OK guys, I just changed the tranny in my 2016 Altima. Both filters changed very simply. Jack it up, drain, remove filters, clean everything well and replace all parts with new. Total fluid removed was just short of 5 quarts. Replaced fluid using Castrol CVT fluid. All this was accomplished at 73,760 miles. Previous changes were at 25,000 and 61,000 miles; no filters were changed at those times. There was a noticable difference in the acceleration and ease of driving, ergo, the filters were somewhat full of gunk. On the HWY, there was an RPM difference of 200 RPM less at 70 mph.. 1650 compared to 1850 previously, at the same speed. This is a CVT trans. ...go figure. This oil change should increase fuel mileage. Your results can differ depending on mileage on the vehicle. PS: there were minute pieces of metal on the magnets in the pan... I mean minute ! including some black goop, of no consequence. ... I hope this helps. Total time including all the up and down on the ground was just short of 6 hours.... ( I'm 78 ) Lol !
That used trans fluid that flowed out looked great. It shows how much you’ve been taking care of the car. CVTs need this much attention to have a long life. Great job.
The Amsoil CVT fluid made a huge difference in my Subaru Outback. Very noticeable, almost shocking how much better it was than the stock fluid that came in it from the factory.
It's really pricey stuff ... I'm going to start doing my own CVT + Oil and Filter changes soon and will be using Valvoline CVT Fluid + Amsoil 0w20 Signature Series for the motor. Goal would be to do a 25k-30k CVT and oil change every 1.5 - 2 years.
as long as my cars don't leak fluid that would give me a reason to suspect that it is low, I've always carefully measured how much transmission fluid comes out and I simply add that exact amount back in and do not mess around with overflow bolts and temp guns and dipsticks. Very simple approach that never lets me down.
11 місяців тому+2
Yeah many shops do that around my area but my worry is that if someone before improperly serviced it before and added little or too much fluid.
Nissan also specifies that you use Nissan air in the tires or they will burst into flames and you’ll be killed. Okay, I’m exaggerating a bit. You don’t need to use the name brand, ultra expensive stuff IF, what you intend on using meets specs.
@@quick281 I should have worded my comment differently. I rarely use dealer name brand products simply because they cost three times as much. However, I am a firm believer in quality products like Amsoil. Spendy but superior in many aspects.
Add a long dipstick and check out the length. Before draining anything, let the car set for a day or overnight. Then with engine off, mark a witness line on your dipstick at the fluid level. This will be your"cold" transmission fill level. You can make sure to keep this level at all times.
Just did my Altima last week. Got 6 qts of Castrol CVT for $21 at autozone bc it was on “clearance.” The gasket and 2 filters were $36. Pretty easy job, thx for video.
I also learned that you can use petroleum jelly on the gasket. Mainly to prevent movement while securing the pan. Many years later, never a leak from the gasket. 1:43
When I did my cvt I checked the fluid levels to make sure they were correct at operating temperature. Then after determining it was at the correct level the following day I would perform a COLD DRAIN AND FILL. MEASURING WHAT CAME OUT COLD AND PUTTING BACK THE EXACT AMOUNT. DOING IT THIS WAY ELIMINATES THE THERMAL EXPANSION VARIABLE. I REPEATED THIS PROCEDURE OVER THREE DRAIN AND FILL CYCLES UNTIL I HAD SLIGHTLY EXCEEDED THE CAPACITY STATED FOR THE CVT. SO AMSOIL MADE THE CVT SHIFT BUTTERY SMOOTH WOULD NOT EVEN CONTEMPLATE ANOTHER BRAND. AAA+ AMSOIL.
The drain plug is the dipstick on some models some have a separate check bolt like the one in the video. 90-104* farentheit of trans fluid. Easiest way to check is an infrared thermo aimed at trans pan. THE THING BEHIND THE DRAIN PLUG IS CALLED A STANDPIPE AND DETERMINES THE FLUID LEVEL. AFTER FLUID REACHES CORRECT MEASURING TEMPERATURE IT EXPANDS AND THUS IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO OVERFILL A CVT IF DONE CORRECTLY. ANY EXCESS WILL DRAIN DOWN TO THE PREDETERMINED HEIGHT LIMITED BY THE STANDPIPE. FOOLPROOF. THERMAL EXPANSION VARIABLE? OIL EVAPORATES. BEST WAY TO DO THINGS IS THE WAY THE MANUFACTURER INTENDED. THEY DIDNT SPEND MILLIONS IN R&D FOR ANYONE TO SAY OTHERWISE.
Great video...thank you. I need to do this soon on my Altima. Concerning the dipstick, I agree with you that typically one checks the transmission fluid level with the engine running. That includes every Nissan vehicle with traditional transmissions that I have serviced. I have not serviced a Nissan CVT yet, and the FSM says to use the overflow plug as you have stated. This is a shot in the dark, but perhaps the dipstick is calibrated to be used when the engine is off. I've had the opportunity to service transmissions on a couple Honda Odyssey's and Honda's procedure is to run transmission to normal operating temperature, shut the engine off, and check ATF level with the dipstick within 60-90 seconds of turning engine off. Again, I don't know about Nissan CVTs, but that could explain the difference. BTW, I've also used AMSOIL products since the mid-late 70's in everything I own...great stuff! AMSOIL CVT fluid is what's going in the Altima
El procedimiento es rodar el carro por 10 minutos y luego parar, mover la selectora por todos las marchas, luego colocar en N o P y verificar que el liquido CVT marque en la parte ranurada de HOT.
I’ve run into the dipstick discrepancy before. What I believe is happening is the dipstick you have is designed for an older CVT that has a shorter dipstick tube. For an example I picked up a NS-2 dipstick for my buddies 2017 Altima that didn’t have one and the tube length is longer than my tube that my 2011 Altima has that came with a dipstick pre-installed. Hence why I think it reads lower on the marks for your car that has the NS-3 design. Maybe there is a newer longer dipstick for the post 2012 Altima? How is the Amsoil working out? I currently run the Castrol CVT smooth drive tech in my 2012 Altima and haven’t had any issues. I’ve also don filters.
