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Checking A/T Fluid

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Maxima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Warm up the engine.
  2. Check for any transaxle fluid leaks.
  3. Before driving, the fluid level can be checked at fluid temperatures of 30° - 50°C (86° - 122°F) using the "COLD" range on the A/T fluid level gauge.
    Fig 1: Checking Fluid Temperatures Using Cold Range On A/T Fluid Level Gauge (4 A/T)
    G03495028Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
    Fig 2: Checking Fluid Temperatures Using Cold Range On A/T Fluid Level Gauge (5 A/T)
    G03495029Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
    1. a Park the vehicle on a level surface and set parking brake.
    2. Start the engine and move the transaxle selector lever through lever in the "P" park position.
    3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.
      Fig 3: Removing A/T Fluid Level Gauge (4 A/T)
      G03495030Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
      Fig 4: Identifying A/T Fluid Level Gauge (5 A/T)
      G03495031Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
    4. Remove the A/T fluid level gauge and wipe it clean with a lint-free paper.
    5. Re-insert the A/T fluid level gauge into the charging pipe as far as it will go.
    6. Remove the A/T fluid level gauge and note the reading. If the reading is at or below the low side of the range, add the necessary specified A/T fluid through the A/T fluid charging pipe.
    CAUTION: Do not overfill the transaxle.
  4. Drive the vehicle for approximately 5 minutes at moderate speeds.
  5. Re-check the fluid level at fluid temperatures of 50° - 80°C (122° -176°F) using the "HOT" range on the A/T fluid level gauge.
    CAUTION: Firmly fix the ATT fluid level gauge into the A/T fluid charging pipe using the attached stopper, this will provide an accurate reading on the gauge, and will keep the gauge in position while driving.
  6. Check the fluid for the following conditions:
    • If the fluid is very dark or smells burned, refer to the AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE - RE4F04B or AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE - RE5F22A for checking the operation of the transaxle. Flush the AT fluid cooling system after repairing the transaxle.
    • On 4 AT equipped vehicles, if the fluid contains frictional material (from the clutches or bands), remove the radiator and flush the cooler lines using a cleaning solvent and compressed air after completing repairs to the transaxle. Refer to RADIATOR .
    Fig 5: Checking Fluid Level Using Dipstick
    G03495032Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.