Thanks! About to do this for the first time on this car, so great to know what to expect. Update: I did it! Important note, on my 2015 QX60 AWD, the transfer case fill plug wanted a 3/8" square drive. I was able to use a very long extension threaded through from the rear. The rest of the job was very straightforward since I knew what to look for thanks to this video. Car has ~120k miles, and I do not believe the transfer case or rear diff had ever been changes. The transfer case fluid was slightly colored, definitely needed changing. The old rear diff fluid looked pretty good.
I just did a transfer case fluid change on my 2020 pathfinder. The drain and fill plugs are both 10mm hex. They are a pain to remove, and I doubt they are torque to 14ft-lbs in the factory because they are really tight.
@jeffmeisterr definitely are a giant paint to remove. Awesome news to hear you got it done. Funny enough, after making these videos, I found out this car did in fact have the transfer case services at an Infiniti about an hour from where I lived. There was a not about a problem with the drain plug and something was applied to secure it, but I couldn't find out what was used or how much. So I now know what happened to my transfer case drain plug, but what a pain it was
Thanks for this video.. I got the transfer case fluid exchanged today at valvoline. After coming home I get a heavy bad smell around the car. Is that normal?
That is definitely not normal, but not unheard of. If the shop spilled the transfer case fluid anywhere, it will smell...it smells rancid when that fluid gets old. But there could be something else going on...all depends on what the smell is. Maybe take it back to Valvoline and have them clean up the area under the engine to make sure there isn't any left over fluid anywhere
@@NexusAuto Thank you. I don't know how I missed that. One more question - in the video you mention thread-locker and in the list of items, you have Silicone RTV Sealant listed. Is that considered a thread locker? When I removed the drain and filler plugs, there was a silicone gasket on the plugs. I think I noticed a similar gasket in your video when you removed the filler plug. Did you scrape off the old gasket?
@user-bd3lj4rn3c oh no problem at all. The threadlocker and RTV are different things. Threadlocker should be for the threads, and the RTV can be used to replace the silicone gasket, if you don't have a replacement. If you don't have threadlocker, you can used a bit of RTV, but it's not ideal. Also, if you have a replacement gasket and threadlocker, you don't need the RTV.
SIR I HAVE 2 FILL PLUGS. WHICH DO I USE TO FILL THE TRANSFER CASE? ONE PLUGS IS FACING THE DRIVERS SIDE MID WAY AND THE OTHER IS FACING THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE AND HIGHER TOWARDS THE TOP OF THE TRANSFER CASE. PLEASE HELP. THANKS IN ADVANCE
What model is this? I commented on the “fail” video but my transfer case failed at 195k. Metallic chunks on drain plug and very metallic oil. It sounded just like a universal joint clunk so I took the drive shaft out looking for issues. Checked oil in trans case and found my problem. I have a 2014 QX60 and mine seems a little different. I think my fill plug is 14mm. The 12mm bolts were the smaller ones holding the case together. I also had a plug at the top with a square hole that’s pretty big. The fill plug I hope I got the right one it’s not the one beside the drain plug but the higher one on the left. I’m not sure what I’m going to do very expensive part. Mine also took about 30 mins to get off cause it was so tight but I think my correct fill plug is on top facing the rear of the vehicle and uses like just a extension or ratchet in it. The bolt I took out was clean and was 14mm in the same general area of the one you took out but I think the 2014 model is up above on the top with a square in it facing the rear but seems impossible to get to without the drive shaft out I have mine out checking for other issues but it seems easier to get to. I think mine was also tightened to 350-400 ft-lbs. sooo tight i was afraid to tear it up but kept at it for half hour
Hi Joshua. This is a 2013 model. In 2015, Infiniti changed the CVT a bit, and this included the pan and drail bolts. However, some later model 2014s got this as well. i wasn't aware of any changes made to the transfer case, but it's possible Infiniti maybe chhanged around the transfer case when they changed the CVT as well. And damn, sorry to hear about your transfer case. With those metal filings and oil, sounds like it's past the point of repair. But like you said, very expensive to replace. I love my 2013, but the CVT and the Transfer Case are by far the biggest problems with these cars. Did you check your CVT as well? Make sure to keep up the maintenance on it (if you decide to keep your 2014). Interesting that you had the same problem with the drain plug as well. I have never encountered a drain plug like that, other than on this vehicle! But many others did not have this issue...only very few. It's very weird. You were lucky in getting it out. Check with a local transmission specialist in your area (if you have one). Because these failures are common, sometimes they have extra good transfer cases of CVTs sitting around. You may be able to get a deal from them. Hope you can get it fixed.