Good info. I've put 4.5qts into my 2014 altima. 4qts came out with drain. I've allowed 0.5qts for filter absorbtion of fluid, evaporation under hot temps, spillage during drain and underfill by nissan from factory for cost saving. 0.25 qts filter will absorb. Other 0.25 qts is for evaporation since new and underfill by Nissan. Dipstick you bought is from previous gen4 altima which slightly shorter dipstick. With 4.5 qts my fluid level on cold tranny is top notch on dipstick. It's where exactly it should be i think. Hope this helps other. If you have any comments please replay. Thank you.
Thank you for your video! Did my cousin’s Sentra CVT. Last minute I went with Nissan NS-3 instead of what I originally had my cousin order, Triax. Good to know the Valvoline has at least some good anecdotal evidence! This means a lot in the land of snake oils lol. My next goto would be Idemitsu CVTF N3, Nissan NS-3 and Valvoline CVT. Have a nice day people
This seems to get-around the design defect: Keep 'em cool as many ways of reduced coolant/distilled water ratios, both filters and best cvt fluid each 30k, allow set overnight or allow 8 hours for full warm drain to obtain around 5.5 quarts if not flushing, seal all air leaks of radiator plenum (Time -consuming), keep radiators clean. I'm now 209k Mojave hard-and-hot conditions, full AC
Just did a drain and fill 20 minutes ago.. I do one every year around June for the Dog Days when it's hot as hell around here... Once a year no matter the milage.. It wasn't Burnt or Black but it wasn't clean and it was black enough.. All it Takes is one Hot summer and a heavy foot and the Fluid is burnt up..
I don't even go by the stick anymore.. It's Negligible anyway.. You can be a Half quart over or under. I try to have a little over. "A little over". But for the most part what ever I take out I measure and put back the same amount and for the last 5 years so far so good. Plus I'm on a Tune making 246 Wheel Torque with a Jaco CVT, so I use AMSoil...
Nice video. I know it's been many years since you created this. But it would be better and less confusing, until I figured it out, if your video was not mirror image.
When it comes to the nissan cvt transmission fluid changes, it's usually about 4 to 5 quarts of fluid for a drain and fill. On some models there is also a cooler filter that can be changed but it's only on some models. I recommend 30k mile intervals and do a filter change every 2 fluid changes.
Which models do not have the cart filter? So far from what ive seen they all have them they are just in different locations of the different jatco model cvts. Logically they all need one CVT fluid has to be crystal clean or it wil eat the belt quickly.
@@brentneahring2797 some models it is hidden behind the oil cooler. Some have a stand alone cover on the side or front. Doing some quick sinple googling shows they have one. The AWD version should not be much different of a transmission with only an extra gearset added to the lower differential to send power to rear axle. Btw sometimes the older nissan service data omits the cart filter technically never needs to be changed but still recommended.
@@brentneahring2797 the filter on a rogue AWD SL is located behind the cooler box itself. Hidden away it is referred to in found literature as a "cooler line return filter".
Yeah that Fluid looked very clean just like mine did today but it's still worth doing it.. And I know for a fact that NS2 and NS3 both have low heat tolerances, and you can burn that fluid up in 1 hot summer of hard driving..
Great great video! Effective and exactly what I needed to see! I have a 2016 and I'm trying to fix a small issue it's having. The car cranks and it goes into gear but it's not moving forward after I put it in drive. The idling is weak and doesn't go pass the first gear. The codes that's showing is the transmission fluid or the solenoid. I'll be changing the fluid first to see if that does the trick but If you can get me info on where to get solenoids for this vehicle please share it's been hard for me to find them. Thanks for the videos!!
I changed my Jatco. 2015 outlander sport at 25,000 and it had a lot of glitter in the oil . At 50,000 change it was a lot cleaner. The tiny filter was dirty at 50 and the magnet were dirty . I buy the Mitsu . Oil because of warranty . Highway Robery,
Brilliant. You got the oil level right with the check hole. The dipstick is great for weekly check. Get home, hot oil. Switch off. Check dipstick. No crawling under the car. Also engine off, no risk of fingers in fans, belts etc. So check hole for oil change, dipstick for routine check. You are using an NS2/3 interchangeable oil. A few comments about sticking with NS2 or NS3 only oil would be helpful. Does NS3 oil wreck NS2 car?.Castrol also do a combined NS2/3 oil
Good video. Thanks. However you used Nissan compatible "NS-2" fluid, and Nissan mandates "NS-3 transmission fluid in Altima's 2013 thru 2019. Ns-2 would void the warranty.
I remember years ago reading that Nissan reduced the fluid level in the CVT's. I believe it was to eliminate foaming due to over filling going into the 5 th generation of this CVT. So Nissan removed the early version of the dipstick to insure a lower fill level and reduce the CVT failure rate.
Please use only Nissan CVT fluid. It runs really strong with it. Valvoline is the best for engine oil. I make oil changes every 20k and my 2017 Altima has already 295,000 miles (I drive Uber) and still runs very good. Valvoline has a transmission flush for $199 I bring Nissan CVT fluid NS3 and it still shifts good at 295,000 miles. I do the CVT flush at Valvoline every 80k miles or when it starts slipping. After the flush it shifts strong no slipping anymore. (If you don't do it at all your car will have barley power to move from the traffic stop, make the flash and it will shift normal again!) It needs 5-6 quarts
2014 Altima should use NS3 equivalent and that was not a small trickle. :-) The after market dip stick is a reference. Fill according to Nissan and then make a mark on your after market dips stick when the oil is hot. You will then have an accurate mark. Where does Nissan say 200 degrees?
This UT has very good video of the CVT parts and procedure. The Service Manual gives additional info Following Service Manual for a 2013 Altima SL 2.5 4 cylinder. FIRST DRAIN from oil pan at 40C degree (104F degree) OR LESS using NS-3 fluid. BETWEEN first drain and FINAL fill and drain there are procedures to brake and shift gears - by time.. FINAL DRAIN and LEVEL check via OVERFLOW PLUG with engine IDLING to check correct level 35C to 45C (95F to 113F) . NOTE the Manual list to drain and fill the CVT TWO times. It also list using the overflow Plug hole to fill CVT with engine OFF of course (Not the dipstick tube). REASON? Maybe because all fills will be close to correct and less wasted OR on a level LIFT it is easy to measure and convenient? (Dealer has a special overflow plug adapter, but a small pump bottle and a vinyl tube would work) Wonder if the input of fluid via dipstick tube or overflow tube even matters about WHERE the fluid go's within design of CVT? The original 9 year old Manual does not mention the paper filter which IMO should be changed. Could be a update would show the paper filter.
