
Dongfeng Sylphy automatic transmission fluid replacement methods: 1. Similar to changing engine oil, by loosening the transmission drain plug to drain and refill the fluid; 2. Directly remove the oil pan to drain and refill the fluid; 3. Currently, the more advanced method is using a circulation machine to replace the automatic transmission fluid. The first two methods are widely used today because they require less fluid replacement and do not require repair shops to purchase additional equipment. However, there are drawbacks, as the traditional gravity fluid replacement method cannot "completely" replace the transmission fluid, while the circulation machine method effectively addresses this deficiency. The Dongfeng Nissan Sylphy is equipped with a 1.6L 122 horsepower L4 engine and a 5-speed manual transmission, with the engine delivering a maximum power of 90kW and a maximum torque of 155Nm.

I previously had the automatic transmission fluid changed for my Sylphy at an auto repair shop. There are generally a few methods for this. The best way is to use a transmission fluid exchange machine, which can replace over 90% of the old fluid. First, lift the car, locate the drain plug on the transmission pan, remove the pan to clean out metal shavings, and replace the filter. After connecting the machine's hoses, start the engine. New fluid is pumped in through the inlet, pushing the old fluid out through the outlet. Remember to buy the original NS-3 certified CVT-specific fluid; the required amount is about 7 to 8 liters. After the change, warm up the car to check the fluid level, which should be within the HOT range on the dipstick. This procedure requires professional equipment, so it's recommended to go to a repair shop with a fluid exchange machine. Gravity draining only replaces about 30% of the old fluid and is less thorough.

My old Sylphy had its transmission fluid changed at the 100,000-kilometer mark at the 4S dealership. The technician first lifted the car, removed five or six screws from the oil pan, and when the entire silver pan was taken off, the old fluid gushed out, with metal shavings stuck to the magnet. They replaced the paper filter, cleaned the sealing groove, applied gray sealant, and reassembled it. A special funnel was used for refilling, and after starting the engine, each gear was engaged to circulate the fluid. Finally, when checking the dipstick, the fluid temperature needed to be around 60 degrees Celsius to read the level accurately. The most crucial part was the fluid type—green bottle NS-2 or blue bottle NS-3 must never be mixed up. After the change, the gear shifts felt much smoother, like it had just had a spa treatment.

When changing CVT transmission fluid, three key indicators must be considered: OEM certification, viscosity index, and quantity. The Sylphy requires low-viscosity fluid with Nissan NS-3 certification, with Idemitsu or GS brands recommended. Approximately 5.5 liters are needed for a pan-drop fluid change, with an additional 0.5 liter required if replacing the filter. The operation should commence in environments below 40°C, with fluid level checked in the COLD range when oil temperature reaches 35-45°C. Note the replacement interval of every 60,000 km - prolonged neglect may cause pulley chain wear. Post-change road testing is essential, requiring sustained driving above 50 km/h to monitor for any abnormal slipping or jerking in the transmission.

I've changed the transmission fluid for my Sylphy by myself. You'll need a 24mm socket to remove the drain plug, and be extra careful when jacking up the car for safety. It's normal for the drained fluid to have a caramel-like smell, but if you notice metal flakes, that's a dangerous sign. When adding new fluid, use a soft tube connected to a manual pump. I bought a 4-liter bottle of NS-3 fluid and had just a little left after filling. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, then top up to the mid-level on the dipstick. The most troublesome part is cleaning the sealant from the oil pan, which took me half an hour with a scraper. For those without experience, I'd recommend spending around 200 yuan to have it done at a shop—it's hassle-free and more reliable.