I also have a 2013 JX35 and love the vehicle, you’re videos are extremely helpful. I changed my transfer case fluid last year noticed two transfer case fill plugs, one halfway up (as referenced in your video) and a second near the top of the transfer case. Both plugs are the same size and use the same bolt to remove. I wasn’t able to find any details which plug to fill so used the upper plug. Did you run into this situation?
Hi Ben. Glad to hear you are enjoying your JX. I love mine too! I enjoy driving it everyday. I has come in handy with carry stuff or people many times, and drives so smooth. I'm just as happy as you are. This was some interesting info, as I had not come across the 'upper' plug, so I pulled it up in the service manual, and I think I found it in the diagram, and it was just called a 'plug'. My main concern with using that plug is that it sits higher up. With the filler plug used in the video, when fluid comes out when you are filling it, this indicates that it is as full as it should be, and no more fluid is needed. By using the upper plug, the transfer case may have been overfilled. I can't say this definitively, but as per the spec, that is what is called for. Not sure how much fluid you put it, but you may want to open the lower one and allow it to empty out until it reaches that level. Next time I'm under my JX, i'll take a look at it too
@@NexusAuto Thanks for clarifying the plug situation, it’s always been at the back of my mind. Seems strange Infiniti designed two similar plugs without clarifying. It’s been roughly 15k since filling the upper fill plug, I’m hoping there isn’t damage (or the extra fluid doesn’t hurt). I plan to swap out my old serpentine belt next weekend (following another one of your videos). I’ll open/drain the lower plug at the same time. Love the videos, great work!
@@benjaminsporl no problem at all. I am surprised too...I actually had no idea there was another at all until you mentioned it. I'm not even sure what its purpose would be. Maybe when it's factory filled on the production line. I hope everything is good too. When you drain out the fluid, just look for any silver-ish particles in the fluid or anything like that. I'm sure it'll be fine, but doesn't hurt to assess it. I appreciate the support and feedback. Really happy to hear the videos help out. I'll have more in the future for sure.
@@NexusAuto I opened the lower transfer case fill plug and drained the excess fluid. It took a few minutes to orient myself but overall was easy. Also, I had better wrench leverage by reaching behind a support bar (just rear of the drain plug), over the transfer case to the fill plug. There is enough space to get a wrench and leverage to loosen.
@@benjaminsporl awesome news! Happy to hear you got that drained out. I'll give that other wrench point a try...I'm due to give my transfer case another flush out soon so I'll take a look. Thanks for the tip
You know, your views are probably going to pick up traffic. The mileage and years are going to catch up on these vehicles and we'll be flocking to you for help haha. My 2015 qx60 is in the shop right now.. we just had a winter storm a few weeks ago which probably shocked the rest of my dying pieces i.e. wheel bearings, rotors, brake pads, ect... anyway It's in the shop because I suspected wheel bearings to be the issue ($1600). A day later, they quoted power steering ($4500), then another day later they asked to do the rear wheel bearings (another $1400) and the third day they quoted the transfer case now too ($4500). Yeah.. I didn't go for the power steering or transfer case. They did flush it for free.. since they are convinced I'll be back... Anyway I guess what I'm trying to say is thanks for these informative videos that's straight to the point and tons of tips from your experience added in. My wife is feeling very uncomfortable with this vehicle as this is supposed to be the family car.. but with bad design and what we gathered from the comments was that it's going to keep happening. I'm not made of money and I don't want to keep taking this thing back to shops. So I'll be coming back to you and your videos on the QX60 for maintenance for the duration of my time having it. Thank you!
I really do appreciate this feedback and glad to hear the videos will help. I am shocked to see the bill you got...unreal. I honestly still love my Infiniti, but there is no doubt very common issues. You read the 'room' correctly. The CVT transmission and transfer case are the big things to watch for. It's also ridiculous, as Nissan/Infiniti says you never should service the transfer case or CVT fluid, but that is the worst thing they could say. Even seeing the condition of the gear oil I pulled from the transfer case, in that condition, that would have been a sure failure. If you haven't already, check the video I made on the issues I had with the transfer case. Never had problems like that before, but ultimately was able to change the fluid. I definitely welcome you here. There is a quite a few videos, and more will come in the future. Thanks again for the feedback, and thanks for watching.
Sorry about that. I kept confusing NM and ft lb readings. I should have corrected it in the video at the time. The correct torque for both bolts is 11 ft/lbs.