Great video DIY NH -- very interesting. - My one Toyota has sealed tranny and does not have the dipstick... why would Nissan give a dipstick and have an overfill level bolt too ??? Seems crazy. - I too have used 3 ways to check my fluid on my Highlander (other older one that is with dipstick) 1) cold first thing in the morning and not running. This is not a documented method but I have found this to be just as accurate as the other two ways. I even marked the dipstick with another mark for this condition. 2) hot and at temperature and running - already a mark on the dipstick for that 3) cold and running but not at temperature ie just started it in the morning say. Already a mark for that too on the dipstick - Were you talking about 20,000 miles on an engine oil change or a CVT oil change? I would NEVER go past 7,500 mile on an engine oil even if it was Amsoil/Redline. - I was a Redline fan for engine oil for a few years but ultimately quit using it.... It just did not make sense. Too much money. I found Kirkland synthetic at Costco to be so much more affordable and better value (I can afford Redline just could not justify it) and it is a great oil. I change mine every 4,000-5,000 miles religiously. Doing that and my experience with Toyota quality I know for sure I will get way over 250,000 miles on the car so why spend that extra money on an oil that is not going to make a difference? Amsoil on Amazon is $13 a quart now. Kirkland synthetic is $3.80 a quart. Thats almost 3.5x as expensive. Even if you change it half as often which I would not do for either I just can't see justifying it. - before doing the drain and fill make sure the vehicle has the amount you want in it, measure the drainage and then fill back with the identical amount. I use similar large plastic containers - put two next to each other - one with new and one with old fluid you don't have to know anything about ounces or anything just fill the one with the same amount as the other with the old fluid. - Again great video again - why is it all mirror image video? Everything is spelled backwards and you are removing bolts like they are left threaded! - Thanks for posting!
@@camarogs1 - at least on the iPhone when doing a selfie you can turn off ‘mirror front camera ‘. That way when you take a selfie or a video and play it back, you’ll see words, spelled correctly, and not backwards. Seems like most people who take videos don’t realize this setting.
well done and explained in every way i'm gonna take a wild guess that it was politics between engineers and leadership, management didn't understand why a little more in R&D was worth it and said "f it", design them to fail so they buy more cars. done. why spend more getting every detail with the transmission correct? us sharp ones find this path, it's impossible that they would make the CVT non-servicable because they could be brought to court for that then we find out Nissan of Japan does recommend servicing and we figure out the smart-owner's path.
I have a DYNO Tuned 2011 Juke SL and mine comes with a Trans Dip stick thank God.. I think they stopped using real dip sticks on the Trans in 2013ish.. It's the dummist thing Nissan did next to using the JACO CVT in the first place.. I changed out the paper filter when I put a CVT cooler in.. I just did a CVT drain and fill today. I only use AMSoil CVT fluid now.. I do a 5 quart drain and fill at the end of June before it gets really hot usually, But I was lazy about it this year and waited till today.. I Kinda went all out with my Juke, Full Bolt Ons and a tune.. I never upgraded the turbo because the CVT can't handle it anyway.. Mine is running at the edge of it's life.. It makes a little to much power so I get slips from time to time but it's usually at a higher gear like it happens in simulated 4Th and 5Th even from time to time when in sport mode and really pushing the car.. I get on her from time to time but ever since I hit 80K I have been taking it easier.. I need this car to last me another 2 years at least.. But anyway that's my story and why I recommend at least doing a drain and fill once a year or every 15K/20K depending on how you drive.. Think of it more like protectant, Like motor oil and you can make your CVT last a lot longer..
Very good information! Is this the same trans/filter/gasket setup that would be on a 2014 Juke?? I had to replace it's trans at about 96k miles (to the tune of about $4000.00!!!) and it's been about 30k since then, so it's due for service. I absolutely swear by Amsoil products and have used them for many years. When I asked my local service dept. about putting Amsoil in instead of the Nissan fluid, he told me it would void my warranty and I had to sign a "disclaimer" form before they would do it. WHAT??!!! Maybe I'm being negative, but I couldn't help but think they would either short-fill it, or put some nasty stuff in it to make it fail, then say, "Sorry, it was the fluid and you signed this paper, so too bad!" Anyway, I figured I would just do it myself, and I'm trying to get as much "how-to" info as I can.
6 qts is what my 2012 maxima took, but i blew out 2 more qts through the external filter lines. the oil that came out when pushing air was really really dirty .ran car for 30 minute till at 165 degrees and was right level. btw decided on valvoline cvt. 77k on my car probably the first change. but i bought used
@@rabihm9098 well it depends on how much u get out. i got a ton out after blowing it out through the hoses. all i know is my level is perfect after what i did.
I have a question, I got a 2013 outlander sport with about 200K miles on the clock, I bought it with unknown maintenance records. Although the CVT fluid looks rather clean should I go ahead and do a drain-fill? Also Mitsubishi asks for CVT-J4 and I can't find that anywhere here, if I can do the drain what fluid could I use? Thanks
always change everything brother, the more you change, the less longterm problems that can build it. if previous owners havnt done any transmission fluid change, the new transmission fluid will strip the metal particles and gunk away causing slippage. that CAN happen, but if you do frequent fluid changes, it wont happen 100k more miles down the road.
Any update on your altima after using Amsoil CVT fluid? I just did the same process as yours with amsoil CVT in my 15 Altima (~180k miles) it's driving like shit, it shifts smoothly BUT very noticeable loss of power, fuel efficiency gone to crap from 37-38mpg to 33-34mpg, i have to press gas so much more than before 😢. Now thinking of doing the same process again and fill back the NS3. 😓 UPDATE: Car is finally running smoothly with Amsoil, i didn't have to change it back to NS3 thankfully. I guess the car needed some time to adapt or adjust. Took my car about a week to adjust but finally running better than before with no power loss. It is so smooth now it feels like Amsoil CVT fluid restored the age of my CVT.
@@lam_nguyenn_ hi yes, i feel like it is slightly thicker than the NS3 but I'm not 100% sure. Whatever it is I'm pretty satisfied with it. I just updated my previous comment with new update
Very intelligent video. Thanks. Question Where did you get the parts. Not the oil. The 2 filters and gasket. Lots of bad reviews on autozone and advanced auto saying tube to long? My 14 maxima s has morning sickness where it won't go into gear till I rev the engine to 2k rpm. Then runs great. Do you think a fluid and filter change would help. It had 150k and idk when it was ever changed before.....
