re: 2012 Nissan Altima, change CVT transmission fluid?

quote:

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Was told something similar with a Tundra - bought it used, figured I would change the trans fluid & filter- mechanic said it is a sealed system, and if no issues, then to leave it.. he had no reason to mislead me - it cost him business to say no

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I always do a full flush every 60,000 miles. Also do it for the diffs as well at the manufacturer's suggested intervals. I was particularly careful with the Subaru CVT we had and for the trucks we used for towing. I've never had to replace or overhaul a transmission in anything but one Ford truck - but that specific vehicle was a total lemon. Overall I'm a huge proponent of following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule as closely as possible with the exception of oil changes, which I do far more frequently than the manufacturer suggests.

I wouldn't touch a higher mileage Nissan with a CVT, and if I had one, I wouldn't pay to flush one out unless that transmission was brand new. IMO if you own one of those you should just consider the $6,000+ costs of replacement as a wear item that will hit you more frequently than traditional automatics.

I'd seriously consider trading the car in if the fluid looks rough.