Checking A/T Fluid

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Nissan Quest. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

COLD : 30° - 40°C (86° - 104°F)

HOT : 70° - 80°C (158° - 176°F)
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set parking brake.
2. Start the engine and move the transaxle selector lever through each gear position. Leave the selector lever in the "P" park position.
3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Fluid Level Mark
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  
  CAUTION: Firmly fix the A/T fluid level gauge into the A/T fluid charging pipe using the attached stopper, this will provide an accurate reading on the gauge.
4. Remove the A/T fluid level gauge and wipe it clean with a lint free paper.
5. Reinsert the A/T fluid level gauge into the charging pipe as far as it will go.
6. Remove the A/T fluid level gauge and note the reading. If the reading is at or below the low side of the range, add the necessary specified A/T fluid through the A/T fluid charging pipe and then reinsert the A/T fluid level gauge.
  
  Fig 2: Identifying A/T Fluid Level Gauge Stopper
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  CAUTION:
  - Do not overfill the transaxle.
  - Firmly fix the A/T fluid level gauge into the A/T fluid charging pipe using the attached stopper, this will provide an accurate reading on the gauge, and will keep the gauge in position while driving.
Drive the vehicle for approximately 5 minutes at moderate speeds.
Recheck the fluid level at fluid temperatures using the "HOT" range on the A/T fluid level gauge.
CAUTION: Firmly fix the A/T fluid level gauge into the A/T fluid charging pipe using the attached stopper, this will provide an accurate reading on the gauge, and will keep the gauge in position while driving.

Temperature range

COLD : 30° - 40°C (86° - 104°F)

HOT : 70° - 80°C (158° - 176°F)

Fig 3: Identifying Fluid Level Mark
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Check the fluid for the following conditions:
- If the fluid is very dark or smells burned, refer to the AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE article for checking the operation of the transaxle. Flush the AT fluid cooling system after repairing the transaxle.
- If the fluid contains frictional material (from the clutches or bands), remove the radiator and flush the cooler lines using a cleaning solvent and compressed air after completing repairs to the transaxle. Refer to "RADIATOR ".
  
  Fig 4: Checking A/T Fluid Condition
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.