The dipstick vs check bolt discrepancy is odd, for sure. The top of the fluid is the top of the fluid. I service a 2015 Altima and always put in 4 quarts. I bought a dipstick like yours. Are you sure you are inserting the dipstick all the way? Great video, by the way.
I recently changed my cvt fuid but would like to change the filter. How much fluid would come out if I were to remove it without draining first? Is it far enough above the reservoir to not matter?
I think 10 quarts would represent filling a completely empty (new or rebuilt trans) and not a simple drain and refill. The torque converter holds quite a bit of fluid and does not drain out during a normal drain and refill!
did u have a problem getting that top left bolt out of the cartridge filter housing? others show taking air housing off and getting to it from the top.
I had a lift to put my vehicle in the air so it made it quite a bit easier, I used a socket set for two of the bolts and a ratchet wrench for the third one due to the tight space but all in all not too bad to get off at all
I was once a Volkswagen owner and would have been afraid to try Amsoil in that transmission. How long have these lasted with it in them? I know Amsoil is good stuff to some degree but there was the gray area of transmission fluid compatibility with the Volkswagen 09G (really made by Aisin). I now have a 2017 Rogue Sport SV.
I bought the dipstick and when I tried to install it (2015 Nissan Rogue S model) the clipped plug was a dipstick already and it went all the way down to the bottom of the pan. The one I bought was too long and I couldn't use it. Check before you buy one.
That check port mat be the key reason they don't come with a dipstick any more. That and to keep people from messing with them who might add the wrong fluid. There are multiple CVT fluids you might find depending on what vehicles you see. You might already know this part that I will mention now. That is to keep regular ATF out of it. That stuff will ruin the transmission even if a little bit gets in there. It might not be immediate but it will cause damage unless you flush all of it out ASAP. The reason it will cause damage is most likely because they are very different. You said you have been using the Valvoline for 130,000 miles. How well did it run with that? I wonder because you can get that stuff everywhere. I would be looking for an NS3 fluid and wondered how much of a match it would be. The good people at Bobistheoilguy would likely have a dozen posts about the various fluids. I would imagine it would be well worth a look at their opinions. Some of those guys seem to know quite a bit about oil in general even the viscosities of the various brands. I even have a couple posts of my own from me seeking their opinions on various oils. They would help you avoid "snake oil" products like Prolong containing chlorinated paraffin and other nasty stuff that has no place in your car. I mean I remember back when they advertised that gunk on TV and thank goodness I didn't fall for it, I mean yikes, chlorine in my motor oil? What good could it possibly do? Sure the lubrication is good but it destroys metal! Those guys will help you avoid buying that gunk if you take their advice. If it is oil for any kind of machine they most likely have discussed it somewhere in their forums.
That dipstick does not have the correct registration marks for this transmission. That's why they didn't supply it with the car. The transmission that does belong to that dipstick has a different pan entirely. They don't even have the same number of bolts.
OK guys, I just changed the tranny in my 2016 Altima. Both filters changed very simply. Jack it up, drain, remove filters, clean everything well and replace all parts with new. Total fluid removed was just short of 5 quarts. Replaced fluid using Castrol CVT fluid. All this was accomplished at 73,760 miles. Previous changes were at 25,000 and 61,000 miles; no filters were changed at those times. There was a noticable difference in the acceleration and ease of driving, ergo, the filters were somewhat full of gunk. On the HWY, there was an RPM difference of 200 RPM less at 70 mph.. 1650 compared to 1850 previously, at the same speed. This is a CVT trans. ...go figure. This oil change should increase fuel mileage. Your results can differ depending on mileage on the vehicle. PS: there were minute pieces of metal on the magnets in the pan... I mean minute ! including some black goop, of no consequence. ... I hope this helps. Total time including all the up and down on the ground was just short of 6 hours.... ( I'm 78 ) Lol !
The # 78 at the end really encourage me to do it myself on my car. Well done Sir! Keep up the good work at the age, I highly respect this matter!
That used trans fluid that flowed out looked great. It shows how much you’ve been taking care of the car. CVTs need this much attention to have a long life. Great job.
The Amsoil CVT fluid made a huge difference in my Subaru Outback. Very noticeable, almost shocking how much better it was than the stock fluid that came in it from the factory.
This is good to know! Very interesting 🤔 thank you for sharing!
It's really pricey stuff ... I'm going to start doing my own CVT + Oil and Filter changes soon and will be using Valvoline CVT Fluid + Amsoil 0w20 Signature Series for the motor. Goal would be to do a 25k-30k CVT and oil change every 1.5 - 2 years.
What year is your outback? I've considered it in my 2017 legacy with the 2.5l
@@jake6483 It's the 2012 2.5l
Like how noticeable? CVT pretty much lineal and doesn't shift.... I'm curious because I got a Subaru Forester 2017.
as long as my cars don't leak fluid that would give me a reason to suspect that it is low, I've always carefully measured how much transmission fluid comes out and I simply add that exact amount back in and do not mess around with overflow bolts and temp guns and dipsticks. Very simple approach that never lets me down.
Yeah many shops do that around my area but my worry is that if someone before improperly serviced it before and added little or too much fluid.
Nissan says only use Nissan brand, but obviously no need to. Good video.
Nissan also wants to sell you a new vehicle
Nissan also specifies that you use Nissan air in the tires or they will burst into flames and you’ll be killed. Okay, I’m exaggerating a bit. You don’t need to use the name brand, ultra expensive stuff IF, what you intend on using meets specs.
@lorinkramer5805 take a look at the difference in oil qualities. Using top tier products will make your stuff function better and last longer
@@quick281 I should have worded my comment differently. I rarely use dealer name brand products simply because they cost three times as much. However, I am a firm believer in quality products like Amsoil. Spendy but superior in many aspects.
@@lorinkramer5805 dealers use minimum spec good enough lubricants from the cheapest suppliers.
Add a long dipstick and check out the length. Before draining anything, let the car set for a day or overnight. Then with engine off, mark a witness line on your dipstick at the fluid level. This will be your"cold" transmission fill level. You can make sure to keep this level at all times.
Just did my Altima last week. Got 6 qts of Castrol CVT for $21 at autozone bc it was on “clearance.” The gasket and 2 filters were $36. Pretty easy job, thx for video.
