2013-2018 Nissan Altima CVT Tranmission Fluid Change
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 25 ธ.ค. 2019
- What's up everybody!
This is a DIY how-to on replacing the CVT Fluid along with flushing the CVT Oil Warmer on a 2013-2018 5th gen. Nissan Altima. Sorry it got a bit long, just wanted to be as thorough as possible.
CHECK OUT MY UPDATED VIDEO WITH FILTER(s) CHANGE:
• 2013-2018 Nissan Altim...
Torque Specs included.
*DISCLAIMER: I am NOT a Master Tech/Mechanic, just a long time wrencher.
Other helpful video referred to in video:
• HOW TO PERFORM NISSAN ...
Nissan Altima Factory Service Manual (TM):
www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Altima/2...
*Check out my How-To on getting 5th Gen. Altima on jackstands:
• 2013-2018 Nissan Altim...
Car in video is a 2014 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL. - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
![[UNCUT] ลูกหมี-ลิลลี่ เหงียน เปิดใจฟาด ปู มัณฑนา I คนดังนั่งเคลียร์ I 15 ก.ค.67](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FKQ60Y7bJ6s/mqdefault.jpg)
CHECK OUT MY UPDATED FOLLOW-UP VIDEO, FULL STEP BY STEP PROCESS AS OUTLINED IN THE FSM WITH FILTER(s) CHANGE:
th-cam.com/video/fOOtLmGvK2A/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the videos, going to watch your followup now. Just a quick question, why flush the warmer with fluid rather than just push out the old with compressed air?
@@jalmolky in my opinion, i think considering the length of whats being flushed, I think the fluid is more accurate. Although, you can also use compressed air as well, like after the fluid for example to help escort all the flush out.
How long did you let the car run before you checked the fluid
Hi BeeCee built I couldn’t download the factory service manual from the link could you please forward the same to
pranavmenon216@gmail.com
I own a 2018 Altima SV and i just started noticing that my engine never wants to shift and stay in the high rpm and i have sometimes let off the accelerator and it will shift or it will sometimes shift hard. Do you think i have to change the CVT? it has 83,000 miles and i drove it with a donut for about 500 miles, not sure if that does anything. If you can let me know that will be awesome or if anyone has any advice
this one of the best cvt oil videos out there. thank you so much. most dont know what they talking about and they be trying to hide the info about oil change for cvt. nice job.
Thank you! I truly appreciate it 👊
Really appreciate the through effort you did to get the correct procedure to the public. I did a cvt fluid change on my 2013 Altima 3.5 using the drain and measure method at 65k. That felt like too much wiggle room to overfill or underfill. I’m gonna do the next fluid change with the method from your video. Thank you!!! And you earned a nw subscriber
ch ln thank you so much! I truly appreciate that!
Good looking out. This is very necessary to do especially for a CVT or any transmission. I did 5 years at Nissan working as a mechanic & with 20 years professional experience. Nothing is lifetime. Thank you for sharing & being honest. 👊🏼💯🇺🇸
Appreciate the comment! 👊
Do you have any idea why I’m getting light smoke from radiator area it appears , but the vehicle is having no warning lights , not running hot
But the smoke is like it’s over heating.
It’s not oil.
Maybe coolant but it’s done it 2 days in a row in the afternoon around 3:30pm
But not otw to work when its still cold out and not much traffic making me have to stop.
But otw home, about halfway home after driving about 15min it started getting smoke from under the hood @ the lights.
So I made sure I caught the lights and got home.
It actually started Friday the 1st time
Ever.
So I filled the radiator and some overfill reservoir.
Radiator was always full whenever I’d Check it like it didn’t lose any , it had been about 6mo & I started getting this feeling that I need to check my fluids and like 2 days later was Friday the 1st day it smoked , so when I checked I had let the radiator get way too low , it took almost the full of antifreeze, about 2/3 of the bottle.
I also got a new reservoir cap because it had a crack when I took it off to add some to overfill, filled it & everything seemed good.
So I drove to work Monday
Then otw home it started smoking
Seemed to be running smooth & fine
No warning lights nor running hot
So I bought a new radiator cap.
Again everything seemed fine
Drove to work all good
But then driving home it did it again.
I feel like I can sleep radiator fluid
And a little bit of a burnt smell in the air
A strange smell but not strong @ all
It’s very slight smells.
It not thermostat or else it would run hot.
Any ideas Of what it Maybe ?
Thanks
@@CSDonohue11 pinhole leak
Very helpful, I simply drained the fluid and the difference is massive, the car drives like a dream and pulls way better. The shifts in and out of gear are smoother and no jigger around 2000rpm around 55kph is gone....
Thanks for putting this content up and giving us DIY the additional information and confidence to tackle this ourselves.
Awesome! Glad to hear, appreciate the comment!
how many miles did u have on ur car when u drained the fluid? was it the first time u changed it? I heard if you change it after it hasnt been changed in like 100k miles it causes it to slip.
Had my 2013 altima to 185xxx kms before I changed mine. And at $350 at the dealer this is very helpful. The over fill plug was over my head until today. Thank you for the money saving video!
