Nissan · Vehicle Guide
Nissan Altima Transmission Fluid
The correct transmission fluid for the Nissan Altima, how much it takes, how often to change it, and how to check the level.
Quick answer
The Nissan Altima typically uses Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3. Refill capacity on a drain-and-fill is ≈ 4–5 qt drain-and-fill, with a common change interval of ~30,000 mi severe; confirm in manual. Dipstick: No. Altimas use a CVT requiring NS-3 — never use standard ATF or NS-2.
Fluid specifications
- Recommended fluid
- Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3
- Transmission
- Xtronic CVT
- Refill capacity
- ≈ 4–5 qt drain-and-fill
- Change interval
- ~30,000 mi severe; confirm in manual
- Dipstick
- No
- Applies to
- 2013–present (CVT)
Figures are general guidance for the Nissan Altima. Always confirm the exact fluid spec and capacity for your model year in the owner's manual before servicing.
How to check it
Because the Nissan Altima is sealed, the fluid is checked from underneath at the fill/level plug with the vehicle level and the fluid at a specified temperature. See our step-by-step guides:
Frequently asked questions
What type of transmission fluid does the Nissan Altima use?+
The Nissan Altima typically uses Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3. Always confirm the exact specification for your model year in the owner's manual before topping up or changing fluid — using the wrong fluid can damage the transmission.
Does the Nissan Altima have a transmission dipstick?+
Most Nissan Altima models are sealed and do not have a transmission dipstick, so the fluid is checked from a fill/level plug at a specified temperature.
How often should Nissan Altima transmission fluid be changed?+
A common interval for the Nissan Altima is ~30,000 mi severe; confirm in manual. Severe service — towing, heat, stop-and-go — shortens that. Follow your owner's manual for the definitive schedule.
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