Boletín de servicio

2019-2022 Nissan AWD Rear Differential Noise and Judder TSB

Nissan has issued Technical Service Bulletin NTB10-029G for 2019-2022 AWD models, addressing abnormal noise, vibration, and judder from the rear differential. This TSB outlines diagnostic steps and repair procedures, which may involve replacing the Electric Controlled Coupling or the entire Final…

Byeditor david chen2021 Nissan Rogue
2021 NISSAN Rogue — Nissan Rogue rear differential noise
Editorial illustration generated for this article.
NTB10-029GNTB10-029fNTB10-029eNTB10-029dNTB10-029cNTB10-029bNTB10-029aNTB10-029Nissan rear differential noiseNissan AWD judder
Nissan Altima
2021–2022
Nissan Murano
2021–2022
Nissan Pathfinder
2022
Nissan Rogue
2022
Nissan Rogue Sport
2021

Owners of 2019-2022 Nissan AWD models, including the Altima, Murano, Pathfinder, Rogue, and Rogue Sport, may experience an "abnormal noise, vibration and/or judder from the rear differential area." Nissan Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) NTB10-029G provides a comprehensive guide for technicians to diagnose and repair this condition.

This bulletin, last amended on March 15, 2022, supersedes previous versions and offers detailed steps to identify whether the Electric Controlled Coupling (ECC) or the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly is the source of the Nissan Rogue rear differential noise or other symptoms.

Symptoms

If you own a 2019-2022 Nissan AWD vehicle and notice any of the following, your vehicle may be affected by the condition described in TSB NTB10-029G:

  • Abnormal noise from the rear differential area.
  • Vibration originating from the rear differential area.
  • Judder (a shuddering or shaking sensation) from the rear differential area.

Important Warnings

Nissan has provided several critical warnings within TSB NTB10-029G that owners and technicians should be aware of:

  • "Tire size, brand or tread pattern mismatches can cause similar symptoms. To avoid tire related mismatch vibration, it is recommended that when tires need to be replaced, all tires are replaced at the same time with tires of the proper size, same brand and pattern."
  • If diagnosis leads to replacement of the Electric Controlled Coupling, technicians are advised: "DO NOT replace the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly." and "DO NOT remove the Rear Final Drive Assembly for this procedure. The Electric Controlled Coupling can be replaced with the Rear Final Drive Assembly in the vehicle."
  • "Nissan Bulletins are intended for use by qualified technicians, not 'do-it-yourselfers'."

Diagnosis Procedure

The diagnostic process outlined in TSB NTB10-029G involves a detailed flow chart to pinpoint the exact cause of the abnormal noise, vibration, or judder from the rear differential area. Here's a summary of the steps:

  1. Initial Confirmation: Verify the presence of an "abnormal noise, vibration and/or judder from the rear Final Drive Assembly."
  2. Electric Controlled Coupling Disconnect Test: Disconnect the Electric Controlled Coupling and retest the vehicle. If the noise, vibration, and/or judder are no longer present, the issue lies with the Electric Controlled Coupling.
  3. Model-Specific Check (2021-2022 Rogue / 2022 Pathfinder): If the symptoms persist after disconnecting the ECC, check if the vehicle is a 2021-2022 Rogue or 2022 Pathfinder. These models feature a new AWD coupler system with hydraulic clutch pressure and an oil pump. It is considered normal operation to hear the pump prime when the ignition is turned on. If the abnormal noise is only heard at startup with the vehicle not moving, technicians should run the priming operation on the Coupler Actuator. If the noise is still louder than a KGV (a specific noise level reference), the Electric Controlled Coupling should be replaced. Otherwise, this bulletin does not apply.
  4. Stethoscope Test: If the vehicle is not a 2021-2022 Rogue or 2022 Pathfinder, or if the noise is not limited to startup, use a stethoscope to test for noise at both the Coupler Clutch area of the Electric Controlled Coupling and the center rear of the Final Drive Assembly.
  5. Noise Localization and Repair:
    • If the noise is louder than a KGV only at the center rear of the Final Drive Assembly, replace the Final Drive Assembly.
    • If the noise is louder than a KGV only at the Electric Controlled Coupling, replace the Electric Controlled Coupling.

Repair Procedure Summary

Depending on the diagnosis, the repair will involve either replacing the Electric Controlled Coupling or the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly. Technicians must refer to the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for detailed removal and installation procedures.