I appreciate it thanks for the comment 🙏
My dealership want do mine because it over 100,000 miles
On my 2013 Altima Coupe 2.5 S , I could not find an over flow plug. So i replaced and filled with the same amount. I also added an after market transmission cooler and added more fluid because of the cooler. My car came with a dip stick so I used that as a the fill guide. So far my car runs great. Very good video and you explain things very clear.
Aurelio Salazar thank you! But yes, the Altima Coupe is really a 4th Gen. Altima setup, and differs from the 5th Gen. and doesn’t have an overflow plug. Glad you got it knocked out though!
One of the best detailed and easy to follow automotive DYS video I have ever seen. Excellent, will try it myself and save much needed money. Thank you!
Appreciate the comment man! 🙏
I love the attention to detail and how you like to do things the best way possible. Excellent video.
I appreciate the comment!! Thank you!
Very good video. I have a 2014 Altima I just had my fluid changed. I know the dealer only drain the pan and refilled it but I guess that’s better than nothing. I’m just going to change it every 60,000 miles and hope for the best.
My 2016 Altima thanks you. 140k miles and not a peep. I’m a structural guy, not a mechanical guy. Your videos are outstanding and give me confidence to be at the very least…a structural/ 2016 Altima guy 👍
Thank you I appreciate the comment!!
when it asks for transmission oil it gives you a sound like metal below because mine I think the transmission screwed up confirm if changing the oil or adding it removes what makes it skid
Thank you Sir for your awesome job! I was definitely NOT aware of the OVERFLOW drain plug, which definitely determines the right level. Thanks also for the info on the torque specs...
Appreciate the comment 🙏
Used your video for my 16 Pathfinder. I adjusted it with the nicoclub manual for my vehicle but it was almost exactly the same. Cheers sir and good video.
Awesome! Thanks for the comment.
I've been using amsoil cvt fluid on two altimas with no issues. Took them very long road trips with no issues. Highly recommend it. Does not void warranty
👍👍
Thanks for doing this video! I’m about to do it on my 2014 Altima and it really helps!!
Glad it helped! Good like with the job!
Thank you very much for this video. I helped me perform this work and save my Daughter a lot of money. Showing us all of the parts needed with part numbers was also very helpful. THANK YOU!!
Awesome man! Thanks for the comment, glad it helped.
Very good video in detail how to change CVT fluid - Thanks
I liked the video thank u for this. I have a 2016 Nissan Rogue and believe it’s the same procedure. The engine design is the same.
one of the best DIY video ever! thanks man!
I definitely appreciate that! 🙏🙏
Thank you! I want to use my car as long as possible but I need videos like this
Thank you for the comment 🙏🙏
Bro thank you so much for making this incredibly informative and thorough video. I've been having issues with my 2016 Altima not having power off of the start and I'm going to change my fluid because now I have the confidence to do it! You're the best bro subscribed
Appreciate the comment man! Good luck with the job 🙏
Great job - I would’ve bagged using that flush fluid and saved money. Additionally whatever chemicals that has are now introduced into your transmission. What I would’ve done is it added vinyl tubing to those lines you disconnected and pumped out one or 2 quarts by starting the car. After one or 2 quarts turn off the car and refill. Repeat this until you’re happy with the fluid coming out. Probably seven or 8 quarts. That’s how you get most of your fluid out. If you do this every 30 or 40,000 miles tranny will last long time. This is super easy and super effective. Lastly I think you waited too long to let the overflow drain. I would’ve put the boat back in 10 or 15 seconds earlier. Thanks for the video
Amsoil has a full synthetic CVT transmission oil that is the best for any CVT trans. Keeps it cooler and it helps with the performance of the shifts. Amazing stuff¡
Better than Nissan atf fluid???
This is great. I have a 2016 that’s at just over 80k. I’ve heard horror stories about the CVT and we bought used at 60k. Now I’ll change the fluid myself. Thank you.
Awesome man good luck!
How much did you get it for?
Mine is a 2013 and came with 106 118 now.
How did it work by changing it. Does it run better??
These videos are super helpful and have probably saved people thousands great work
Thank you! I appreciate the comment!!
I watched your video on how to change cvt fluid on Altima .i done 2 cvt fluid flushes on my 18 altima.i spent 60 bucks on 8 quarts of universal cvt fluid and took right at 30 minutes both times .you saved me a bunch of money by making this video .no more taking it to the dealer .also now i no it’s really being changed since doing it myself and not being flim flanged by the dealer
Good to hear, glad it helped man!
Any issues with using universal fluid? Heard that Nissan n3 is the only way to go
@@bologna_soup I’ve used valvoline synthetic universal cvt fluid and have had no problems .I flushed my cvt just like in video except I didn’t disconnect fluid lines .I drained out cvt fluid ,then added 6 quarts ,warmed up tranny went through gears then opened over flow plug n done like in video .I done the procedure once and drove it about a hr then repeated again and my cvt fluid is clear and cvt shifts good with no problems .the guy who made this video saved me a lot of money by making a diy video
@@johnlowery8942 so do u have to open the over flow plug with the car running? Or the car have to be off?
@@eltrompudo26 car has to be running when u remove over flow plug.
