The Rogue has been Nissan’s best-selling model in America for a decade, and in 2025, the automaker sold almost 220,000 Rogues in the U.S. This compact SUV is popular for a reason: affordability, generous interior space for its size, and strong fuel economy. In addition, the Nissan Rogue is generally less expensive than competing vehicles, especially in the used car market.

This SUV can be a good value, but concerns about Nissan’s continuously variable transmission (CVT)—particularly with first-generation Rogues—require careful consideration from buyers. Even if you already have a Rogue in the driveway, you’ll want to know how this CVT can impact the ownership experience.

Sourced from Jatco, a transmission manufacturer majority owned by vNissan, these CVTs are infamous for shuddering, jerking, hesitation, overheating, and complete failure. What makes these problems worse is that the solution often involves replacing the transmission rather than repairing it. Without warranty coverage, that can cost owners $4,500 to $6,500. All of a sudden, a Rogue that looked like a bargain becomes a significant financial drain.

This risk underscores the importance of understanding which Rogue model years should be avoided and which offer greater reliability.

First Generation (2008-2013): The Worst of It

To compete with the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and similar vehicles, Nissan debuted the Rogue for the 2008 model year. This coincided with Nissan introducing CVTs into other models to improve fuel efficiency and reduce production costs.

Throughout the first generation (2008–2013 Nissan Rogue), transmission issues dominated owner reports submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and CarComplaints.com. What’s especially troubling is that complaint volume regarding the CVT actually increases as the model years progress in the first generation. According to CarComplaints, 2013 has the most owner reports of any model year.

These Nissan Rogue transmission issues frequently involve:

• Sudden loss of acceleration
• Transmission shuddering
• Hesitation during acceleration
• Reduced power at highway speeds
• Complete transmission failure

It’s not unusual for these problems to develop before the vehicle has 100,000 miles. Some owner reports indicate CVT issues on Rogues with as few as 60,000 miles. Buyers should avoid the first generation unless there’s documented evidence that the CVT has been replaced.

Second Generation (2014-2020): Better, But Not Fixed

Nissan significantly upgraded the second-generation Rogue (2014–2020) with more interior space, improved build quality, and an overall refinement that approached the class-leading RAV4 and HR-V. A smallish third row was also offered, something unavailable in most other rivals. Despite all the changes, Nissan kept the CVT but made improvements through revised software and changes to transmission fluid specifications.

Nonetheless, the changes didn’t completely eliminate the Rogue’s CVT-related issues, including shuddering and reduced acceleration capability. In particular, the 2014–2016 editions are still vulnerable to transmission shuddering and failure.

Nissan issued several technical service bulletins (TSBs) for these models, including software updates. However, some vehicles required more extensive repairs, including valve-body replacement or complete transmission replacement.

Complaints about the Rogue’s CVT decrease in the later years of the second generation, but don’t completely disappear. Reviewing maintenance history, including checking for regular CVT fluid changes, can reduce the risk of transmission problems.

Third Generation (2021-Present): Improved, But Still a CVT

The third generation (2021–present) represented the most significant redesign in the model’s history. The plain, play-it-safe looks of the past are traded for bold, sculpted styling that helped separate the Rogue in a crowded segment. Nissan also added numerous technologies and safety upgrades.

Beginning in the 2022 model year, the Rogue’s powerplant was switched to a sophisticated turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with variable compression. The VC-Turbo unit adapts to power needs and produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, greater output than many rivals. Nissan also introduced an updated CVT with revised cooling and improved transmission controls.

With only half a decade of on-the-road data, it’s too early to deliver a solid verdict about third-generation Rogue reliability. However, initial signs are positive regarding the CVT. Based on NHTSA and CarComplaints data, owner reports of transmission issues are isolated incidents rather than regular occurrences. However, the VC-Turbo engine has proved troublesome, as discussed below under Other Common Problems Beyond the CVT.

Other Common Problems Beyond the CVT Transmission

Although CVTs dominate discussions about Nissan Rogue reliability, there are other trouble spots that owners may have to deal with.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning compressor failure is a common issue with the Rogue, especially with older model years. Symptoms may include:

• Weak cooling performance
• Unusual noises when the air conditioning operates
• Complete loss of cooling

RepairPal estimates that replacing the compressor costs between $960 and $1,350.

Premature Brake Wear

Some Rogue owners report shorter-than-expected brake component life. This isn’t necessarily linked to a particular component malfunction, but it’s an issue that appears in some owner reports. The problem could be connected to repeated stop-and-go driving, extended use of adaptive cruise control, or the automatic emergency brakes “pre-charging” the brakes in preparation for activation (even if activation never occurs).

Replacing the brake pads and rotors is more of a maintenance issue than a repair problem. However, there’s still a cost associated with the work. Replacing all four pads can run $370–$440. New brake rotors could double that amount.