@@NexusAuto I got hold of a 2014 QX60 service manual. It says 26 ft pound for transfer case drain and filler plug. It also shows a gasket for both. In your video, it didn't look like there was a gasket on the fill plug. Is that correct? I am wondering if torque specs on a QX60 are diff than for JX35. I also have 2013 JX35 that I bought in late 2012. It has ~40,000 miles. I am thinking of changing the differential and transfer case fluids, but I am a little scared after watching your other transfer case video :)
I have qx60 2016. The fill plug for the transfer case is different direction/type. I saw one on top is the same type of bolt as the drain plug (10mm Hex), but I couldn't get any tool to get in... any idea if this is the right one?
I try to contact you I have an infiniti jx35 I see your videos but it is not very clear to me how much oil the transfer case takes speaking in liters and what number of oil do you recommend and what type of oil is the one that is put greetings from Mexico
@@alanocampo26 Hello Alan. I got your messages on both platforms. This is the best place to ask these questions, be just a heads up, I only check and answer once a day. The info you need is in the video, if you check at the 2:00 mark. It has a 'what you need' section. The transfer case uses less than 1/2 liter. 0.3 Liter to be specific. It uses API GL5 80w90 Synthetic Gear Oil. Happy to meet someone from Mexico. I am from Canada. Very nice to meet you!
Advice I got many years ago from an old Ferrari mechanic who worked on Ferrari racing cars in the 60's: NEVER warm your engine before ANY fluid changes because the heat might damage the threads on the bolt or on the casing when you undo a difficult bolt...Different metal alloys ''soften'' differently when exposed to heat, Always do fluid changes at room temperature.
That's changed a lot from then. 20 years ago, when I started working on cars, that was still the rule. But now many manufacturers actually recommend having the vehicle warmed up to get an accurate reading on the fluid. Even doing things on spark plugs on cars with aluminum heads, some manufacturers recommend a quick warm up before changing the plugs
For these cars, the terms are used interchangeably. Technically speaking, there is no front differential on these cars. Just the CVT transmission, the transfer case, and rear differential. But because of this, I have heard people refer to the transfer case as the front differential.
@@chrisshore9000 annoyingly, no. All drivetrain components use a different fluid. Front transfer case - 75w90 gear oil Rear differential- 80w90 api gl5 gear oil CVT transmission- Nissan CVT transmission fluid (I also heard Valvoline makes a MaxLife version of this fluid, but I've never used it myself). Hope this helps
Thanks for creating this video! I was wondering if you took off the driver or passenger side front wheel off? And also wondering if you are familiar with all the known issues on the transfer case with the QX60 ( mine is 2014 and notorious issues I guess among many other things ughh! ) ? Mine has 99k and is doing a grinding and humming sound at low speeds. I’m wonder if it’s possible it is low on fluid?
No problem at all. I took both wheels off when I was working on it, but that is because I was switching my tires to winter tires at the same time, and to help with lighting for the video. You don't need to remove the tires to do the job. And I am very aware of the issues that come with these cars. The transfer cases and CVT transmission are issues. In fact, the CVTs are the bigger issue by far, but the transfer case gives issue too. The rear differential seems to be the only thing in the drivetrain that does not give issues lol. The problem can be low fluid, but unless you have a leak, there should not be a low fluid situation. Even as I opened mine, pretty much all the fluid was intact, more or less. I would say you likely have a degraded fluid situation. But either way, you should flush the fluid, and likely, be prepared for a new transfer case, Sucks, but happens on these cars
My 2017 qx60 over 90k miles from last summer I found oil leaking on ground I go to dealer. They say I need change whole transfer assembly cost $4700. But when I check with auto repair shop. They give me options. Replace whole thing or replace seal. Cost $1300 but it will leaking years after anyway
@@NexusAuto I ended up getting my front transfer case fluid flushed out (they said was gummed up pretty bad) and replaced. Fingers crossed 🤞🏼 it will save it and will last a long time.
@@intelclicks4368 That's great news. Hopefully it buys you as much time as possible...maybe it will never be an issue. It's pretty crazy...I flushed the rear diff and transfer case, and drain and filled the CVT. The rear diff and CVT fluid was actually in decent condition, but the transfer case fluid was degraded really bad! The fluid definitely does not hold up. Has that grinding/humming noise gone?
I waz digging in this and dealer use nissan matic D fluid for transfer case in a jx35, i found valvoline maxlife synthetic is compatible with that so i used valv, car is smooth again, i replaced, trans, transfer and dif oil, what a difference , the worst was the transfer oil, smelly, thick and black, then the trans and diff was good but i did it anyway, also did sparkplugs , maf and throttle body cleaning , i got some power back on the car.
