Nissan Technical Service Bulletin: Abnormal Noise, Vibration, and/or Binding Feeling from Rear Differential
Classification: RA09-004I
Reference: NTB10-029I
Date: November 9, 2022
APPLIED VEHICLES
This bulletin applies to the following Nissan vehicles:
- 2019-2023 Altima (L34)
- 2008-2013 Rogue (S35)
- 2003-2023 Murano (Z50, Z51, Z52)
- 2014-2015 Rogue Select (S35)
- 2011-2014 Murano Cross Cabriolet (Z51)
- 2014-2020 Rogue (T32)
- 2016 Murano Hybrid (Z52H)
- 2021-2023 Rogue (T33)
- 2013-2020 Pathfinder (R52)
- 2017-2018 Rogue Hybrid (T32H)
- 2022-2023 Pathfinder (R53)
- 2017-2022 Rogue Sport (J11)
- 2014-2015 Pathfinder Hybrid (R52H)
APPLIED DRIVELINES
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) only.
SYMPTOMS AND CONDITIONS
❓ If You Confirm
There is an abnormal noise, vibration, and/or binding feeling from the rear differential area of the vehicle.
⚠️ Important Considerations
- Drive Mode Selector: For vehicles equipped with a Drive Mode Selector, "SNOW" and "OFF-ROAD" modes increase AWD coupler engagement, which can lead to a binding feeling or vibration in sharp corners on dry roads. This is normal operation. Always confirm the drive mode before performing repairs.
- Tire Mismatches: Tire size, brand, or tread pattern mismatches can cause similar symptoms. To prevent tire-related vibration issues, it is recommended to replace all tires simultaneously with tires of the proper size, same brand, and pattern.
DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR
⚙️ Action
Follow the diagnostic flowchart to assist in identifying the cause of the issue. Refer to the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for detailed repair procedures, as it contains essential information for successful completion.
Note: This bulletin is intended for qualified technicians. Do not assume a described condition applies to a specific vehicle; consult a Nissan dealer for confirmation.
Diagnostic Flowchart Summary
The diagnostic process involves a series of checks to isolate the source of the abnormal noise, vibration, or binding:
- Initial Check: Is there an abnormal noise, vibration, and/or binding feeling from the rear final drive assembly?
- If NO, this bulletin may not apply or further diagnosis is needed elsewhere.
- If YES, proceed to the next step.
- Component Isolation: Disconnect the Electric Controlled Coupling (ECC) and retest. Is the symptom still present?
- If NO, the ECC is likely the source of the problem.
- If YES, the issue may be with the Final Drive Assembly or another component.
- Vehicle Specific Diagnosis (2021-2023 Rogue / 2022-2023 Pathfinder):
- These models feature a new AWD coupler system with hydraulic clutch pressure and an oil pump. It is normal to hear the pump prime when the ignition is turned on.
- Use a stethoscope to test for noise at the ECC and the center rear of the Final Drive Assembly.
- If noise is louder at the ECC: Replace the Electric Controlled Coupling.
- If noise is louder at the center rear of the Final Drive Assembly: Replace the Final Drive Assembly.
- General Diagnosis (Other Models):
- Is the noise louder than a KGV (standard noise level) only at the center rear of the Final Drive Assembly?
- If YES: Replace the Final Drive Assembly.
- If NO: Is the noise louder than a KGV only at the Electric Controlled Coupling?
- If YES: Replace the Electric Controlled Coupling.
- If NO: Was the abnormal noise only heard at startup with the vehicle not moving?
- If YES: Was the noise heard while driving?
- If YES: Run the priming operation on the Coupler Actuator. Is the noise louder than a KGV?
- If YES: Replace the Electric Controlled Coupling.
- If NO: This bulletin does not apply.
- If NO: This bulletin does not apply.
- If YES: Run the priming operation on the Coupler Actuator. Is the noise louder than a KGV?
- If NO: This bulletin does not apply.
- If YES: Was the noise heard while driving?
- Is the noise louder than a KGV (standard noise level) only at the center rear of the Final Drive Assembly?
Repair Procedures
Electric Controlled Coupling (ECC) Replacement
If diagnosis indicates the ECC needs replacement:
- Do NOT replace the entire Rear Final Drive Assembly.
- Do NOT remove the Rear Final Drive Assembly from the vehicle for this procedure. The ECC can be replaced with the Final Drive Assembly installed.