Electric Controlled Coupling Replacement

If diagnosis indicates the Electric Controlled Coupling needs replacement, Nissan explicitly states: "DO NOT replace the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly." and "DO NOT remove the Rear Final Drive Assembly for this procedure. The Electric Controlled Coupling can be replaced with the Rear Final Drive Assembly in the vehicle." Technicians should consult the ESM sections relevant to the specific model and year:

  • 2019-2022 Altima, 2009-2022 Murano and Murano Hybrid, 2008-2020 Rogue, Rogue Select, and Rogue Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRIC CONTROLLED COUPLING
  • 2003-2007 Murano: RFD – Rear Final Drive
  • 2013-2020 Pathfinder and Pathfinder Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145K1 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRIC CONTROLLED COUPLING
  • 2022 Pathfinder and 2021-2022 Rogue: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC COUPLING
  • 2017-2022 Rogue Sport: REPAIR > TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRIC CONTROLLED COUPLING

Rear Final Drive Assembly Replacement

If the diagnosis points to the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly, technicians should refer to the following ESM sections:

  • 2019-2022 Altima: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
  • 2003-2007 Murano: RFD – Rear Final Drive
  • 2009-2022 Murano and Murano Hybrid, 2008-2020 Rogue, Rogue Select, and Rogue Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
  • 2013-2020 Pathfinder: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145K1 > UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
  • 2022 Pathfinder and 2021-2022 Rogue: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
  • 2017-2021 Rogue Sport: REPAIR > TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Unit Characteristics Writing

After replacing either the Electric Controlled Coupling or the Final Drive Assembly, performing "Unit Characteristics Writing" using the CONSULT-III plus diagnostic tool is a required step for some models. This ensures proper calibration and integration of the new component with the vehicle's AWD system. Refer to the ESM for specific instructions:

  • 2019-2022 Altima: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY21D > BASIC INSPECTION > AWD SYSTEM > UNIT CHARACTERISTICS WRITING
  • 2015-2022 Murano and Murano Hybrid, 2015-2020 Pathfinder and Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2014-2020 Rogue and Rogue Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY21C > BASIC INSPECTION > UNIT CHARACTERISTICS WRITING
  • 2022 Pathfinder: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY92B > BASIC INSPECTION > ADDITIONAL SERVICE WHEN REPLACING AWD CONTROL UNIT (IN ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC COUPLING)
  • 2021-2022 Rogue: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY92A > BASIC INSPECTION > ADDITIONAL SERVICE WHEN REPLACING AWD CONTROL UNIT (IN ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC COUPLING)
  • 2017-2021 Rogue Sport: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > BASIC INSPECTION > AWD SYSTEM > UNIT CHARACTERISTICS WRITING

Required Parts

Specific parts may be required for these repairs. Nissan advises using the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the exact part number for your vehicle. Below are examples of parts that may be needed, categorized by model groups:

For 2019-2022 Altima (L34)

DESCRIPTION PART # QUANTITY
BREATHER 38322-4BF2A 1 As Needed
BREATHER, FINAL DRIVE 38322-6CC0A 1 As Needed
CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) 38761-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY 38300-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37171-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
STUD (REAR COUPLING) 38764-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV 999MP-1217FPP As Needed

For 2003-2007 Murano (Z50), 2009-2014 Murano (Z51), 2011-2014 Murano Cross Cabriolet (Z51), 2008-2013 Rogue (S35), 2014-2015 Rogue Select (S35)

DESCRIPTION PART # QUANTITY
BOLT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37120-(*****) (1) 8 As Needed
CENTER OIL SEAL 38189-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
COMPANION FLANGE LOCK NUT 38216-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) 38761-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY 38300-(*****) 1 As Needed
FRONT OIL SEAL 38189-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT CENTER BEARING) 01223-(*****) (1) 2 As Needed
NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37171-(*****) (1) 8 As Needed
3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV 999MP-1217FPP As Needed

For 2015-2022 Murano (Z52), 2016 Murano Hybrid (Z52H)

DESCRIPTION PART # QUANTITY
CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) 38761-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
DRIVE PINION OIL SEAL 38189-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY 38300-(*****) 1 As Needed
NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37171-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
STUD (REAR COUPLING) 38764-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV 999MP-1217FPP As Needed

For 2017-2018 Rogue Hybrid (T32H)

DESCRIPTION PART # QUANTITY
BREATHER 38356-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) 38761-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY 38300-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37171-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
STUD (REAR COUPLING) 38764-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV 999MP-1217FPP As Needed

For 2013-2020 Pathfinder (R52), 2014-2015 Pathfinder Hybrid (R52H)