Man thank you for this video...I have a nissian maxima 2011 and I've been wanting to do this i have 85000 miles on my car....really appreciate cha for this and I subcribed
kylo Solo awesome man! I appreciate it! Good luck with the fluid change!
Best part you showed the excess drain plug, I was not aware of this, Thanks,
Mike P glad it helped!
I used to work for Nissan and this video is pretty solid as far as proper procedure. The only additional step that I would recommend you do for better results is to drop the pan. The drain plug method only drains out some of the old fluid. By dropping the pan, you can remove quite a bit more of the older fluid and it gives you a chance to clean out a bunch of metal shavings. It requires a torque wrench and also takes a little bit longer but I would definitely recommend it. Great video and I love the fine details.
Hey what’s up man, I appreciate your input! I hear ya on the pan, not going to say I disagree. In my opinion, dropping the pan would be situational, and on a case by case basis. I opted not too, but yea it couldn’t hurt considering the mileage of this particular car in the video (plan too on next flush). Personally, I would have been way more motivated to drop the pan if it were leaking, which it is not. But if you are doing this at 30K, 60k, really even 90K depending on the prior maintenance, you can get away with only a fluid change and/or flush. I would say drop the pan and incorporate the filter, etc. into this job @ the 90k interval or 120K, or if the pan is leaking of course. Just my 0.02 lol.
@@TheOriginalBeeCee I totally hear you man. Dropping the pan is also more time consuming. Probably not always necessary, but CVTs make me paranoid. They're like a bipolar gf that goes from kissing your ass to killing your ass. Lol
@@captaincook807 lmao...love it, best CVT analogy ever haha
This is a half way job, specially at such high mileage.
No one seems to mention the transmission filters, do not know of their existence or just straight up refuse to mention them on all the YT " DIY Nissan CVT oil change" videos I have seen.
At 101K I would have changed the cartridge type filter facing towards the passenger side on the body of the transmission in the area where the bell housing mates with the engine block {small cylinder looking cover with 4 bolts and o-ring sealed} and the strainer/filter inside the oil pan of the transmission like any old school automatic. At least on a 2017 Rogue I own is like that.
Those filters MUST be CLOGGED with sludge and "glitter" after 101K miles.
None the less, thanks for taking the time to make this video.👍🏻
Not going to say I disagree. In my opinion, dropping the pan would be situational, and on a case by case basis. I opted not too, but it couldn’t hurt considering the mileage of this particular car in the video (plan too on next flush). Personally, I would be way more motivated to drop the pan if it were leaking, which it is not. But if you are doing this at 30K, 60k, really even 90K depending on the prior maintenance, you really only need to do the fluid change and/or flush. I would say drop the pan and incorporate the filter, etc. into this job @ the 90k interval or 120K. My $0.02. But I included the process in the second video link in the description.
They don’t have filters
@@marckarbowski1261🤦♂️ ignorance is bliss
. Carry on. ✌🏻
@@GIGABACHI rogues don’t .
Hello 👋 TH-cam lovers
Awesome 👍 Job 👌 man Thanks A million for your efforts making this video. It's very hard to make videos when you are one man Army. So really appreciate it.
Thank you! I definitely appreciate the comment!
Good shit bud gonna do mine as soon as the stuff gets here
Roger Cluck awesome man! Good luck!
Thanks for sharing...great video
Thank you for the video link! Great channel and content ,subbed 🤙
Thanks man! Likewise! Appreciate it 👊👊
I didn’t replace my crush washer when I did it last year and found out a few months later it had a slow leak. Great info on the overflow plug! Thanks for posting this. Huge help!
Damn that’s unfortunate! Im actually surprised...although it should ideally be replaced every time, I would have thought it could have withstood more than one use. I know they don’t always get replaced when people do oil changes with these Nissan style crush washers which utilizes the same washer, and they seem to hold up. I always keep some on hand for oil changes, so if you have them for that, you’ll always have them for the trans drain plug as well!
If I had a car with a CVT transmission, I would change out fluid every
35 - 40 thousands miles. I would not wait 80-125 thousand miles before
I would change. But most people do not think about it until it starts to
give a bit of trouble. Best of luck to all who have put this off for the
longest. Good preventive maintenance pays off in long run.
Agreed
Bro I appreciate you for this video, I learned some new things. When I first heard them say that Nissan tansmissions are non serviceable and the oil don't need changed I said that is some straight bull crap (laugh)😂😂😂😂. Of course they dont want you to check your own oil. They want you to spend hundreds for a new transmission.
Donald Larkins lol most definitely man! Im glad it helped tho man 👊
Donald Larkins A new transmission will cost you thousands of bucks😡 Many Nissan ended up being sold to junkyard because of this
Just put a brand new transmission in mine at 45000 miles 2016
such a helpful video. I’m lazy so just drained and refilled. Better than nothing. lol. Thanks for the tutorial😊
Lol i appreciate it!
