Owners Nissan Note with a 1.6 liter engine are often faced with the need to service the transmission, since most of these cars are equipped with a variator transmission (CVT). The correct selection of lubricant is critical to the durability of the unit, since CVTs are sensitive to the quality of the fluid and its physical properties. Errors in selection can lead to rapid wear of the clutches, overheating and costly repairs.

The main difficulty lies in determining the exact article number oils, since the manufacturer produced various modifications of transmissions under codes JF011E and JF015E. The wrong fluid can disrupt the operation of the valve body and cause the belt to slip. In this article we will look at what exactly automatic transmission oil suitable for your Nissan Note, what original catalog numbers exist and how to correctly perform the replacement procedure.

Transmission Types and Fluid Specifications

By car Nissan Note CVTs of various series were installed in the first and second generations. The most common units are the JF011E series (designation RE0F10A) and the more compact JF015E series (designation RE0F10B). Each of these types requires a strictly defined fluid composition, which differs in viscosity and additive package.

The original fluid recommended by the manufacturer is marked NS-2 or NS-3. For older versions Nissan Note The JF011E variator uses NS-2 standard oil, which has a specific viscosity to ensure smooth shifting. Newer models equipped with the JF015E CVT often require the updated NS-3 specification, which is rated for higher loads and temperatures.

The use of liquids that do not comply with the standard is strictly prohibited. For example, pouring NS-3 oil into a unit that requires NS-2 can lead to a change in system pressure and malfunction of the torque converter. Therefore, before purchasing, be sure to check the documentation for your car or the markings on the variator body.

⚠️ Attention: Never mix fluids of different standards (NS-2 and NS-3), as this may cause a chemical reaction and the formation of sediment that will clog the thin channels of the valve body.

Current article numbers of original Nissan oil

To purchase an original product, you must know the correct catalog number. The manufacturer produces liquid in canisters of different volumes, which is convenient for partial or complete replacement. The most popular option for Nissan Note is a 1 liter or 4 liter canister.

The main article for variators of the JF011E series (NS-2 standard) is KE902-99942. This is a time-tested fluid that provides maximum compatibility with all Nissan transmission components. For newer requirements of the NS-3 standard, the article number is used KE902-99943. Please note that the numbers at the end may vary depending on the region of delivery and packaging.

There are also items for 4-liter canisters, which is convenient if you are planning a complete replacement with flushing. For the NS-2 standard this is the number KE902-99942 (depending on packaging, sometimes found as 1l/4l in catalogs), and for NS-3 - KE902-99943. Always check your vehicle's VIN when ordering to ensure there is no mistake.

  • 🔹 KE902-99942 — original Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 oil (1 liter).
  • 🔹 KE902-99943 — original Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 oil (1 liter).
  • 🔹 ELF - official partner, often produces fluid under the ELF NISSAN CVT Matic brand.

High-quality analogues and alternative brands

Original oil is not always available or is too expensive, so many car owners pay attention to high-quality analogues. The main condition is compliance with the JWS 3324 specification (for NS-2) or the new specification for NS-3. The market offers many proven options from global manufacturers.

One of the most reliable analogues is the brand's products Idemitsu, since this company is often the supplier of original fluids to the conveyor. Oil Idemitsu CVT Fluid NS-2 has an article number 10180041 and fully complies with the requirements of the Nissan plant. The brand is also popular Febi, which offers liquids with the article number 32190 (NS-2) and 32191 (NS-3).

You should not save on untested brands from unknown sources. Cheap counterfeits may not contain the necessary additives to protect friction discs from wear. When choosing an analogue, carefully examine the packaging for the presence of the “Nissan NS-2” or “Nissan NS-3” markings.

📊 What oil do you use in your Nissan Note?
  • Original (Nissan NS-2/NS-3)
  • High-quality analogue (Idemitsu/Shell)
  • Budget analogue
  • Haven't changed it yet

Oil volumes and replacement procedure

Amount of fluid required for maintenance Nissan Note 1.6, depends on the type of procedure chosen: partial or complete replacement. The variator crankcase usually contains about 4-4.5 liters of oil, but with a complete replacement with flushing, much more will be required - up to 8-9 liters.

During a partial replacement, which is the most common procedure during scheduled maintenance, only part of the oil is drained through the drain plug. Usually this is about 3-3.5 liters. After draining, the old fluid is replaced with a new one of the same volume. It is important not to overfill the oil as this will cause foaming and overheating.

A complete replacement requires special equipment or multiple drain-fill procedures. During operation, the oil level may change due to thermal expansion, so the level is monitored strictly with the engine warm and the variator running. Errors in determining the level can lead to failure of the entire transmission.

