Nissan Altima (L32) 2007-2012 Service Manual: CVT fluid
Inspection
CHECKING CVT FLUID
Fluid level should be checked with the fluid warmed up to 50° to 80°C (122° to 176°F). The fluid level check procedure is as follows: 1. Check for fluid leakage.
2. With the engine warmed up, drive the vehicle in an urban area.
When ambient temperature is 20°C (68°F), it takes about 10 minutes for the CVT fluid to warm up to 50° to 80°C (122° to 176°F).
3. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
4. Apply parking brake firmly.
5. With engine at idle, while depressing brake pedal, move shift selector throughout the entire shift range.
6. Pull out the CVT fluid level gauge from the CVT fluid charging pipe after pressing the tab on the CVT fluid level gauge to release the lock.
7. Wipe fluid off the CVT fluid level gauge. Insert the CVT fluid level gauge rotating 180° from the originally installed position, then securely push the CVT fluid level gauge until it meets the top end of the CVT fluid charging pipe.
CAUTION: When wiping away the CVT fluid level gauge, always use lint-free paper, not a cloth rag.
8. Place the selector lever in “P” or “N” and make sure the fluid level is within the specified range.
CAUTION: When reinstalling CVT fluid level gauge, insert it into the CVT fluid charging pipe and rotate it to the original installation position until it is securely locked.
CVT FLUID CONDITION
Check CVT fluid condition.
• If CVT fluid is very dark or smells burned, check operation of CVT.
Flush cooling system after repair of CVT.
• If CVT fluid contains frictional material (clutches, brakes, etc.), replace radiator and flush cooler line using cleaning solvent and compressed air after repair of CVT. Refer to CO-15, "Removal and Installation" and TM-418, "Cleaning".
Changing CVT Fluid
1. Warm up CVT fluid by driving the vehicle for 10 minutes.
• Radiator (2) • CVT fluid cooler hose [inlet side (3)] • Transaxle assembly (4) 2. Drain CVT fluid from CVT fluid cooler hose [outlet side (1)] and refill with new specified NISSAN CVT fluid in the CVT fluid charging pipe with the engine running at idle speed.
3. Refill until new CVT fluid comes out from CVT fluid cooler hose [outlet side (1)].
NOTE: About 30 to 50% extra fluid will be required for this procedure.
4. Check fluid level and condition. Refer to TM-416, "Inspection".
CAUTION: • Use only Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-2. Never mix with other fluid.
• Using CVT fluid other than Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-2 will deteriorate in driveability and CVT durability, and may damage the CVT, which is not covered by the warranty.
• When filling CVT fluid, take care not to scatter heat generating parts such as exhaust.
• Sufficiently shake the container of CVT fluid before using.
• Delete CVT fluid deterioration date with CONSULT-III after changing CVT fluid. Refer to TM-34, "CONSULT-III Function (TRANSMISSION)".
On-vehicle maintenance
CVT fluid cooler system