Nissan 350Z Transmission Fluid Capacity

The Nissan 350Z, an iconic sports car, has held a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts since its debut in the early 2000s. Among its many defining features, the transmission options available for the Nissan 350Z from 2003 to 2008 are crucial aspects that can significantly impact the driving experience.

Transmission	Fluid capacity	Fluid type
Manual gearbox	3 US qt. (2.8 L)	Nissan MTF HQ Multi 75W-85, API GL-4 SAE 75W-85/75W-90
Automatic	10.9 US qt. (10.3 L)	Nissan Matic J

Key Takeaways:

1. Transmission Fluid Capacity and Type:
   • Manual Gearbox:
     • Fluid Capacity: 3 US qt. (2.8 L)
     • Fluid Type: Nissan MTF HQ Multi 75W-85, API GL-4 SAE 75W-85/75W-90
   • Automatic Transmission:
     • Fluid Capacity: 10.9 US qt. (10.3 L)
     • Fluid Type: Nissan Matic J
2. Transmission Options (2003-2008):
   • Manual Transmission: 6-speed, known for precise gearshifts and engagement.
   • Automatic Transmission: 5-speed, suitable for a relaxed driving experience.
3. Transmission Maintenance:
   • Regular fluid changes are essential for longevity and optimal performance.
   • Recommended fluid change interval: every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or every 2-3 years, with a suggestion to change it every 40,000 miles, especially under demanding conditions like sports driving or track days.
4. Fluid Change Procedure:
   • Gather necessary tools and supplies.
   • Lift the vehicle securely.
   • Locate and remove the drain plug to drain old fluid.
   • Replace the transmission filter if applicable.
   • Add new transmission fluid and check the fluid level.
   • Lower the vehicle and perform a test drive to ensure smooth transmission operation.
5. Lubricant Options:
   • Manual Transmission: Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) HQ Multi 75W-85 or API GL-4, Viscosity SAE 75W-85, 75W-90.
   • Automatic Transmission: Nissan Matic J, Idemitsu ATF Type S, Valvoline Multi-Vehicle ATF, Castrol TransMax Universal ATF/CVT.
6. Importance of Correct Fluid Volume:
   • Ensuring the correct volume of fluid is crucial as an insufficient or excessive amount can affect the transmission’s performance.
7. General Advice:
   • Adhering to recommended fluid change intervals is crucial for preserving the longevity and reliability of the Nissan 350Z.
   • The guide aims to equip Nissan 350Z owners with the knowledge needed for proper transmission maintenance to ensure exceptional performance over the years.

Whether you’re an avid DIY mechanic, a dedicated driver who enjoys maintaining your own vehicle, or simply an automotive enthusiast looking to learn more, this comprehensive transmission guide is tailored specifically for you.

We will delve into the various transmission choices offered during this era, discuss the essential considerations for selecting the right transmission fluid, provide step-by-step guidance on how to perform a transmission fluid change, and offer specific lubrication recommendations for each transmission type.

Additionally, we’ll highlight the critical intervals for changing your transmission fluid to help ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Nissan 350Z’s transmission.

Overview of Available Transmission Options

The Nissan 350Z, produced from 2003 to 2008 for the American market, is celebrated for its striking design and exhilarating performance. A critical component of its performance package was its transmission options. During the period from 2003 to 2008 on the American market, the Nissan 350Z was offered with two main types of transmissions, which remained unchanged:

1. Manual Transmission. One of the standout features of the 350Z was its available 6-speed manual transmission. This transmission was highly regarded by enthusiasts for its precise gearshifts and engagement. It provided a direct connection between the driver and the car, allowing for an immersive and spirited driving experience. The manual transmission option truly showcased the 350Z’s sports car pedigree.
2. Automatic Transmission. For those seeking a more relaxed driving experience, the 5-speed automatic transmission was a viable option. While not as engaging as the manual counterpart, it provided a smooth and convenient driving experience. The automatic transmission was well-suited for daily commuting and highway cruising, offering a comfortable ride.

In 2005, Nissan introduced the “Rev-Up” engine for the 350Z, which included improvements in power and torque. Alongside this upgraded engine, Nissan also made enhancements to the manual transmission, providing a stronger gearbox to handle the increased power. This combination resulted in an even more exhilarating driving experience for enthusiasts.

Overall, both the manual and automatic transmissions in the 350Z were known for their reliability when properly maintained. Routine maintenance, including regular fluid changes, was essential to ensure longevity and optimal performance.

Enthusiasts often preferred the manual transmission for its greater control and involvement, especially during spirited driving on winding roads or on the track. However, the automatic transmission offered convenience in traffic and daily commuting.

The transmission options for the Nissan 350Z from 2003 to 2008 on the American market provided drivers with choices that catered to their preferences. Whether you sought the engaging experience of rowing through the gears with the manual transmission or the ease of the automatic for daily driving, the 350Z had you covered.

Both options were reliable when properly cared for, ensuring that this iconic sports car continued to captivate automotive enthusiasts throughout its production years.

