The Infiniti QX70, a pioneering crossover that blends the design and performance of a luxury sports car with the versatility of an SUV, has garnered recognition for its striking aesthetics and powerful driving dynamics. Introduced in 2009 as the Infiniti FX, the vehicle was rebranded as the QX70 in 2013, marking Infiniti’s new naming convention.
Its robust engine options, athletic handling, and richly appointed interior set it apart in the luxury crossover segment, with a transmission system playing a significant role in delivering this performance.
The transmission fluid is an often-underestimated yet critical component of any vehicle, including the Infiniti QX70. This fluid performs a multitude of functions that contribute significantly to the vehicle’s operation and longevity.
It acts as a lubricant for the gears and components within the transmission, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear.
Moreover, it serves as a coolant, regulating the transmission’s temperature during high-speed operations and heavy loads. The fluid also maintains the hydraulic pressure necessary for the transmission to function.
Keeping the transmission fluid at the correct level and condition ensures seamless gear shifts, prevents overheating, and extends the transmission’s lifespan. Therefore, knowing the appropriate transmission fluid type, capacity, and change intervals for your Infiniti QX70 is critical to maintaining its optimal performance.
Infiniti QX70: Generations and Transmission Types
The Infiniti QX70, initially known as the Infiniti FX, has undergone several transformations since its introduction. Below, we’ll explore the two key phases of the QX70, highlighting the specifics of their transmissions.
First Generation (2014-2016)
The first generation of the QX70, previously known as the Infiniti FX until 2013, boasted two engine options: a 3.7-liter V6 and a 5.0-liter V8, both paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. This transmission provided the QX70 with smooth gear shifts and balanced performance.
The 7-speed automatic transmission featured technologies like adaptive shift control and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to tailor their driving experience to their preferences.
Facelifted First Generation (2017)
In 2017, the QX70 underwent a facelift, introducing updated exterior and interior designs, and improved features, but the engine and transmission options remained consistent with the earlier models.
The QX70 maintained its 7-speed automatic transmission, ensuring the same level of performance and driving experience as the pre-facelift models.
Whether you’re driving a first-generation QX70 or the facelifted model, the transmission fluid requirements stay essentially the same due to the consistent use of the 7-speed automatic transmission.
2014-2017 Infiniti QX70 Transmission Fluid Capacity And Transmission Fluid Type
The transmission fluid capacity refers to the volume of fluid your vehicle’s transmission can hold. It’s crucial to ensure the correct amount of fluid, as both overfilling and underfilling can lead to transmission problems.
The Infiniti QX70 uses a 7-speed automatic transmission across all models, which typically holds between 9.7 and 10 quarts of transmission fluid. However, the specific capacities can vary slightly between different model years.
For the Infiniti QX70 models produced between 2014 and 2016, the 7-speed automatic transmission has a total fluid capacity of approximately 9.7 quarts. However, please note that this is the total system capacity, which includes the transmission, torque converter, and cooling lines.
During a standard transmission fluid change, where the fluid is not drained from the torque converter or cooling lines, approximately 5 to 6 quarts will typically be replaced.
The facelifted 2017 model maintains the same transmission specifications as the previous models. Thus, it shares the same total fluid capacity of approximately 9.7 quarts. During a typical transmission fluid change, about 5 to 6 quarts of fluid will be replaced.
| Gearbox | Fluid capacity | Fluid type |
|---|---|---|
| 5.0L engine CVT | Total fill 11.9 quarts (11.2 liters) | Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 |
| 3.7L VQ37VHR engine 7-speed automatic | Total fill 9.7 quarts (9.2 liters) | Nissan Matic S ATF |
The type of transmission fluid you use in your Infiniti QX70 can significantly impact its performance and longevity. Using the correct fluid can help ensure smooth gear shifting, prevent overheating, and extend your vehicle’s lifespan.
Infiniti recommends using Nissan Matic-S automatic transmission fluid in the QX70’s 7-speed automatic transmission. This fluid has been specifically designed to offer optimal performance and protection for Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. It offers excellent lubrication and cooling properties, and it’s compatible with the materials in the transmission, preventing premature wear and tear.
While it’s generally best to use the manufacturer’s recommended transmission fluid, there may be situations where a suitable alternative is required. In such cases, you can consider high-quality automatic transmission fluids that meet or exceed the JASO-1A performance standard, which the Nissan Matic-S fluid also meets.
Some suitable alternatives include Idemitsu ATF Type S, Valvoline MaxLife ATF, Royal Purple 01320 Max ATF, and Castrol Transmax ATF/CVT Universal. These alternatives are widely available and have been reported to work well in Nissan and Infiniti vehicles.
