P0744 on Nissan: How to Diagnose & Fix
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Intermittent
5 Nissan models · 5 documented issues · 5 critical · $200-$8,000 repair
P0744 on Nissan by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The NV200's Jatco CVT transmission is particularly prone to failure when used for commercial delivery work, which is the vehicle's primary purpose. The constant stop-and-go driving and heavy loads accelerate CVT belt wear and valve body degradation. Many owners report failure between 60,000-100,000 miles. Symptoms include jerking during acceleration, delayed shifting, and eventually complete loss of drive.
Common Symptoms
- Jerking or shuddering during acceleration
- Delayed engagement from Park to Drive or Reverse
- Whining noise that increases with speed
- RPM fluctuation without speed change
- Complete loss of forward or reverse drive
How to Fix
Change CVT fluid every 25,000 miles with Nissan NS-2 CVT fluid — more frequently than the recommended interval given commercial use patterns. If shuddering begins, an immediate fluid change may extend life. When replacement is needed, a remanufactured CVT ($2,500-$3,500) is more economical than a dealer unit. Consider aftermarket CVT coolers for delivery vehicles.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT automatic transmission fluid 999MP-CV0NS3
NV200 MR20DE CVT; confirm VIN, quantity, fluid-temperature level procedure and current service information.
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipInstall an aftermarket CVT transmission cooler if you use the NV200 for delivery work — it significantly extends CVT life.
- WarningDo not exceed the NV200's payload capacity (1,480 lbs) — overloading dramatically shortens CVT lifespan.
- TipChange CVT fluid every 25,000 miles for commercial use rather than the 60,000-mile factory interval.
Sources for this issue (1)
The second-generation Rogue uses a JATCO continuously variable transmission (RE0F10x family) that is widely documented to judder/shudder during light acceleration (typically 25-45 mph), exhibit a 'rubber band' rubbery hesitation from a stop, overheat into limp mode with sudden loss of power at highway speed, and in many cases fail completely before 100,000 miles. CarComplaints lists 111+ power train complaints for the 2014 model alone (severity 10/10), and Nissan accumulated well over 1,000 transmission-related NHTSA complaints across the generation. A class action (Stringer v. Nissan / related Rogue-Pathfinder-QX60 settlement, final approval March 2022) extended the CVT warranty on 2014-2018 Rogues from 60mo/60k to 84mo/84k miles and provided repair reimbursement.
Common Symptoms
- Shudder or judder during light acceleration 25-45 mph
- Rubber-band feeling / hesitation from a stop
- High RPM with little forward movement
- Sudden loss of power / limp mode at highway speed
- Transmission overheating warning
- Jerking or stalling at stops
How to Fix
Check for an active CVT warranty extension (84mo/84k from original sale on 2014-2018 Rogue) and have the dealer replace the CVT at no charge if eligible. Out of warranty, a remanufactured unit at an independent shop typically runs lower than a new OEM CVT at the dealer. A CVT software/valve-body update or fluid service (NS-3 fluid) can mitigate early judder; codes P17F0 (CVT judder) and P17F1 (chain slip) confirm the failure mode. Submit class-action claim paperwork for reimbursement of prior CVT repairs.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid quart 999MP-CSHNS3
2014-2018 Rogue T32 CVT applications specifying Nissan NS-3; verify VIN and calculate quantity from the exact service operation.
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Sources for this issue (3)
The Altima's JATCO continuously variable transmission (RE0F10-series) uses a torque converter with a lockup (TCC) clutch, and P0741 sets when the TCM detects an rpm slip mismatch showing the lockup clutch is not engaging as commanded (stuck off). On Altima CVTs the code is commonly driven by degraded/overheated CVT fluid, a worn or sticking lockup control solenoid, or a valve body whose bores wear and leak line pressure so the TCC can't hold. On earlier RE0F10A units (notably 07-08) the valve body is prone to internal leakage, and Nissan bulletins have at times directed full CVT replacement when P0741/P0744 appears with lockup shudder. Drivers feel a shudder or judder under light acceleration (roughly 25-45 mph), rubber-band hesitation, higher-than-normal cruising rpm, and sometimes a slight surge as the converter fails to lock.
Common Symptoms
- Shudder or judder under light acceleration (~25-45 mph)
- Rubber-band hesitation from a stop
- Higher-than-normal cruising RPM
- Slipping or surging feel
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Start with a full CVT fluid inspection and replacement using genuine Nissan CVT NS-2/NS-3 fluid (burnt or contaminated fluid alone can set the code). Test/replace the lockup (TCC) solenoid. If line pressure is low or the valve body bores are worn, rebuild or replace the valve body. When internal converter/CVT damage is confirmed, the accepted repair is torque converter or full CVT assembly replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- OEM 2007-2012 Altima 2.5L CVT service kit with NS-2
2007-2008 Altima sedan 2.5L QR25DE for this card, within the page's broader 2007-2012/2008-2013 coupe fitment. Not for VQ35DE or later NS-3 CVTs.
