Transmission fluid Nissan ATF Matic Fluid S is a specialized oil developed by engineers Nissan for automatic transmissions of their cars. It ensures smooth gear shifting, protects parts from wear and maintains the optimal operating temperature of the automatic transmission. However, many owners are faced with questions: how often to change it, what analogues are suitable, and what are the risks of filling with the wrong fluid?

In this article we will look at unique properties of the original liquid KE908-99931 (main article for ATF Matic S), compare it with analogues from Mobil, Idemitsu, Ravenol, and we will give step-by-step instructions for replacement - from preparing tools to checking the level after filling. We will pay special attention to typical errors that reduce the life of the automatic transmission by 30–40%.

What is Nissan ATF Matic Fluid S and what models is it intended for?

ATF Matic Fluid S is a synthetic transmission fluid that meets the standard Nissan Matic S. It was developed for automatic transmissions Jatco (automatic transmission manufacturer for Nissan), which are installed on most models of the brand. The fluid is characterized by high thermal stability and improved anti-friction properties, which is critical for modern multi-stage automatic transmissions.

Officially ATF Matic S recommended for the following models Nissan (year of production - from 2005 to the present):

  • 🚗 Qashqai (J10, J11) — with automatic transmission RE0F10A/RE0F10D
  • 🚙 X-Trail (T31, T32) - boxes JR507E/RE0F09B
  • 🚘 Murano (Z51, Z52) — RE0F10A and variators JF011E
  • 🚛 Navara (D40) — automatic transmission RE5R05A
  • 🚖 Teana (J32) - box JR710E

Important: liquid Matic S not compatible with older standards Matic D or Matic J. For example, for Nissan Almera N16 (2000–2006) with automatic transmission RE4F03A required Matic D, and the fill Matic S will lead to slipping of the clutches and premature wear of the valve body.

⚠️ Attention: In CVTs Nissan (For example, Juke or Ariya) is used separate liquid — NS-2 or NS-3. Fill ATF Matic S in CVT will lead to belt failure after 5–10 thousand km.
📊 What transmission fluid do you use in your Nissan?
  • Original ATF Matic S
  • Analogue (Mobil, Idemitsu, etc.)
  • I don’t know which one is filled
  • Filling with universal ATF

Technical characteristics and differences from other ATFs

Liquid Nissan ATF Matic Fluid S has a unique additive package that provides:

  • 🔥 Thermal stability up to +150°C (for comparison: standard ATF can withstand +120–130°C)
  • ⚙️ Low coefficient of friction for smooth operation of clutches
  • 🛡️ Oxidation protection and the formation of varnish deposits
  • 🌡️ Stable viscosity at low temperatures (down to -40°C)

Basic physical and chemical parameters:

Parameter Value (ATF Matic S) Comparison with ATF Matic D
Viscosity at 100°C, mm²/s 6.8–7.2 7.0–7.5
Viscosity index 180–200 160–180
Flash point, °C 200 180
Color Red (bright) Red (dim)

Key Difference Matic S from previous versions (Matic D/J) — reduced viscosity at high temperatures. This makes it possible to reduce friction losses in modern automatic transmissions with a large number of solenoids (for example, RE0F10A in Qashqai J11). However, this also makes the fluid more sensitive to contamination: wear particles clog the filter faster if replacement intervals are not observed.

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If, after replacing the fluid, the automatic transmission begins to “kick” during shifts, check the level: Matic S has high fluidity, and even a slight overflow (100–150 ml) can cause foaming.

Original articles and how to spot a fake

Officially Nissan ATF Matic Fluid S comes in three types of packaging:

  • 📦 1 liter - article number KE908-99931 (most common)
  • 📦 4 liters - article number KE908-99934 (for service centers)
  • 📦 20 liters - article number KE908-99932 (canister for service station)

Counterfeits are often found in liter bottles. Signs of the original:

  1. Cover with protective ring (there should be a click when opening for the first time).
  2. Label with holographic element (When the viewing angle changes, the inscription “NISSAN” appears).
  3. The bottling date is marked laser (not in a typographical way).
  4. Liquid color - bright red, without turbidity (in fakes it is often orange or dark brown).
⚠️ Attention: Branded counterfeits are common on the market "Nissan Matic S" in bottles without article number KE908-99931. Such liquids are often diluted with a cheap mineral base and lead to jamming of solenoids after 20–30 thousand km.
What happens if you fill in fake ATF Matic S?

