Understanding Transmission Fluid for Your Infiniti EX35
When it comes to maintaining your 2008 Infiniti EX35, one of the most critical aspects is ensuring you use the correct transmission fluid. This isn’t just a matter of preference; using the right fluid can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance and longevity. The manufacturer has specific recommendations, and it’s essential to adhere to them for optimal operation.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations
For the 2008 Infiniti EX35, the recommended transmission fluid is Nissan Matic S . This fluid is specifically formulated to meet the needs of the EX35’s automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifting and effective lubrication. Here’s a breakdown of why this fluid is the right choice:
Specifications of Nissan Matic S
- Type: Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
- Viscosity: Multi-viscosity, designed for a wide temperature range
- Color: Typically red, which is standard for ATF
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for Nissan and Infiniti vehicles
Using Nissan Matic S ensures that your transmission operates within the designed parameters. It provides the necessary friction properties, anti-wear characteristics, and thermal stability required for the EX35’s transmission system.
Why It Matters
Using the correct transmission fluid is not just a recommendation; it’s crucial for the health of your vehicle. Here’s why sticking to Nissan Matic S is imperative:
- Performance: The right fluid allows for smooth gear shifts, which enhances driving comfort and responsiveness.
- Protection: Matic S contains additives that protect against wear and tear, extending the life of your transmission.
- Temperature Control: This fluid is engineered to maintain performance even under high temperatures, preventing overheating.
- Warranty Compliance: Using the manufacturer-recommended fluid helps maintain your warranty coverage, should any issues arise.
Where to Find the Right Fluid
You can find Nissan Matic S at most auto parts stores, dealerships, or online retailers. Always ensure that the fluid you purchase is genuine and meets the specifications outlined by the manufacturer. Avoid generic or off-brand fluids, as they may not provide the same level of protection and performance.
In summary, using the correct transmission fluid for your 2008 Infiniti EX35 is non-negotiable. Stick with Nissan Matic S to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.
Recommended Oil Brands for Your Infiniti EX35
When it comes to maintaining your 2008 Infiniti EX35, choosing the right transmission fluid is crucial. While Nissan Matic S is the manufacturer’s recommendation, many owners have shared their experiences with various brands that meet or exceed the specifications. Here’s a look at some of the most recommended oil brands based on owner feedback and discussions from automotive forums.
Nissan Matic S
It’s no surprise that the first recommendation comes from the manufacturer itself. Nissan Matic S is designed specifically for Infiniti and Nissan vehicles, ensuring compatibility and performance. Owners consistently report smooth shifting and reliable performance when using this fluid.
Valvoline MaxLife ATF
Valvoline MaxLife ATF has gained popularity among Infiniti EX35 owners. This fluid is designed for high mileage vehicles and offers excellent protection against wear and tear. Here are some reasons why owners recommend it:
- Compatible with Nissan Matic S specifications
- Contains additives that help prevent oxidation and foam
- Provides smooth shifting and improved performance
Many users on forums have noted that switching to Valvoline MaxLife ATF has resulted in noticeable improvements in their transmission’s responsiveness, especially in older models.
Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF
Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF is another brand frequently mentioned by EX35 owners. This synthetic fluid is known for its high-performance capabilities and excellent thermal stability. Key points from user feedback include:
- Superior protection against wear and deposits
- Enhanced performance in extreme temperatures
- Long-lasting fluid life, reducing the frequency of changes
Owners appreciate the peace of mind that comes with using a synthetic fluid, especially in demanding driving conditions.
Castrol Transmax Import Multi-Vehicle ATF
Castrol Transmax Import is specifically formulated for import vehicles, making it a suitable option for the Infiniti EX35. Here’s what users have to say:
- Meets or exceeds Nissan Matic S specifications
- Provides excellent protection and performance
- Users report smooth shifting and improved fuel efficiency
Many owners have shared positive experiences with this fluid, particularly in terms of its ability to maintain performance over time.
