2008 xterra Automatic Transmission filter?

[MikeDiPaolo]

I am planning to change the automatic transmission fluid and checked the manual to see where the filter was to replace it as well. There is no mention of a automatic transmission filter in the manual nor did I see on on the drawings. Is that true, the Xterra does not have one ?

[muadeeb]

It does, but it's internal to the tranny and Nissan does not recommend regular replacement. Some people add an external filter.

[MikeDiPaolo]

Thanks, I did a search of section TM of the manual and did not even find a reference on an internal filter. By the way, do you recommend casterol Type J fluid or go to Nissan dealership and buy thier ATF Type J fluid

[muadeeb]

J was replaced by S (probably after they realized the SMOD problem). I have a 1st gen (Matic-D) and run Valvoline MaxLife Dex/Merc with no problems, but you will never go wrong with the factory fluid. Can you use Casterol? If it lists compatibility with Matic J/S then yes. Should you? :shrug:

As for the filter, it looks like it's under the control valves, like in the 1st gen tranny, but Nissan now wants you to replace the entire valve/TCM/filter assembly as one unit. If the filter is anything like mine, it's a simple wire mesh to keep the large pieces out of the works; no real 'filtering'.

[MikeDiPaolo]

Thank you for the detailed response, much appreciated.

[mexfdmnb]

This reply is prob a little late but why not share my info, my x has 87K on it I did the tranny/rad mod and while I was at it i Did the tranny drain and change (aprox 4.5q 2nd gen) I used castrol high mileage just make sure it sais recommended use for nissan matic types. test drove shifts smooth and easy and nice ride

[gsxrjason]

I just picked up an 05 xterra yesterday, Now doing a little research it would seem I should look into this issue.

Iv looked into this SMOD bypass
Should I have the transmission inspected?
Was the mod difficult to do?
Is there any concerns in doing the mod?

[mexfdmnb]

Originally Posted by gsxrjason

I just picked up an 05 xterra yesterday, Now doing a little research it would seem I should look into this issue.

Iv looked into this SMOD bypass
Should I have the transmission inspected?
Was the mod difficult to do?
Is there any concerns in doing the mod?

If it will make you sleep easier at night you can have it inspected.
When you drain your tranny fluid it should be a dark red color when mine came out it was brownish with a little red tint. It was definitely time for a change.

The mod was not difficult to do you seriously only move 2 lines. you need to remove the skid plate. So all you'll need is a 10mm socket + ratchet and some pliers, there's diy threads on this site.


The only concern Ive read was if you live in a warmer climate and do a lot of towing you might want to add another external cooler, I heard the plate ones are better than tube/fin types you can get one for around 50-60 $ or one with a fan for bout 100-130$

Hope this Helped!

[MikeDiPaolo]

Thank you for the reply. Do you have a reference for the transmission filter mod. you did, I assume you placed a filter in line to the radiator? What was the filter type/surface area, and any information on the filter housign whould be appreciated...

[gsxrjason]

Thanks for the reply Mex,

I brought this issue up with a co-worker of mine who has owned an xterra for years and was not aware of this issue. He is looking into adding an additional cooler. I don't do any towing and the pacific northwest here is averagely cool out side of summer.