@@geovp1984 Wow, you got a lot done on the car, awesome stuff. I agree, the transfer case fluid was by far the worst of all the driveline fluids. Sounds like your JX is running nice and smooth. That is interesting with Matic D. That is automatic transmission fluid, thinner than 80w90. Both the Service Manual from Infiniti and Prodemand call for the 80W90. Wonder if they changed because of all the transfer case failures? I will look into it, curious as to why the change for the transfer case. It is a fairly simple transfer case, in the grand scheme of things, but very interesting. Thanks.
I watching your videos because my 2015 qx60 has 176k miles and counting and all I've done to it, is oil and filter changes, brake pads and tires. Out the two cooling fans only one has been working for the 3 years, but my car works like a charm. Now, I know if I take my qx60 to an infiniti dealer for maintenance I might as well buy a new car due to the cost. What procedures would you recommend to do to it due its high mileage and lack of maintenance? Thank you for the video!
No problem at all. Glad to hear the videos are helpful. i don't know the history on your car, so I will give some general stuff. I think you have already seen a couple of videos on this stuff as well, and some stuff, I don't have the videos for them yet 1. Flush transfer case and rear differential fluids 2. Drain and fill on the CVT transmission. 3. Check suspension, particularly the tie rods and stabilizer links. 4. clean throttle body 5. flush coolant 6. change spark plugs 7. I imagine you have been checking the air filter? If not, it definitely needs to be changed 8. change your cabin filter That's it off the top of my head
@@NexusAuto dude thanks for your help, yes I've been taking care of both air filters as well. Last night I did a checklist of the PM I need to do to my car based on your videos, plus you added few more items which is awesome brother. Im starting with the fluids, and flushings, and then I get to the more expensive stuff. But now I have an idea where to start thanks again for your time and keep them videos coming. 👍🏻
@@amoryunidad No problem at all. Glad to hear the videos have helped. I will definitely have more coming. Keep an eye out! Thanks for the great feedback
I wouldn't say too much issues, but it has 2 huge issues that really hurt the car...the transfer case and the CVT. These are definitely the 2 biggest things with these cars. The transfer case is a very tough job too, I agree.
Would 75w-90 gear oil also work? All of the 80w90s I've seen are synthetic blends and also twice the price (edit: never mind, I just bucked up and ordered the Amsoil Severe Gear full synthetic 80w90). Also, re: thread locker - would Loctite blue 243 (oil tolerant) do the trick?
Hmmm, this is a tricky one. The thing is, depending on the temperature where you live, there is generally no problem with using a different winter-weighted grade of oil for the transfer case, if you were in a pinch. But the transfer case on the JX35/QX60 is one of the 2 big failure issues on these cars (the other being the CVT transmission). The fail very frequently, but this maintenance will help for sure. That being said, for this vehicle, I can only recommend sticking to the 80w90 grade, which is looks like you purchased. Trust me, it was the best bet. For the Loctite, technically, yeah, you could use it on the drain/fill plugs. However, I would note that once the bolts are torqued properly, you shouldn't technically need it. But using it will be not harm anything and will allow you to remove the bolt in the future, if needed.
@@NexusAuto when you tell people to use thread locker make sure you specify blue not red. Red is permanent and you will never be able to remove the bolt in the future. Blue can be broken with heat. I've noticed in your videos that you just mention "thread locker" when you should be mentioning "thread locker blue" or else they might use the red and render their vehicles no longer serviceable in the future.
this is a drain and fill. the title of this is transfer case flush! I think you are confusing flush with drain. I didn't see you put any flushing agents or repeating the drain and fill more that one time.
Thanks! About to do this for the first time on this car, so great to know what to expect. Update: I did it! Important note, on my 2015 QX60 AWD, the transfer case fill plug wanted a 3/8" square drive. I was able to use a very long extension threaded through from the rear. The rest of the job was very straightforward since I knew what to look for thanks to this video. Car has ~120k miles, and I do not believe the transfer case or rear diff had ever been changes. The transfer case fluid was slightly colored, definitely needed changing. The old rear diff fluid looked pretty good.
@jonathanomgitsme you're welcome, and good luck! Hopefully all goes well!
Another nice job by Nexus Auto! Very thorough.
Thanks! Much appreciated. Happy to hear the videos help out
I just did a transfer case fluid change on my 2020 pathfinder. The drain and fill plugs are both 10mm hex. They are a pain to remove, and I doubt they are torque to 14ft-lbs in the factory because they are really tight.
@jeffmeisterr definitely are a giant paint to remove. Awesome news to hear you got it done.
Funny enough, after making these videos, I found out this car did in fact have the transfer case services at an Infiniti about an hour from where I lived. There was a not about a problem with the drain plug and something was applied to secure it, but I couldn't find out what was used or how much. So I now know what happened to my transfer case drain plug, but what a pain it was
Removing the fill plug is easier with an swivel and longer extension. If breaking loose the first time, use a foot long ratchet for leverage.