Fake liquid usually has a low flash point (150–160°C instead of 200°C), which leads to its accelerated aging. After 10–15 thousand km, it loses its lubricating properties, which is why the clutches begin to “burn” and the valve body becomes clogged with wear products. Symptoms: jerks when switching, delayed response to gas, the appearance of metal shavings on the sump magnet.

The best analogues of Nissan ATF Matic Fluid S: what to fill if you don’t have the original

If the original liquid is not available, you can use certified analoguescompliant with the standard Nissan Matic S. Important: even among well-known brands there are products that don't fit for specific models Nissan. For example, Mobil ATF 3309 compatible with Qashqai J10, but not recommended for X-Trail T32 with box RE0F10D.

Top 5 proven analogues:

Brand and name Article Compatibility Notes
Idemitsu ATF Type M 30050037-74065 100% Japanese manufacturer, supplier for Nissan to the conveyor
Ravenol ATF J1 Fluid 4014835755306 98% German quality, but may be harsh for older automatic transmissions
Mobil ATF 3309 152620 95% Suitable for Qashqai J10, but not for Murano Z52
Motul Multi ATF 105777 90% Universal, but requires more frequent replacement (every 50 thousand km)
Liqui Moly Top Tec ATF 1200 7502 85% Good for mild climates, may thicken in cold weather

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

  • 🔧 Manufacturer's specification (must be specified "Nissan Matic S" or "JWS 3309").
  • 📅 Production date (ATF older than 2 years loses up to 20% of additives).
  • 🌡️ Climatic conditions (For example, Liqui Moly 1200 not suitable for Siberia).
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If you mixed the original ATF Matic S with an analogue, complete replacement required no later than after 10 thousand km. Even compatible liquids can react, forming sediment.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing ATF Matic Fluid S

Replacing transmission fluid in an automatic transmission Nissan consists of three stages: draining the old ATF, flushing (if necessary) and filling with new one. For a complete replacement you will need 8–12 liters fluid (depending on the box model), since part of the ATF remains in the torque converter and valve body channels.

Required tools:

Lift or inspection hole|Set of sockets (10, 14, 17 mm)|New automatic transmission pan gasket (part number 31397-31X02)|Automatic transmission filter (article 31726-31X00 or 31726-31X01)|Funnel with long spout|Drain container (minimum 5 l)|Torque wrench (tightening torque of pan bolts - 10 Nm)-->

Step 1: Drain the old fluid

  1. Warm up the automatic transmission to operating temperature (drive 10–15 km or leave the engine idling for 10 minutes).
  2. Place the car on a lift and remove the crankcase protection (if equipped).
  3. Place a container under the drain plug (it is also a control for the level). Unscrew the plug with the key to 14 mm.
  4. Wait until it drains completely (about 3-4 liters). If the liquid is dark or has a burning smell, you will need flushing.

Step 2: Replacing the filter and cleaning the pan

After draining, unscrew the pan bolts (18 pieces) and carefully remove it. Inside you will see:

  • 🔄 Coarse filter (mesh) - it can be washed with kerosene and installed back.
  • 🧲 Magnets — clean them of metal shavings (their presence indicates wear of the clutches).
  • 🛠️ Fine filter (paper) - be sure to replace to a new one.

Step 3. Filling with new fluid

Install the pan with a new gasket (bolt tightening torque - 10 Nm). Add fresh ATF through the filler hole (usually near the battery). Volume of the first portion - 4 liters. Then:

  1. Start the engine and warm up the automatic transmission (switch the selector through all modes with a delay of 5 seconds).
  2. Check the level using the level plug (with the engine running!). Top up if necessary.
  3. Repeat the drain/fill procedure 1–2 more times for a complete replacement (8–12 liters in total).
⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the automatic transmission, it begins to “slip” in Dprobably insufficient fluid level or air entering the system. Stop immediately and add ATF!

Common replacement errors and their consequences

Even experienced technicians make mistakes that reduce the life of the automatic transmission. Here are the most critical ones:

1. Incomplete fluid replacement

Many people limit themselves to a one-time drain/fill, but there is up to 30–40% old ATF. This leads to:

  • ⚠️ Rapid oxidation of the new liquid (a mixture of old and new loses its properties 2 times faster).
  • ⚠️ Clogging of solenoids with wear products.

Solution: Repeat the drain/fill procedure after 500 km or use hardware replacement (replacing old ATF with new one under pressure).

