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A/T FLUID: Checking the A/T Fluid (ATF)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION: If using the vehicle for towing, the A/T fluid must be replaced as specified. Refer to "FOR USA AND CANADA: INTRODUCTION TO PERIODIC MAINTENANCE " (United States and Canada) or "FOR MEXICO: PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE " (Mexico)
  1. Before driving, the A/T fluid level can be checked at A/T fluid temperatures of 30° to 50°C (86° to 122°F) using the "COLD" range on the A/T fluid level gauge as follows:
    1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake.
    2. Start the engine and move the selector lever through each gear position. Shift the selector lever into the "P" position.
    3. Check the A/T fluid level with the engine idling.
    4. Remove the A/T fluid level gauge and wipe it clean with a lint-free paper.
      CAUTION: When wiping the A/T fluid from the A/T fluid level gauge, always use a lint-free paper, not a cloth.
      Fig 1: Identifying A/T Fluid Level Gauge With Hot And Cold Range
      G04896915Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    5. Re-insert the A/T fluid level gauge into the A/T fluid charging pipe until the cap contacts the top of the A/T fluid charging pipe as shown.
      CAUTION: To check A/T fluid level, insert the A/T fluid level gauge until the cap contacts the top of the A/T fluid charging pipe, with the gauge reversed from the normal inserted position.
    6. Remove the A/T fluid level gauge and note the A/T fluid level. If the A/T fluid level is at low side of range, add A/T fluid to the transmission through the A/T fluid charging pipe.
      CAUTION: Do not overfill the transmission with A/T fluid.
    7. Install the A/T fluid level gauge and the A/T fluid level gauge bolt.

    A/T fluid level gauge bolt: Refer to  "2WD: EXPLODED VIEW " (2WD) or  "4WD: EXPLODED VIEW " (4WD)  .

    Fig 2: Inserting A/T Fluid Level Gauge Into A/T Fluid Charging Pipe
    G04875797Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  2. Warm up the engine and transmission.
  3. Check for any A/T fluid leaks.
  4. Drive the vehicle to increase the A/T fluid temperature to 80°C (176°F).
  5. Allow the A/T fluid temperature to fall to approximately 65°C (149°F). Use the CONSULT to monitor the A/T fluid temperature as follows:
    Fig 3: A/T Fluid Temperature Graph
    G04875796Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    NOTE: The A/T fluid level will be significantly affected by the A/T fluid temperature as shown in illustration above. Therefore monitor the A/T fluid temperature data using the CONSULT.
    1. Connect CONSULT to data link connector.
    2. Select "MAIN SIGNALS" in "DATA MONITOR" mode for "A/T" with CONSULT.
    3. Read out the value of "ATF TEMP 1".
  6. Re-check the A/T fluid level at A/T fluid temperatures of approximately 65°C (149°F) using the "HOT" range on the A/T fluid level gauge as shown. The HOT range is between 50° - 80°C (122° - 176°F).
    CAUTION:
    • When wiping the A/T fluid from the A/T fluid level gauge, always use lint-free paper, not a cloth.
      Fig 4: Identifying A/T Fluid Level Gauge With Hot And Cold Range
      G04896915Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    • To check the A/T fluid level, insert the A/T fluid level gauge until the cap contacts the top of the A/T fluid charging pipe, with the gauge reversed from the normal inserted position as shown.
  7. Check the A/T fluid condition.
    • If the A/T fluid is very dark or has some burned smell, there may be an internal problem with the transmission. Refer to WIRING DIAGRAM . Flush the transmission cooling system after repairing the transmission.
    • If the A/T fluid contains frictional material (clutches, bands, etc.), replace the radiator and flush the transmission cooler lines using cleaning solvent and compressed air after repairing the transmission.
  8. Install the A/T fluid level gauge in the A/T fluid charging pipe.
  9. Tighten the A/T fluid level gauge bolt to specification.

A/T fluid level gauge bolt: Refer to  "2WD: EXPLODED VIEW " (2WD) or "4WD: EXPLODED VIEW " (4WD).

Fig 5: Inserting A/T Fluid Level Gauge Into A/T Fluid Charging Pipe
G04875797Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
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