Royal Purple Max ATF
Royal Purple is known for its high-quality synthetic oils, and their Max ATF is no exception. This fluid is designed to provide superior protection and performance. Feedback from owners includes:
- Enhanced performance and smoother shifts
- Improved fuel economy
- Longer fluid life compared to conventional ATF
Users have reported significant improvements in their transmission’s responsiveness after switching to Royal Purple Max ATF, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Amsoil Synthetic ATF
Amsoil is another brand that has garnered attention in the Infiniti community. Known for its high-performance synthetic oils, Amsoil Synthetic ATF is praised for:
- Excellent thermal stability and oxidation resistance
- Compatibility with Nissan Matic S specifications
- Long-lasting performance, reducing the need for frequent changes
Many owners have shared their positive experiences with Amsoil, noting that it helps maintain their transmission’s performance over the long haul.
Owner Feedback and Considerations
When choosing a transmission fluid, it’s essential to consider the experiences of other owners. Here are some common themes from forum discussions:
- Stick to fluids that meet Nissan Matic S specifications to avoid compatibility issues.
- Many owners recommend synthetic fluids for better performance and longevity.
- Pay attention to the viscosity and formulation to ensure optimal performance.
Ultimately, the choice of transmission fluid can significantly impact your driving experience. Listening to the feedback from fellow owners can guide you in making an informed decision for your 2008 Infiniti EX35.
Change Interval for Your Infiniti EX35 Transmission Fluid
Maintaining your 2008 Infiniti EX35 involves more than just regular oil changes; it also requires attention to the transmission fluid. Understanding the change interval is crucial for ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.
Recommended Change Interval
For the 2008 Infiniti EX35, the general recommendation for changing the transmission fluid is every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (approximately 96,000 to 160,000 kilometers). However, this can vary based on driving conditions, usage, and maintenance practices. Here are some factors that can influence the change interval:
- Driving in severe conditions (e.g., heavy traffic, towing, or extreme temperatures) may necessitate more frequent changes.
- Regularly checking the fluid condition can provide insights into whether a change is needed sooner.
- Consulting your owner’s manual for specific recommendations can help ensure compliance with manufacturer guidelines.
Partial Transmission Oil Changes
It’s essential to understand that in many cases, a complete transmission fluid change is not feasible without removing the transmission from the vehicle. This is due to the design of many automatic transmissions, which often do not have a drain plug. Instead, a partial fluid change is typically performed, which involves removing a portion of the old fluid and replacing it with new fluid.
Why Partial Changes Are Common
1. Accessibility: Many modern vehicles, including the Infiniti EX35, have complex transmission designs that make complete fluid removal challenging without specialized equipment.
2. Fluid Exchange: Partial changes help to refresh the fluid without the need for a complete overhaul. This is particularly useful for maintaining fluid quality over time.
3. Cost-Effective: Performing a partial change is generally more affordable and quicker than a full fluid exchange, making it a practical choice for many owners.
Statistical Data and Authoritative Sources
According to the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA), regular maintenance of transmission fluid is essential for prolonging the life of the transmission. They recommend that vehicle owners pay attention to the condition of their transmission fluid and consider partial changes as a viable maintenance strategy.
A study published in the Journal of Automotive Engineering highlights that maintaining clean transmission fluid can reduce wear and tear on internal components, leading to lower repair costs and extended vehicle life. The study emphasizes that even partial fluid changes can significantly improve transmission performance and reliability.
Best Practices for Transmission Fluid Maintenance
To ensure your transmission remains in good condition, consider the following best practices:
- Monitor fluid color and smell: Healthy transmission fluid is typically red and has a slightly sweet smell. Dark or burnt-smelling fluid indicates a need for a change.
- Schedule regular maintenance: Adhering to the recommended change intervals can help prevent costly repairs down the line.
- Consult a professional: If you’re unsure about the condition of your transmission fluid or how to perform a change, seeking help from a qualified mechanic can provide peace of mind.
By understanding the change interval and the importance of partial transmission oil changes, you can better maintain your 2008 Infiniti EX35 and ensure its longevity and performance.