- OEM 2007-2012 Altima 3.5L CVT service kit with NS-2
2007-2008 Altima sedan 3.5L VQ35DE for this card, within the page's broader 2007-2012 sedan/2008-2013 coupe fitment. The page notes the 3.5L filter is discontinued.
- OEM 2013-2018 Altima 2.5L CVT service kit with NS-3
2013-2018 Altima sedan 2.5L QR25DE CVT; select exact year and confirm VIN/unit code.
- OEM 2013-2018 Altima 3.5L CVT service kit with NS-3
2013-2018 Altima sedan 3.5L VQ35DE CVT; select exact year and confirm VIN/unit code.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (3)
The B17 Sentra's Jatco CVT (JF015E / CVT7, RE0F11A) uses a torque converter with a lockup clutch, and P0741 is set when the TCM sees the converter clutch failing to lock (input-shaft vs converter speed difference exceeding threshold). On these Nissan CVTs the lockup solenoid lives in the valve body, and the Jatco valve-body bores are prone to wear that causes pressure leakage and sticky solenoid/valve movement; degraded or overheated CVT fluid full of clutch material makes it worse. Drivers commonly feel a shudder/judder at light throttle, and on this transmission P0741 frequently appears alongside related lockup/judder codes such as P0744 and P17F0.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Shudder or judder at light throttle
- Slipping or flaring RPM
- Harsh or delayed engagement
- Poor fuel economy from converter not locking up
How to Fix
Start with a Nissan CVT fluid diagnosis: if the NS-2/NS-3 fluid is burnt or overdue, perform a proper fluid exchange (correct fluid and fill level are critical). Inspect and, if worn, rebuild or replace the valve body / lockup solenoid (Sonnax-style solenoid regulator kits address the worn Jatco bores). Reflash/relearn the TCM as required. If the converter clutch or internal CVT components are damaged, a valve-body replacement or full CVT replacement is required in severe cases.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid 999MP-CSHNS3, one quart
Confirm VIN, transmission ID, required quantity and service method; not NS-2, conventional ATF or a repair for internal damage.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (3)
The TA60 radiator has the automatic transmission cooler built into the bottom tank, with coolant and ATF separated only by a thin internal wall. That wall cracks with age and thermal cycling, letting coolant push into the transmission circuit. The resulting pink, milky ATF - owners call it the strawberry milkshake - swells and delaminates the clutch friction material and destroys the RE5R05A within a few hundred miles of driving. The failure is frequently silent until shifting goes bad, and the same rupture can also push ATF into the cooling system. The factory spring clips on the cooler line-to-radiator joints are a second, separate leak point.
Common Symptoms
- Pink milky transmission fluid
- Oily film or ATF in the coolant overflow bottle
- Slipping or flaring shifts
- Delayed engagement into Drive or Reverse
- Transmission overheat warning
- Coolant loss with no external leak
How to Fix
Do not keep driving. Replace the radiator (or bypass the internal cooler entirely and fit a good external ATF cooler), then flush the transmission cooler lines. If any coolant reached the transmission, a fluid-and-filter change is not enough - the unit generally needs a rebuild or replacement, because contaminated friction material will not recover. Many owners preemptively bypass the radiator cooler and switch the cooler-line spring clips to screw clamps. Refill only with genuine Nissan Matic S.
Sources for this issue (4)
- Affected Model Years and Part Numbers - Radiator Failure Transmission Fluid Coolant Intermix | Nissan Armada & Infiniti QX56 Forumsforum
- Tranny fluid in Radiator... Help Please!! | Nissan Armada & Infiniti QX56 Forumsforum
- Shifting issues after trans hose failure | Nissan Armada & Infiniti QX56 Forumsforum
- Question about tranny cooler bypass | Nissan Armada & Infiniti QX56 Forumsforum
P0744 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0744 mean on a Nissan?
P0744 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Intermittent." This code means the transmission computer detected an intermittent (on-and-off) problem with the torque converter clutch (TCC) circuit. The torque converter clutch locks up to create a direct mechanical link between the engine and transmission at cruising speed, improving efficiency, and the computer monitors that circuit and the converter's slip. When the lockup signal or engagement comes and goes erratically, this code sets. Drivers often feel shuddering, slipping, or surging at steady speeds, or the engine RPM may flare; it points to an electrical, fluid, or mechanical fault in the lockup system. On Nissan it is documented across 5 models: NV200, Rogue, Altima, Sentra, Armada.
What are the most common causes of P0744?
The most common causes of P0744 are: Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Failed or stuck torque converter clutch solenoid, Intermittent or chafed solenoid/TCC wiring, Corroded or loose transmission connector, Worn torque converter or internal clutch, Clogged valve body passages or sticking valve, Faulty transmission control module (TCM). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0744 on a Nissan?
Published repair estimates on Nissan range from $200 to $8,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0744 on a different make?
View P0744 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.