@slin1490 great tip! Thanks for posting!
Thanks for this video.. I got the transfer case fluid exchanged today at valvoline. After coming home I get a heavy bad smell around the car. Is that normal?
That is definitely not normal, but not unheard of. If the shop spilled the transfer case fluid anywhere, it will smell...it smells rancid when that fluid gets old. But there could be something else going on...all depends on what the smell is. Maybe take it back to Valvoline and have them clean up the area under the engine to make sure there isn't any left over fluid anywhere
Can you share the oil that you used? Did you use full synthetic or conventional?
@@user-bd3lj4rn3c sure can. I used 80w90 full synthetic. It shows all the tools (including the oil used) at 2:03
@@NexusAuto Thank you. I don't know how I missed that. One more question - in the video you mention thread-locker and in the list of items, you have Silicone RTV Sealant listed. Is that considered a thread locker? When I removed the drain and filler plugs, there was a silicone gasket on the plugs. I think I noticed a similar gasket in your video when you removed the filler plug. Did you scrape off the old gasket?
@user-bd3lj4rn3c oh no problem at all.
The threadlocker and RTV are different things. Threadlocker should be for the threads, and the RTV can be used to replace the silicone gasket, if you don't have a replacement. If you don't have threadlocker, you can used a bit of RTV, but it's not ideal. Also, if you have a replacement gasket and threadlocker, you don't need the RTV.
SIR I HAVE 2 FILL PLUGS. WHICH DO I USE TO FILL THE TRANSFER CASE? ONE PLUGS IS FACING THE DRIVERS SIDE MID WAY AND THE OTHER IS FACING THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE AND HIGHER TOWARDS THE TOP OF THE TRANSFER CASE. PLEASE HELP. THANKS IN ADVANCE
@@1shorte4wssj21 hmmm. That's interesting. So you don't have a fill plug on the passenger side midway up like you see in this video?
Hi, Where is you garage? I have transmission issue in my qx60 2014. Just wondering if you can replace it with rebuild one.
@@Poonty305 hi there. I'm located in Ontario, Canada, and sadly, my shop is currently closed, as I had recently moved to a new city on Ontario
Hello what kind of fluid did you use is it For transfer case
70-90w
Check the 2:00 mark. It'll show everything you need, including the oil grade used and tools required
What model is this? I commented on the “fail” video but my transfer case failed at 195k. Metallic chunks on drain plug and very metallic oil. It sounded just like a universal joint clunk so I took the drive shaft out looking for issues. Checked oil in trans case and found my problem. I have a 2014 QX60 and mine seems a little different. I think my fill plug is 14mm. The 12mm bolts were the smaller ones holding the case together. I also had a plug at the top with a square hole that’s pretty big. The fill plug I hope I got the right one it’s not the one beside the drain plug but the higher one on the left. I’m not sure what I’m going to do very expensive part. Mine also took about 30 mins to get off cause it was so tight but I think my correct fill plug is on top facing the rear of the vehicle and uses like just a extension or ratchet in it. The bolt I took out was clean and was 14mm in the same general area of the one you took out but I think the 2014 model is up above on the top with a square in it facing the rear but seems impossible to get to without the drive shaft out I have mine out checking for other issues but it seems easier to get to. I think mine was also tightened to 350-400 ft-lbs. sooo tight i was afraid to tear it up but kept at it for half hour
Hi Joshua. This is a 2013 model. In 2015, Infiniti changed the CVT a bit, and this included the pan and drail bolts. However, some later model 2014s got this as well. i wasn't aware of any changes made to the transfer case, but it's possible Infiniti maybe chhanged around the transfer case when they changed the CVT as well.
And damn, sorry to hear about your transfer case. With those metal filings and oil, sounds like it's past the point of repair. But like you said, very expensive to replace. I love my 2013, but the CVT and the Transfer Case are by far the biggest problems with these cars. Did you check your CVT as well? Make sure to keep up the maintenance on it (if you decide to keep your 2014).
Interesting that you had the same problem with the drain plug as well. I have never encountered a drain plug like that, other than on this vehicle! But many others did not have this issue...only very few. It's very weird. You were lucky in getting it out.
Check with a local transmission specialist in your area (if you have one). Because these failures are common, sometimes they have extra good transfer cases of CVTs sitting around. You may be able to get a deal from them. Hope you can get it fixed.
I also have a 2013 JX35 and love the vehicle, you’re videos are extremely helpful. I changed my transfer case fluid last year noticed two transfer case fill plugs, one halfway up (as referenced in your video) and a second near the top of the transfer case. Both plugs are the same size and use the same bolt to remove. I wasn’t able to find any details which plug to fill so used the upper plug. Did you run into this situation?
