This article covers the 5 different engines and transmissions and problems you should avoid. If you have these problems, we’re here to help.
#1
5.4 3 Valve Triton Motor
Ticking Noises
“The ticking noise is a sign of a valve lash problem that is associated with a roller follower that is loose or seized from wear or defect. A consequence of this is that it will damage its respective camshaft lobe and will require a new camshaft.” Source
https://www.torquenews.com/14093/fatal-flaw-ford-truck-engine-rescued-dealership-fail
Clacking Noises
These run into large engine issues. Timing tensioners failing causing the timing chain to loosen and slap. If this is damaged the valve covers are at risk, damage can occur with the pistons and a whole over mess of engine repair can occur.
Solution, consider the 4.6 engine. It has less power, but less problems.
#2
CVT Transmission
Issues:
These transmissions need maintenance on time or they will fail. They slip, vibrate, or shutter while driving. If you notice this you’re looking at transmission failure.
Models:
Buick: Encore GX
Chevrolet: Malibu, Trailblazer, Spark
Chrysler: Pacifica Hybrid (plug-in hybrid)
Ford: Escape Hybrid, Escape Plug-in Hybrid, Maverick (hybrid)
Honda: Accord, Accord Hybrid, Civic, CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, HR-V, Insight
Hyundai: Accent, Elantra, Kona, Venue
Infiniti: QX50, QX55
Kia: Forte, Rio, Seltos, Soul
Lexus: ES 300h, LC 500h, LS 500h, NX 350h, NX 450h Plus (PHEV), RX 450h, RX 450hL, UX 200, UX 250h
Lincoln: Corsair Grand Touring (PHEV)
Mitsubishi: Eclipse Cross, Mirage, Mirage G4, Outlander, Outlander Sport
Nissan: Altima, Kicks, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Versa
Subaru: Ascent, Crosstrek, Crosstrek Hybrid (PHEV), Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, WRX
Toyota: Avalon Hybrid, C-HR, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla Hybrid, Corolla Cross, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime (PHEV), RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime (PHEV), Sienna, Venza
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/which-cars-have-cvts
#3
1.4 Liter Ecotec Turbo Engine
Engine Issues:
The engines are reported by auto repair shops as failing at such a high rate that they are running into supply issues through 2024. If you have this model make sure to get it maintenanced regularly and have the engine looked at during services.
Models
| Vehicle | Transmission |
| Chevrolet Sonic | MH8-6T40 |
| Chevrolet Sonic | MZ4-M32-6 |
| Chevrolet Sonic RS | MH8-6T40 |
| Chevrolet Sonic RS | MR5-M32-6 |
| Chevrolet Cruze | MH8-6T40 |
| Chevrolet Cruze | MF3-M32-6 |
| Chevrolet Cruze | MZ4-M32-6 |
| Buick Encore | MHB-6T40 AWD |
List of vehicles source:
https://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/gm-engines/luv/
#4
3.6 Liter V6 GM Engines
Engine Issues:
Cylinder head cracking issues that cause overheating or misfiring. This is prevalent even on new models. Keep your vehicle maintenanced and check this area regularly if you drive a model below. If you’re looking at buying a used model with this engine, have our Truman’s Auto technician evaluate this area.
Models:
| Year | Make | Model | Transmission | Power (hp / kW @ RPM) | Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ RPM) |
| 2016-2019 | Cadillac | ATS | 8-Speed Auto M5N | 335 / 250 @ 6800 | 285 / 386 @ 5300 |
| 2016-2019 | Cadillac | CTS | 8-Speed Auto M5N | 335 / 250 @ 6800 | 285 / 386 @ 5300 |
| 2016-2018 | Cadillac | CT6 | 8-Speed Auto M5N | 335 / 250 @ 6800 | 284 / 385 @ 5300 |
| 2019-present | Cadillac | CT6 | 10-Speed Auto MHS | 335 / 250 @ 6800 | 284 / 385 @ 5300 |
| 2017-2019 | Chevrolet | Camaro | 6-Speed MN6 / 8-speed MX0 | 335 / 250 @ 6800 | 284 / 383.4 @ 5300 |
| 2019-present | Chevrolet | Camaro | 6-Speed MN6 / 10-speed MX0 | 335 / 250 @ 6800 | 284 / 383.4 @ 5300 |
| 2017-2019 | Cadillac | XT5 | 8-Speed Auto MRC | 310 / 231.1 @ 6600 | 271 / 365.9 @ 5000 |
| 2020-present | Cadillac | XT5 | 9-Speed M3W | 310 / 231.1 @ 6600 | 271 / 365.9 @ 5000 |
| 2017-2019 | GMC | Acadia | 6-Speed Auto M7W (FWD) or M7U (AWD) | 310 / 231.1 @ 6600 | 271 / 365.9 @ 5000 rpm |
| 2020-present | GMC | Acadia | 9-Speed Auto M3W | 310 / 231.1 @ 6600 | 271 / 365.9 @ 5000 |
| 2019-present | Chevrolet | Blazer | 9-Speed Auto MV3 | 308 / 230 @ 6600 | 270 / 365 @ 5000 |
| 2018-present | Buick | Regal GS | 9-Speed Auto M3T | 310 / 231.1 @ 6800 rpm | 282 / 381 @ 5200 |
List of vehicle sources:
https://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/gm-engines/lgx/
#5
5.6 L 32 Valve V8 Engine
Exhaust System Issues:
These have catalytic converter issues. If your vehicle has it, get it fixed ASAP. If it’s not fixed, particles break and can get sucked up into the engine. Don’t wait with the check engine light on these.
Error codes:
Initially P0420, P04390, P0300
2006-2010
Models:
Nissan Armada, Infiniti QX58, Infinity QX80
Do you have engine or transmission problems?
If you are having engine or transmission problems, don’t wait. A smaller problem can turn into a large problem very fast when it comes to engines. If a part is loose, it can damage several other parts and lead to an engine rebuild or a full replacement. If your check engine light is on, give us a call at 515.262.8419 and get in today.
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