- Refer to the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for specific removal and installation procedures, which vary by model:
- Altima (2019-2023), Murano (2009-2023), Murano Hybrid, Rogue (2008-2020), Rogue Select, Rogue Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRIC CONTROLLED COUPLING
- Murano (2003-2007): Section RFD – Rear Final Drive
- Pathfinder (2013-2020), Pathfinder Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145K1 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRIC CONTROLLED COUPLING
- Pathfinder (2022-2023), Rogue (2021-2023): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC COUPLING
- Rogue Sport (2017-2022): REPAIR > TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > ELECTRIC CONTROLLED COUPLING
Rear Final Drive Assembly Replacement
If diagnosis indicates the Rear Final Drive Assembly needs replacement:
- Refer to the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for specific removal and installation procedures, which vary by model:
- Altima (2019-2023): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
- Murano (2003-2007): Section RFD – Rear Final Drive
- Murano (2009-2023), Murano Hybrid, Rogue (2008-2020), Rogue Select, Rogue Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
- Pathfinder (2013-2020): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145K1 > UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
- Pathfinder (2022-2023), Rogue (2021-2023): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REAR FINAL DRIVE: R145 > UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
- Rogue Sport (2017-2022): REPAIR > TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION > REAR FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY
Unit Characteristics Writing
Performing "Unit Characteristics Writing" with CONSULT-III plus is required on some models when replacing the Electric Controlled Coupling or the Final Drive Assembly.
- Refer to the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for Unit Characteristics Writing procedures, which vary by model:
- Altima (2019-2023): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY21D > BASIC INSPECTION > AWD SYSTEM > UNIT CHARACTERISTICS WRITING
- Murano (2015-2023), Murano Hybrid, Pathfinder (2015-2020), Pathfinder Hybrid, Rogue (2014-2020), Rogue Hybrid: TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY21C > BASIC INSPECTION > UNIT CHARACTERISTICS WRITING
- Pathfinder (2022-2023): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY92B > BASIC INSPECTION > ADDITIONAL SERVICE WHEN REPLACING AWD CONTROL UNIT (IN ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC COUPLING)
- Rogue (2021-2023): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > TRANSFER: TY92A > BASIC INSPECTION > ADDITIONAL SERVICE WHEN REPLACING AWD CONTROL UNIT (IN ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC COUPLING)
- Rogue Sport (2017-2022): TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE > DRIVELINE > BASIC INSPECTION > AWD SYSTEM > UNIT CHARACTERISTICS WRITING
PARTS INFORMATION
The following parts may be required for repair. Always use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to confirm the correct part number for the specific vehicle.
For Models: 2019-2023 Altima (L34)
| DESCRIPTION | PART # | QUANTITY |
|---|---|---|
| BREATHER | 38322-4BF2A | 1 As Needed |
| BREATHER, FINAL DRIVE CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) | 38322-6CC0A | 1 As Needed |
| FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY | 38761-(*****) (1) | 1 As Needed |
| NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) | 38300-(*****) (1) | 1 As Needed |
| STUD (REAR COUPLING) | 37171-(*****) (1) | 4 As Needed |
| 3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV (2) (3) | 38764-(*****) (1) | 4 As Needed |
(1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the part number for the vehicle you are working on.
(2) This product is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
(3) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal: www.NNAnet.com and click on the "Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical" link.
For Models: 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) | 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 (2) (3) | 999MP-1217FPP | As Needed |
(1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the part number for the vehicle you are working on.
(2) This product is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
(3) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal: www.NNAnet.com and click on the "Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical" link.
For Models: 2014-2020 Rogue (T32), 2017-2022 Rogue Sport (J11)
| DESCRIPTION | PART # | QUANTITY |
|---|---|---|
| BREATHER | 38356-(*****) (1) | 1 As Needed |
| BREATHER CLIP | 24225-(*****) (1) | 1 As Needed |
| BREATHER HOSE CLIP | 63848-(*****) (1) | 1 As Needed |
| CPLG ASSY-ELEC (Electric Controlled Coupling) | 38761-(*****) (1) | 1 As Needed |
| FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY | 38300-(*****) (1) | 1 As Needed |
| STUD (REAR COUPLING) | 38764-(*****) (1) | 4 As Needed |
| NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) | 37171-(*****) (1) | 4 As Needed |
| 3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV (2) (3) | 999MP-1217FPP | As Needed |
(1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the part number for the vehicle you are working on.
(2) This product is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
(3) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal: www.NNAnet.com and click on the "Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical" link.
For Models: 2015-2023 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) | 1 As Needed |
| NUT (PROPELLER SHAFT) | 37171-(*****) (1) | 4 As Needed |
| STUD (REAR COUPLING) | 38764-(*****) (1) | 4 As Needed |
| 3 BOND GSKT MKR-RTV (2) (3) | 999MP-1217FPP | As Needed |
(1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the part number for the vehicle you are working on.
