How do I check the CVT fluid level?
Thread Starter
Newbie - Just Registered
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 5
How do I check the CVT fluid level?
Putting together a wrecked 2017 SV for my wife. Changed Radiator and core support,in the process, losing some CVT fluid. No dipstick to check fluid level. Is there a overflow plug or another way to check level? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
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Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 5
Senior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 546
From: Hot Springs Village, AR
Just did the above. Pulled the dipstick from the Murano and it showed fluid. Inserted and removed from the Max and the dipstick was dry. I had read somewhere that the CVT was redesigned for better mileage and the fluid level was lower to get the fluid away from some of the moving parts. I will try to find the article again. But I feel we still should have a dipstick. Not having one is going to make changing the fluid interesting.
I looked at the service manual and the transmission has to be filled from an overflow tube on the side of the transmission. No longer a easy service item that the owner can do. It can be done, just not easily.
Service manual here:
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Maxima/2...2016%20Maxima/
Information on the CVT redesign here:
https://www.nissanusa.com/blog/xtron...e-transmission
Last edited by 2young2retire; Jul 20, 2017 at 01:32 PM.
Thread Starter
Newbie - Just Registered
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 5
Damn, you are correct, just a cap, no dipstick. I am going to pull the dipstick out of my '11 Murano and see if I can check the fluid in the Max.
Just did the above. Pulled the dipstick from the Murano and it showed fluid. Inserted and removed from the Max and the dipstick was dry. I had read somewhere that the CVT was redesigned for better mileage and the fluid level was lower to get the fluid away from some of the moving parts. I will try to find the article again. But I feel we still should have a dipstick. Not having one is going to make changing the fluid interesting.
I looked at the service manual and the transmission has to be filled from an overflow tube on the side of the transmission. No longer a easy service item that the owner can do. It can be done, just not easily.
Service manual here:
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Maxima/2...2016%20Maxima/
Information on the CVT redesign here:
https://www.nissanusa.com/blog/xtron...e-transmission
Just did the above. Pulled the dipstick from the Murano and it showed fluid. Inserted and removed from the Max and the dipstick was dry. I had read somewhere that the CVT was redesigned for better mileage and the fluid level was lower to get the fluid away from some of the moving parts. I will try to find the article again. But I feel we still should have a dipstick. Not having one is going to make changing the fluid interesting.
I looked at the service manual and the transmission has to be filled from an overflow tube on the side of the transmission. No longer a easy service item that the owner can do. It can be done, just not easily.
Service manual here:
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Maxima/2...2016%20Maxima/
Information on the CVT redesign here:
https://www.nissanusa.com/blog/xtron...e-transmission
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 28
From: Chantilly, DMV
Long time lurker, Nissan master tech chiming in.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
Last edited by Kickinwing; Jul 21, 2017 at 04:28 AM. Reason: Words
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 64
Long time lurker, Nissan master tech chiming in.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
Thanks for the info. At least that sheds light on how a shadetree mechanic can get the job done.
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 44
From: OH
Thanks for the info! This is pretty much the same process for a lot of the newer model Jap cars regardless of cvt or traditional auto. My 2008 Lexus ISF had a "sealed" transmisssion and not even a dipstick tube. Many people were afraid to touch the tranny fluid but it was a must if you raced or autocrossed, etc. The maxima shouldn't be any different if used in extreme duty situations...The fluid will eventually degrade and warrant changing. Or, perhaps in this case, if the transmission needs to be removed or similar you might need to perform a drain/refill.
My only question would be: how much fluid is actually drained using the lower bolt? The torque converter, valve body, etc all retain quite a bit of fluid. Simply removing the drain bolt shouldn't actually drain specified service manual capacity, correct? I.e.- you shouldnt need more than a few quarts to fill an installed tranny on this car?
My only question would be: how much fluid is actually drained using the lower bolt? The torque converter, valve body, etc all retain quite a bit of fluid. Simply removing the drain bolt shouldn't actually drain specified service manual capacity, correct? I.e.- you shouldnt need more than a few quarts to fill an installed tranny on this car?
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 44
From: OH
When we did this on the Lexus ISF the rule of thumb was to measure the amount of fluid drained and replace with the same amount. THEN, follow the procedures as spelled out above by kickinwing.
Last edited by Mikkellucci; Jul 21, 2017 at 06:48 AM.
Member
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 135
From: Brooklyn, N.Y.