DESCRIPTION PART # QUANTITY
BOLT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37120-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
BREATHER, FINAL DRIVE 38322-3JA1A 1 As Needed
CONNECTOR, BREATHER 17235-CA010 1 As Needed
CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) 38761-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY 38300-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37171-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
NUT (TORSIONAL DAMPER) 37171-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV 999MP-1217FPP As Needed

For 2022 Pathfinder (R53), 2021-2022 Rogue (T33)

DESCRIPTION PART # QUANTITY
CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) 38760-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY 38300-(*****) (1) 1 As Needed
BOLT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37120-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) 37171-(*****) (1) 4 As Needed
3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV 999MP-1217FPP As Needed

Notes on Parts:

  • (1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the exact part number for the vehicle you are working on.
  • (2) 3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
  • (3) Order 3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program by calling 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621) or via the dealer portal at www.NNAnet.com under the “Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical” link.

Warranty Claims Information

For technicians, claims for these repairs should be submitted as a Primary Part (PP) type line claim using the following coding:

For Electric Controlled Coupling Replacement (2019-2022 Altima, 2015-2022 Murano, 2016 Murano Hybrid, 2013-2020 Pathfinder, 2014-2015 Pathfinder Hybrid, 2022 Pathfinder, 2014-2020 Rogue, 2021-2022 Rogue, 2017-2018 Rogue Hybrid, 2017-2022 Rogue Sport)

DESCRIPTION PFP OP CODE SYM DIA FRT
Replace Electric Coupling Assy (1) LB65AA ZL 21 (2)

For Electric Controlled Coupling Replacement (2003-2014 Murano, 2011-2014 Murano Cross Cabriolet, 2008-2013 Rogue, 2014-2015 Rogue Select)

DESCRIPTION PFP OP CODE SYM DIA FRT
Replace Electric Coupling Assy (1) LB88AA ZL 21 (2)

For Rear Final Drive Assembly Replacement (All Models)

DESCRIPTION PFP OP CODE SYM DIA FRT
R & I Final Drive Assembly (1) LB01AA ZL 21 (2)
Replace Final Drive (1) LB021A ZL 21 (2)

Notes on Claims:

  • (1) Reference the Electronic Parts Catalog and use the Electric Controlled Coupling (38761-) or Final Drive (38300-) as the Primary Failed Part (PFP).
  • (2) Reference the current Nissan Warranty Flat Rate Manual for the indicated Flat Rate Time.

Bulletin Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin NTB10-029G has undergone several revisions since its original publication:

  • February 25, 2010: Original bulletin published (NTB10-029).
  • October 5, 2011: APPLIED VEHICLES section revised (NTB10-029a).
  • September 24, 2015: APPLIED VEHICLES and PARTS INFORMATION sections, page 1, and Title revised (NTB10-029b).
  • November 16, 2015: CLAIMS INFORMATION section revised (NTB10-029c).
  • September 28, 2018: APPLIED VEHICLES and PARTS INFORMATION sections revised (NTB10-029d).
  • November 12, 2018: APPLIED VEHICLES and PARTS INFORMATION sections revised (NTB10-029e).
  • September 23, 2020: APPLIED VEHICLES, PARTS INFORMATION and CLAIMS INFORMATION sections revised (NTB10-029f).
  • March 15, 2022: Changes throughout (NTB10-029G).

NHTSA ID: 10226344

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of a rear differential issue in my Nissan AWD?
You might experience an "abnormal noise, vibration and/or judder from the rear differential area" of your vehicle. This could manifest as a humming, grinding, or shuddering sensation coming from the rear of your Nissan.
Can I fix the rear differential noise myself?
Nissan Technical Service Bulletin NTB10-029G explicitly states that these bulletins are "intended for use by qualified technicians, not 'do-it-yourselfers'." The diagnosis and repair involve specialized tools and knowledge, so it's best to consult a Nissan dealer or certified technician.
What is the "Unit Characteristics Writing" mentioned in TSB NTB10-029G?
After replacing the Electric Controlled Coupling or the Final Drive Assembly, a procedure called "Unit Characteristics Writing" must be performed using the CONSULT-III plus diagnostic tool. This step is crucial for ensuring the new component is properly calibrated and integrated with the vehicle's AWD system.
Why is tire matching important for preventing rear differential issues?
The TSB warns that "Tire size, brand or tread pattern mismatches can cause similar symptoms" to a rear differential issue. To prevent tire-related mismatch vibration, it's recommended to replace all four tires simultaneously with tires of the proper size, same brand, and pattern.

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