2003-2008 Nissan 350Z Transmission Fluid Capacity

When replacing the fluid for the Manual Transmission and Automatic Transmission in the Nissan 350Z from 2003 to 2008 on the American market, the volume of the fluid is typically measured in quarts or liters:

• For Manual Transmission – the volume of fluid for the manual transmission of the Nissan 350Z from 2003 to 2008 usually amounts to approximately 3 quarts of fluid.
• For Automatic Transmission – the volume of fluid for the automatic transmission of the Nissan 350Z from 2003 to 2008 typically amounts to approximately 10.9 quarts of fluid.

It is essential to use the correct volume of fluid during the replacement process, as an insufficient or excessive amount of fluid can affect the transmission’s performance.

2003-2008 Nissan 350Z Transmission Fluid Type

For the transmissions of Nissan 350Z vehicles from 2003 to 2008 in the American market, it is recommended to use special lubricants that meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Here are several popular lubricant options:

For Manual Transmission:

1. Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) HQ Multi 75W-85 or API GL-4. Viscosity SAE 75W-85, 75W-90.

For Automatic Transmission:

1. Nissan Matic J.
2. Idemitsu ATF Type S.
3. Valvoline Multi-Vehicle ATF.
4. Castrol TransMax Universal ATF/CVT.

When choosing lubricants for your transmission, it is important to verify which lubricant complies with the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle and take into account your vehicle’s operating conditions.

How to Properly Change the Fluid

Your Nissan 350Z is more than just a car; it’s a performance machine designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience. To keep your 350Z running at its best, proper maintenance is key, and one crucial aspect is ensuring the health of your transmission.

Regularly changing the transmission fluid is an essential part of this maintenance routine. My recommendation is to change the fluid every 40,000 miles.

6-speed manual gearbox:

5-speed automatic transmission:

Step 1. Gather Your Supplies. Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. You’ll need a socket set, a drain pan, a new transmission filter (if applicable), and the correct transmission fluid for your 350Z.

Step 2. Safely Lift the Vehicle. For proper access to the transmission, you’ll need to lift your car securely using jack stands or a car lift. Ensure the vehicle is level before proceeding.

Step 3. Locate the Drain Plug. The transmission fluid drain plug is typically located on the underside of the transmission pan. Position your drain pan underneath it.

Step 4. Remove the Drain Plug. Using a socket wrench, carefully remove the drain plug, allowing the old fluid to drain into the pan. Be cautious, as the fluid can be hot.

Step 5. Replace the Transmission Filter. If your Nissan 350Z has a replaceable transmission filter, now is the time to replace it. Follow your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions on filter replacement.

Step 6. Add New Fluids. After the old fluid has drained completely, reinstall the drain plug. Then, using a funnel, add the correct amount of new transmission fluid through the dipstick tube. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact fluid specifications.

Step 7. Check the Fluid Level. With the engine running and the transmission in “Park,” check the fluid level using the dipstick. Add more fluid if needed to reach the appropriate level.

Step 8. Lower the Vehicle. Carefully lower your 350Z back to the ground.

Step 9. Test Drive. Take your car for a short test drive to ensure the transmission shifts smoothly and there are no leaks.

Regularly changing your Nissan 350Z’s transmission fluid is a simple yet effective way to prolong the life of your transmission and maintain the performance you love.

Fluid Change Intervals for Nissan 350Z – Preserve Your Transmission

Timely transmission fluid replacement helps maintain optimal transmission performance, preserving its efficiency and extending its service life. Transmission fluid helps maintain the correct operating pressure in the transmission, crucial for smooth gear shifting and preventing scratches and damage.

Specifying the interval for changing transmission fluid is essential for ensuring the reliability and performance of the Nissan 350Z from 2003 to 2008 on the American market. Therefore, changing manual transmission and automatic transmission Fluid are the same.

It is recommended to change the fluid in the manual and automatic transmissions of the Nissan 350Z every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or every 2-3 years, depending on operating conditions. My advice is to take the average and change it every 40,000 miles. However, for vehicles subjected to demanding conditions like sports driving or track days, more frequent fluid changes may be advisable.

In conclusion, the Nissan 350Z from 2003 to 2008 era on the American market has left an indelible mark on the world of sports cars, captivating enthusiasts with its performance and style.

Understanding the nuances of its transmissions and the importance of proper maintenance, especially regarding transmission fluid, is paramount to preserving the driving pleasure these vehicles offer.

By exploring the available transmission options, selecting the right transmission fluid, and following our guidance on the fluid change process, Nissan 350Z owners can ensure that their transmissions continue to deliver exceptional performance for years to come.

Adhering to recommended fluid change intervals is not just a routine maintenance task; it’s a way to safeguard the longevity and reliability of these iconic vehicles.

As automotive enthusiasts, we embrace the responsibility of maintaining and cherishing our vehicles, and with the knowledge gained from this transmission guide, you are well-equipped to do just that for your Nissan 350Z. 

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API