Long time lurker, Nissan master tech chiming in.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
Thread Starter
Newbie - Just Registered
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 5
Long time lurker, Nissan master tech chiming in.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
Thanks for the information. I really appreciate it. I contacted my dealer today with another question and nobody could give me a answer. Maybe you could direct me on we're to find info. I bought a complete front end with the drivers air bag, my drivers bag was blown. When I install another front crash sensor and bag, will everything automatically reset or will I have to take to dealer. My seat belts are locked right now. Plan on sending them out to get reset.
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Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 8
Damn, you are correct, just a cap, no dipstick. I am going to pull the dipstick out of my '11 Murano and see if I can check the fluid in the Max.
Just did the above. Pulled the dipstick from the Murano and it showed fluid. Inserted and removed from the Max and the dipstick was dry. I had read somewhere that the CVT was redesigned for better mileage and the fluid level was lower to get the fluid away from some of the moving parts. I will try to find the article again. But I feel we still should have a dipstick. Not having one is going to make changing the fluid interesting.
I looked at the service manual and the transmission has to be filled from an overflow tube on the side of the transmission. No longer a easy service item that the owner can do. It can be done, just not easily.
Service manual here:
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Maxima/2...2016%20Maxima/
Information on the CVT redesign here:
https://www.nissanusa.com/blog/xtron...e-transmission
Just did the above. Pulled the dipstick from the Murano and it showed fluid. Inserted and removed from the Max and the dipstick was dry. I had read somewhere that the CVT was redesigned for better mileage and the fluid level was lower to get the fluid away from some of the moving parts. I will try to find the article again. But I feel we still should have a dipstick. Not having one is going to make changing the fluid interesting.
I looked at the service manual and the transmission has to be filled from an overflow tube on the side of the transmission. No longer a easy service item that the owner can do. It can be done, just not easily.
Service manual here:
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Maxima/2...2016%20Maxima/
Information on the CVT redesign here:
https://www.nissanusa.com/blog/xtron...e-transmission
Tips?
Jay
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 44
From: OH
Senior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 546
From: Hot Springs Village, AR
When I clicked on the link in my post it brought up the service manual for the 2016 Maxima. Just download what you need. TM is for the transmission. FWD is the list of all the sections.
Here it is again.
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Maxima/2...2016%20Maxima/
Here it is again.
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Maxima/2...2016%20Maxima/
Last edited by 2young2retire; Jul 24, 2017 at 07:13 PM.
Newbie - Just Registered
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 12
From: PHILADELPHIA
Long time lurker, Nissan master tech chiming in.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
In relation to your question "how do I check CVT fluid level?"
The easy answer is "don't". Nissan service manual recommends changing CVT fluid when CVTF deterioration date is 210,000. The only way to check CVTF deterioration is through Consult-III+ scan tool.
But I see that you're in a bit of a bind so I'll try to shed some light for you. All new CVT transmissions from 2013-up are equipped with locking dipstick caps but no dipstick, with some Sentras and Versas being the exception to the rule. This was done to prevent the layman from screwing with fluid, etc.
However, in an emergency such as yours, there is a way to check fluid level. The service manual directs you to pump 2-3 quarts of NS3 into the overfill plug on the underside of the transmission. Not everyone has this fluid pump (ie. anyone that doesn't work in a Nissan dealership.) The way around this is just dump the fluid in through the dipstick tube with a funnel. It's the quickest and easiest way around not having the fluid pump. The goal is to overfill the transmission by a quart or two. Next, you'll have to hook up some kind of scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature. The only way to monitor proper fluid level is by reading transmission fluid temp.
Hook up your scan tool, get data monitor ready to view transmission fluid temp, and start the vehicle. Allow it to idle for ~10 seconds. While holding your foot on the brake, shift to reverse and hold it for ~5 seconds. Shift through all of the gears in this manner with your foot still on the brake to allow the fluid to work its way through the control valve assembly and all oil passages. This will ensure that the fluid in the pan is at the correct level. Shift back into park.
After you've done this, wait for the transmission to warm up to 95 degress Fahrenheit. At this point, remove the 14mm overflow bolt on the bottom of the transmission. Fluid will begin to pour out, so be prepared. Monitor fluid temp while watching the CVT fluid flow from the overflow tube. Verify that the fluid slows to a fast "drip" before transmission temp reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 95-113F is your temperature adjustment window. Once the fluid has slowed to a fast drip, install the overflow plug and you're on your way!
In the event that the transmission was "too" overfilled and CVT fluid flow from overflow tube doesn't slow before 113F, reinsert the overflow plug and allow the transmission to cool down. Lather, rinse, and repeat the above procedure.
I have a 2014 maxima, with a dipstick.
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