Parts for your 2006 Nissan Primera-Transmission filter

2006 Nissan Primera (P12) transmission filter — what’s fitted and how it’s serviced

Based on factory literature for the P12 series, a transmission filter is relevant on automatic-equipped 2006 Nissan Primeras. The Nissan Primera P12 Model Series Service Manual (TM – Transaxle & Transmission, 2006) shows an internal oil strainer for the conventional automatic (RE4F04B) and an internal oil strainer plus an external cooler‑return filter for the CVT (RE0F06A). Manuals do not use a transmission filter. These details are also reflected in Jatco service information for the RE0F06A CVT, which illustrates the in-line cooler filter in the return circuit.

On 2006 Primera automatics, the transmission filter’s job is to trap clutch material, fine metal and other debris so the valve body and pump can do their thing without grit chewing them out. In the CVT variant, there are two stages: an internal strainer inside the transmission and an external in-line cooler return filter that keeps the fluid circuit clean as it cycles through the cooler. On the 4‑speed auto, the strainer lives inside the pan area and is primarily there to protect the pump and valve body from larger particles.

For day-to-day servicing, most workshops treat the internal strainer as a non-routine item. It’s typically inspected or replaced when the pan is off for repair work, or if there are contamination symptoms. What is absolutely fair game in routine servicing is fresh fluid and, on CVT cars, replacing the external cooler return filter. For CVT models, use the specified Nissan CVT fluid (NS‑2 is the usual call for P12 CVT) and consider replacing the external filter whenever the fluid is changed, after transmission repair, or as a preventative at roughly 60,000–90,000 kilometres in tougher Aussie/Kiwi conditions. For the 4‑speed auto, use the Nissan‑approved ATF (Matic J/K as specified by VIN/label) and focus on fluid condition, the internal strainer is generally left until there’s a reason to open the pan.

Tell‑tales that the filter or fluid may be struggling include flare on shifts, shudder, whining, overheating warnings, or debris on the pan magnets. If replacing the CVT’s external filter, fit it in the correct flow direction, keep everything spotless, and recheck level once warm. After CVT fluid service, many technicians also reset the “fluid deterioration” counter with a scan tool. Clean magnets, renew the pan gasket if removed, and always dispose of old ATF/CVT fluid responsibly.

• Applies to: 2006 Primera P12 with RE4F04B auto (internal strainer) and RE0F06A CVT (internal strainer + external cooler filter). Manuals have no transmission filter.
• Technical references: Nissan Primera P12 Service Manual (TM – AT and CVT sections, 2006), Jatco RE0F06A CVT service information.

Popular questions

Does a 2006 Nissan Primera have a transmission filter?
Yes, if it’s an automatic. The 4‑speed auto has an internal strainer, while CVT versions have an internal strainer plus an external in-line cooler return filter. Manual gearboxes don’t use a transmission filter.

How often should the CVT cooler return filter be replaced?
Many workshops replace it whenever the CVT fluid is changed or after transmission repair. As a preventative in hotter or stop‑start conditions, 60,000–90,000 km is a common practice. Always use the correct Nissan‑approved CVT fluid (typically NS‑2 for P12).

Can the internal transmission strainer be changed during routine servicing?
It’s possible on the 4‑speed auto when the pan is removed, but it’s not typically listed as a regular service item. On the CVT, the internal strainer sits deeper in the unit and is generally only replaced during overhaul-level work.