Hi Ben. Glad to hear you are enjoying your JX. I love mine too! I enjoy driving it everyday. I has come in handy with carry stuff or people many times, and drives so smooth. I'm just as happy as you are.
This was some interesting info, as I had not come across the 'upper' plug, so I pulled it up in the service manual, and I think I found it in the diagram, and it was just called a 'plug'.
My main concern with using that plug is that it sits higher up. With the filler plug used in the video, when fluid comes out when you are filling it, this indicates that it is as full as it should be, and no more fluid is needed. By using the upper plug, the transfer case may have been overfilled. I can't say this definitively, but as per the spec, that is what is called for. Not sure how much fluid you put it, but you may want to open the lower one and allow it to empty out until it reaches that level. Next time I'm under my JX, i'll take a look at it too
@@NexusAuto Thanks for clarifying the plug situation, it’s always been at the back of my mind. Seems strange Infiniti designed two similar plugs without clarifying. It’s been roughly 15k since filling the upper fill plug, I’m hoping there isn’t damage (or the extra fluid doesn’t hurt). I plan to swap out my old serpentine belt next weekend (following another one of your videos). I’ll open/drain the lower plug at the same time.
Love the videos, great work!
@@benjaminsporl no problem at all. I am surprised too...I actually had no idea there was another at all until you mentioned it. I'm not even sure what its purpose would be. Maybe when it's factory filled on the production line. I hope everything is good too. When you drain out the fluid, just look for any silver-ish particles in the fluid or anything like that. I'm sure it'll be fine, but doesn't hurt to assess it.
I appreciate the support and feedback. Really happy to hear the videos help out. I'll have more in the future for sure.
@@NexusAuto I opened the lower transfer case fill plug and drained the excess fluid. It took a few minutes to orient myself but overall was easy.
Also, I had better wrench leverage by reaching behind a support bar (just rear of the drain plug), over the transfer case to the fill plug. There is enough space to get a wrench and leverage to loosen.
@@benjaminsporl awesome news! Happy to hear you got that drained out. I'll give that other wrench point a try...I'm due to give my transfer case another flush out soon so I'll take a look. Thanks for the tip
You know, your views are probably going to pick up traffic. The mileage and years are going to catch up on these vehicles and we'll be flocking to you for help haha. My 2015 qx60 is in the shop right now.. we just had a winter storm a few weeks ago which probably shocked the rest of my dying pieces i.e. wheel bearings, rotors, brake pads, ect... anyway It's in the shop because I suspected wheel bearings to be the issue ($1600). A day later, they quoted power steering ($4500), then another day later they asked to do the rear wheel bearings (another $1400) and the third day they quoted the transfer case now too ($4500). Yeah.. I didn't go for the power steering or transfer case. They did flush it for free.. since they are convinced I'll be back...
Anyway I guess what I'm trying to say is thanks for these informative videos that's straight to the point and tons of tips from your experience added in. My wife is feeling very uncomfortable with this vehicle as this is supposed to be the family car.. but with bad design and what we gathered from the comments was that it's going to keep happening. I'm not made of money and I don't want to keep taking this thing back to shops. So I'll be coming back to you and your videos on the QX60 for maintenance for the duration of my time having it. Thank you!
I really do appreciate this feedback and glad to hear the videos will help. I am shocked to see the bill you got...unreal.
I honestly still love my Infiniti, but there is no doubt very common issues. You read the 'room' correctly. The CVT transmission and transfer case are the big things to watch for. It's also ridiculous, as Nissan/Infiniti says you never should service the transfer case or CVT fluid, but that is the worst thing they could say. Even seeing the condition of the gear oil I pulled from the transfer case, in that condition, that would have been a sure failure. If you haven't already, check the video I made on the issues I had with the transfer case. Never had problems like that before, but ultimately was able to change the fluid.
I definitely welcome you here. There is a quite a few videos, and more will come in the future. Thanks again for the feedback, and thanks for watching.
Can you confirm the torque specs? At one point you said 14 on the drain and then said nevermind 11, but then said 14 again on the fill...
Sorry about that. I kept confusing NM and ft lb readings. I should have corrected it in the video at the time. The correct torque for both bolts is 11 ft/lbs.
@@NexusAuto thanks!
