High pitched whine at slow speeds?

Hello TIGERSBH,

Is this a 4 Wheel Drive or Front wheel only?

Any work done recently, like an alignment or anything related to the wheels? Tires?

How are all your fluids? Everything topped off and look good?

When was the last time the transmission fluid changed?
According to Nissan service information, the automatic CVT fluid should be replaced every 30k for Premium Maintenance, however for Standard Maintenance it is only inspected every 30k. But doing a Transmission flush is a good idea around 100,000.

You will need a scan tool capable of measuring transmission temp to add the right amount of fluid though. So, if you don't have this, it is best to take it to the dealer and have them do it because if it is off just a little these transmissions will start having issues.

At what speed would you say the noise stops? Does it sound like it is coming from the front or the rear?

If you sit in the driveway and turn the wheels lock to lock in idle while in park, are you hearing anything at all? This will put the most strain on the power steering system so maybe it will reveal something. I know you said no noise unless moving but just try it if you don't mind.

How does your battery look? How is the hold down for the battery?

A whine can be caused by the alternator and can be from loose or corroded battery terminals, which is a constant issue with my 2018 Altima. But also, if the battery hold down isn't tight or broken, this could explain why the noise goes away when turning left.

Thank you in advance for providing this information as it will help me help you the best I possibly can.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Thank you,
Brendon

Hello TIGERSBH,

Thank you for all the great information.

The "Thunk" sounds like you are just hitting the steering stops.

You should have electronic power steering in that. You have to get the fluid from the dealer.

This may not be causing the issue, but you need to make sure that has fluid in it because those electronic steering racks can be over $1400 just for the part.

I have added a picture of this fluid. It also has the part number on it.

I will let our administrative team know about the vehicle selection issue you had. Thank you for letting us know.

Was the transmission a used, new or rebuilt unit?

When you said they replaced the "CV joint on the front driver side tire joint", do you mean they replaced the whole CV Shaft? I have added an image for you.

Thank you,
Brendon

Hello TIGERSBH,

I am not seeing a reservoir on my end either. It must be fully electric. I don't even see a fluid recommendation. So, we will keep that on the back burner for now. The reason I asked about the fluids is because if something happens to be low it would explain the noise. Since everything looks good then great.

The whine to me sounds like it might be the bearing that sits in a bracket on the back of the motor that holds the passenger side C/V shaft in place. Most times, the bearing gets stuck in this bracket and usually recommend replacing the bracket when this job is done.

If they beat it out of the bracket a re-used it, it is possible the bearing isn't sitting right in it. The noise might be going away from heat or pressure put on or taken off the bearing as the vehicle weight shifts during a left-hand turn.

I have added an image of the bracket for you.

After that price I would bring it right back to them in my opinion. It is possible for new parts, especially something as complicated as a transmission, to have issues. If it is a Nissan transmission, which is more likely a rebuilt transmission, it should have at least a year warranty.

I have also added a video on how to properly check your transmission fluid on a CVT. It is on a Pathfinder, but the process is the same. If you didn't check your fluid level like this, then it should be redone following the video. It is not uncommon to have to adjust transmission fluid level after a unit replacement and it can also cause a whine.

Here is the link:
https://youtu.be/AhEUIogiS30

Thank you,
Brendon

Hello TIGERSBH,

I hope you are feeling better. Did you get the brake job done? If so, is the noise gone?

Thank you,
Brendon

Hello TIGERSBH,

You're very welcome. Glad you are safe, and all fixed up. If you need anything else, please let us know or start a new question.

Have great week and thank you for contacting us!

Thank you,
Brendon