2009 Nissan X-TRAIL Pricing and Specs

There were versions of this car with a CVT rather than a conventional automatic. And, over time, that CVT has proven itself to be a bit of a problem for some owners. Refusing to drive in one (or both) direction is a sign that there’s something pretty major wrong inside the transmission, so a visit to a transmission specialist should be your first move.

But don’t drive the vehicle any farther if you can help it, as you may be doing more damage by doing so. And don’t rule out something simple like low transmission fluid level or even a problem with the electronics that select each gear.

I doubt that it’s the battery or starter that’s causing your problem. I would suggest digging deeper into the engine itself, perhaps even check for a leaking head gasket.

Talk to a senior manager at the dealership and ask for a report on what they're doing to fix your car and a timetable for when you will be able to get it back. If that is unsuccessful, go to Nissan and make the same demands. To step it up from there you could approach Consumer Affairs and enlist their help. You could also demand the use of a loan car while yours is being fixed. The service you have received has been nothing short of disgraceful.