Good video, but just a couple things. First, since the newer models no longer have an actual dip stick, checking the cvt fluid level at the overflow is the correct way to get the proper level.. but, you check the fluid level while the fluid is between 95-113 degrees F.. Not when the car is at operating temperature. This is because the operating temp of the transmission is between 170-190 degrees F. The second issue is, checking the fluid level at the overflow with the engine running. You want to start the engine, run the transmission through all the drives, until the fluid has just warmed-up to around 105 degrees F.. Kill the engine, then check the overflow. Once you know the fluid is at the proper level, you can purchase an older model dipstick like you have in the video, and mark the fluid level on the blade of the dipstick. Just as note.. There is a small paper oil filter, which should be replaced. These get clogged if the fluid isn't changed every 25-30K miles.. At 80K miles, it would prob be a good idea to actually drop the pan and replace the pick-up filter as well.
Some good suggestions. I utilized the dipstick as just an extra measure of fluid measurement. Not necessary, just a good extra peace of mind. As I mentioned in the video and in other comments, the overflow is true method for fluid level adjustment. And monitoring the CVT fluid level with an OBD device is definitely best practice for draining and adjustment. However, as outlined in the FSM (linked in description), the car should be idling when adjusting at overflow. There is enough play room within the temperature range (95-113 F) for it to be idling while adjusting, as suggested by Nissan. I just replaced filters and did another change (video on the way), and I cracked overflow open @ idle at 104, and it was still @ 104 F when completed.
Awesome video brother , gonna do mine this week because of your video. Question , can you just drain the fluid without warming up or car needs to warm up first ?
Appreciate it! The car needs to be warmed up according to the Nissan FSM when draining the trans fluid. Needs to be drained between 95F-113F, I typically drain right at 104F. Check out my updated CVT Fluid video (link in description), full CVT service including filters exactly to the FSM specifications, and I included how to monitor the CVT Fluid Temperature.
Hey there ,
So it doesn’t matter which hose to flush the transmission through because u gotta do both ends right ? , considering i take off the ones u described.
Good video... Thank you!
My brother used Amsoil Signature series CVT fluid which is 100% synthetic as opposed to full synthetic which is not really synthetic. When he went to drain it after 30k, it was as clear as the day it went in and it looked like it hadn't been used. Needless to say, he felt like he wasted the fluid by draining it, but he still changed it anyway. It was later that we found out, the Amsoil stuff is barely getting started at 30k. When it comes to engine oil, I don't think it matters what oil you use even conventional as long as you change it every 5k or so. However, for transmission fluid, I am now a believer in 100% synthetic fluid. It is simply vastly superior to anything out there including the "OEM" stuff.
Excellent video!!
Appreciate it thank you 🙏
Yo thank you for posting this up. Just came across it last week. Done the CVT change on a 17 altima. Question by any chance you have a video on how to flush the power steering fluid?
Appreciate it! I don’t though. I’ve had a few people ask that though, so I think is something I will definitely be doing in the near future! I actually have a newer more in-depth CVT fluid video I made after this, should check that one out too! Its top pinned comment & in description.
Great vid man
Appreciate it! 🙏
Thanks brother. Good job.
Appreciate the comment 🙏
good video, I hope I don't have any trouble with mine I have a 2014 with 39000 on it.
Hopefully it stays that way!
I spoke about, and showed your video to 3 local Nissan Service supervisors.
All three agreed that your procedure for transmission service is "absolutely wrong"
They all agreed that there is absolutely no reason to "flush" any Nissan CVT transmission, nor is there a need to change any CVT transmission filters during "regular" scheduled maintenance.
They said it's a "waste of time and money", and your method could actually "damage " a Nissan CVT transmission.
To give you the benefit of the doubt, I called Nissan USA in Tennessee and spoke with their Director Of Maintenance Operations, and he too agreed with the dealers I mentioned.
The Director stated "There is nothing in Owner's Manuals, nor in any Service Bulletins that mandates flushing CVT transmissions.., or changing the filters..."
Cool.
Glad to hear yours makes that sorta whining sound too like at 37:33 & 37:36. Wasn’t sure if something was wrong with mine lol
yea it’s just the electric steering, mine does it too.
Exactly what I thought when seeing this vid lol
The final prosedure, the overflow plug. Was the engine running or was it the music?
Nice job.
hey i did everything on this video and i refilled 5 quarts of fluid however ive been noticing a new noise in addition to the cvt whine, how many quarts did you add ?
I've done my moms 2014 altima twice all I did was drain the fluid about 3 and half qrts put the 3 and half back in drove it for a week then drained it again filled and drove again then drained and filled by the last drain it should have clean out old and have clean fluid in
That’s a lot of fluid . 3.5 qts X 3 = 11 qts and at 25 dollars a qt that’s 275 worth of fluid
Excellent video very well explained Where do I get the dipstick? because my Nissan only has the cap but not the dipstick
@ 8:32
could you please make a video on solenoid pressure control issue (P0776) & P0481 - Fluid pressure sensor stored ??
Great and helpful video! Very detailed!
After draining some out about how many quarts you figure it took? Have the same car and wanna try changing!💯💪👍
About 4 quarts!
Thanks a lot! Drained it yesterday and wanted to be sure so I'll replace it now!💯👍🙏
Is this the first time changing the cvt on this altima? Mine is at 54,000 probably have awhile to go
Thanks man really helpfull video question u dont need to change some kind of filter like in the motor oil ?????
