Automatic transmission filter <em>Nissan Note</em>: when to change, which one to choose and how to replace it yourself

Automatic transmission Nissan Note (J10/J11) is a reliable unit, but only subject to timely maintenance. One of the critical elements of the system is automatic transmission filter, which is responsible for cleaning the transmission fluid from metal shavings, friction dust and other contaminants. Neglecting to replace it leads to accelerated wear of the solenoids, valve body, and even the gearbox itself.

In this article we will analyze all the nuances: from signs of a clogged filter to step-by-step instructions for replacement, taking into account the features of the models Note 1.4/1.6 with CVT JF015E or classic automatic transmission RE4F03B. You will also find out what original Nissan filters are factory defective and must be checked before installation.

Signs of a clogged automatic transmission filter Nissan Note

The automatic transmission filter does not have a clear replacement schedule - its condition depends on operating conditions. However there is symptoms, which signal the need for verification:

• 🔴 Jerks when shifting gears - especially noticeable when cold or during acceleration. Associated with insufficient oil pressure due to a clogged filter.
• 🔴 Delays when turning on drive/reverse (1-2 seconds). In the variator JF015E this is often accompanied by vibration.
• 🔴 Extraneous noise out of the box - a hum, grinding or rustling sound when coasting.
• 🔴 Black oil with metal shavings on the dipstick (even if the level is normal).
• 🔴 Errors P0715, P0730, P0841 on the dashboard - indicate problems with pressure or solenoids.

On Nissan Note J11 (2012–2020) with CVT JF015E a clogged filter often appears "slip effect" — the engine speed increases, but the car does not accelerate. This is due to the fact that contaminated oil cannot properly lubricate the variator belt.

⚠️ Attention: If after changing the automatic transmission oil the symptoms do not disappear, the problem may be worn solenoids or the filter itself (for example, if it was installed without an O-ring).

Types of automatic transmission filters for Nissan Note: original vs analogues

On Nissan Note Two types of automatic transmissions were installed, each of which required its own filter:

Automatic transmission model	Original article	Analogues (tested)	Notes
CVT JF015E (1.6, J11)	31726-JF00A	JS Asakashi JT519K, Mann W 914/2, Mahle OC 383	The kit includes an O-ring. Items 31726-JF00B and 31726-JF00C have defective latches - check before purchasing!
Automatic transmission RE4F03B (1.4, J10)	31726-31X0A	Framm FT1018A, SCT ST355, Blue Print ADT32304	The filter is metal, requires washing the pan.
CVT JF016E (restyling)	31726-JF01A	Knecht LA 240, Hengst E 299 L	Only suitable for models after 2016.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• 🔹 Filter element material — with cheap filters it often breaks during installation.
• 🔹 Availability of O-ring (included or purchased separately, article number 31397-31X00).
• 🔹 Oil type compatibility - for CVTs JF015E requires a filter that is resistant to NS-3.

Important: There are counterfeits of original filters on the market. Nissan with article number 31726-JF00A. They can be distinguished by the quality of the plastic (the original is matte, without burrs) and the presence of a hologram on the packaging.

Replacement schedule: when to change the automatic transmission filter in Nissan Note

Official regulations Nissan provides for changing the automatic transmission oil every 60,000 km, but it doesn’t say anything about the filter. This is due to the fact that “eternal” metal filters are installed on the conveyor (for example, in RE4F03B), which theoretically can only be washed. However, in practice:

• 📌 For CVT JF015E - the filter is changed every 40–50 thousand km along with oil. Its resource is limited due to the paper filter element.
• 📌 For automatic transmission RE4F03B — the metal filter can be washed, but it is recommended to replace it once every 80–100 thousand km.
• 📌 When driving or towing aggressively - the interval is reduced to 30–40 thousand km.

There are exceptions. For example, if you use oil Nissan NS-3 (article KE908-99932), then the filter can be changed less frequently - it oxidizes less and retains its properties longer. But when filling universal oils (for example, Mobil ATF 3309) the filter becomes clogged faster.

⚠️ Attention: If you bought Nissan Note with mileage and don’t know when the automatic transmission oil was last changed, be sure to replace the filter, even if the previous owner claims otherwise. The cost of the filter (~1,500 rubles) is not comparable to repairing the box (~80–150 thousand rubles).

What happens if you don't change the automatic transmission filter?

When the filter is completely clogged, oil stops circulating through the cooling radiator, which leads to overheating of the automatic transmission. In the variator JF015E this causes belt slippage and accelerated wear of the cones. In a classic automatic transmission RE4F03B Clutches and solenoids suffer. In both cases, the result is expensive repairs or replacement of the box.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the automatic transmission filter with Nissan Note

To replace the filter you will need:

• 🔧 Set of heads (10 mm, 14 mm).
• 🔧 Sealant for the pallet (for example, Loctite 574).
• 🔧 New filter and o-ring.
• 🔧 4–5 liters of oil Nissan NS-2/NS-3 (for variator) or Matic S (for automatic transmission).
• 🔧 Funnel with a thin spout and a hose for pouring.

Sequence of actions:

1. Drain the old oil.
   

   Warm up the box (drive 10–15 km), then lift the car on a lift or pit. Unscrew the drain plug (14 mm wrench) and drain the oil into a container. In the variator JF015E You also need to unscrew the overflow tube to drain completely.