☑️ Preparing for an oil change

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⚠️ Attention: The oil level in the Nissan variator is checked only with the engine running and the oil warmed up to a temperature of 35-45°C, when the level indicator is in the “HOT” zone.

Special filters and gaskets

When changing the oil in the variator Nissan Note It is strongly recommended to replace not only the fluid, but also the filter. Over time, an old filter becomes clogged with metal shavings and wear products, which impairs oil circulation and reduces pressure in the system.

There are two types of filters for Nissan CVTs: metal mesh (coarse) and paper filter (fine). The metal mesh often cannot be replaced and is simply washed out, while the paper filter must be replaced with a new one. Filter part numbers vary depending on the variator model.

For CVTs JF011E and JF015E, filters with article numbers are often used 31726-1XV0A or 31726-1XV0C. Also, do not forget about the O-ring of the drain plug (part number 11026-ED00A), which may leak when reinstalled if it is deformed.

  • 🔹 31726-1XV0A — fine filter for most Nissan CVTs.
  • 🔹 11026-ED00A — sealing washer for the drain plug (disposable).
  • 🔹 31110-1XV0A — pallet gasket (if the pallet is not metal).
Why can't the filter be used without replacement?

If you leave the old filter, it may become clogged with wear debris, which will reduce oil pressure and lead to overheating of the variator, even with fresh fluid.

Common mistakes when servicing a variator

Many owners make critical mistakes when servicing the transmission, which reduce its service life. One of the most common problems is ignoring the temperature regime. The oil in the variator must be warmed up to a certain temperature before checking the level, otherwise the readings will be incorrect.

Another mistake is using universal fluids “for all transmissions.” Nissan CVTs are extremely sensitive to the composition of the additives, and universal oil will not provide the required friction coefficient for the belt and cones. This can lead to slippage and rapid wear.

You should also avoid sudden starts and high loads immediately after changing the oil. In the first 100-200 kilometers after replacement, it is recommended to drive in a gentle mode so that the new fluid is distributed throughout all components and displaces the remnants of the old one.

⚠️ Attention: The use of NS-3 standard oil in a variator designed for NS-2 can lead to irreversible destruction of the friction discs and failure of the valve body within several thousand kilometers.
Parameter Meaning for NS-2 Meaning for NS-3
Applicability CVTs until 2012-2013 CVTs since 2013 and newer
Article (1l) KE902-99942 KE902-99943
Color Red Red (sometimes with a tint)
Replacement period Every 60,000 km Every 60,000 km
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Before purchasing oil, be sure to remove the engine guard and visually check the condition of the variator pan for signs of impact or corrosion, which may indicate the need for repairs before changing the oil.

Results and recommendations for choosing

Choosing the right oil for Nissan Note 1.6 is the key to long service life of the variator. Refer to the specifications specified in the service book and use only trusted brands. If you are not sure about the type of your variator, it is better to contact a dealer or a specialized service to decipher the VIN code.

Regular oil changes every 60,000 km (or more often if driving aggressively) will help avoid costly repairs. Remember that prevention is always cheaper than replacing the entire unit. Do not neglect replacing the filter and o-rings, as these are critical elements of the system.

Follow the instructions for checking the level, use only the recommended temperatures and do not skimp on the quality of consumables. Correctly selected automatic transmission oil and timely maintenance will ensure smooth operation of the transmission and a comfortable ride in your car.

💡

Main idea: Using original NS-2 or NS-3 fluid and timely filter replacement are the only ways to guarantee a Nissan Note CVT service life of 200,000 km or more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what oil my Nissan Note 1.6 needs?

You need to check the vehicle's VIN in the spare parts catalog or look at the specifications in the service book. Typically pre-2013 models require NS-2 and newer models require NS-3. You can also look at the markings on the variator body.

Can I add oil from another brand?

Only oil that has an identical specification can be added (for example, NS-2 to NS-2). Different brands with the same standard are usually compatible, but it is better to use the same product for the entire system to avoid chemical reactions.

How much oil is needed for a complete change in the Nissan Note CVT?

For a complete replacement using the displacement method, about 8-9 liters of liquid will be required. For a partial replacement, 3.5-4 liters is enough. The exact volume depends on the degree of contamination and the washing method.

What is the most popular variator filter article number?

The most common article number of a fine filter for Nissan CVTs is 31726-1XV0A. However, always check compatibility with the specific model and year of your vehicle.

Is it possible to change the oil in a variator yourself?

Yes, if you have the necessary tools and knowledge, the replacement procedure is possible independently. However, checking the level requires precise adherence to the temperature regime, so it is better for beginners to entrust this work to specialists.