Hey whats up man. Appreciate the comment. But check out my new CVT video, it should help give you some insight on that. Top pinned comment and the link is also in the description.
I will do this. I probably won’t flush the cvt fluid warmer since it looks intimidating. Thank you
me too, im spoided though, I have a 6 foot pit in the garage AND it has leveling pads, should I make a video?
@@andyp3834 that would be awesome. A brake fluid or differential flush with be awesome too
Very good job
I appreciate it 🙏
What’s the part # for the transmission bolt seal
You forgot to change yrans filter, and strainer filter inside the pan.
Also if you drop the pan, there are two magnets covered with a lot of sludge, whole pan actually is covered with sludge and needs cleaning before you waste new oil.
Procedure needs to be done twice, so you need to clean it , replace filters, dill it up once , run it thru the gears, warm it up, drain first fluid out. Refill again.
That is the proper procedure.
Best regards
Kris
Check top pinned comment.
I just got a 2018 nissan its about to hit 40k miles I am thinking about changing it then and I was wondering if I should flush the transmission aswell? looks pretty intimidating thanks you!
Dont touch it till 65k miles
I usually have fluid all the way up to the hot on mine. I always did have trouble reading that thing... I just make sure I put back what I take out and everything seems to go pretty well..
Online is says it takes 10 quarts to drain and fill these cvt transmissions.. you use 5 ... I'm confused?
Will be doing my 2015 pathfinder soon but I doubt I will be going back with Nissan Fluid. Reason is there are better fluids out there for CVT transmissions. Nissan does not make the fluid it’s a company in TX that makes it. If there fluid was so great then it should last longer than 60k. Have seen lab test with there fluid vs others showing how it preforms its @ a much lower rate when compared to Castrol or Amzoil CVT fluid when it gets heated up! Plus it breaks down much faster rate too! However your video was solid in its DIY format! Thanks!
Appreciate the comment & insight.
What is the transmission cooler flush for?
This is very helpful. Pls how many liters if CVT NS-3 fluid for the Nissan Altima 2014 model?
Do not use Nissan's cvt fluid. It's garbage and the root cause of failure. Go Amsoil cvt.
I know this is kind of an old video and I thank you for posting it with the process and everything because I'm going to try it on my 2014 for the first time on my own, despite having lots of experience in the industry. however to answer your question the very beginning on who makes the fluid for Nissan it would be Idemitsu. Look up Idemitsu NS3. Youll find it. It isnt any cheaper or anything but its the same fluid bottled in a Nissan Genuine labeled.bottle.
I appreciate it! And thank you for the fluid insight. I’ve actually heard that before, so I appreciate the additional input 🤙 i also have an updated version of this video with filter replacement, its the top pinned comment & in the description 👍
Yeah that little cartridge style filter is kinda hidden in there! Appreciate you, because even with experience I have been frightened to even touch a CVT because I know how problematic they can be!
@@jayb7026 trust me i hear ya man! Thats why I held out so long on this car…I really didn’t even want to touch it, considering their reputation/history. But when i realize we would be keeping the car for a while and the mileage racked up, i had no choice. But really, in my opinion this transmission’s just fail. If its gonna fail, its gonna fail, really just luck of the draw from all that I’ve seen. That said, proper maintenance is definitely gives you the best chance at prolonging it, but I do think for the most part if its gonna go bad, its going to go bad. Don’t be worried about servicing it, these things really need new fluid every 20K-30K. As long as you are careful and do the service correctly you shouldn’t have much to worry about!
Absolutely, maintenance is the key to every car I cant stress this to my customers friends and family enough! We just rolled over 100K on our 14 Altima and I feel the same about the trans...Its gonna fail. Thank goodness we bought a super extended warranty! $150 transmissions!😆😂😆🤣
@@jayb7026 lol i hear ya man! Hopefully you don’t ever have to use that warranty lol
CVT saves you money on gas but not really if you think abt the maintenance of the transmission all those few dollars contribute to a oil & filter & flush can on the transmission for every approximate 15-30k miles run
So you flushed it all out but only put 5 quarts back in?
I had a 2013 altima although I only kept it for 38,000 miles cause it was a lease, I had no issues with the cvt.
I really need you to change mine. If possible replace the bv on the transmission. Mine is a 2013 w 194k miles
i'm having a tough time with those hoses. is flushing the cooler absolutely needed? or is it ok to just change the fluid. also my manual says to change it every 30k miles. i'm at 34k (2016 altima)
You can just change the fluid. I was just do a spill & fill @ 30K.
Hey brother, just a quick question. If I'm only draining and refilling the fluid, is flushing the coolant lines necessary? As in, vital to the drain and refill?
Hey whats up man. No, its not vital, although a good idea, definitely something to consider depending on the mileage of the fluid change. But keep in mind that its not a “coolant” line tho, but CVT transmission fluid is running thru those two lines.
Are replacing the filters on the inside of the oil pan and outside necessary? And is flusing the cooler lines necessary as well? Thank you in advance!
I would suggest replacing filters if you are @ 100K or more. As for the cooler flush, it isn’t “necessary”, but definitely couldn’t hurt!