2. Remove the pan.
   

   Unscrew the 18 pan bolts (10 mm head) and carefully remove it. Be careful - ~0.5 liters of oil remains in the pan. Clean the magnets from any metal shavings.

3. Replace the filter.
   

   In the variator JF015E the filter is attached to 3 latches - bend them and pull out the old filter. In automatic transmission RE4F03B the filter is screwed on with bolts - unscrew them and remove the filter along with the sealing ring.

4. Install a new filter and put everything back together.
   

   Before installing the pan, apply a thin layer of sealant to the joint. Tighten the bolts crosswise with a force of 8–10 Nm.

5. Fill with new oil.
   

   Use a funnel with a hose inserted into the filler hole (next to the battery). For CVT JF015E ~5.4 l will be required for automatic transmission RE4F03B — ~7.5 l. After filling, check the level using the dipstick (on a heated box).

Check the oil level before replacing|Buy an original filter or a proven analogue|Prepare sealant and a new pan gasket|Warm up the box before draining the oil|Have a torque wrench on hand (for pan bolts)-->

Features for CVT JF015E:

• 🔹 After replacing the filter, you need to reset the variator adaptations. To do this:

1. Заглушите двигатель.
2. Нажмите педаль газа до упора и удерживайте 10 секунд.
3. Повторите процедуру 3 раза.

• 🔹 If a hum appears after replacement, check the oil level (underfilling or overfilling is equally harmful).

Common mistakes when replacing an automatic transmission filter

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes, which later become costly. Here are the most common:

• ❌ Using the wrong oil.
  

  For example, fill Dexron III instead of Nissan NS-3 to the variator JF015E leads to belt destruction within 20–30 thousand km.

• ❌ Failure to comply with the tightening torque of the pallet bolts.
  

  Over-tightening leads to deformation of the pan; under-tightening leads to oil leakage. Optimal moment: 8–10 Nm.

• ❌ Ignoring the O-ring.
  

  In 30% of cases, an oil leak after replacing the filter is due to the fact that they forgot to change the ring (part number 31397-31X00).

• ❌ Incomplete oil drain.
  

  In the variator JF015E up to 1.5 liters of oil remains in the torque converter. A complete replacement requires flushing or a vacuum pump.

Another common mistake is washing the old filter instead of replacement. This is only permissible for metal filters (e.g. RE4F03B), but even in this case, washing with gasoline or kerosene destroys the filter element. It's better to spend 1,500 rubles. for a new filter than 50,000 rubles. for box repair.

⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the filter and oil, the box begins to “kick” or jerks appear, most likely a low-quality filter was installed (for example, with deformed latches) or the wrong type of oil. In this case, you need to repeat the procedure.

How to extend the life of the filter and automatic transmission in Nissan Note

To ensure that the automatic transmission filter lasts longer and the gearbox works flawlessly, follow these recommendations:

• 🛠️ Change the oil more often than scheduled.
  

  For CVT JF015E optimal interval - 35–40 thousand km, even if you use NS-3. In automatic transmission RE4F03B - every 50–60 thousand km.

• 🛠️ Avoid overheating the box.
  

  Do not tow heavy trailers or park the vehicle on a grade in "D" (use the handbrake). Oil temperatures above 120°C destroy the filter.

• 🛠️ Check the oil level every 10 thousand km.
  

  In the variator JF015E The level is checked on a heated box (oil temperature 50–80°C). In automatic transmission RE4F03B - cold and hot.

• 🛠️ Use only original oil or certified analogues.
  

  Suitable for variator: Nissan NS-3, Ravenol CVT, Idemitsu CVTF. For automatic transmission - Nissan Matic S, Mobil ATF 3309.

If you often drive in traffic jams or in dusty conditions, install additional magnetic filter to the drain plug. It catches metal shavings and extends the life of the main filter. Good options:

• 🧲 Magnetic Drain Plug (article M12x1.25) — ~800 rub.
• 🧲 Hi-Gear HG5504 — set with magnet and o-ring.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the automatic transmission filter Nissan Note

Is it possible to wash the automatic transmission filter instead of replacing it?

Metal filters (for example, in RE4F03B) can be washed with gasoline or kerosene, but this is a temporary measure. Paper filters (as in a CVT JF015E) cannot be washed - they lose their properties. It's better to replace it with a new one.

Which filter is better - original or analogue?

Original filters Nissan more reliable, but among analogues there are decent options: Mann, Mahle, JS Asakashi. The main thing is to avoid cheap brands (for example, SCT or Patron), in which the filter element often breaks.

What should I do if, after replacing the filter, the box begins to twitch?

The reasons may be the following:

1. Incorrect oil level (check the dipstick on a warm box).
2. Poor quality or unsuitable filter (for example, without an o-ring).
3. Adaptations not reset (for CVT JF015E).
4. Air entering the system (you need to move the oil in a circle: “P-R-N-D” with a delay of 5 seconds in each position).

How much oil is needed to replace the filter in the variator JF015E?

For partial replacement (draining through the plug) - 4.5–5 l. For a complete replacement (with flushing) - 7–8 l, since ~1.5 liters of old oil remains in the torque converter.

Is it possible to drive with a clogged filter if there is no money to replace it?

Short-term (1–2 thousand km) it is possible, but the risks are high:

• Accelerated wear of solenoids and valve body.
• Overheating of the box due to poor oil circulation.
• In the variator there is belt slippage and wear on the cones.

If the budget is limited, at least partially change the oil (drain/fill 3-4 liters) - this will temporarily improve the situation.