Nissan · Vehicle Guide
Nissan Pathfinder Transmission Fluid
The correct transmission fluid for the Nissan Pathfinder, how much it takes, how often to change it, and how to check the level.
Quick answer
The Nissan Pathfinder typically uses Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (2013–2020) — or Nissan Matic-S ATF (2022+ automatic). Refill capacity on a drain-and-fill is ≈ 4–5 qt drain-and-fill, with a common change interval of ~30,000–60,000 mi; confirm in manual. Dipstick: No. The 2022+ Pathfinder dropped the CVT for a 9-speed automatic — its fluid differs from the earlier CVT.
Fluid specifications
- Recommended fluid
- Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (2013–2020) — or Nissan Matic-S ATF (2022+ automatic)
- Transmission
- CVT (2013–2020) or 9-speed automatic (2022+)
- Refill capacity
- ≈ 4–5 qt drain-and-fill
- Change interval
- ~30,000–60,000 mi; confirm in manual
- Dipstick
- No
- Applies to
- 2013–2020 (CVT); 2022+ (9-speed automatic)
Figures are general guidance for the Nissan Pathfinder. 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 Pathfinder 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 Pathfinder use?+
The Nissan Pathfinder typically uses Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (2013–2020) — or Nissan Matic-S ATF (2022+ automatic). 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 Pathfinder have a transmission dipstick?+
Most Nissan Pathfinder 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 Pathfinder transmission fluid be changed?+
A common interval for the Nissan Pathfinder is ~30,000–60,000 mi; 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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