
X-Trail transmission fluid should be changed every 60,000 kilometers, with a replacement capacity of 8 liters. Below are the methods for changing the X-Trail's transmission fluid: Gravity Drain Method: The principle is similar to changing engine oil. After loosening the tightening nut at the bottom of the oil pan, the transmission fluid will automatically drain out through the drain hole. Machine Flush Method: First, add new transmission fluid into the flushing machine. Then connect the transmission's fluid lines to the machine. The new fluid pushes out the old fluid under the machine's action. A machine flush typically requires about 10-13 liters of transmission fluid and takes approximately 40-80 minutes. Oil Pan Removal Method: This is a thorough cleaning approach that allows for cleaning the fluid filter as well.

My X-Trail has been running for five years, and I changed the transmission oil once at 60,000 kilometers, which made it feel much smoother. The maintenance technician usually recommends that for automatic transmissions, it's safest to change the oil every four years or 60,000 kilometers. Especially when driving in the city with frequent traffic jams, the transmission oil deteriorates faster. If not changed in time, it may become viscous and lose its lubricating effect, leading to rough shifting or even major transmission repairs. My neighbor’s car, which had been used for towing and mostly highway driving, didn’t change the oil until 80,000 kilometers, and it ended up with strange noises and cost tens of thousands in repairs. So it’s better not to delay—check the user manual’s recommendations and set a schedule based on your driving habits. The cost of changing the oil is just a few hundred bucks, much cheaper than a major repair.

I prioritize driving safety and have thoroughly studied the manual after switching to the X-Trail. It recommends changing the transmission fluid every 50,000-70,000 km or within five years. If not replaced regularly, deteriorated fluid may cause transmission overheating and slippage, especially during high-speed driving or uphill climbs, posing significant safety risks. My routine is to inspect the fluid color every two years—if it darkens or develops a foul odor, I prepare for a change. Additionally, novice drivers often overlook this, mistakenly considering fluid changes troublesome. In reality, simple maintenance can prevent major breakdowns. During servicing, it's wise to also check the transmission filter for added peace of mind. If you drive aggressively, consider early replacements—don't wait for failures to regret inaction.

Too busy with work, I often forget these details. Fortunately, the maintenance shop reminds me to change the X-Trail's transmission fluid every 40,000 km. Just book the service directly, and it's done in an hour with immediate results—smoother acceleration without jerking after the fluid change. No need to keep track of the mileage; just change it annually, roughly once every four years, at a low cost to prevent major repairs. If you drive a lot, pay attention to the oil temperature and address overheating promptly.


