Changing the oil in the <em>Nissan Note</em> variator (Daze): a complete guide from A to Z

CVT Nissan Note (known in Russia as Daze) is a node that requires special attention. Unlike a classic automatic transmission, continuously variable transmission sensitive to the quality and condition of the oil: ignoring the replacement regulations is fraught slipping, jerking and complete failure of the CVT by 150,000 km. Owners often wonder: is it possible to get by with a partial replacement or is a complete flush required? How to choose oil among dozens of offers on the market? And most importantly, how to prevent mistakes that will result in expensive repairs?

In this article we will look at all aspects of changing the oil in the variator Nissan Note - from theoretical foundations to step-by-step instructions with photos. You'll learn what tools you'll need, how to check the oil level without special equipment, and why NS-3 not always the best choice. We’ll also reveal the myths about “maintenance-free” CVTs and explain why even official dealers sometimes give conflicting recommendations.

Why is there oil in the variator? Nissan Note need to change: myths and reality

Many owners Daze are faced with the assertion that the variator JF011E/JF016E (installed on most Note with motors HR15DE/HR16DE) supposedly "maintenance-free". This is a dangerous misconception! The manufacturer actually claims “lifelong” oil filling, but real life of transmission fluid rarely exceeds 60-90 thousand km - especially in the conditions of Russian roads and climate.

The fact is that the oil in the variator performs three critical functions: lubricant rubbing surfaces, heat removal (CVT operating temperature reaches 100–120°C) and torque transmission through the belt and cones. Over time, the fluid loses viscosity, becomes saturated with wear products (metal shavings, friction dust) and oxidizes. Consequences of ignoring replacement:

• ⚠️ Jerks during acceleration — due to the loss of frictional properties of the oil, the belt begins to slip.
• ⚠️ Rumbling or howling at idle - signal about insufficient lubrication of bearings.
• ⚠️ "Emergency mode" (lights up Check Engine) — the control unit detects abnormal operation of the CVT.
• ⚠️ Complete failure of the variator - requires replacement of the belt, cones or the entire unit (cost from 150,000 rubles).

CVTs are especially vulnerable to Nissan Note first generation (E11, 2006–2012) — their CVT is less tolerant of overheating and oil contamination. Second generations (E12, 2013–present) have received a more advanced cooling system, but this does not eliminate the need for maintenance.

Replacement frequency: official data vs real experience

Official regulations Nissan for Note with variator JF011E (dorestayl) and JF016E (restyle) provides oil check every 15,000 km, and replacement only in case of leakage or repair. However, this is a recommendation for “ideal” operating conditions: moderate climate, smooth roads, no towing. In Russia such conditions are rare.

Experienced craftsmen and owners Daze adhere to other intervals:

Operating conditions	Recommended replacement interval	Replacement type
City mode (traffic jams, frequent stops)	40–50 thousand km	Partial or complete
Mixed mode (city + highway)	60–70 thousand km	Partial
Aggressive driving, towing, off-road	30–40 thousand km	Full with flushing
Extreme temperatures (below -30°C or above +35°C)	50 thousand km	Complete + filter replacement

It is important to consider car age:

• For Nissan Note over 10 years old (or with mileage >150 thousand km) the interval is reduced to 30–40 thousand km - even if the oil looks clean.
• When buying used Daze with mileage Changing the oil in the variator is mandatory, regardless of the seller's statements.

⚠️ Attention: If the variator is already experiencing jerking or noise, A complete oil change may make the problem worse. In this case, diagnostics is first required Launch X431 or similar scanner - the belt or cones may be worn out.

What kind of oil to pour into the variator Nissan Note: NS-2, NS-3 or analogue?

The manufacturer insists on using only original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (article KLE52-00004) for CVTs JF011E And NS-3 (KLE53-00004) for JF016E. However, in practice the choice is wider - the main thing is to comply specifications:

• 🔹 For JF011E (Note E11, before 2012) — NS-2 or analogues with approval JWS 3309 (For example, Idemitsu CVTF, Ravenol CVT).
• 🔹 For JF016E (Note E12, since 2013) — NS-3 or analogues with JWS 3324 (Mobil CVT, Motul Multi CVT).
• 🔹 For harsh conditions - oil with improved antioxidant properties (for example, Liqui Moly CVT).

Common mistakes when choosing oil: 1. Usage NS-3 in variators designed for NS-2 - this will lead to increased belt wear due to different viscosity. 2. Filling with cheap universal oils (for example, ATF for automatic transmission) - the variator will fail within 10–20 thousand km. 3. Mixing different types of oils - even NS-2 And NS-3 incompatible!

Oil volume to change:

• 📌 Partial replacement (drain through the plug): 4–4.5 l.
• 📌 Complete replacement (with flushing): 7–8 l (bleeding apparatus required).

What happens if you fill in the wrong oil?

When using oil with the wrong viscosity (for example, ATF instead of CVT Fluid), the variator belt begins to slip, which leads to accelerated wear. In the worst case, the belt breaks and the cones are destroyed (repairs will cost 80–120 thousand rubles). In addition, non-original oils without JWS 3309/3324 approval may foam at high temperatures, which will cause oil starvation and scuffing on the shafts.

Preparing for replacement: tools and consumables

To change the oil in the variator yourself Nissan Note you will need:

🔧 10 mm square key for drain plug

🔧 5 mm hexagon for checking level

🔧 Funnel with a thin spout (diameter ~10 mm)

🔧 Container for working out (minimum 5 l)

🔧 New oil (8 l for a complete change)

🔧 New variator filter (article 31726-1XF0A)

🔧 Pan gasket (article 31397-1XF0A)

🔧 CVT sealant (e.g. Loctite 574)

🔧 Clean, lint-free rags

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Pay special attention variator filter. B Nissan Note two types of filters are used: 1. Coarse cleaning (metal mesh in the tray) - it can be washed with kerosene and installed back. 2. Fine cleaning (paper filter inside the housing) - be sure to replace to a new one!