@@masonhaney469 no problem
@@NexusAuto I got hold of a 2014 QX60 service manual. It says 26 ft pound for transfer case drain and filler plug. It also shows a gasket for both. In your video, it didn't look like there was a gasket on the fill plug. Is that correct? I am wondering if torque specs on a QX60 are diff than for JX35. I also have 2013 JX35 that I bought in late 2012. It has ~40,000 miles. I am thinking of changing the differential and transfer case fluids, but I am a little scared after watching your other transfer case video :)
I have qx60 2016. The fill plug for the transfer case is different direction/type. I saw one on top is the same type of bolt as the drain plug (10mm Hex), but I couldn't get any tool to get in... any idea if this is the right one?
just found out the fill can be use 3/8" ratchet
and drain can be use 10mm hex bit socket
@@sdsd343431 Awesome, glad to hear you got it figured out. Did you end up changing the fluid yet?
@@sdsd343431 I think my 2014 is the same is it facing the rear of the car?
I try to contact you I have an infiniti jx35 I see your videos but it is not very clear to me how much oil the transfer case takes speaking in liters
and what number of oil do you recommend and what type of oil is the one that is put
greetings from Mexico
I hope an answer would help me a lot
@@alanocampo26 Hello Alan. I got your messages on both platforms. This is the best place to ask these questions, be just a heads up, I only check and answer once a day.
The info you need is in the video, if you check at the 2:00 mark. It has a 'what you need' section.
The transfer case uses less than 1/2 liter. 0.3 Liter to be specific. It uses API GL5 80w90 Synthetic Gear Oil.
Happy to meet someone from Mexico. I am from Canada. Very nice to meet you!
Did you filled the entire of the bottle? thanks for the video..
Nope, it only uses about a third to a half a bottle. Not even half. A bit more than a third of a bottle.
Advice I got many years ago from an old Ferrari mechanic who worked on Ferrari racing cars in the 60's: NEVER warm your engine before ANY fluid changes because the heat might damage the threads on the bolt or on the casing when you undo a difficult bolt...Different metal alloys ''soften'' differently when exposed to heat, Always do fluid changes at room temperature.
That's changed a lot from then. 20 years ago, when I started working on cars, that was still the rule. But now many manufacturers actually recommend having the vehicle warmed up to get an accurate reading on the fluid. Even doing things on spark plugs on cars with aluminum heads, some manufacturers recommend a quick warm up before changing the plugs
Is front differential is the same as transfer case for AWD QX60 ?
For these cars, the terms are used interchangeably. Technically speaking, there is no front differential on these cars. Just the CVT transmission, the transfer case, and rear differential. But because of this, I have heard people refer to the transfer case as the front differential.
@@NexusAuto so the fluids are the same?
@@chrisshore9000 annoyingly, no. All drivetrain components use a different fluid.
Front transfer case - 75w90 gear oil
Rear differential- 80w90 api gl5 gear oil
CVT transmission- Nissan CVT transmission fluid (I also heard Valvoline makes a MaxLife version of this fluid, but I've never used it myself).
Hope this helps
@@NexusAuto ? What do you mean? I thought this video was to flush the transfer case? Did you comment incorrectly on the oil?
Thanks for creating this video! I was wondering if you took off the driver or passenger side front wheel off? And also wondering if you are familiar with all the known issues on the transfer case with the QX60 ( mine is 2014 and notorious issues I guess among many other things ughh! ) ? Mine has 99k and is doing a grinding and humming sound at low speeds. I’m wonder if it’s possible it is low on fluid?
No problem at all. I took both wheels off when I was working on it, but that is because I was switching my tires to winter tires at the same time, and to help with lighting for the video. You don't need to remove the tires to do the job. And I am very aware of the issues that come with these cars. The transfer cases and CVT transmission are issues. In fact, the CVTs are the bigger issue by far, but the transfer case gives issue too. The rear differential seems to be the only thing in the drivetrain that does not give issues lol. The problem can be low fluid, but unless you have a leak, there should not be a low fluid situation. Even as I opened mine, pretty much all the fluid was intact, more or less. I would say you likely have a degraded fluid situation. But either way, you should flush the fluid, and likely, be prepared for a new transfer case, Sucks, but happens on these cars
My 2017 qx60 over 90k miles from last summer I found oil leaking on ground I go to dealer. They say I need change whole transfer assembly cost $4700. But when I check with auto repair shop. They give me options. Replace whole thing or replace seal. Cost $1300 but it will leaking years after anyway
@@SamP-no5cd Well I would say $1300 is much better than $4700. It is always good to have options.
@@NexusAuto I ended up getting my front transfer case fluid flushed out (they said was gummed up pretty bad) and replaced. Fingers crossed 🤞🏼 it will save it and will last a long time.