It's great stuff, I've always used it.
Where you bought the filters?
@@kccodex8931Nissan factory fluid is only 20/qt
I also learned that you can use petroleum jelly on the gasket. Mainly to prevent movement while securing the pan. Many years later, never a leak from the gasket. 1:43
When I did my cvt I checked the fluid levels to make sure they were correct at operating temperature. Then after determining it was at the correct level the following day I would perform a COLD DRAIN AND FILL. MEASURING WHAT CAME OUT COLD AND PUTTING BACK THE EXACT AMOUNT. DOING IT THIS WAY ELIMINATES THE THERMAL EXPANSION VARIABLE. I REPEATED THIS PROCEDURE OVER THREE DRAIN AND FILL CYCLES UNTIL I HAD SLIGHTLY EXCEEDED THE CAPACITY STATED FOR THE CVT. SO AMSOIL MADE THE CVT SHIFT BUTTERY SMOOTH WOULD NOT EVEN CONTEMPLATE ANOTHER BRAND. AAA+ AMSOIL.
The drain plug is the dipstick on some models some have a separate check bolt like the one in the video. 90-104* farentheit of trans fluid. Easiest way to check is an infrared thermo aimed at trans pan. THE THING BEHIND THE DRAIN PLUG IS CALLED A STANDPIPE AND DETERMINES THE FLUID LEVEL. AFTER FLUID REACHES CORRECT MEASURING TEMPERATURE IT EXPANDS AND THUS IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO OVERFILL A CVT IF DONE CORRECTLY. ANY EXCESS WILL DRAIN DOWN TO THE PREDETERMINED HEIGHT LIMITED BY THE STANDPIPE. FOOLPROOF. THERMAL EXPANSION VARIABLE? OIL EVAPORATES. BEST WAY TO DO THINGS IS THE WAY THE MANUFACTURER INTENDED. THEY DIDNT SPEND MILLIONS IN R&D FOR ANYONE TO SAY OTHERWISE.
Great video...thank you. I need to do this soon on my Altima. Concerning the dipstick, I agree with you that typically one checks the transmission fluid level with the engine running. That includes every Nissan vehicle with traditional transmissions that I have serviced. I have not serviced a Nissan CVT yet, and the FSM says to use the overflow plug as you have stated. This is a shot in the dark, but perhaps the dipstick is calibrated to be used when the engine is off. I've had the opportunity to service transmissions on a couple Honda Odyssey's and Honda's procedure is to run transmission to normal operating temperature, shut the engine off, and check ATF level with the dipstick within 60-90 seconds of turning engine off. Again, I don't know about Nissan CVTs, but that could explain the difference. BTW, I've also used AMSOIL products since the mid-late 70's in everything I own...great stuff! AMSOIL CVT fluid is what's going in the Altima
El procedimiento es rodar el carro por 10 minutos y luego parar, mover la selectora por todos las marchas, luego colocar en N o P y verificar que el liquido CVT marque en la parte ranurada de HOT.
Using the "overflow plug" is messy BS.... unnecessary
You are good and your system helped me work on my Nissan Altima 2013 that had Transmission issues.
@ Blessing Ikenador does this Amsoil fluid help Nissan cars with slipping, whinning noise ?
@@edwinalexander1170
It might just could
I’ve run into the dipstick discrepancy before. What I believe is happening is the dipstick you have is designed for an older CVT that has a shorter dipstick tube. For an example I picked up a NS-2 dipstick for my buddies 2017 Altima that didn’t have one and the tube length is longer than my tube that my 2011 Altima has that came with a dipstick pre-installed. Hence why I think it reads lower on the marks for your car that has the NS-3 design. Maybe there is a newer longer dipstick for the post 2012 Altima? How is the Amsoil working out? I currently run the Castrol CVT smooth drive tech in my 2012 Altima and haven’t had any issues. I’ve also don filters.
Very clear. Thanks for all your info.
Good info. I've put 4.5qts into my 2014 altima. 4qts came out with drain. I've allowed 0.5qts for filter absorbtion of fluid, evaporation under hot temps, spillage during drain and underfill by nissan from factory for cost saving. 0.25 qts filter will absorb. Other 0.25 qts is for evaporation since new and underfill by Nissan. Dipstick you bought is from previous gen4 altima which slightly shorter dipstick. With 4.5 qts my fluid level on cold tranny is top notch on dipstick. It's where exactly it should be i think. Hope this helps other. If you have any comments please replay. Thank you.
Thank you for your video! Did my cousin’s Sentra CVT. Last minute I went with Nissan NS-3 instead of what I originally had my cousin order, Triax. Good to know the Valvoline has at least some good anecdotal evidence! This means a lot in the land of snake oils lol. My next goto would be Idemitsu CVTF N3, Nissan NS-3 and Valvoline CVT. Have a nice day people
This seems to get-around the design defect: Keep 'em cool as many ways of reduced coolant/distilled water ratios, both filters and best cvt fluid each 30k, allow set overnight or allow 8 hours for full warm drain to obtain around 5.5 quarts if not flushing, seal all air leaks of radiator plenum (Time -consuming), keep radiators clean. I'm now 209k Mojave hard-and-hot conditions, full AC
Just did a drain and fill 20 minutes ago.. I do one every year around June for the Dog Days when it's hot as hell around here... Once a year no matter the milage.. It wasn't Burnt or Black but it wasn't clean and it was black enough.. All it Takes is one Hot summer and a heavy foot and the Fluid is burnt up..
Remember while warming apply brakes and shift through the gears
Great video! The best one I’ve seen on this thank you. I don’t think I’m going to go with the dipstick though lol!
I don't even go by the stick anymore.. It's Negligible anyway.. You can be a Half quart over or under. I try to have a little over. "A little over". But for the most part what ever I take out I measure and put back the same amount and for the last 5 years so far so good. Plus I'm on a Tune making 246 Wheel Torque with a Jaco CVT, so I use AMSoil...
Very helpful, thanks for the great video.
Nice video. I know it's been many years since you created this. But it would be better and less confusing, until I figured it out, if your video was not mirror image.
That dipstick is for a 2008-2012. Different length.
When it comes to the nissan cvt transmission fluid changes, it's usually about 4 to 5 quarts of fluid for a drain and fill. On some models there is also a cooler filter that can be changed but it's only on some models. I recommend 30k mile intervals and do a filter change every 2 fluid changes.
