Nissan Patrol: RE7R01B Torque Converter Clutch Shudder

The Jatco RE7R01B 7-speed automatic transmission fitted to the Y62 Patrol is prone to torque converter clutch (TCC) shudder, most noticeable as a light vibration or judder during light-throttle deceleration or steady cruising between 40 and 80 km/h when the TCC lock-up clutch is in partial engagement. The condition is caused by friction material degradation and ATF contamination over time. Early-stage cases may respond to a Nissan-approved ATF fluid flush with the correct Matic S or Matic J fluid and a conditioning additive, but advanced friction material wear requires torque converter replacement.

• Vibration or shudder felt through the cabin at light throttle when cruising between 40 and 80 km/h
• Judder sensation during gentle deceleration or when maintaining steady speed on flat road
• Shudder more pronounced when transmission fluid is old, dark, or has not been serviced
• Condition may partially improve temporarily after a fresh ATF fluid service

1. 1

   Test drive at a steady 50-80 km/h on very light throttle and note any shudder or vibration through the drivetrain or seat.

2. 2

   Check transmission fluid condition, colour, and service history.

3. 3

   Confirm the correct Nissan Matic-approved ATF has been used.

4. 4

   Scan for transmission fault codes and ask if any shudder-related service has been performed at a Nissan dealer.

Parts involved: Torque converter, Clutch.

$500 to $5,500 at New Zealand independent workshop rates. That is for this job on its own, not for the car.

An estimate, in NZD, for the repair as normally carried out. What a specific car costs depends on which part has failed and what it damaged on the way — treat this as the floor for a negotiation, not a quote.

• “Has the transmission fluid ever been flushed or changed, and which fluid type and brand was used?”
• “Has any shudder or vibration been noticed during light-throttle cruising between 40 and 80 km/h?”
• “Has a Nissan dealer ever diagnosed or treated a torque converter shudder condition on this vehicle?”
• “Has the torque converter been replaced?”

The failure described above is documented in published sources — owner forums, technical service bulletins, recall notices and workshop write-ups — held in our fault database. The inspection instructions and the cost estimate are KickTyres’ own interpretation of them, and it is a starting point for an inspection rather than a manufacturer statement.