@@intelclicks4368 That's great news. Hopefully it buys you as much time as possible...maybe it will never be an issue. It's pretty crazy...I flushed the rear diff and transfer case, and drain and filled the CVT. The rear diff and CVT fluid was actually in decent condition, but the transfer case fluid was degraded really bad! The fluid definitely does not hold up. Has that grinding/humming noise gone?
Its is safe to use 80w90? Nissan states some matic j oil for it.
That was directly from the service manual, but I can double check. What year is your car? Is it Pathfinder or QX60?
I waz digging in this and dealer use nissan matic D fluid for transfer case in a jx35, i found valvoline maxlife synthetic is compatible with that so i used valv, car is smooth again, i replaced, trans, transfer and dif oil, what a difference , the worst was the transfer oil, smelly, thick and black, then the trans and diff was good but i did it anyway, also did sparkplugs , maf and throttle body cleaning , i got some power back on the car.
@@geovp1984 Wow, you got a lot done on the car, awesome stuff. I agree, the transfer case fluid was by far the worst of all the driveline fluids. Sounds like your JX is running nice and smooth.
That is interesting with Matic D. That is automatic transmission fluid, thinner than 80w90. Both the Service Manual from Infiniti and Prodemand call for the 80W90. Wonder if they changed because of all the transfer case failures? I will look into it, curious as to why the change for the transfer case. It is a fairly simple transfer case, in the grand scheme of things, but very interesting. Thanks.
I watching your videos because my 2015 qx60 has 176k miles and counting and all I've done to it, is oil and filter changes, brake pads and tires. Out the two cooling fans only one has been working for the 3 years, but my car works like a charm. Now, I know if I take my qx60 to an infiniti dealer for maintenance I might as well buy a new car due to the cost. What procedures would you recommend to do to it due its high mileage and lack of maintenance? Thank you for the video!
No problem at all. Glad to hear the videos are helpful.
i don't know the history on your car, so I will give some general stuff. I think you have already seen a couple of videos on this stuff as well, and some stuff, I don't have the videos for them yet
1. Flush transfer case and rear differential fluids
2. Drain and fill on the CVT transmission.
3. Check suspension, particularly the tie rods and stabilizer links.
4. clean throttle body
5. flush coolant
6. change spark plugs
7. I imagine you have been checking the air filter? If not, it definitely needs to be changed
8. change your cabin filter
That's it off the top of my head
@@NexusAuto dude thanks for your help, yes I've been taking care of both air filters as well. Last night I did a checklist of the PM I need to do to my car based on your videos, plus you added few more items which is awesome brother. Im starting with the fluids, and flushings, and then I get to the more expensive stuff. But now I have an idea where to start thanks again for your time and keep them videos coming. 👍🏻
@@amoryunidad No problem at all. Glad to hear the videos have helped. I will definitely have more coming. Keep an eye out! Thanks for the great feedback
How many quarts did you add
About roughly 1/3 quart
Hey this car tomuch issues I just did the transfer case on it myself omg big job didn't know.
I wouldn't say too much issues, but it has 2 huge issues that really hurt the car...the transfer case and the CVT. These are definitely the 2 biggest things with these cars. The transfer case is a very tough job too, I agree.
Would 75w-90 gear oil also work? All of the 80w90s I've seen are synthetic blends and also twice the price (edit: never mind, I just bucked up and ordered the Amsoil Severe Gear full synthetic 80w90). Also, re: thread locker - would Loctite blue 243 (oil tolerant) do the trick?
Hmmm, this is a tricky one.
The thing is, depending on the temperature where you live, there is generally no problem with using a different winter-weighted grade of oil for the transfer case, if you were in a pinch.
But the transfer case on the JX35/QX60 is one of the 2 big failure issues on these cars (the other being the CVT transmission). The fail very frequently, but this maintenance will help for sure. That being said, for this vehicle, I can only recommend sticking to the 80w90 grade, which is looks like you purchased. Trust me, it was the best bet.
For the Loctite, technically, yeah, you could use it on the drain/fill plugs. However, I would note that once the bolts are torqued properly, you shouldn't technically need it. But using it will be not harm anything and will allow you to remove the bolt in the future, if needed.
@@NexusAuto when you tell people to use thread locker make sure you specify blue not red. Red is permanent and you will never be able to remove the bolt in the future. Blue can be broken with heat. I've noticed in your videos that you just mention "thread locker" when you should be mentioning "thread locker blue" or else they might use the red and render their vehicles no longer serviceable in the future.
@@AnthonyJarrah that's a fair point. I will make sure to be more specific with that in future comments and videos. Thanks
nvm
this is a drain and fill. the title of this is transfer case flush! I think you are confusing flush with drain. I didn't see you put any flushing agents or repeating the drain and fill more that one time.