ATF Multi for Nissan Kicks: how to choose oil for an automatic transmission and not spoil the box

Automatic transmission Nissan Kicks (in the back P15E, 2020–2026) requires special attention to the transmission fluid. The manufacturer insists on using oil ATF Multi - universal formula, compatible with CVTs Jatco and classic torque converter automatic transmissions. But there are dozens of options on the market: from the original Nissan Matic S to budget analogues Idemitsu or Ravenol. How not to make a mistake with your choice and not reduce the resource of the box?

In this article we will analyze exact specifications of ATF Multi for Kicks with HR16DE and MR20DD engines, we will compare original oils and analogues, we will talk about the signs of fluid aging and the nuances of replacement. We’ll also answer the questions that owners ask most often: is it possible to mix different ATFs, how to check the level without a dipstick, and why the box starts to “kick” after replacement.

What is ATF Multi and why Nissan Kicks requires it

ATF Multi (Automatic Transmission Fluid Multi-Vehicle) is a universal transmission fluid designed to be compatible with different types of automatic transmissions. B Nissan Kicks it is used as in variators Jatco JF017E (for motors HR16DE), and in classic automatic transmissions RE0F10D (for MR20DD). The main difference from conventional ATF is the extended package of additives, which:

• 🔹 Prevents slippage variator belt (critical for CVT).
• 🔹 Reduce wear friction clutches and bearings under high loads.
• 🔹 Maintain viscosity in the range from -40°C to +150°C.
• 🔹 Protects against oxidation during long traffic jams (relevant for urban use).

Manufacturer Nissan The manual indicates two key specifications for Kicks:

• 📌 NS-3 — for variators (CVT).
• 📌 Matic S - for traditional automatic transmissions.

However, in practice, many services use universal ATF Multi with tolerances NS-2/NS-3 And JWS 3324, which cover both types of boxes. This simplifies logistics and reduces the risk of selection errors.

⚠️ Attention: If in your Kicks a variator is installed, never pour fluid marked Dexron VI or Mercon LV - it is not compatible with the CVT belt and will lead to accelerated wear.

Original oils vs analogues: which is better for Kicks

The official dealer will offer you two options:

1. Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (article KLE52-00004) - for CVTs.
2. Nissan Matic S (article 999MP-MTS00P) — for automatic transmission.

But their price (from 1,200 rubles/liter) often forces owners to look for analogues. Below is a comparative table of tested liquids indicating compatibility and average cost.

Manufacturer	Title	Specifications	Box type	Price for 1 liter, rub.
Nissan	CVT Fluid NS-3	NS-3, JWS 3324	CVT (CVT)	1 200–1 500
Idemitsu	CVTF NS-3	NS-3, JWS 3324	CVT (CVT)	900–1 100
Ravenol	CVT Fluid NS-3/J1	NS-2/NS-3, JWS 3324	CVT (CVT)	850–1 000
Mobil	ATF Multi Vehicle	NS-2, Dexron VI	Automatic transmission (not CVT!)	700–900
Aisin	AFW+	JWS 3324, NS-2	Automatic transmission/CVT	1 000–1 200

Important nuance: for CVTs Kicks Only liquids with markings are suitable NS-3 or JWS 3324. Automatic transmission is less finicky - you can use Matic S or universal ATF Multi with permission NS-2.

When to change ATF Multi in Nissan Kicks: regulations and signs of wear

Official regulations Nissan for Kicks with variator - ATF replacement every 90,000 km or once every 6 years (whichever comes first). For automatic transmissions, the interval is the same, but many services recommend reducing it to 60,000 km when operating in conditions:

• 🏙️ City traffic jams (frequent acceleration and braking).
• 🌡️ Extreme temperatures (below -30°C or above +35°C).
• 🚗 Aggressive driving style (sharp starts, towing).
• 🏔️ Mountainous terrain (frequent ascents/descents).

However, focusing only on mileage is dangerous. The following symptoms indicate ATF wear:

• 🔴 Jerks when switching (especially when cold).
• 🔴 Burning smell from transmission fluid.
• 🔴 Dark oil color (should be reddish, not black).
• 🔴 Hum or vibration when driving at low speeds.

⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the ATF, the box begins to “kick” or noise appears, it is likely that an incompatible oil was used or the adaptations were not reset. In this case, repeated replacement with a complete flushing of the system is required.

What happens if you don't change the ATF?

Long-term operation with old fluid leads to:

- Worn variator belt (cracks, delamination).

- Solenoid contamination (leads to kicks when switching).

- Overheating of the box (risk of failure of pumps and bearings).

- Loss of pressure in the valve body (the box enters emergency mode).

Step-by-step instructions for replacing ATF Multi in Kicks

Replacing transmission fluid in Nissan Kicks possible in two ways:

1. Partial replacement (drain-fill) - renews ~40–50% of the oil. Suitable for scheduled maintenance.
2. Complete replacement (hardware) - displaces up to 90% of old liquid. Recommended when changing ATF type or after 100,000 km.

