Nissan Sentra owners describing sudden power loss, jerking, or stalling on the highway are pointing to a well-documented pattern in the CVT transmission used in Sentra models from roughly 2013 through 2017.
It’s worth being precise about what Nissan actually did: the company’s formal action was a voluntary service campaign, Campaign PM562, to reprogram the transmission control module, limited to certain 2013–2014 Sentras. It was not a broad recall covering every affected model year. If your Sentra falls outside that window, that doesn’t mean your transmission problem isn’t real or isn’t a known issue.
NHTSA has continued to receive complaints about transmission and engine problems on 2012–2016 Sentras, and separate litigation over Nissan’s CVT transmissions remains active. That means the path forward is different: a lemon law claim may be worth exploring rather than a recall repair. Content reviewed: August 2026.
This isn’t an isolated case, either — we’ve also covered Tesla Cybertruck recall issues and common problems with the 2020 Kia Sportage, two more models with recurring reliability complaints.
Recurring part failures like this one show up across brands — we’ve also covered the Audi water pump settlement, another case where owners pursued compensation for a defective part.
Background: The Nissan Sentra CVT Transmission Issue
Nissan’s actual response to Sentra CVT complaints was a voluntary service campaign, not a blanket recall. NHTSA has a technical service bulletin covering CVT problems on 2013–2017 Sentra models, and Nissan separately ran Campaign PM562, a voluntary reprogramming campaign limited to certain 2013–2014 Sentras equipped with the affected CVT.
Owners began reporting these issues several years ago, leading to an increasing number of complaints. The most common problems included sudden loss of power, jerking motions while driving, and the transmission slipping out of gear. These issues compromised the vehicle’s performance and posed serious safety risks.
Nissan’s response was Campaign PM562: a voluntary service campaign to reprogram the transmission control module on certain 2013–2014 Sentras. It’s narrower than many owners assume, and it does not cover every Sentra model year with reported CVT problems.
Nissan isn’t alone here — Ford faced similar backlash over defective transmission control modules in the Ford Focus, which also caused jerking and stalling for drivers.
If you own a Nissan Sentra from the affected years, it’s worth checking whether your VIN falls under Campaign PM562. You can do this by contacting your local Nissan dealership or checking your vehicle’s status using your vehicle identification number (VIN).
Common Transmission Issues in Nissan Sentra
The transmission problems in the Nissan Sentra have caused major headaches for many owners.Â
Campaign PM562 covers a specific defect, but Sentra owners have also reported broader CVT complaints — grinding noises, stuttering acceleration, and delayed shifting — across other model years. See our 2019 Nissan Sentra Transmission guide for a full breakdown of common CVT issues and maintenance tips.
The most frequently reported issues include:
Sudden loss of power
Many drivers have experienced their Sentra suddenly losing power while driving. This can happen without warning, making it difficult to control the vehicle and posing a serious safety risk.
Jerking motions
A common symptom of transmission problems is a jerking or shuddering motion, especially during acceleration. This can make the car feel unstable and uncomfortable to drive.
Transmission slipping
Some Sentra owners have reported that their transmission slips out of gear unexpectedly. This can cause the engine to rev without corresponding acceleration, leading to a loss of control and potential accidents.
Overheating
The CVT in the affected Sentra models is prone to overheating, which can lead to further transmission damage and failure. Overheating triggers warning lights on the dashboard.
Unusual noises
Grinding, whining, or buzzing noises coming from the transmission are common complaints. These sounds usually indicate internal damage or wear, which requires immediate attention.
If you notice any of these issues in your Nissan Sentra, it’s vital to get your vehicle checked by a professional as soon as possible. Addressing these problems early can prevent more serious damage and ensure your safety on the road.
Nissan’s Response and Remedies
Nissan’s documented response to Sentra CVT complaints is Campaign PM562: a voluntary service campaign to reprogram the transmission control module, limited to certain 2013–2014 Sentras. We don’t have confirmation of a broader CVT warranty extension or a blanket reimbursement program covering all 2013–2017 model years.
If you’ve already paid for CVT repairs out of pocket, ask your dealership directly whether Campaign PM562 applies to your VIN and whether reimbursement is available under that specific campaign.
Steps for Affected Owners
If your Nissan Sentra falls under Campaign PM562, it’s worth taking action to confirm your VIN’s status and get the reprogramming done. Follow these steps.
- Use your vehicle identification number (VIN) to check whether your Sentra falls under Campaign PM562.
- Contact your nearest Nissan dealership to schedule a free inspection of your vehicle.
- Keep records of inspection reports, repair orders, and any other related documents.Â
- If your VIN is covered under Campaign PM562, the reprogramming is done at no cost to you. If your Sentra falls outside that campaign, ask the dealership directly what repair costs you’d be responsible for.
- After the repairs, monitor your vehicle’s performance. If you notice recurring transmission problems, report them to the dealership immediately for further assessment.
If your Sentra continues to have issues after multiple repair attempts, you might be eligible for a Lemon Law claim. With the Lemon Law claim, you may be eligible for reimbursement.Â
What is Lemon Law?
Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase defective vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards. If your car has persistent issues that affect its use, safety, or value, and these issues cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may qualify for a remedy under Lemon Law in California.
Here are the criteria for a valid Lemon Law claim in California:
- Your vehicle must have undergone several repair attempts without success for the same issue.Â
- The defect must be substantial and affect the vehicle’s safety, functionality, or value.
- Your car must have been out of service for a significant amount of time due to repairs, often totaling 30 days or more within a year.
- The issue must arise within the warranty period provided by the manufacturer.
To file a Lemon Law claim, you need to have the following:
- Collect all records of repair attempts, inspection reports, and communication with Nissan or the dealership.Â
- Inform Nissan in writing about the persistent issues and your intention to file a Lemon Law claim.Â
- Seek legal advice from Lemon Law Assist to guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
- If the manufacturer fails to address the issue, file a Lemon Law claim. We will help you navigate the legal process and represent your interests.
Filing a Lemon Law claim can lead to several potential outcomes, depending on the specifics of your case and the severity of the issues with your Nissan Sentra. Here are the outcomes to expect and how to proceed.
You may get a replacement vehicle
If your claim is successful, you may receive a replacement vehicle. This would typically be a new Nissan Sentra of the same model and specifications as your original car. The replacement ensures that you have a reliable vehicle without recurring transmission issues.
You may get a refund
Another possible outcome is a refund for the purchase price of your vehicle. This refund usually includes the down payment, monthly payments made, and any fees associated with the purchase minus a reasonable amount for the use of the vehicle. This option provides financial compensation for the inconvenience and trouble caused by the defective car.
You may be entitled to a no-cost repair
In some cases, a comprehensive repair might be the resolution. This outcome is more likely if previous repair attempts were not thorough or if new solutions have become available. The repair will aim to fix the transmission issues completely, ensuring the car’s safety and reliability.
You may get financial compensation
If a replacement or refund is not feasible, you might receive financial compensation. This could cover repair costs, rental car expenses, and any other out-of-pocket costs you incurred due to the transmission issues. Compensation aims to make up for the inconvenience and additional expenses you faced.
Settlement
Sometimes, the manufacturer may offer a settlement to resolve the claim without further legal action. A settlement might include a combination of repairs, financial compensation, and extended warranties to ensure future problems are covered. Settlements are negotiated to satisfy both parties and avoid prolonged legal proceedings.
An extended warranty
As part of the resolution, you might receive an extended warranty for your vehicle. This warranty will cover future repairs and issues, providing peace of mind and ensuring that any subsequent problems are addressed without additional costs to you.
Understanding these potential outcomes helps you prepare for the resolution process and know what you might expect.
Take Action Now to Resolve Your Nissan Sentra Transmission Issues
Addressing a Nissan Sentra CVT transmission issue requires prompt and informed action. You can protect yourself and your vehicle by understanding your rights and taking the necessary steps. If your Sentra is experiencing transmission problems, check whether Campaign PM562 applies to your VIN, schedule an inspection, and keep records of everything.
If the issues persist despite multiple repair attempts, remember that you have rights under the Lemon Law. Filing a Lemon Law claim can lead to a replacement vehicle, a refund, or other forms of compensation. Our expertise in Lemon Law ensures you receive the support and guidance needed to navigate this process effectively.
Don’t let ongoing transmission problems compromise your safety and peace of mind. Contact Lemon Law Assist for a no-cost consultation. We are here to help you every step of the way and ensure you get the resolution you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Nissan Sentra have transmission problems?
Yes, many Nissan Sentra models, particularly those from 2013 to 2017, have been reported to have transmission problems. These issues often include sudden loss of power, jerking motions, slipping gears, and overheating.
What year did the Nissan Sentra have a bad transmission?
The Nissan Sentra models from 2013 to 2017 are most commonly associated with significant transmission issues. You can check your vehicle’s status by contacting your local Nissan dealership or using your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the official Nissan website.
Which Nissan Sentras are being recalled?
There isn’t a broad recall covering all these years. Nissan’s actual action was Campaign PM562, a voluntary service campaign limited to certain 2013–2014 Sentras to reprogram the transmission control module. 2015–2017 Sentras with CVT problems generally fall outside that campaign, but NHTSA has continued to receive complaints on these model years, and a California lemon law claim may still be an option.
Can you repair a Nissan CVT transmission?
Yes, a Nissan CVT transmission can be repaired. The cost and extent of the repair depend on the specific issues and their severity. Nissan covers repair costs under Campaign PM562 for eligible 2013–2014 Sentras; outside that campaign, repair costs are typically the owner’s responsibility unless a lemon law claim applies.
How long will the Nissan CVT transmission last?
The lifespan of a Nissan CVT transmission can vary. A CVT transmission can last up to 100,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. However, the affected CVTs in certain 2013–2014 Sentra models showed significant issues much earlier, prompting Nissan’s Campaign PM562 service campaign.
How can I check if my Nissan Sentra is covered by Campaign PM562?
To check whether your Nissan Sentra is covered by Campaign PM562, use your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the official Nissan website or contact your local Nissan dealership. They can confirm if your vehicle is included and advise you on next steps for inspection and repair.
