Need help with the transmission in our new 2024 Nissan Frontier

[JTK]

Thanks for that information. Did it end up working out for you?

JTK, Is VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) the same as VSC? That's the only thing similar I can find in our truck/manual. I haven't had the truck out since my initial post yesterday but I will check this as soon as we drive it again.

Yes! I was using the wrong acronym. It is VDC and not VSC. Sorry about that.

 

[MolaKule]

Thanks for that information. Did it end up working out for you?

JTK, Is VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) the same as VSC? That's the only thing similar I can find in our truck/manual. I haven't had the truck out since my initial post yesterday but I will check this as soon as we drive it again.

Yes, Nissan refunded the Labor charges and discounted that module as well with an additional refund.

As JTK suggested, try disabling the stability assist VDC function first before writing the document.

 

[D60]

In addition to "ECO", did these get a tow/haul mode?

IF it is the transmission this should make it less eager to upshift and potentially other things like increased line pressure.

Beyond that it would be interesting to do a little datalogging......maybe like Commanded Gear, RPM, engine load and throttle position. This would support claims of almost-stalling, although I understand the dealer is not necessarily disputing that the problem exists.

 

[SC Maintenance]

I also suspect something is up with the VDC. It behaves exactly as you describe - it removes most of the throttle control from the driver. Why its coming on is the question. I agree - disable it with the button and try again.

When this happens - do you get a VDC/SLIP light in the dash? Most Nissan's have it if equipped, but I can't say for sure with current models.

 

[oilstudent24]

did they confirm the ATF was full? Didn’t know if in the hills the low fluid could be commanding erratic shifts or stalling type symptoms.

 

[Sierra048]

Yes! I was using the wrong acronym. It is VDC and not VSC. Sorry about that.

Not a problem. Appreciate the input.

Yes, Nissan refunded the Labor charges and discounted that module as well with an additional refund.

As JTK suggested, try disabling the stability assist VDC function first before writing the document.

In addition to "ECO", did these get a tow/haul mode?

IF it is the transmission this should make it less eager to upshift and potentially other things like increased line pressure.

Beyond that it would be interesting to do a little datalogging......maybe like Commanded Gear, RPM, engine load and throttle position. This would support claims of almost-stalling, although I understand the dealer is not necessarily disputing that the problem exists.

I also suspect something is up with the VDC. It behaves exactly as you describe - it removes most of the throttle control from the driver. Why its coming on is the question. I agree - disable it with the button and try again.

When this happens - do you get a VDC/SLIP light in the dash? Most Nissan's have it if equipped, but I can't say for sure with current models.

Just to acknowledge I've read your responses and appreciate your help. Haven't had the chance to get it out on the road yet and rainy weather is in store for the next two days.

did they confirm the ATF was full? Didn’t know if in the hills the low fluid could be commanding erratic shifts or stalling type symptoms.

I'm guessing they did. They had it up on a lift for a while after the test drive. Any other vehicle we have owned since we've lived here has had no problem getting up the hill. One of those vehicles was a 2014 Frontier. My son and DIL's Toyota Corolla has no problem driving up.

 

[D60]

It looks like there is a TOW MODE

According to a very brief search, it may only include some form of hill descent control and trailer sway control, although I've gotta believe it would also include a more aggressive shift algorithm.

Here's a brief article on a '23, although it's the typical fare from automotive journalists who know better how to operate a keyboard than turn a wrench:
https://www.cars.com/amp/articles/towing-with-the-2023-nissan-frontier-pro-4x-how-good-is-it-464951/

 

[Sierra048]

After you check the VSC and your Owners Manual, and that doesn't fix it, here is what I did with a seat heating issue in a 2015 Pathfinder.

This is not a transmission problem. It's the traction control, vehicle dynamics/stability control these trucks use.

I own a 2022 Nissan Frontier S-model crew cab 4x4. ANY wheel spin will activate the vehicle stability control on these trucks. When VSC activates it takes throttle away from you. You can sit there with the go pedal mashed to the floor and at best it will creep along, trying not to spin wheels. This happens to mine at the end of my driveway, which is quite steep, when it's snow/ice covered. If I have to stop there. I'm going no where, even in 4x4 unless you disable the VSC.

What you are describing sounds like this. You need to disable the VSC during these conditions. On my 2022, the button is down low on the dash, by where your left knee would rest. Try it.

Do you have an ECO and NORMAL switch for programming? I have to always manually select a lower gear on hills near me, as the eco programming tries to keep the trans in a higher gear as long as possible, and this can cause timing retard, EGR actuation and lugging to almost a stop. I have seen this is many cars. My wife has the last MT so she gets to "
row her own boat" lol.

Typical Problem with fuel eco target programming on a very high compression engine running regular octane fuel.

What RPM is the engine struggling trying to make it up the hill? 1500 rpm 1200 rpm?
- Arco

I think another poster (@spasm3 ) might be on to something.

Are these gravel hills or paved?

I wanted to quote you all so you would get a notification. I took the Frontier out for the first time since I started this thread. I did what was suggested and before attempting to make it up the hill, I selected tow mode and hit the VSC button (which I think disabled it). It climbed it like there was no hill at all and I didn't even use manual 1st. I was ecstatic. I'm not sure if was tow mode alone or in conjunction with VSC being off. That will be my next clue to solve. I can't thank everyone enough for your help and input. Hopefully this will help someone else going forward. Merry Christmas everyone.

 

[SwampSurvivor]

Are the hills gravel?
Unless it's the offroad Pro-4X model, the factory tires are kinda junk. I could see crappy tires and a gravel/dirt hill activating the stability/traction control.

 

[Sierra048]

Are the hills gravel?
Unless it's the offroad Pro-4X model, the factory tires are kinda junk. I could see crappy tires and a gravel/dirt hill activating the stability/traction control.

No. It's a paved road. It is a ProX. Same tires as the Pro4X.

 

[wemay]

There is no setting that shouldn't allow you to make that hill. Take it the the dealership.