Discover the Easy Steps for How to Check Transmission Fluid in a 2015 Nissan Murano

The transmission is a vital part of your 2015 Nissan Murano, responsible for smoothly transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Maintaining the correct transmission fluid level is crucial for ensuring its optimal performance and longevity. Knowing how to check transmission fluid in your 2015 Nissan Murano is a valuable skill that can help you catch potential problems early on. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, step-by-step, so you can confidently monitor your transmission’s health.

Why Checking Transmission Fluid is Important

Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of your transmission system. It lubricates the internal components, cools the system, and helps transfer power efficiently. Over time, transmission fluid can become contaminated with debris, lose its viscosity, and degrade in performance. This can lead to various issues, including:

• Slipping or delayed gear changes: A low fluid level or contaminated fluid can cause the transmission to slip or hesitate when shifting gears.
• Rough shifting: If the fluid is too old or dirty, it can cause rough shifting and even damage the transmission.
• Transmission failure: Neglecting transmission fluid checks can lead to premature wear and tear, ultimately resulting in transmission failure.

When to Check Your Transmission Fluid

While it’s good practice to check your transmission fluid regularly, here are some key indicators that it’s time for a check:

• The “Check Engine” light is on: While not always directly related to transmission fluid, a check engine light could indicate a transmission issue, prompting you to check the fluid.
• Unusual noises or vibrations: If you hear clunking, grinding, or unusual noises from the transmission, it’s time to check the fluid.
• Smelling burnt fluid: A burnt smell coming from the transmission area indicates a potential overheating issue, which can be caused by low fluid levels or contaminated fluid.
• Leaking fluid: If you notice transmission fluid leaking from your vehicle, it’s crucial to address the leak and check the fluid level.

Required Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

• Clean rag or paper towels: To wipe away any spills or excess fluid.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from the transmission fluid.
• Coolant recovery container: To catch the fluid you will be draining.
• A dipstick: Your 2015 Nissan Murano should have a dipstick specifically for the transmission fluid.
• Optional: A flashlight: To help you see the dipstick markings clearly.

Checking the Transmission Fluid Level

Follow these steps to check the transmission fluid level in your 2015 Nissan Murano:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface: Make sure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface to ensure an accurate reading.
2. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes: This allows the transmission fluid to warm up and circulate properly.
3. Shift through all the gears: Move the gear selector through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, and Low) to ensure the fluid is distributed throughout the transmission.
4. Locate the transmission dipstick: The dipstick is usually located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, near the transmission. It may have a different color or shape from the engine oil dipstick.
5. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean: Use a clean rag or paper towel to wipe off any old fluid on the dipstick.
6. Reinsert the dipstick fully: Make sure the dipstick is fully inserted back into the tube.
7. Remove the dipstick again and check the fluid level: The fluid level should be within the “Full” markings on the dipstick. If it’s below the “Full” mark, you may need to add more fluid.
8. Check the fluid’s color and smell: The transmission fluid should be a reddish-brown color and have a slightly sweet smell. If it is dark black, burnt, or has a strong odor, it may be time for a fluid change.

Adding Transmission Fluid

If the transmission fluid level is low, you can add more fluid through the dipstick tube. Here’s how:

1. Locate the transmission dipstick: The dipstick is usually located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, near the transmission.
2. Purchase the correct transmission fluid: Consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the correct type of transmission fluid for your 2015 Nissan Murano.
3. Slowly add fluid to the dipstick tube: Pour the fluid slowly into the dipstick tube until the level reaches the “Full” mark.
4. Check the fluid level again: After adding fluid, re-check the level and ensure it is within the “Full” markings.
5. Wipe up any spills: Clean up any spills using a clean rag or paper towels.

When to Consult a Professional

While checking and adding transmission fluid is a relatively straightforward task, there are certain situations where it’s best to consult a professional mechanic:

• If you’re unsure about the correct type of transmission fluid: Always refer to your owner’s manual or consult a mechanic to ensure you use the correct fluid.
• If the fluid level is consistently low: A consistently low fluid level could indicate a leak, which requires professional attention.
• If the fluid is dark, burnt, or has a strong odor: This indicates that the fluid has degraded and needs to be replaced. A professional mechanic can perform a complete transmission fluid change.
• If you experience any transmission problems: If you notice slipping, rough shifting, or other transmission issues, it’s best to have a mechanic diagnose the problem.

Beyond Checking the Fluid: Maintaining Your Transmission

While checking the transmission fluid level is important, it’s only one aspect of maintaining your transmission’s health. Here are some additional tips:

• Regularly schedule transmission fluid changes: Consult your owner’s manual for recommended fluid change intervals.
• Avoid harsh driving habits: Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and towing heavy loads can put extra stress on your transmission.
• Use high-quality transmission fluid: Using the correct type of fluid is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Transmission Fluid: The Unsung Hero of Your Murano

Checking your transmission fluid regularly is a simple but essential task that can help you keep your 2015 Nissan Murano running smoothly. By following these steps and being mindful of your transmission’s health, you can ensure that this vital component continues to serve you reliably for years to come.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. How often should I check my transmission fluid?

It’s a good practice to check your transmission fluid every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. This frequency may vary depending on your driving habits and the condition of your vehicle.

2. Can I use any type of transmission fluid?

No, you should only use the type of transmission fluid specified in your owner’s manual. Using the wrong type of fluid can damage your transmission.

3. What does it mean if the transmission fluid is dark brown or black?

This indicates that the fluid has degraded and needs to be replaced. Dark, burnt fluid can lead to transmission problems if not addressed promptly.

4. What should I do if my transmission fluid is leaking?

If you notice transmission fluid leaking, it’s important to address the leak as soon as possible. A leaking transmission can lead to serious damage if not repaired.

5. How much does a transmission fluid change cost?

The cost of a transmission fluid change varies depending on the location, the type of fluid used, and the labor involved. You can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for a complete transmission fluid change.