Nissan Navara Gearbox & Transmission Problems

No, an automatic transmission — not to be confused with an automated manual shift gearbox that does use a regular clutch like a manual — doesn’t use a clutch plate. It uses a torque converter, which actually helps when towing because it multiplies the torque down low and that makes it easier to get away from the mark. The thing with the auto, particularly if used for towing, is to have an adequate cooler to make sure it doesn’t overheat and cook the fluid and clutch packs it uses.

Like you, I reckon the Nissan diffs aren't up to the job; we have had a number of readers contact us after having problems. The diff failure is one thing, but it's sometimes compounded by the dealer simply seeking to replace the failed diff with another factory one, instead of having it rebuilt as your dealer did. Replacement diffs obviously take time to procure, which leaves the owner out of wheels while waiting for it to arrive and be fitted.

NO CARMAKER I know covers the clutch under warranty. It's regarded as a consumable item, so I'm not surprised Nissan has refused. But at only 40,000km I would have thought it would have come to the party with at least part of the cost of replacement. It would be a tough battle, but if you feel aggrieved, pursue it further with Nissan. You could go to VCAT and get a ruling, but again, it's unlikely to be worth your while.

As the repairs were not carried out by a Nissan dealer you need to submit a detailed report on the failure written by the people who did the work. It should be accompanied by a letter requesting that Nissan reimburse you for the cost of repairs. Unfortunately you are in a situation where it's your word against theirs, so you need to have good backup documentation in support of your case. If you don't get any satisfaction there you could resort to legal action.

Clutches are not normally covered by warranty, but that assumes they wear out normally over a fairly long period of time and use. Yours, however, hasn’t done that, which suggests there is something wrong, something that is not normal. I would think you have a justifiable claim against Nissan to cover the replacement, but first you need to establish the cause of the problem. To do that the dealer has to remove the clutch to inspect it, which should determine that has gone wrong. There two possible scenarios at such a low mileage are a manufacturing fault, in which case Nissan should replace the clutch, or abuse, in which case you would have to cover the cost. If you’re not satisfied you could consult the consumer affairs people.