Which models do not have the cart filter? So far from what ive seen they all have them they are just in different locations of the different jatco model cvts. Logically they all need one CVT fluid has to be crystal clean or it wil eat the belt quickly.
@@Gleone58 the 2013 nissan rogue SL AWD didn't have a cartridge filter. But I've only worked on that one for my parents
@@brentneahring2797 some models it is hidden behind the oil cooler. Some have a stand alone cover on the side or front. Doing some quick sinple googling shows they have one. The AWD version should not be much different of a transmission with only an extra gearset added to the lower differential to send power to rear axle. Btw sometimes the older nissan service data omits the cart filter technically never needs to be changed but still recommended.
@@brentneahring2797 the filter on a rogue AWD SL is located behind the cooler box itself. Hidden away it is referred to in found literature as a "cooler line return filter".
Yeah that Fluid looked very clean just like mine did today but it's still worth doing it.. And I know for a fact that NS2 and NS3 both have low heat tolerances, and you can burn that fluid up in 1 hot summer of hard driving..
How many miles do you change it at
Great great video! Effective and exactly what I needed to see! I have a 2016 and I'm trying to fix a small issue it's having. The car cranks and it goes into gear but it's not moving forward after I put it in drive. The idling is weak and doesn't go pass the first gear. The codes that's showing is the transmission fluid or the solenoid. I'll be changing the fluid first to see if that does the trick but If you can get me info on where to get solenoids for this vehicle please share it's been hard for me to find them. Thanks for the videos!!
How many miles does your vehicle have?
190k miles
I changed my Jatco. 2015 outlander sport at 25,000 and it had a lot of glitter in the oil . At 50,000 change it was a lot cleaner. The tiny filter was dirty at 50 and the magnet were dirty . I buy the Mitsu . Oil because of warranty . Highway Robery,
Bizarre your video is inverted. Thanks for the data of your experience.
I ty for ur info on oil ratings. And there isn’t any wondering left after watching ur video. Ty and God Bless.
Brilliant. You got the oil level right with the check hole. The dipstick is great for weekly check. Get home, hot oil. Switch off. Check dipstick. No crawling under the car. Also engine off, no risk of fingers in fans, belts etc. So check hole for oil change, dipstick for routine check. You are using an NS2/3 interchangeable oil. A few comments about sticking with NS2 or NS3 only oil would be helpful. Does NS3 oil wreck NS2 car?.Castrol also do a combined NS2/3 oil
Good video. Thanks.
However you used Nissan compatible "NS-2" fluid, and Nissan mandates "NS-3 transmission fluid in Altima's 2013 thru 2019. Ns-2 would void the warranty.
It's because that aftermarket dip stick is about an inch to short. Use it as a marker instead of measuring whether it's full or not.
Love you bro, proud of you!
I remember years ago reading that Nissan reduced the fluid level in the CVT's. I believe it was to eliminate foaming due to over filling going into the 5 th generation of this CVT. So Nissan removed the early version of the dipstick to insure a lower fill level and reduce the CVT failure rate.
why is there so much concern about dip stick measurement on you tube when the overfill port should be the exact oil fill.
There are NOT interchangeable good video
Great Video! Very Detailed!💯🙏👍
Please use only Nissan CVT fluid. It runs really strong with it. Valvoline is the best for engine oil. I make oil changes every 20k and my 2017 Altima has already 295,000 miles (I drive Uber) and still runs very good. Valvoline has a transmission flush for $199 I bring Nissan CVT fluid NS3 and it still shifts good at 295,000 miles. I do the CVT flush at Valvoline every 80k miles or when it starts slipping. After the flush it shifts strong no slipping anymore. (If you don't do it at all your car will have barley power to move from the traffic stop, make the flash and it will shift normal again!) It needs 5-6 quarts
Amsoil or Valvoline for CVT ?
I put Valvoline in my cvt for the first time. Already feels more responsive than it did on OEM fluid. Who knows... maybe it's a placebo...
It’s simply the fact that it’s NEW FLUID and that is the increase in performance that you’re feeling. Old fluid does wear out.
2014 Altima should use NS3 equivalent and that was not a small trickle. :-) The after market dip stick is a reference. Fill according to Nissan and then make a mark on your after market dips stick when the oil is hot. You will then have an accurate mark. Where does Nissan say 200 degrees?
This UT has very good video of the CVT parts and procedure. The Service Manual gives additional info Following Service Manual for a 2013 Altima SL 2.5 4 cylinder.
FIRST DRAIN from oil pan at 40C degree (104F degree) OR LESS using NS-3 fluid.
BETWEEN first drain and FINAL fill and drain there are procedures to brake and shift gears - by time..
FINAL DRAIN and LEVEL check via OVERFLOW PLUG with engine IDLING to check correct level 35C to 45C (95F to 113F)
.
NOTE the Manual list to drain and fill the CVT TWO times. It also list using the overflow Plug hole to fill CVT with engine OFF of course (Not the dipstick tube). REASON? Maybe because all fills will be close to correct and less wasted OR on a level LIFT it is easy to measure and convenient? (Dealer has a special overflow plug adapter, but a small pump bottle and a vinyl tube would work) Wonder if the input of fluid via dipstick tube or overflow tube even matters about WHERE the fluid go's within design of CVT? The original 9 year old Manual does not mention the paper filter which IMO should be changed. Could be a update would show the paper filter.
Great video DIY NH -- very interesting.
- My one Toyota has sealed tranny and does not have the dipstick... why would Nissan give a dipstick and have an overfill level bolt too ??? Seems crazy.
- I too have used 3 ways to check my fluid on my Highlander (other older one that is with dipstick) 1) cold first thing in the morning and not running. This is not a documented method but I have found this to be just as accurate as the other two ways. I even marked the dipstick with another mark for this condition. 2) hot and at temperature and running - already a mark on the dipstick for that 3) cold and running but not at temperature ie just started it in the morning say. Already a mark for that too on the dipstick
- Were you talking about 20,000 miles on an engine oil change or a CVT oil change? I would NEVER go past 7,500 mile on an engine oil even if it was Amsoil/Redline.
