I read the stickies and every other post that I could find 'manually' (I don't have the search option) but no post seems to address this. I have a 2004 SE 5-speed automatic and it's time for my 12,000 mile maintenance check. I have to check the AT Fluid this time. My manual says:

5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID

When checking or replacement is required, we recommend your NISSAN dealer for servicing.

But explains how to check it if you have a 4-speed. Wouldn't it be the same for a 5-speed? I understand the 6-speed manual is probably different but I was surprised to see that I had to have the dealer do this.

Thanks in advance.

 

That is nonsense. At 12,000 miles you don't even need to go to the dealer. Have you rotated the tires before? They should probably be rotated every 7,500 miles.

Most of what the dealer does is inspections? I take it you don't do work on the car yourself. Any oil change place should be able to check the ATF and most do a 21-pont inspection. Get them to check off that the ATF has been checked. Get an oil change and filter. Lastly keep the invoice stored away safely for warranty purposes.

 

I agree that it's nonsense. I haven't been to the dealer and don't plan on it. I followed the tire rotation schedule and had them done by 7,500. I have been changing my oil/filter every 3K (starting when I bought the car).

I can do most (up to this point I have) of the inspections that the maintenance schedule requires. I was surprised to see the owner's manual explain how to check it for a 4-speed and then go onto say that a 5-speed owner must have the dealer check. I could see if it said 6-speed...

 

As far as I can tell your warranty can not be voided by not going to the dealer for service. I'm not from the US, but I don't think you are compelled to get them to do the ATF inspection by law. You might want to confirm this by checking with a couple of dealerships, other than where you bought the car.

 

Maybe the 5-speed auto transmission is sealed and has no dipstick?

 

I just checked and there isn't a dipstick. I just *assumed* there was one.