2021-2023 Nissan Rogue Rear Differential Noise TSB

Nissan Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) NTB10-0291, last revised on November 9, 2022, provides diagnostic and repair information for various Nissan models, including the 2021-2023 Nissan Rogue, experiencing an "abnormal noise, vibration and/or binding feeling from the rear differential area." This TSB applies specifically to all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles.

Symptoms

Owners may notice an "abnormal noise, vibration and/or binding feeling from the rear differential area" of their vehicle. This sensation can manifest during various driving conditions and indicates a potential issue with the rear final drive system.

Important Warnings for Owners

Nissan has issued several critical warnings within this TSB that owners should be aware of:

• Drive Mode Selector Behavior: For vehicles equipped with a Drive Mode Selector, using “SNOW” and “OFF-ROAD” modes will increase the engagement of the AWD coupler. This can lead to a "binding feeling and/or vibration in sharp corners when on dry roads." This behavior is considered normal, and owners should confirm the drive mode before seeking repairs for this specific sensation.
• Tire Mismatch: "Tire size, brand or tread pattern mismatches can cause similar symptoms." To prevent "tire related mismatch vibration," Nissan recommends replacing all tires simultaneously with tires of the proper size, same brand, and pattern when replacement is necessary.
• Professional Repair: "Nissan Bulletins are intended for use by qualified technicians, not 'do-it-yourselfers'." Owners should consult a Nissan dealer to determine if this condition applies to their vehicle.
• Repair Specifics: If diagnosis indicates the Electric Controlled Coupling needs replacement, technicians are instructed to "DO NOT replace the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly." Furthermore, they should "DO NOT remove the Rear Final Drive Assembly for this procedure," as the coupling can be replaced with the assembly still in the vehicle.

Diagnosis Procedure

The TSB outlines a detailed flow chart to assist technicians in diagnosing the source of the "abnormal noise, vibration and/or binding feeling from the rear differential area." The diagnostic steps include:

1. Initial Check: Confirm the presence of the abnormal noise, vibration, or binding feeling from the rear Final Drive Assembly.
2. Electric Controlled Coupling Disconnect: Disconnect the Electric Controlled Coupling and retest the vehicle. If the symptoms persist, further investigation is needed.
3. Noise Localization: Technicians use a stethoscope to test for noise at the Electric Controlled Coupling and the center rear of the Final Drive Assembly. The goal is to determine if the noise is louder at the coupler clutch area or the final drive assembly itself.
4. KGV Noise Assessment: The diagnosis differentiates between noise louder than a KGV (a specific noise reference) at either the Final Drive Assembly or the Electric Controlled Coupling.
5. Rogue/Pathfinder Specifics: For 2021-2023 Rogue and 2022-2023 Pathfinder models, the TSB notes that these vehicles have a new AWD coupler system. It is normal to hear the pump prime when the ignition is turned on.
6. Startup Noise Check: If the abnormal noise is only heard at startup while the vehicle is not moving, a priming operation on the Coupler Actuator is performed to check if the noise is louder than a KGV.
7. Driving Noise Check: If the abnormal noise is heard while driving, the diagnosis leads directly to replacing the Electric Controlled Coupling.

Repair Procedure Summary

Depending on the diagnosis, the repair involves 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 instructions.

• Electric Controlled Coupling Replacement: If the Electric Controlled Coupling is identified as the fault, it will be replaced. This procedure requires specific ESM sections for various models, such as "TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRIC CONTROLLED COUPLING" or similar paths depending on the vehicle.
• Rear Final Drive Assembly Replacement: If the diagnosis points to the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly, it will be replaced. Again, model-specific ESM sections guide this process, for example, "TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY."

After either replacement, "Unit Characteristics Writing" of the Electric Controlled Coupling with CONSULT-III is required for some models. This ensures proper calibration and function of the new component within the AWD system. The ESM also contains instructions for this writing procedure, found under paths like "TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY21D > BASIC INSPECTION > AWD SYSTEM > UNIT CHARACTERISTICS WRITING."

Required Tools or Parts

The TSB lists various parts that may be required for these repairs, depending on the specific model and the component being replaced. Key components include:

• CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling): Part number 38761-(*****) (1)
• FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY: Part number 38300-(*****) (1)
• BREATHER (and related clips/hoses): Various part numbers (e.g., 38322-4BF2A, 38356-(*****) (1))
• NUTS (Propeller Shaft, Torsional Damper): Part number 37171-(*****) (1)
• STUDS (Rear Coupling): Part number 38764-(*****) (1)
• OIL SEALS (Center, Front, Drive Pinion): Part number 38189-(*****) (1)
• 3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV: Part number 999MP-1217FPP (considered a shop supply)
• AWD Coupler Fluid: Part number 999MP-LSCTRF (for 2022-2023 Pathfinder and 2021-2023 Rogue)

Technicians are instructed to use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the exact part numbers for the vehicle they are working on. The 3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV and AWD Coupler Fluid are ordered through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program.

What Owners Should Know

If you are experiencing a "Nissan Rogue rear differential noise" or any of the described symptoms, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified Nissan technician. This TSB provides detailed instructions for dealers to diagnose and repair these complex AWD system issues. Do not attempt to perform these repairs yourself, as specialized tools and knowledge are required. Your Nissan dealer can confirm if this TSB applies to your specific 2021-2023 Nissan Rogue or other affected Nissan model and perform the necessary repairs.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10227254