Checking A/T Fluid

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Nissan Quest. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Warm up the engine.
Check for any transaxle fluid leaks.
Before driving, the fluid level can be checked at fluid temperature using the "COLD" range on the A/T fluid level gauge.
4 A/T temperature range

COLD: 30° - 50° C (86° - 122° F)

HOT: 50° - 80° C (122° - 176° F)

5 A/T temperature range

COLD: 30° - 40° C (86° - 104° F)

HOT: 70° - 80° C (158° - 176° F)

Fig 1: Identifying A/T Fluid Level Gauge Marks (4 A/T)
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Fig 2: Identifying A/T Fluid Level Gauge Marks (5 A/T)
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set parking brake.
2. Start the engine and move the transaxle selector lever through each gear position. Leave the selector lever in the "P" park position.
3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.
  CAUTION: Firmly fix the A/T fluid level gauge into the A/T fluid charging pipe using the attached stopper, this will provide an accurate reading on the gauge.
  
  Fig 3: Locating 4 A/T Fluid Level Gauge
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  
  Fig 4: Locating 5 A/T Fluid Level Gauge
  Courtesy 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 and then re-insert the A/T fluid level gauge.
  CAUTION:
  - Do not overfill the transaxle.
  - Firmly fix the A/T 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.
7. Drive the vehicle for approximately 5 minutes at moderate speeds.
8. Re-check the fluid level at fluid temperatures using the "HOT" range on the A/T fluid level gauge.
  CAUTION: Firmly fix the A/T 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.
  
  Fig 5: Identifying 4 A/T Fluid Level Gauge
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  
  Fig 6: Identifying A/T Fluid Level Gauge (Front Side Or Reverse Side)
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
4 A/T temperature range

COLD: 30° - 50° C (86° - 122° F)

HOT: 50° - 80° C (122° - 176° F)

5 A/T temperature range

COLD: 30° - 40° C (86° - 104° F)

HOT: 70° - 80° C (158° - 176° F)
Check the fluid for the following conditions:
- If the fluid is very dark or smells burned, refer to AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE - RE4F04B or AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE - RE5F22A articles for checking the operation of the transaxle. Flush the AT fluid cooling system after repairing the transaxle.
- 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 7: Checking Fluid Condition
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.