I have an 04 Nissan Maxima 99,000 miles that is shifting bad, no check engine light. I changed the transmission fluid that was black but no metal shavings. It still shifts late especially when coming to a stop.
I am not sure how or if I should change the filter?
How can we properly check the fluid level (the manual just said take it to the stinking dealer)?
I bought the fluid from the dealer, but should I use the synthetic fluid instead?
Thanks for the help scotty, keep up the great YouTube videos!
In all probability, it’s your transmission already starting to going out.
You said your fluid was black, I’m guessing it was never changed since it rolled off the factory floor in 2004. If so, the damage is most likely done as Nissans use weak Jatco transmissions which are notorious for falling apart around your mileage.
Use only the fluid that’s mentioned in your owner’s manual. Do not experiment with other fluid specs for your transmission.
If I were you, I’d sell the car if you got any serious offers, or keep driving it until the transmission completely broke & then buy a Toyota or a Honda as my next car.
Yup, need to stick with Toyota and Honda for sure.
Fortunately (or unfortunately), they are your best bet for ultra reliable transportation. The lesser of all evils, if you will.
They are not noted for transmission longevity, if fluid was black and smelled. Burnt the clutches are slipping, last resort try some Lucas trans fix...
If the trans was not maintained it could be in rough shape but if it’s a delayed shift and not a slip they were probed to valve body problems not trans problems there were bulletins to replace the valve body/ solenoids on the valve body. Not a super cheap repair but not very hard either
I see, thanks for the feedback!