Nissan Murano Transmission Fluid Type

Alright, let's talk about transmission fluid for your Nissan Murano. Choosing the right fluid isn't just a suggestion; it's critical for maintaining the health and longevity of your Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Using the wrong fluid can lead to shuddering, slipping, overheating, and eventually, a very expensive repair or replacement. So, let's dive deep into the specifics.

Understanding Your Murano's Transmission

Before we get into fluid types, let's briefly cover the transmission itself. The Murano, from its inception, has primarily used a CVT. The CVT, unlike a traditional automatic transmission with fixed gears, uses a belt and pulley system to provide a seemingly infinite range of gear ratios. This contributes to better fuel economy and smoother acceleration, but it also means the transmission fluid's requirements are different. The fluid isn't just lubricating; it's also providing the necessary friction for the belt to grip the pulleys.

You'll find variations of the CVT throughout the Murano's production run, primarily Jatco units. Knowing the specific generation of your Murano will help narrow down the exact fluid requirements.

Why the Right Fluid Matters

Traditional automatic transmissions rely on the fluid to lubricate gears and hydraulic circuits. A CVT, however, needs a fluid that also maintains a specific coefficient of friction. This friction allows the belt to properly grip the pulleys under varying load conditions. Using a fluid not designed for CVT applications can cause:

Belt Slippage: This results in poor acceleration, a feeling of "lag" between the engine and the wheels, and potentially damaging the belt itself.
Shuddering: A vibrating sensation during acceleration or deceleration, indicating the belt isn't smoothly engaging with the pulleys.
Overheating: Incorrect fluid can lead to excessive friction, raising the transmission temperature and potentially damaging internal components.
Reduced Transmission Life: Ultimately, using the wrong fluid significantly shortens the lifespan of your CVT.

Nissan Murano Transmission Fluid Specifications

Okay, so what's the magic fluid? For most Nissan Muranos equipped with a CVT, you're looking at using Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2, NS-3, or NS-3 depending on the year model. Let's break it down by generation:

First Generation (2003-2007): This generation typically requires Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2. While NS-2 has been superseded, it's crucial to understand its original specifications. NS-2 was a specific formulation designed to meet the needs of the early Jatco CVTs used in the Murano.
Second Generation (2009-2014): This generation initially called for Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2. However, Nissan later recommended using Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 as a backward-compatible replacement for NS-2 in many applications. Consult your owner's manual or a Nissan dealership to confirm the proper fluid for your specific vehicle. There are some reports of NS-3 not performing well in some older NS-2 specified transmissions.
Third Generation (2015-2024): This generation is designed to use Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 exclusively.

Important Note: Always double-check your owner's manual or consult a Nissan parts department to verify the correct fluid for your specific Murano year and model. There can be variations even within the same generation.

Understanding NS-2, NS-3 and Aftermarket Alternatives

Let's delve a bit deeper into these fluid specifications:

Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2: This was the original CVT fluid specification for many Nissan vehicles. It's a synthetic-based fluid designed to provide the specific friction characteristics required by early Jatco CVTs. As mentioned, it's largely been superseded by NS-3.
Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3: This is a newer formulation designed to offer improved performance, fuel economy, and durability. It's often marketed as backward-compatible with NS-2, but as mentioned earlier, verify compatibility with your vehicle before using it as a replacement. NS-3 generally has a lower viscosity than NS-2.

Aftermarket CVT Fluids: Proceed with Caution

While Nissan OEM fluid is generally recommended, there are aftermarket CVT fluids claiming to meet or exceed Nissan's specifications. If you choose to go this route, it's absolutely critical to select a fluid that is specifically formulated for Nissan CVTs and that explicitly states it meets or exceeds the NS-2 or NS-3 specification (depending on your vehicle's requirements). Look for reputable brands and thoroughly research customer reviews. Read the fine print – some fluids may claim compatibility but only under specific conditions.

Be wary of "universal" CVT fluids. While some may perform adequately in certain applications, they often don't provide the precise friction characteristics required by Nissan CVTs, potentially leading to problems down the road. Stick with fluids that are specifically formulated for your vehicle's needs.