- I was a Redline fan for engine oil for a few years but ultimately quit using it.... It just did not make sense. Too much money. I found Kirkland synthetic at Costco to be so much more affordable and better value (I can afford Redline just could not justify it) and it is a great oil. I change mine every 4,000-5,000 miles religiously. Doing that and my experience with Toyota quality I know for sure I will get way over 250,000 miles on the car so why spend that extra money on an oil that is not going to make a difference? Amsoil on Amazon is $13 a quart now. Kirkland synthetic is $3.80 a quart. Thats almost 3.5x as expensive. Even if you change it half as often which I would not do for either I just can't see justifying it.
- before doing the drain and fill make sure the vehicle has the amount you want in it, measure the drainage and then fill back with the identical amount. I use similar large plastic containers - put two next to each other - one with new and one with old fluid you don't have to know anything about ounces or anything just fill the one with the same amount as the other with the old fluid.
- Again great video again - why is it all mirror image video? Everything is spelled backwards and you are removing bolts like they are left threaded!
- Thanks for posting!
a lot of phone cameras seem to do that when transferring to UA-cam.
@@camarogs1 - at least on the iPhone when doing a selfie you can turn off ‘mirror front camera ‘. That way when you take a selfie or a video and play it back, you’ll see words, spelled correctly, and not backwards. Seems like most people who take videos don’t realize this setting.
Excellent info, very helpful. Thank you Sir. Very good video.
Thanks for making this video. Very detail and full of info. needed. Is this gonna be the same for Nissan Altima SV 2016 4cyl 2.5L ?
Thanks man nice video
Glad my 2011 Juke came with a stick even though I never look at it....
well done and explained in every way
i'm gonna take a wild guess that it was politics between engineers and leadership, management didn't understand why a little more in R&D was worth it and said "f it", design them to fail so they buy more cars. done. why spend more getting every detail with the transmission correct?
us sharp ones find this path, it's impossible that they would make the CVT non-servicable because they could be brought to court for that
then we find out Nissan of Japan does recommend servicing and we figure out the smart-owner's path.
The pickup filter is not meant to be changed except when you're doing transmission repair work & the reason is it's inside the oil pan.
I have a DYNO Tuned 2011 Juke SL and mine comes with a Trans Dip stick thank God.. I think they stopped using real dip sticks on the Trans in 2013ish.. It's the dummist thing Nissan did next to using the JACO CVT in the first place.. I changed out the paper filter when I put a CVT cooler in.. I just did a CVT drain and fill today. I only use AMSoil CVT fluid now.. I do a 5 quart drain and fill at the end of June before it gets really hot usually, But I was lazy about it this year and waited till today.. I Kinda went all out with my Juke, Full Bolt Ons and a tune.. I never upgraded the turbo because the CVT can't handle it anyway.. Mine is running at the edge of it's life.. It makes a little to much power so I get slips from time to time but it's usually at a higher gear like it happens in simulated 4Th and 5Th even from time to time when in sport mode and really pushing the car.. I get on her from time to time but ever since I hit 80K I have been taking it easier.. I need this car to last me another 2 years at least.. But anyway that's my story and why I recommend at least doing a drain and fill once a year or every 15K/20K depending on how you drive.. Think of it more like protectant, Like motor oil and you can make your CVT last a lot longer..
There is no need to replace the pan gasket if you are using the metal rubber hybrid gasket. They last a long time.
Yes I'm about to do a simple drain and fluid change then next week ill do all filters and change it again
Thanks for the video.
Very good information! Is this the same trans/filter/gasket setup that would be on a 2014 Juke?? I had to replace it's trans at about 96k miles (to the tune of about $4000.00!!!) and it's been about 30k since then, so it's due for service. I absolutely swear by Amsoil products and have used them for many years. When I asked my local service dept. about putting Amsoil in instead of the Nissan fluid, he told me it would void my warranty and I had to sign a "disclaimer" form before they would do it. WHAT??!!! Maybe I'm being negative, but I couldn't help but think they would either short-fill it, or put some nasty stuff in it to make it fail, then say, "Sorry, it was the fluid and you signed this paper, so too bad!" Anyway, I figured I would just do it myself, and I'm trying to get as much "how-to" info as I can.
None of the dipstick reads correctly the overflow is the correct way to do it ..thank you for your excellent video
I am grateful for your input thank you!
Because it wasn’t designed for a dipstick. It was designed with the overflow in mind.
Thanks for the good video.
6 qts is what my 2012 maxima took, but i blew out 2 more qts through the external filter lines. the oil that came out when pushing air was really really dirty .ran car for 30 minute till at 165 degrees and was right level. btw decided on valvoline cvt. 77k on my car probably the first change. but i bought used
4 qts is enough ???
I know it should be 5 qts
@@rabihm9098 well it depends on how much u get out. i got a ton out after blowing it out through the hoses. all i know is my level is perfect after what i did.
I have a question, I got a 2013 outlander sport with about 200K miles on the clock, I bought it with unknown maintenance records. Although the CVT fluid looks rather clean should I go ahead and do a drain-fill? Also Mitsubishi asks for CVT-J4 and I can't find that anywhere here, if I can do the drain what fluid could I use?
Thanks
always change everything brother, the more you change, the less longterm problems that can build it.
if previous owners havnt done any transmission fluid change, the new transmission fluid will strip the metal particles and gunk away causing slippage. that CAN happen, but if you do frequent fluid changes, it wont happen 100k more miles down the road.
Any update on your altima after using Amsoil CVT fluid? I just did the same process as yours with amsoil CVT in my 15 Altima (~180k miles) it's driving like shit, it shifts smoothly BUT very noticeable loss of power, fuel efficiency gone to crap from 37-38mpg to 33-34mpg, i have to press gas so much more than before 😢. Now thinking of doing the same process again and fill back the NS3. 😓
UPDATE: Car is finally running smoothly with Amsoil, i didn't have to change it back to NS3 thankfully. I guess the car needed some time to adapt or adjust. Took my car about a week to adjust but finally running better than before with no power loss. It is so smooth now it feels like Amsoil CVT fluid restored the age of my CVT.
I have been using ns3 for my 15 altima. Does the amsoil have more viscosity than the ns3? Also, how’s your car running?
@@lam_nguyenn_ hi yes, i feel like it is slightly thicker than the NS3 but I'm not 100% sure. Whatever it is I'm pretty satisfied with it. I just updated my previous comment with new update
Very thorough! Thanks.