2. Overfilling or underfilling

Optimal level ATF Matic S - when liquid begins to drip from the inspection hole while the engine is running. Exceeding the level by 200–300 ml leads to:

  • 🔥 Foaming and overheating of the automatic transmission.
  • 🛑 Loss of pressure in the hydraulic unit (the box stops switching).

3. Using the wrong filter

Filters for automatic transmission Nissan there are two types:

  • 🔧 31726-31X00 - for boxes RE0F10A/RE0F09B (Qashqai, X-Trail).
  • 🔧 31726-31X01 - for JR507E (Murano, Teana).

Installing the wrong filter results in bypassing the liquid past the filter element and accelerated wear of the automatic transmission.

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After replacing the ATF, reset the automatic transmission adaptations using a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431). This will help the box “get used” to the new fluid and avoid jerking.

How often to change ATF Matic Fluid S: regulations and signs of wear

Official regulations Nissan provides for replacement ATF Matic S every 60–90 thousand km or once every 4–5 years (whichever comes first). However, these terms are relevant for ideal conditions: moderate climate, quiet ride, no towing. In reality, the replacement interval should be reduced:

Factors that reduce ATF life:

  • 🌡️ Extreme temperatures (frost below -30°C or heat above +35°C) - reduce the interval by 30%.
  • 🚗 Aggressive riding (sharp starts, towing) - replacement must be done every 40-50 thousand km.
  • 🏙️ City mode (frequent traffic jams) - the liquid overheats, losing its properties.
  • 🛣️ Off-road driving — dirt getting into the automatic transmission accelerates filter wear.

Signs that it’s time to change the ATF:

  • 🔴 Liquid color turned dark brown or black (the norm is bright red).
  • 🤢 Burning smell - indicates overheating of the clutches.
  • ⚡ Jerks when switching (especially when cold).
  • 🔊 Hum or vibration in the field of automatic transmission.
  • 🛑 Reaction delays when pressing the gas pedal.

If you ignore these symptoms, the consequences will be serious:

What happens if you don't change the ATF Matic S?

10–15 thousand km after the end of its service life, the fluid loses its lubricating properties, and a chain reaction begins:

1. The friction clutches burn, forming abrasive dust.

2. Dust clogs the valve body solenoids and channels.

3. The pressure in the system drops, the box begins to “kick”.

4. Wear of bushings and bearings accelerates by 3–5 times.

The result is a major overhaul of the automatic transmission (from 80 thousand rubles).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan ATF Matic Fluid S

Can ATF Matic S be mixed with other fluids?

Mixing allowed only with fluids meeting JWS 3309 standard (For example, Idemitsu Type M or Ravenol ATF J1). However, even in this case it is recommended complete replacement at the first opportunity, since the mixture loses up to 15% of additives. It should absolutely not be mixed with Dexron VI or ATF+4 - this will cause the formation of gel-like deposits.

How to check the ATF level of Matic S without a dipstick?

Most models Nissan (For example, Qashqai J11) the dipstick is missing. The level is checked via control plug on the automatic transmission tray:

  1. Warm up the box to 60–70°C (drive 10 km).
  2. Place the car on a level surface.
  3. Unscrew the control plug (the key is on 14 mm).
  4. If ATF doesn't drip - add until drops appear.

Important: check the level with the engine running (selector in position P).

What is the difference between ATF Matic S and Matic D?

ATF Matic S has lower viscosity at high temperatures (6.8–7.2 mm²/s versus 7.0–7.5 y Matic D), which improves the performance of modern automatic transmissions with a large number of solenoids. In addition, Matic S Contains improved extreme pressure additives to protect clutches made from new materials. Fill Matic D instead of Matic S you can only as a last resort and for a period of no more than 10 thousand km.

Is it necessary to flush the automatic transmission when replacing ATF?

Flushing is required if:

  • The drained liquid has burning smell or dark color.
  • Found in the pallet a large amount of metal shavings.
  • Automatic transmission works with jerks or delays.

For rinsing use special compounds (For example, Wynns Transmission Flush) or method double replacement (drain/fill is repeated 2–3 times at intervals of 500 km).

Which ATF is suitable for Nissan Juke with CVT?

For Nissan Juke (as for other models with CVT JF011E/JF016E) is used special fluid NS-2 or NS-3. ATF Matic S doesn't fit — filling it will lead to slipping of the variator belt and its accelerated wear. Articles of original liquids:

  • NS-2: KLE52-00004 (1 l)
  • NS-3: KLE53-00004 (1 l)