Choosing an aftermarket fluid can be risky. If you are under warranty, using a non-OEM fluid could potentially void your transmission warranty. If you're not under warranty, carefully weigh the potential cost savings against the risk of transmission damage.

Checking and Changing Your Murano's Transmission Fluid

Checking the Fluid Level

Checking the transmission fluid level in a Murano CVT typically doesn't involve a dipstick like traditional automatic transmissions. Instead, you'll usually find a fill plug on the transmission housing. Here's a general outline (always refer to your service manual for specific procedures):

Warm Up the Transmission: Drive the vehicle for a short period to warm up the transmission fluid.
Level Surface: Park the vehicle on a level surface.
Locate the Fill Plug: Identify the transmission fill plug (consult your service manual).
Remove the Fill Plug: Carefully remove the fill plug.
Check the Fluid Level: The fluid level should be at or slightly below the bottom of the fill plug opening. You can use a small dipstick or clean screwdriver to check the level.
Add Fluid (if needed): If the fluid is low, add the correct type of transmission fluid until it reaches the correct level.
Reinstall the Fill Plug: Reinstall the fill plug and tighten it to the specified torque.

Changing the Fluid

Changing the transmission fluid in a Murano CVT is a more involved process than simply draining and refilling. It often involves removing the transmission pan, cleaning the magnets (which collect metallic debris), replacing the filter (if applicable), and carefully filling the transmission to the correct level. A proper fluid level is critical. Too little or too much fluid can cause problems. It is highly recommended that you follow the instructions in your service manual. Some people recommend using a scan tool to monitor transmission temperature and fluid level during the filling procedure.

Here's a general overview (again, refer to your service manual for specific procedures and torque specifications):

Gather Supplies: You'll need the correct type and quantity of transmission fluid, a new transmission pan gasket (if applicable), a new transmission filter (if applicable), tools for removing the pan and drain plug, a torque wrench, and a drain pan.
Warm Up the Transmission: Drive the vehicle for a short period to warm up the transmission fluid.
Raise and Secure the Vehicle: Safely raise the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
Drain the Fluid: Position a drain pan under the transmission pan and remove the drain plug (if equipped) or loosen the pan bolts to allow the fluid to drain.
Remove the Transmission Pan: Carefully remove the transmission pan, being mindful of any remaining fluid.
Clean the Magnets: Clean the magnets located in the transmission pan. These magnets collect metallic debris and help keep the fluid clean.
Replace the Filter (if applicable): If your Murano's CVT has a replaceable filter, remove the old filter and install the new one.
Install the Transmission Pan: Install the transmission pan with a new gasket (if applicable) and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
Fill the Transmission: Locate the fill plug and add the correct type and quantity of transmission fluid.
Check the Fluid Level: Follow the procedure outlined earlier to check the fluid level.
Run the Engine: Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Shift through the gears (if possible) to circulate the fluid.
Recheck the Fluid Level: Recheck the fluid level and add more fluid if needed.

Important Considerations:

Torque Specifications: Always use a torque wrench to tighten the transmission pan bolts and drain plug to the specified torque. Overtightening can damage the pan or strip the threads.
Cleanliness: Work in a clean environment to prevent contaminants from entering the transmission.
Disposal: Dispose of used transmission fluid properly according to local regulations.
Fluid Temperature: Some filling procedures call for checking and adjusting the fluid level at a specific temperature which requires a scan tool capable of reading the CVT temperature.

If you're not comfortable performing this service yourself, it's best to take your Murano to a qualified mechanic who specializes in CVT transmissions.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your Nissan Murano's CVT with the correct transmission fluid is essential for its longevity and performance. By understanding the fluid specifications, checking the fluid level regularly, and performing fluid changes according to the manufacturer's recommendations, you can help ensure that your CVT operates smoothly for years to come. Always err on the side of caution and consult your owner's manual or a trusted mechanic if you have any questions or concerns.