Is that the same way on a CVT transmission in a Nissan rogue 2015
If your title is right 2014 does not comes with a dipstick, that it’s from an older Nissan, 09/12 most likely.
Very intelligent video. Thanks. Question Where did you get the parts. Not the oil. The 2 filters and gasket. Lots of bad reviews on autozone and advanced auto saying tube to long? My 14 maxima s has morning sickness where it won't go into gear till I rev the engine to 2k rpm. Then runs great. Do you think a fluid and filter change would help. It had 150k and idk when it was ever changed before.....
As an owner of a 2014 Altima, I can tell you that the CVT uses NS-3, not NS-2. I'm no oil expert but all the research available clearly says this.
That’s what I thought as well.
What about 2013 4 cylinder
@@jrsblogs 2007-2012 is NS-2, 2013 and up is NS-3.
The Amsoil CVT fluid is approved to replace both the NS-2 and the NS-3 OEM fluids.
@@gtzgreatride Nissan says to use NS3 for a reason because of the formulation and additives.
I've always used CASTROL CVT with excellent results. $6.99 qt.
Is it for that model and size of motor
Excellentavery good job myfriend
The dipstick vs check bolt discrepancy is odd, for sure. The top of the fluid is the top of the fluid. I service a 2015 Altima and always put in 4 quarts. I bought a dipstick like yours. Are you sure you are inserting the dipstick all the way? Great video, by the way.
Same!
how many miles did you have on that fluid when you changed it
How did you get to the 4th screw on the cartridge filter? Were you able to access it from the same spot under the car? Thanks in advance.
I recently changed my cvt fuid but would like to change the filter. How much fluid would come out if I were to remove it without draining first? Is it far enough above the reservoir to not matter?
Is the viscosity of the oil you put better than NS2 fluid?
Do you recommend taking the pan off and changing the screen filter every 25-30,000 miles or just the small filter on the outside of the pan?
I have a 2013 Altima 3.5 s Google says to fill and drain it takes 10 quarts of cvt fluid. Is this correct???
I think 10 quarts would represent filling a completely empty (new or rebuilt trans) and not a simple drain and refill. The torque converter holds quite a bit of fluid and does not drain out during a normal drain and refill!
Your video is very thorough. But why did you not use the Nissan Transmission Cooler Flush? Is it because you replaced the filter and the pan gasket?
Honestly, if you’re changing it out early enough, just a spill n fill is all it needs to be healthy and happy
did u have a problem getting that top left bolt out of the cartridge filter housing? others show taking air housing off and getting to it from the top.
I had a lift to put my vehicle in the air so it made it quite a bit easier, I used a socket set for two of the bolts and a ratchet wrench for the third one due to the tight space but all in all not too bad to get off at all
@@pete89spotsin ok thanks
Very good video, i appreciate you!!! Do you know if the dipstick will be the same for a 2017 nissan sentra sv 1.8 ?
I can only speak on the 2014 Altima, I'm sorry
good job and good video
I was once a Volkswagen owner and would have been afraid to try Amsoil in that transmission. How long have these lasted with it in them? I know Amsoil is good stuff to some degree but there was the gray area of transmission fluid compatibility with the Volkswagen 09G (really made by Aisin). I now have a 2017 Rogue Sport SV.
I bought the dipstick and when I tried to install it (2015 Nissan Rogue S model) the clipped plug was a dipstick already and it went all the way down to the bottom of the pan. The one I bought was too long and I couldn't use it. Check before you buy one.
Genuine Nissan filters and seals over $100, off brand on eBay 20 bucks! Any suggestions? Thanks!!
Comparing with Valvoline cvt, does the transmission run smoother with Amsoil cvt?
Why is the video mirrored?
I looked it up and it says not to use a dipstick on the nissan altima. It won't accurately check the fluid level. Is this true?
I'm about to do the 1st change drain refill w amsoil at 60k miles....thanks for the video
Have amsoil is synthetic, it's other this kind in clip ?
I think the temp is supposed to be around 104f not 200 like u said
Most all transmission CVT or what have you when very hot will be right around 200 degrees In very cold Temp it might not get there
I also WISH they made a dip stick for my car.
Is this the same exact transmission in the Pathfinder of the same year?
Use nissan brand cvt fluids dealer service advisors have been saying using other brand cvt fluid can cause issues
That check port mat be the key reason they don't come with a dipstick any more. That and to keep people from messing with them who might add the wrong fluid. There are multiple CVT fluids you might find depending on what vehicles you see. You might already know this part that I will mention now. That is to keep regular ATF out of it. That stuff will ruin the transmission even if a little bit gets in there. It might not be immediate but it will cause damage unless you flush all of it out ASAP. The reason it will cause damage is most likely because they are very different. You said you have been using the Valvoline for 130,000 miles. How well did it run with that? I wonder because you can get that stuff everywhere. I would be looking for an NS3 fluid and wondered how much of a match it would be. The good people at Bobistheoilguy would likely have a dozen posts about the various fluids. I would imagine it would be well worth a look at their opinions. Some of those guys seem to know quite a bit about oil in general even the viscosities of the various brands. I even have a couple posts of my own from me seeking their opinions on various oils. They would help you avoid "snake oil" products like Prolong containing chlorinated paraffin and other nasty stuff that has no place in your car. I mean I remember back when they advertised that gunk on TV and thank goodness I didn't fall for it, I mean yikes, chlorine in my motor oil? What good could it possibly do? Sure the lubrication is good but it destroys metal! Those guys will help you avoid buying that gunk if you take their advice. If it is oil for any kind of machine they most likely have discussed it somewhere in their forums.
Camera is backwards @ 18:00
That dipstick does not have the correct registration marks for this transmission. That's why they didn't supply it with the car. The transmission that does belong to that dipstick has a different pan entirely. They don't even have the same number of bolts.
Is the check port and checking level process the same for a 08 cvt?
I have a 2011 Rogue. Will I need both filters?
I would reuse that old metal pan gasket over a new cork one all day long.
Show the lap test please 🎉
Hey can we put CVT AMSOIL oil to Murano 2010?
Amzoil gave my b7 8 speed multitronic wings!!!
Thank you sir
My 2015 civic doesn’t have transmission filters basically just drain and refill the CVT fluid
Your over analyzing, forget the dipstick. Like you said, your getting a ballpark. Just drain the over fill plug and be done with it.🎉 25:46