Thank you so much man
🙏🙏🙏
Thank you for the great content, Would this procedure be similar for a 2016 nissan rogue.
Thank you! And yes it should be
I recently purchased a 2009 Altima Coupe, and I've been encountering some CVT issues as for slowing down from 85MPH to 40MPH on the hwy, which is very dangerous. Would this service assist with that? I've read articles about purchasing a cooler for the transmission, and that should aid in the recovery to where I won't experience it again, but wanted to conduct thorough research prior to investing. Any advice?
Hey hows it going man. Truly hard to say of course, generally speaking once issues arise with a transmission, usually it’s already to a point where fluid changes are just last resort fix attempts that usually don’t actually resolve the actual issue. Thats not say that it couldn’t help either, because there are instances where a simple fluid change could help sounds/small issues, but from my experience typically when tranny problems arise its mechanical and it’s too late for fluid changes. But hey, if you’re willing to do it yourself, you really would only be investing about $70 in fluid and some time, and there is always that chance it could resolve you issue!
My Nissan altima transmission has been really hot. Outsi. Change the fluid now it's fine.
Does the dipstick go down to the pan?
Not sure if any of the other comments mention your oversight. The manual you are reading from says INSPECT⁵⁷ the CVT fluid at 60k miles. Note ⁵ says this includes the Altima. Note ⁷ says replace the CVT fluid if towing, using a camper, driving on rough or muddy roads. The Replace CVT Fluid you seem to be referring to is applicable to the NV200 taxi and the Pathfinder HEV.
Same at 90k and 120k.
If the fluid is 'abnormal' in color, smell and/or volume you should not only change it but determine and fix the problem causing the abnormal condition.
Lesson to be learned, read the service manual carefully, particularly when the manual refers to multiple applications.
For a 2.5L Altima that isn't used to tow or otherwise stress the CVT and fluid, the fluid could last the vehicle's lifetime but should be inspected every 30k miles to determine if other more serious issues exist within the CVT system.
Beyond that, this is a helpful video for understanding how to change CVT fluid on an Altima 2.5
Brad Trent you are correct about the manual reference, it does suggest “inspecting” at these mileages, and I did forget to note that in the video. However, I wouldn’t jump right to “the fluid could last the vehicles lifetime”, nor bank on that, considering the history of these transmissions. Could it? Possibly. Should you? Probably not. Especially @ 100K+. Generally speaking, trans fluid should be changed every 30K, and I wouldn’t treat these CVT’s any differently, especially considering their history. I have a friend who works for a Nissan Service center, and they recommend and include CVT fluid replacement at 60K service. There is even another comment on this video regarding Nissan Dealer including fluid change at 60K. Although, I’m sure this could vary from Center to Center, but Nissan is well aware of the common failure of this trans, and its upped their proactiveness, and you can bet if the car is warranty and/or regularly serviced by Nissan, they’re changing that CVT fluid. A whole lot of transmissions have failed since that manual was published, a whole class-action lawsuit amount. Considering the plague of the CVT’s, and the relatively easiness of this job, I would 100 percent periodically change the fluid, and I would do it as per the “inspection” intervals outlined in the manual, every 30K. As for the car in the video, I was a bit brave and kind of put it to the test and waited longer than I’m suggesting to change the fluid. The car had no problems/symptoms, but the fluid was darker, although not contaminated. But it was 5 year old 100K+ fluid. Any fluid that old is going to age, the “lifetime fluid” is really nothing more than a marketing scheme. And just to dig a little deeper into the “lifetime” fluid statement, they don’t even outline what their definition of a “lifetime” is. 100K? 250K? 500k? Am I suppose to think I can drive this car for 20 years and generate 750K on the dash and that “lifetime” fluid is ready to roll as much as it was when it had 7500 on the dash? I can almost guarantee Nissan’s definition of a “lifetime” is a bit different than the consumers definition. I would treat these transmissions no different than any other, and periodically change the fluid every 30K. And I have yet to see any documentation regarding a Nissan CVT that lasted a “lifetime”, but you sure can find tons of documentation on why it should be changed from all angles of the internet. My .02.
@@TheOriginalBeeCee I agree. You noted the fluid was darker (probably had a 'burnt' odor also), hence it should be replaced. Anyhow, I live in Thailand and my 2015 Nissan is a Teana built in Japan and sold in Thailand. The dealers here are pretty 'enthusiastic' about changing fluids and other maintenance. Despite what my owners manual says, they want to replace the CVT fluid every 40k km (25k miles). They also want to change the NGK iridium plugs at 50k km (30k miles). That's probably too frequently on both items but they get about $400 for the CVT fluid replacement and $80 for replacing 4 spark plugs that look nearly new.
So I have to balance the dealership's enthusiasm with economic reality and common sense. I have just over 50k km on the car and the CVT fluid still has good color and odor but based on your advice I'll be checking it more frequently and probably be changing it before 75k km (~45k mi) or sooner if the fluid shows abnormal dirt, smell, color change, etc.
Thanks for your helpful video and advice.
