Can the 2012 Pathfinder Transmission Filter be cleaned or replaced?

I'm second owner (78,000 mi )but new to vehicle and trying to learn how to take care of it properly.

Doing drain and fill with Valvoline Maxlife ATF today. Old fluid color is BROWN. Planning on another drain and fill soon but would like to drop the pan and clean it and clean or replace the filter if possible.

Thanks

They sell replacement filters for relatively cheap. Just make sure you get a new gasket for the pan with the filter. Looks to be a pretty simply job. Google RE5R05A filter. Should just drop the pan and swap the filter.

docwatson wrote:They sell replacement filters for relatively cheap. Just make sure you get a new gasket for the pan with the filter. Looks to be a pretty simply job. Google RE5R05A filter. Should just drop the pan and swap the filter.

Thanks for your reply. I was told later models like the 2012 Pathfinder have an internal filter now and can't be replaced or cleaned. Man this is confusing to say the least. Do you know for certain the filter can be replaced on a 2012?

Thanks...

I haven't dropped the trans pan on a 2012, but the RE5R05A found in the R51 has a screen type filter. When you drop the pan it will be right in your face.

Whether it needs changed is something entirely different, but for the 13 bucks its cheap insurance. Like I said, just make sure you have a new pan gasket so you get a good seal when you reinstall the pan.

I wouldn't bother with it. All Nissan automatics have screens and there is no need for replacement. If you have enough debris in your fluid to restrict flow through the screen, there is something breaking down and you need an overhaul, not a service. That's what they told me years ago at the Nissan training center. Another thing, NissanMatic "J" and "S" ATF look dark brown in color when they are drained; it's not a sign of dirty fluid, just a characteristic. If you do several services with Maxlife ATF, the color will gradually change to a cherry red color when you drain it. I have two R51's and went through the same thing and I had some real concerns the first time I changed the fluid on my 2008, which had 64,000 miles on it at the time. Now it has almost 180,000 miles on it and the trans still shifts like it did when I got it. If you choose to not listen to my advice, that's fine, but I would get the transmission pan gasket from Nissan and not use the one in the kit. It is of much better construction. Also, Nissan recommends replacing the transmission pan bolts with new ones from Nissan when you R&R the trans pan. The reason is the bolt threads are coated with a sealant. FYI, the drain plug gasket is P/N 11026-01M02, the same as the oil pan drain plug gasket.

I must tell you guys how much I appreciate your help. Whether I drop the pan and swap or clean the orig filter or isn't as much concern for me after reading your replies.

The info on the dark brown color of the the "S" fluid really eased my apprehension and I feel like I can breath easier.

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend.

Best,

Dick