So I have an '08 Altima (2.5 S) that needs the CVT transmission fluid changed. I just bought it, with about 100k miles on it. While the oil has been regularly changed, I'm not sure about the CVT fluid, so I thought it would be best to change it just to be sure. The fluid that is in it currently has the green tint of the OEM stuff, so I'm assuming that's what's in it now.
I've read good things about the Castrol CVT fluid, so I'm considering using that, as it is a fraction of the cost of the Nissan stuff. (I have a 2010 Maxima that I have done with the Nissan OEM fluid, and had no issues, but it's pricey) My question is two part:
1. Does everyone agree that the Castrol CVT fluid (or other brands) are as good or better than the Nissan OEM fluid and won't cause any issues with the transmission? The car has 105k miles on it, so it's out of warranty anyway, if that were a concern.
2. Since it currently has the OEM fluid in it, is there anything special I need to do when making the switch to a different brand? Should I do a drain and fill now, then drive it for a bit, then do another drain and fill in 1000 miles or something? Or am I ok to just do one drain and fill and call it good?
Also (ok I guess there are three questions) do I really need to drop the pan and replace the gasket? Will that drop a lot more oil than just draining? Thanks!
Edit: Also considered installing a little transmission cooler. Would that go a long ways in helping to extend the longevity of the transmission?
I've read good things about the Castrol CVT fluid, so I'm considering using that, as it is a fraction of the cost of the Nissan stuff. (I have a 2010 Maxima that I have done with the Nissan OEM fluid, and had no issues, but it's pricey) My question is two part:
1. Does everyone agree that the Castrol CVT fluid (or other brands) are as good or better than the Nissan OEM fluid and won't cause any issues with the transmission? The car has 105k miles on it, so it's out of warranty anyway, if that were a concern.
2. Since it currently has the OEM fluid in it, is there anything special I need to do when making the switch to a different brand? Should I do a drain and fill now, then drive it for a bit, then do another drain and fill in 1000 miles or something? Or am I ok to just do one drain and fill and call it good?
Also (ok I guess there are three questions) do I really need to drop the pan and replace the gasket? Will that drop a lot more oil than just draining? Thanks!
Edit: Also considered installing a little transmission cooler. Would that go a long ways in helping to extend the longevity of the transmission?