Nissan Rogue S35

The first-generation Rogue (S35, 2008–2015) was Nissan's answer to America's booming compact-crossover segment and is closely related to the European X-Trail. It came exclusively with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder QR25DE making roughly 170 hp — a robust naturally aspirated engine that rarely causes trouble on its own. The trouble sits behind it: the Jatco CVT (RE0F10A). This transmission is by far the biggest risk on this model. Overheating, limp mode, shudder and vibration under acceleration, and outright total failure are all well documented, and in the U.S. they led to a class-action lawsuit against Nissan that settled for roughly $277 million. Nissan extended the CVT warranty to as much as 84 months / 84,000 miles. Anyone buying an S35 should check whether a settlement claim still applies and whether prior repairs are documented. A replacement CVT runs $3,500 to $5,000, often more than the vehicle is worth. Other known weak points: the panoramic sunroof can shatter spontaneously, the A/C compressor clutch fails, the fuel gauge can read inaccurately, and 2008–2009 model years were subject to a recall for a knocking, creaking steering column. Buying advice: The test drive is everything here. Warm the vehicle up first, then accelerate under load — any shudder, shake, or hesitation from the CVT is a red flag. Scan for stored codes and confirm whether the transmission has already been replaced. A service history showing regular CVT fluid changes is worth its weight in gold. Bottom line: The first Rogue is a comfortable, practical crossover, but the CVT remains its Achilles' heel. As a cheap used buy, recommend it only with a complete maintenance record and a demonstrably healthy transmission.