However, always ensure to cross-check the compatibility with your specific vehicle model and the fluid requirements before using an alternative transmission fluid. The most accurate information can often be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or by consulting with a trusted automotive professional.
Infiniti QX70 Optimal Change Intervals
Knowing when to change your transmission fluid is equally as important as knowing the right fluid type to use. Regularly replacing your transmission fluid can ensure your vehicle’s transmission continues to operate smoothly and can significantly extend its lifespan.
For the Infiniti QX70, Infiniti recommends changing the automatic transmission fluid every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, if the vehicle is frequently driven under severe conditions, such as towing heavy loads, driving in dusty conditions, or frequent stop-and-go traffic, the fluid should be replaced more frequently – approximately every 30,000 miles.
Factors Affecting Change Intervals
Several factors can affect how frequently you should change your transmission fluid. Some of these factors include:
- Driving Conditions: As mentioned above, if your vehicle frequently operates under severe conditions, such as towing heavy loads, off-roading, or stop-and-go traffic, you may need to change your transmission fluid more often.
- Transmission Fluid Quality: Higher quality fluids may last longer and perform better over time, potentially extending the time between fluid changes.
- Vehicle Usage: If the vehicle is used more often, the transmission fluid will likely need to be replaced more frequently. Similarly, a vehicle that is rarely used may also require more frequent fluid changes, as the fluid can degrade over time, even if the vehicle is not in use.
- Transmission Health: If the transmission has any existing issues or damage, more frequent fluid changes may be necessary to prevent further damage and maintain the transmission’s performance.
In any case, regular inspection of the transmission fluid condition is vital. If the fluid appears burnt or dirty, it should be replaced regardless of mileage. The cost of changing the transmission fluid is a small investment compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a damaged transmission.
Cost of Transmission Fluid Change
Performing regular maintenance, such as changing the transmission fluid, is an essential aspect of vehicle ownership. While it does carry a cost, maintaining your vehicle properly can save you from more costly repairs in the future.
The average cost of a transmission fluid change for an Infiniti QX70 typically ranges from $150 to $250. This estimate includes the cost of the transmission fluid itself and the labor costs for the service. The exact cost may vary based on your location, the specific model of your vehicle, and where you choose to have the service performed.
Factors Influencing the Cost
Several factors can affect the cost of a transmission fluid change for your Infiniti QX70:
- Labor Costs: The hourly rate for labor can vary significantly based on the region and the specific service center you choose. Dealerships tend to charge more than independent repair shops, but they also often offer greater expertise with your specific vehicle model.
- Fluid Cost: The type of transmission fluid used can also impact the overall cost. Manufacturer-recommended fluids are typically more expensive than generic or alternative brands.
- Additional Services: During a transmission fluid change, it may be recommended to replace the transmission filter or perform other related services, which would increase the overall cost.
- Vehicle Condition: If your transmission is heavily soiled or damaged, additional work may be needed to clean or repair it before the new fluid is added, adding to the cost of the service.
Keep in mind that these are estimates, and the actual cost can vary. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to ask for a detailed quote before any work is performed on your vehicle.
Conclusion
Maintaining the health of your vehicle’s transmission is a crucial aspect of vehicle ownership, and ensuring the correct transmission fluid is used and changed at the right intervals is a significant part of that. Throughout this guide, we’ve looked at the specifics of the Infiniti QX70’s transmission, including the fluid types and capacities, change intervals, and costs associated with transmission fluid changes.
The Infiniti QX70 models from 2014 to 2017, including the facelifted 2017 model, all use a 7-speed automatic transmission with a total fluid capacity of around 10.2 quarts. The manufacturer-recommended transmission fluid is Nissan Matic-S, although there are high-quality alternatives available.
Infiniti recommends changing the transmission fluid approximately every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or every 30,000 miles under severe driving conditions.
However, factors such as driving conditions, fluid quality, vehicle usage, and the overall health of the transmission can influence these intervals. The average cost of a transmission fluid change can range from $150 to $250, although this can also vary based on several factors.
Regular maintenance, including regular transmission fluid changes, can extend the lifespan of your vehicle, improve its performance, and prevent potentially costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on your vehicle’s transmission fluid and to replace it as needed.
By understanding your vehicle’s specific needs and maintaining regular service intervals, you can ensure that your Infiniti QX70 continues to deliver the performance and reliability that Infiniti vehicles are known for. Safe driving!