If you plan complete replacement with washing, additionally prepare:

• 🔌 Oil pumping device (for example, Launch CReader with adapter for CVT).
• 🔧 A set of sockets for removing the pallet (usually 10 mm).
• 🧴 Solvent for cleaning the tray from old sealant.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use pneumatic tool to unscrew the drain plug - excessive force can damage the threads in the aluminum pan. Optimal tightening torque: 35–40 Nm.

Step-by-step instructions: how to change the oil in a variator Nissan Note

Let's consider two replacement methods: partial (for prevention) and complete (if the oil is heavily contaminated).

🔧Partial replacement (drain-fill)

Step 1. Warm up the variator to operating temperature (50–60°C). To do this, just drive 10–15 km or let the engine idle for 10 minutes with the selector switching through all modes (P→R→N→D).

Step 2. Raise the vehicle on a lift or ramp. Make sure Note stands strictly horizontal - otherwise the oil level will be incorrect.

Step 3. Unscrew drain plug (10 mm square) and drain the oil into a container. Normally ~4 liters should flow out. If less, the filter may leak or become clogged.

Step 4. Replace o-ring on the drain plug (article no. 11026-01M02) and tighten it with a torque of 35 Nm.

Step 5. Fill in new oil through filler hole (5 mm hexagon next to the battery). Use a funnel to avoid spills. The volume is equal to the drained volume (usually 4–4.5 l).

Step 6. Warm up the variator (as in Step 1) and check the level:

• 🔹 The engine should be running at idle.
• 🔹 Selector in position P.
• 🔹 The level should be between MIN And MAX on the dipstick (if any) or leak from the inspection hole.

🔧 Complete replacement with flushing (recommended for mileage >100 thousand km)

This method requires pumping device (For example, Wynn's Transerve) or multiple drain-fill. Algorithm:

Step 1. Drain the oil as in a partial change.

Step 2. Remove variator tray (12 bolts by 10 mm), clean it and the magnets from metal shavings. Replace the fine filter.

Step 3. Install the pan on the new gasket, lubricating it with sealant. The tightening torque of the bolts is 10 Nm.

Step 4. Add 4 liters of new oil. Connect the device to the fittings of the CVT cooling radiator and pump the system until clean oil comes out (7-8 liters will be required).

Step 5. Check the level and take a test drive with smooth shift control.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when changing the oil in the variator Nissan Note. Here are the most dangerous:

• 🚫 Overfilling or underfilling oil — both lead to foaming and oil starvation. Correct the level only when the variator is warm!
• 🚫 Using the old filter — even after washing, particles remain in it, which will quickly contaminate the new oil.
• 🚫 Changing the oil on a cold variator — the viscous liquid is not completely drained, the residue will be mixed with a new portion.
• 🚫 Ignoring magnets in the tray - they need to be cleared of chips, otherwise they will circulate through the system.

Another common problem is improper tightening of the pan. If you overtighten the bolts, you can deform the variator housing; If you don't tighten it enough, a leak will appear. Use torque wrench!

After replacement, be sure to perform variator adaptation:

1. 1. Reset errors with the scanner (if any).
2. 2. Drive 10–15 km in a gentle mode (without sudden acceleration).
3. 3. Check the oil level again.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to pour automatic transmission oil (ATF) into the variator? Nissan Note?

No! Oils for classic automatic machines (ATF) and variators (CVT Fluid) have different composition and viscosity. ATF does not provide the necessary adhesion of the belt to the cones, which will lead to slippage and overheating. Use only approved fluids JWS 3309 (NS-2) or JWS 3324 (NS-3).

How to check the oil level in a variator Nissan Note without a dipstick?

On most Note the dipstick is missing - it is used instead inspection hole (5mm hex on CVT body). Verification algorithm:

1. Warm up the variator to 50–60°C.
2. Place the car on a level surface.
3. Unscrew the control plug - oil should drip or flow out slightly.
4. If oil does not flow, add through the filler hole.

Important: The engine should be running at idle, the selector should be in position P.

How much does it cost to change the oil in a variator? Nissan Note in the service?

The cost depends on the type of replacement and region:

• 🔹 Partial replacement: 1,500–2,500 rub. (excluding oil).
• 🔹 Complete replacement with flushing: 3,000–5,000 rub.
• 🔹 Replacing filters and gaskets: +1,000–1,500 rub.

Oil NS-3 will cost 800–1,200 rubles/liter, NS-2 — 600–900 rub./liter. In total, for a complete replacement with consumables you will pay ~10,000–15,000 rubles.

What should you do if, after changing the oil, the variator begins to twitch?

There are several reasons:

1. 🔸 Wrong oil - check the tolerance (must be JWS 3309 or JWS 3324).
2. 🔸 Dirty solenoids - they need to be washed or replaced.
3. 🔸 Adaptations not reset - perform a reset via the diagnostic scanner (Launch, Delphi).
4. 🔸 Worn belt or cones — the variator needs troubleshooting.

If the problem persists, contact a CVT specialist - repairing it yourself may make the problem worse.

Is it possible to ride on Nissan Note with dirty oil in the variator?

Technically possible, but the risk of failure increases exponentially. Signs of critical oil condition:

• 🔴 Black oil, with a burning smell.
• 🔴 A lot of metal shavings have accumulated on the magnets of the pallet.
• 🔴 The variator “slips” when accelerating or makes a grinding noise.

In this case a complete oil change may no longer help — CVT repair or replacement will be required. Average life of the variator on dirty oil: 120–150 thousand km.