Brad Trent I definitely agree. Dealers are surely enthusiastic about replacing everything, especially fluids. Definitely need to be careful with dealers and their suggestions. Those numbers do seem a bit early though, you could prob go to 60K with plugs. I waited way longer than I should have with both plugs and the CVT fluid which is something I never do, but the car has always ran great and I was just like if it aint broke, dont fix it lol. But once it got to 100K I had to address it, just for peace of mind. But honestly I think it is in the best interest to just go ahead and stay on top of it and do the periodical maintenance intervals. I plan on continuing the intervals from here on out.
Great want to ask when you open vent bolt 14 mm while engine off or running ??
@ 32:20
Thanks a lot for the informative and helpful video. I'm willing to change my transmission fluid in my 2017 Altima, Is it necessary to flush the cvt oil cooler?
Where I can find the procedure (FSM) for flushing the oil cooler? Because believe it ir not, my altima has external oil cooler from the manufacturer (Aisa Market). I really want to flush the external cooler if you can help me finding the right steps or FSM
Again, thanks a lot
I would potentially do the cooler if the fluid has been prolong or not changed regularly. Should ideally be changed every 30k, i outlined my opinion on intervals and all that in my newer CVT video. And I didn’t come across any procedures for oil cooler in FSM unfortunately
thx this is very useful i took my 13 altima to autonation nissan chandler for a recall and they dented my trans pan and its leaking :)
Damn, sorry to hear. “Take it to the dealer they said” smh. Check out my newest video....its the top pinned comment, has pan & filter procedure as well!
Enjoyed your video brother, I would also like you input about valvoline CVT fluids? Heard any horror stories from people who use those brand?😅
Appreciate it! Lol i cant say i heard any horror stories, but every one has their opinions. Personally i just like to stick with OEM just to eliminate any thoughts or questions, but thats just me.
I have a 2013 Altima with 3.5. But not transmission dipstick anyone know part # of it. ? Thank you in advance
When I had my 2013 Altima 2.5 scanned it said it had a p17f1 code but the car drives fine around last year it had a slight hesitation but it went away not sure what I should do next car has 132,400 miles
Thats very interesting. Seems as though that code is associated with a transmission judder (shake, shudder, vibration). There’s actually a Service Bulletin for that code for these cars:
static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2016/SB-10075090-5448.pdf
Looks like it can get pretty serious as far as the repair, ranging from replacing the valve body, or the whole transmission, etc. If it’s been fine, I would almost be inclined to say leave it alone considering the possible severity of the issue.
So once you removed the hoses from the warmer/cooler, did you connect two short hoses back up to it so you could connect the flush can to it?
I'm thinking about flushing the oem transmission fluid on my 2016 Altima and using Amsoil CVT fluid instead. What do you think?
I know others have used it with success. Amsoil is obviously good fluid so I think you would be ok, but personally I’m typically an OE fluid person.
I need advice. I had my 2014 Nissan Versa (53k miles) go in to the dealers to replace a broken CVT cooler line and to get a CVT flush and fill. It was a leaky MESS and was fortunate to get to the dealer in time. They did try to clean up the engine area as best as they could.
No new leaks, CVT works well, but afterwards noticed a burned smell. Went back to the dealer for a scheduled oil change, and to check the CVT, and everything looked fine.
They said it was residual CVT fluid and will eventually burn off. How long can this take? Can a car detailing help?
To be honest, thats lazy repair work in my honest opinion. Part of completing a fluid leak repair is ensuring all the old leaked fluid is cleaned up. This is important for multiple reasons...for easy identification to ensure the leak is actually repaired (or not), so fluid doesn’t continue to appear to be leaking even if it is fixed, and/or like in your case the old fluid heating up creating a smell, etc.
Hard to say how long it will take, because it really depends on how much fluid there is and how bad it is. But the fact that your smelling it leads me to believe that is must be pretty messy for you to continually smell it. It truly should be cleaned off, and if you paid for the repair, which I’m sure was quite expensive if you did, I would make them clean it up. Thats truly unacceptable, especially for what dealers charge for the labor.
Really all that needs to be done is a nice spray down and wipe with some brake cleaner and some rags/towels. You can do this yourself honestly. But if you paid for that repair, you should never have to go back over there work and clean up after them. Even if you didn’t pay, still truly unacceptable from a dealer, or any “shop” for that matter.
When engine is hot and you open hood to check engine area, is
the smell of burned oil odor in the air. Yes oil is on something hot
and stinking-burning off. You can do this the cheap way.....Go to
dollar store and buy 1 or 2 cans of $1.00 oven cleaner. Spray this
all around the area where you think oil might be burning. You do
not have to do this on a hot engine....cold will work out just fine.
Leave along for five minutes or so. Then take garden water hose
and wash off area with water. Use care...do not get any plug
connectors wet. This may help..hope so. Anyway just normal
driving will eventually but off excess oil and you should be OK.
When you was letting the overflow drip out did u have one side of the car jacked up? My altima i i cant get anywhere near that if it’s not jacked up
Not everyone is going to get the same amount out. Might be close to this, might be more, might be less. Its just letting out extra fluid, it’s possible i had a little more extra than you. But you need to have the car jacked up evenly, all 4 corners on lift or jackstands.