Electrical Problems

Modern vehicles rely heavily on electronic systems for safety, infotainment, and basic functionality. Resolving electrical issues can be expensive just to diagnose, but they are a fact of life for some Rogue owners. New models have reports of issues with the driver-assist systems, while other complaints have included the need to replace an airbag occupant sensor ($530–$610). Malfunctions with the infotainment system and push-button start feature are also common.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Some higher-mileage Rogues (pre-2022) equipped with the 2.5-liter QR25DE engine have prompted owner complaints of excessive oil consumption. Minor cases may be managed with more frequent oil-level checks, while severe cases may require repairs ranging from PCV valve replacement ($90–$130) to installing a new valve cover gasket ($460–$650), or pricey internal engine work.

VC-Turbo Engine Concerns

The 2022 Rogue introduced Nissan’s 1.5-liter VC-Turbo three-cylinder engine. While long-term reliability data remains limited, some owners have reported rough running, hesitation, stalling, and warning-light issues. Buyers considering a newer Rogue should confirm that all recalls and software updates have been completed.

Nissan Rogue: Worst Model Years

Let’s review what Rogue model years require the greatest caution by buyers.

2008–2013

Pricing for a used first-generation Rogue can be very appealing, but remember, these models have the highest number of transmission-related complaints and are long past any factory warranty protection.

2014–2016

Although Nissan improved the Rogue’s CVT for the second generation, it took several years to more fully work out the kinks. A 2014–2016 Rogue may still be a higher-risk purchase, especially if there hasn’t been any proof of transmission repairs.

Nissan Rogue: Best Model Years

Two groups of Rogue models represent the smartest buys.

2017–2020

The second half of the second generation offers a solid balance of affordability and reduced risk due to:

• High depreciation
• CVT improvements
• Mature production process (several years already into the generation)
• Broad parts availability

2022–2023

While the current-generation Rogue isn’t perfect, the 2022–2023 editions benefit from:

• Redesigned platform
• Robust, fuel-efficient engine
• Updated transmission hardware
• Potential for factory warranty coverage (based on mileage, age, and other conditions)

What to Inspect Before Buying a Used Rogue

Given the potential for a CVT disaster with many Rogue model years and that all Rogues still use this type of transmission, there are a few preliminary steps that every shopper should follow.

Inspect the CVT Fluid

First-generation Rogues have a transmission dipstick, making it easy to check the CVT fluid for unwanted characteristics (dark color, contamination with foreign particles, and a burnt odor). The second and third generations have sealed systems that require a mechanic to access the fluid.

Review Service Records

If possible, review any service records, with a focus on transmission work. A CVT that’s been regularly serviced with fluid changes is ideal. Also, check whether the transmission has been replaced, rebuilt, or updated under any Nissan service campaigns.

Conduct an Extended Test Drive

Get behind the wheel to see how the Rogue’s transmission functions. After the car has reached full operating temperature (about 15–30 minutes), watch for:

• Shuddering during acceleration
• Delayed throttle response
• Hesitation
• Unusual noises
• Sudden RPM fluctuations
• Check engine lights

Ideally, test the vehicle in different driving conditions, including city and suburban traffic, the highway, and hill climbs. Adding extra passengers or cargo can help assess how the car performs under a heavier load.

Buy a Vehicle History Report

A comprehensive history report can confirm ownership history, reported accidents, and title brands (a car with a bad transmission can sometimes be “mechanically totaled”). Some vehicle history reports may also show maintenance entries.

Obtain a Pre-Purchase Inspection

If your own investigation shows positive results, confirm the details with a third-party mechanic. Spending $200–$300 can provide peace of mind and may catch an issue before it becomes your problem.

How an Extended Warranty Fits With Rogue Ownership

No matter how good Nissan Rogue reviews are, this crossover can’t escape the risks associated with a CVT. If spending $5,000 or more for a replacement transmission isn’t a worry, then buying a used Rogue shouldn’t be an issue. But consider that a four-figure repair like this can represent a quarter or even half of a used Rogue’s market value.

An extended car warranty (also called a vehicle service contract or auto protection plan) can provide safeguards against breakdowns and unexpected repair bills. Endurance offers a basic powertrain plan that covers many components of the engine, transmission, and drive axles. Upgraded plans cover more components, and Endurance Supreme offers protection that’s most similar to a new car bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Preparing for Unexpected Nissan Rogue Repairs

There’s more to buying a used Nissan Rogue than getting a good price; you’ll also need to be ready if dreaded CVT trouble strikes. Explore your vehicle protection options by requesting a FREE quote. Instant pricing is available at the Endurance online store or call (800) 253-8203 to speak with an Endurance plan advisor.

Every Endurance plan includes 24/7 roadside assistance (with towing and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, trip interruption protection, and access to any licensed facility for covered repairs.

Visit the Endurance Video Center to learn about choosing the right plan and other warranty insights. The Endurance Blog also offers expert-written advice on car repairs, maintenance tips, and vehicle reviews. Learn about common repairs and problems with other Nissan models through our Vehicle Reliability Guides.