It’s a rough road ahead for Nissan—and even more so for many of its loyal customers. The automaker is now dealing with a class action lawsuit that centers around transmission issues in certain Nissan Murano and Maxima vehicles. Owners claim the vehicles suffer from a major flaw in the continuously variable transmission (CVT), and it’s not just an occasional glitch—it’s a widespread failure.
While Nissan hasn’t accepted fault, the company is offering a few options to settle the matter outside the courtroom. Here’s what’s happening and what it means if you’re a current or former owner of an affected vehicle.
Nissan
Founded in Japan in 1933, Nissan has built a global reputation as a leader in the automotive industry. Known for offering stylish, reliable, and affordable cars, the company has worked hard to deliver both innovation and value. From compact sedans to family-friendly SUVs, Nissan’s lineup has earned consumer trust across generations.
But even top brands can run into problems. And when those problems involve core components like the transmission, trust can quickly turn into frustration.
Lawsuit
This legal trouble comes from a class action lawsuit targeting CVT issues in the 2015–2018 Nissan Murano and Maxima models. According to many customers, the CVT began malfunctioning right after the warranty expired—a detail that made owners feel even more frustrated and suspicious.
The CVT is key to how the vehicle shifts and drives. When it fails, the car may hesitate, jerk, lose power, or stop moving altogether. These issues not only affect performance but can also put drivers in risky situations.
While Nissan hasn’t officially taken the blame, the company is clearly feeling the pressure. To avoid a drawn-out court battle, they’re offering a few types of compensation to vehicle owners.
Options
If you’re one of the affected owners, Nissan has laid out three options for compensation:
1. Extended Warranty
If your Murano or Maxima hasn’t been altered or repaired in ways that change its internal design, you may qualify for a 7-year or 135,000-kilometer warranty extension. This includes the CVT and possibly other related parts. It’s a way to provide peace of mind moving forward.
2. Cash Refund
If you’ve already paid for CVT repairs—especially at an authorized dealership—you can apply for a refund of your repair costs, potentially up to $5,000. Reimbursement is more likely if the work was done at an approved location.
3. $1,500 Discount on a New Car
Planning to buy a new Nissan or Infiniti? You might be eligible for a $1,500 discount if you’re ready to move on from your current vehicle.
Process
Here’s what you need to do to claim your compensation:
- Submit a formal claim: This is not optional. It must be completed accurately and on time.
- Include all details: Attach vehicle info, a description of the CVT failure, and copies of repair receipts.
- Choose your compensation: Clearly select the remedy you’re applying for—warranty, refund, or discount.
Mistakes
This process has caught people off guard in past cases. Take the Enzo Biochem settlement, for example. Many people never got their compensation simply because they didn’t submit their claims correctly or on time. Their claims were missing documents or arrived after the deadline.
Don’t let that happen here. If you’re eligible, you must act. A missed form or a late submission could cost you thousands.
Nissan may be offering compensation, but it’s up to you to claim it. Whether you’re still driving your Murano or Maxima or have already paid for repairs, you may be entitled to relief. But you’ll need to act quickly, submit the proper paperwork, and choose the best option for your situation.
This lawsuit is more than just a legal issue—it’s a wake-up call for automakers to take long-term reliability seriously, and for drivers to stay informed about their rights. If you’re affected, make your move before the window closes.
FAQs
Which Nissan models are affected?
The 2015–2018 Murano and Maxima models with CVT issues.
What is the main issue?
CVT failures after warranty expiration causing performance problems.
What compensation is Nissan offering?
Extended warranty, cash refund, or $1,500 discount on a new car.
Is a claim submission required?
Yes, a properly filled claim with documents is mandatory.
How much can I get back for repairs?
Up to $5,000 if done at an authorized service center.