(2) This product is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
(3) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal: www.NNAnet.com and click on the "Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical" link.
For Models: 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 (2) (3) | 999MP-1217FPP | As Needed |
(1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the part number for the vehicle you are working on.
(2) This product is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
(3) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal: www.NNAnet.com and click on the "Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical" link.
For Models: 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 (2) (3) | 999MP-1217FPP | As Needed |
(1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the part number for the vehicle you are working on.
(2) This product is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
(3) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal: www.NNAnet.com and click on the "Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical" link.
For Models: 2022-2023 Pathfinder (R53), 2021-2023 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 (2) (3) | 999MP-1217FPP | As Needed |
| AWD Coupler Fluid | 999MP-LSCTRF | 7/8 Quart As needed |
(1) Use the VIN and the Electronic Parts Catalog to look up the part number for the vehicle you are working on.
(2) This product is considered a shop supply; do not include it on your warranty claim.
(3) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone 877-NIS-NMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal: www.NNAnet.com and click on the "Maintenance Advantage-Tire/Battery/Chemical" link.
CLAIMS INFORMATION
Submit claims according to the following coding, referencing the Electronic Parts Catalog and the Nissan Warranty Flat Rate Manual.
For Models: 2019-2023 Altima (L34), 2015-2023 Murano (Z52), 2016 Murano Hybrid (Z52H), 2013-2020 Pathfinder (R52), 2014-2015 Pathfinder Hybrid (R52H), 2022-2023 Pathfinder (R53), 2014-2020 Rogue (T32), 2021-2023 Rogue (T33), 2017-2018 Rogue Hybrid (T32H), 2017-2022 Rogue Sport (J11)
| DESCRIPTION | PFP | OP CODE | SYM | DIA | FRT (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replace Electric Coupling Assy | LB65AA | ZL | 21 | (2) |
(1) Reference the Electronic Parts Catalog and use the Electric Coupling (38761-*****) as the Primary Failed Part (PFP).
(2) Reference the current Nissan Warranty Flat Rate Manual and use the indicated Flat Rate Time.
For Models: 2003-2014 Murano (Z50, Z51), 2011-2014 Murano Cross Cabriolet (Z51), 2008-2013 Rogue (S35), 2014-2015 Rogue Select (S35)
| DESCRIPTION | PFP | OP CODE | SYM | DIA | FRT (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replace Electric Coupling Assy | LB88AA | ZL | 21 | (2) |
(1) Reference the Electronic Parts Catalog and use the Electric Coupling (38761-*****) as the Primary Failed Part (PFP).
(2) Reference the current Nissan Warranty Flat Rate Manual and use the indicated Flat Rate Time.
For All Models:
| DESCRIPTION | PFP | OP CODE | SYM | DIA | FRT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R & I Final Drive Assembly | LB01AA | (1) | |||
| Replace Final Drive | LB021A | ZL | 21 | (2) |
(1) Reference the Electronic Parts Catalog and use the Final Drive (38300-*****) as the Primary Failed Part (PFP).
(2) Reference the current Nissan Warranty Flat Rate Manual and use the indicated Flat Rate Time.
AMENDMENT HISTORY
| PUBLISHED DATE | REFERENCE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| February 25, 2010 | NTB10-029 | Original bulletin published |
| October 5, 2011 | NTB10-029a | APPLIED VEHICLES section revised |
| September 24, 2015 | NTB10-029b | APPLIED VEHICLES and PARTS INFORMATION sections, page 1, and Title revised |
| November 16, 2015 | NTB10-029c | CLAIMS INFORMATION section revised. |
| September 28, 2018 | NTB10-029d | APPLIED VEHICLES and PARTS INFORMATION sections revised |
| November 12, 2018 | NTB10-029e | APPLIED VEHICLES and PARTS INFORMATION sections revised |
| September 23, 2020 | NTB10-029f | APPLIED VEHICLES, PARTS INFORMATION and CLAIMS INFORMATION sections revised |
| March 15, 2022 | NTB10-029G | Changes throughout |
| May 31, 2022 | NTB10-029H | PARTS INFORMATION table added to page 8 for 2014-2020 Rogue and 2017-2022 Rogue Sport. AWD Coupler Fluid added to the PARTS INFORMATION for 2022 Pathfinder 2021-2022 Rogue on page 11 |
| November 9, 2022 | NTB10-029I | APPLIED VEHICLES, description of vehicle symptoms, and IMPORTANT statement in IF YOU CONFIRM section revised; model year changes made on pages 2-6, 9, 11, and 12 |