For self-replacement (partial) you will need:

• 🔧 Key on 10 mm (for drain plug).
• 🔧 Funnel with extension (for pouring through a dipstick or control hole).
• 🔧 New oil (4–5 liters for CVT, 6–7 liters for automatic transmission).
• 🔧 New filter (item no. 31726-1XF0A for variator).
• 🔧 Sealant for the pallet (for example, Loctite 574).

Procedure:

1. Warm up the box (drive 10–15 km).
2. Raise the car on a lift or ramp.
3. Drain the old oil through the plug in the pan (volume ~3.5 liters for CVT).
4. Remove the pan, replace the filter and clean the magnets from metal shavings.
5. Place the pan on the new sealant and tighten the drain plug.
6. Fill in new oil through the filler neck (for CVT - to the level COLD on the dipstick).
7. Start the engine, warm up the transmission and check the level (should be between HOT MIN/MAX).

Buy oil with a reserve (5–6 liters for CVT)

Check for a new pan gasket

Prepare a container for draining (minimum 5 l)

Have a torque wrench (plug tightening torque - 35 Nm)-->

Important: after replacement it is required reset box adaptations via a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431 or Nissan Consult). Without this, jerks are possible in the first 100–200 km.

Top 5 mistakes when replacing ATF in Nissan Kicks

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that reduce the life of the box. Here are the most common:

1. Using the wrong oil. For example, fill Dexron VI instead of NS-3 into the variator. Consequences: belt slipping, overheating, pump failure.
2. Incomplete replacement. With a partial drain, up to 50% of the old fluid remains in the system, which negates the effect of the update.
3. Ignore filter. Variator filter Kicks becomes clogged with metal dust and, without replacement, causes a drop in pressure.
4. Overfilling or underfilling oil. Level up HOT MAX leads to foaming, lower MIN - to oil starvation.
5. No reset of adaptations. After replacement, the box “learns” again, and without a reset, jerks may appear.

To avoid problems, follow a simple rule: if you are not sure, entrust the replacement to an official dealer or service with experience in working with CVTs.

Can I mix different ATF Multis in Kicks?

This question arises when you need to add oil, but there is no “native” liquid at hand. The answer depends on the type of box:

• 🔄 For variator (CVT): Mixing allowed only within one specification (For example, NS-3 from Nissan And Idemitsu). But even in this case, it is recommended to make a complete replacement as soon as possible.
• 🔄 For automatic transmission: Can be mixed ATF Multi with permission NS-2 or Matic S, but not with Dexron or Mercon.

Important: never mix mineral and synthetic oils - this will lead to sedimentation and clogging of the valve body channels.

If you had to add another oil, monitor the behavior of the box for 500–1,000 km. If jerking or humming occurs, contact service immediately.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about ATF Multi in Nissan Kicks

❓ How to check the ATF level in Kicks without a dipstick?

In CVTs Jatco JF017E the dipstick is missing. The level is checked through the control hole on the pallet:

1. Warm up the box to 50–60°C (drive 10 km).
2. Raise the car on a lift.
3. Unscrew the control plug (hexagon on 10 mm).
4. If oil drips, the level is normal. If not, add until drops appear.

For automatic transmission RE0F10D There is a dipstick - it is located to the right of the engine, next to the battery.

❓ Why did the box start to twitch after replacing the ATF?

The reasons may be as follows:

• Adaptations have not been reset (diagnostic scanner required).
• Unsuitable oil viscosity was used (e.g. NS-2 instead of NS-3).
• Air has entered the system (the torque converter needs to be bled).
• The filter is clogged (if it has not been replaced).

In 90% of cases, the problem is solved by resetting the adaptations. If the jerking persists, contact a service center to diagnose the pressure in the box.

❓ What kind of oil was poured into the Kicks from the factory?

From factory to Nissan Kicks (2020–2026) uploaded:

• CVT (HR16DE): Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (greenish tint).
• automatic transmission (MR20DD): Nissan Matic S (red).

Both oils are completely synthetic and do not require replacement for the first 90,000 km (according to regulations).

❓ Can ATF Multi be used for other brands (Toyota, Honda) in Kicks?

Theoretically yes, if the liquid has tolerances NS-3 or JWS 3324. For example:

• Toyota CVT Fluid FE - compatible with NS-3.
• Honda DW-1 — doesn't fit for CVTs Nissan.
• Subaru CVT Fluid - compatible, but has a different viscosity characteristic.

However, we recommend sticking to the original specifications to avoid problems with the warranty and service life of the box.

❓ How much does it cost to replace ATF in Kicks from an official dealer?

Cost of the service in 2026:

• Partial replacement (drain-fill): RUB 3,500–5,000 (excluding oil).
• Full replacement (hardware): 6,000–8,000 rub.
• Filter replacement: +1,500–2,000 rub.

Average oil consumption:

• CVT: 4–5 liters for partial, 8–10 liters for complete replacement.
• Automatic: 6–7 liters.