BeeCee amazing job, great video. I have a couple of questions. I have a 2012 Nissan Sentra, mine has a top roof window, I don’t see the transmission warmer that you flushed earlier, unless is somewhere else, also my car has a steak to check the transmission cvt,
I am sorry I didn’t finished my question, after driving my car for two hours I feel like it’s lose power and I feel that it has to do with the transmission, what do you think. BeeCee also, why when I connect the battery the alarm goes off. Thank you for any feedback
Ernesto Moreno hey whats up man. I believe your correct, the ‘12 Sentra doesn’t have the fluid warmer. And yup you have a dipstick for fluid level verification. That’s pretty hard to troubleshoot without seeing the car though, could very well be the transmission. But there are issues that could cause those symptoms as well. Is the check engine light on?
BeeCee Built thank you for responding so quick. Yes the engine light is on. I took it to ORielly and they scanned for me, they gave me the codes but I don’t have them with me at this moment. I know one of the them has to do with battery res placement and the other code has to do with the transmission, they suggest to refill transmission fluid. Also I checked the CVT fluid and looks clean to me. I really enjoyed your videos amazing job, thank you again for responding so quick. Have a great day
Ernesto Moreno got ya! If you can get the engine codes, I may be able to shed some more light on them and potentially the issue. Replacing the CVT fluid wouldn’t be a bad idea though, especially if it has more than 60K on it and the fluid is original. Really by this point being its a 2012 the fluid should be replaced if its original regardless. Doesn’t necessarily mean its going to fix your problem, although it would probably be the cheapest place to start and you can evaluate from there!
BeeCee Built Awesome, you right that probably won’t fix the problem but I would start fri there, I would definitely follow your advice. Thank you again BeeCee. You are awesome
Hi bro, i just changed my trans fluid yest added 4L (4.22 quartz), do i need to open the plug to drain the excess or no need, thanks alot
Yes I would definitely do it….you wanna do it @ 95-113 degrees F, if you have access to an OBD scanner or a Bluetooth OBD device you can monitor the temperature so you know when you’re at temperature.
Nice work, know I feel confident how to do it, would be nice if you put all the specifications (parts numbers, torque for each screw etc.)
Miguel Ángel V. Gallo Arce thanks for the comment! All of that is in the video though! Theres a parts list, and within the parts list the drain bolt gasket is in the OE packaging with OE part number; Also, there really are only two bolts you’re taking out, the drain bolt & overflow drain bolt, and torque specs for both are in the video.
Dude does a 39min step by step video, show appreciation. If you actually watched the whole thing, he did give/show all specs
Dave Gordon thanks man!
No filter??
Hi, I'm new for this kind of stuff and I just got my sylphy a few months ago but is this CVT thing is just for automatic transmission? coz I watched a lot of vid for CVT oil change and all of the car in the vids are automatic transmission. Thanks for the answer thou
Yes, CVT is an automatic transmission design.
Did you ever change the filters? Great video
th-cam.com/video/fOOtLmGvK2A/w-d-xo.htmlsi=3d5LO5Ru21SMrsEL
Why did you not pull the pan and change the filters also ?
There is a cartridge filter too that needs to be replaced . Whole damm job is about $300 even if you decide to do it your self .let alone dealer price tag !!! Fuel savings straight out the window . Wont buy car with CVT again ! Cant wait to get rid of my 2016 altima !
Is there anywhere besides a junkyard to get the dipstick?
Ok so I should finish the video before I ask a question.
I just purchased a 2013 alrima with 125k milage. Should I do transmission fluid change or it is too late? The previous owner doesn't provide maintenance history. I heared some stories about getting gear slipping after doing fluid change for unmaintained cars.
I’ve answered this in other comments….but I’ll insert my answer from my other replies.
Nobody can really accurately answer that question without a full overview of the transmission. But in my opinion….You would probably be ok, but you’re right on the fence with mileage. But…Transmission fluid that hasn’t been changed after 120k-125K (even really 100K depending on the vehicle) can be risky changing. Especially from a mechanic perspective, it’s even more of a risk. changing/not changing transmission fluid if its been prolonged is a touchy and opinionated subject. But I’ll give you my opinion on it.
I feel like in most cases, especially if there are no issues or signs of damage (I.E. the trans is functioning as it should), then there shouldn’t be any issues changing the fluid, even if its been 100K. But when its gotten to 120k-125k, especially if the car is 5+ years old, there is a greater chance of contaminants/particles being in the transmission that actually benefit it at that point. In an older and/or worn-out transmission, these particles of wear can “benefit” the transmission with the friction it creates and temporarily "seal" parts of the trans. In this case, if the fluid is flushed or replaced and these particles are flushed out, the transmission may start slipping, slipping worse (if slipping prior), or shifting differently. I do think there is way more of a chance of that being an issue if the fluid is ‘flushed’, not just a spill and fill...which is essentially what’s being done here. But basically, the longer the fluid replacement has been prolonged, the greater the chance of transmission slipping if the fluid is replaced. Many shops won’t perform a fluid change after 120K.
But again, I think you having issues from a fluid replacement is way more likely in the transmission is experiencing issues prior to the fluid change.