I've had an '08 Maxima for a few months now. Love the smooth ride with the CVT. But lately its been a little too smooth and boring and I've driven it in manual mode for the last couple days. Aside from being much less efficient than the what the computer will do if I just leave it in auto, do I have to worry about anything like quicker wear or anything like that? Is there anything else to watch out for or things I should avoid if I'm going to drive it like this every now and then?

 

If anything I think that would benefit the tranny because the hydraulics don't have to move as much...

 

I have an 08 also and barely ever use it. I've heard so many horror stories about 2004-2006 Maxima transmissions that although we have the CVT, I still just leave it alone. It's crazy cause I want to play with it everyday but just do not want the stress of having any issues with this car ... Especially transmission wise. I say use it but just don't abuse it (high revving, using it 24/7, etc..etc..) just cause our cars weren't really built for that. Like everything it wears itself...even leaving it in Auto.

 

using manual mode hasn't had any bearing on the trannies that went bad. If it's going to go it will go. Check your fluid and change as directed. Play with it and have fun!

 

drive it in what ever mode you want. i have a modded 06 and i use it a lot. when im just cruising normal i put it in drive. when im messing around a slap that bad boy over and drive it like a animal. people say its quicker in auto, not my car. its definatly faster in manual mode. im sure doing it every day all the time aint good for tranny, but it all depends on your car. have fun bro drive it like you want to.

 

Let it eat.

 

3rd tranny here ... yolo though lol

 

I highly doubt Nissan would put such a feature in their cars knowing it is a weak link, and will be in for warranty repairs.