worst combination it sees: high ambient heat, stop-and-go traffic on Glades and Palmetto Park Road, and the A/C compressor loading the engine. Fluid heat is what ages a CVT, so fluid every 25,000-30,000 miles is cheap insurance here, and an auxiliary cooler is worth discussing on older cars that already shudder.

Sudden phantom braking is especially dangerous on I-95, where traffic runs close and fast. If your Rogue brakes for nothing, note the time, place and weather, report it to NHTSA, and ask the dealer about updates rather than switching the system off for good.

Afternoon thunderstorms and wet floor mats matter more on this model than most. The under-dash corrosion recalls on 2014-2017 Rogues start with water in the driver's footwell, so dry wet carpet promptly and keep the door seals and cowl drains clear of leaves and seeds.

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Nissan Rogue FAQ

Which Nissan Rogue years have CVT problems?

The most complaints are on 2012-2013 and 2014-2016 models. 2008-2010 CVTs also failed often but were covered by Nissan's 10-year, 120,000-mile extension. 2019-2020 and 2021 and later Rogues have far fewer transmission complaints so far.

Is the Rogue CVT warranty extension still active?

Almost certainly not. The 2014-2018 settlement extended coverage to 84 months or 84,000 miles from the original sale, and the older 2008-2010 extension ran 10 years. Call Nissan with your VIN if you are unsure.

What is the VC-Turbo recall on the Rogue?

The 1.5-liter three-cylinder in 2022 and later Rogues is covered by recalls for engine bearings and for oil that can break down in high heat, both fixed with free engine software updates and inspection. Check the VIN on nhtsa.gov.

How much does a Rogue transmission cost in Boca Raton?

Typically $3,500-$5,500 at an independent shop with a remanufactured CVT. Dealer quotes with a new unit run higher.

Is a Rogue good for South Florida?

A newer one is a sensible small SUV here. Keep up with CVT fluid and oil changes, and make sure the recalls are done.

Guides for Nissan Rogue owners

Why does my CVT shudder or whine?
A CVT that shudders when pulling away or whines louder as you speed up usually has worn fluid, outdated control software, or wear on the belt, pulleys or bearings inside. Get the fluid and software checked first, and look up your VIN for extended CVT warranties, because several automakers have paid for these repairs well past the normal warranty.
Why is my transmission slipping?
A slipping transmission is usually low or burnt fluid, worn internal clutches, or an electronic fault such as a bad shift solenoid. If the engine revs up but the car does not accelerate to match, check the fluid level and condition first, then get the trouble codes read before the slip wears the clutches further.
Why is my car A/C blowing warm air?
Most often the system is low on refrigerant because of a slow leak, and the compressor has stopped engaging. The next most likely causes are a failed compressor clutch, a dead condenser fan, or a stuck blend door. Check whether the compressor clutch spins and the fans run before paying for a recharge, because a recharge without a leak repair usually wears off within weeks.
What is that knocking noise coming from my engine?
It depends on the sound. A light metallic pinging when you accelerate uphill is usually fuel detonation, often from the wrong octane. A fast tick that follows engine speed is usually the valvetrain. A deep, heavy knock from low in the engine that gets louder with RPM is often a worn connecting rod bearing, and that one means you should shut the engine off and have it towed.
What should a pre-purchase inspection check on a used car?
A proper pre-purchase inspection puts the car on a lift and checks the engine, transmission, brakes, tires, suspension, frame, A/C and electronics, plus a scan for stored and recently cleared trouble codes. Expect to pay about $100-$250 at an independent shop and more for European or exotic models, which is small next to the repair bills it can expose.
Is an extended car warranty worth it?
For most reliable cars, no: Consumer Reports found 55% of buyers never used their contract, and those who did saved less on average than they paid. One can make sense on a complex luxury or European car you will keep long past the factory warranty, if it is backed by the manufacturer and bought at a negotiated price. In Florida you can cancel within 60 days for a refund of everything you paid, less claims and an admin fee of up to 5%.

More for Nissan owners: Nissan owner's guide

Sources

General information, not a diagnosis. A car problem can have causes a guide cannot see, so have anything safety-related inspected in person. Read our editorial policy.