Parts for your 2013 Nissan Navara-Transmission fluid

2013 Nissan Navara transmission fluid — what it does and when to change it

Transmission fluid is absolutely used on the 2013 Nissan Navara (D40). Technical sources including the Nissan Navara D40 Owner’s Manual (2013 AU/NZ, Fluids & Lubricants), the Nissan Service Manual (AT section for the RE5R05A 5‑speed automatic) and the Manual Transmission section (FS6R31A 6‑speed) specify: automatic models require Nissan Matic S ATF (JASO 1A), while manual gearboxes use API GL‑4 75W‑85 gear oil. That makes transmission fluid a relevant, serviceable item on this ute.

Whether it’s ATF in the auto or gear oil in the manual, transmission fluid keeps the Navara’s driveline happy by lubricating moving parts, reducing wear, carrying away heat, protecting against corrosion, and in automatics, providing the hydraulic pressure and friction control needed for smooth shifts and torque converter operation. Fresh, correct-spec fluid means cleaner shifts, quieter running and longer transmission life — especially important for towing, off‑roading and hot Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

For maintenance, many Nissan schedules list the auto as “no regular replacement” under normal use, but they do call for changes under severe driving. In real-world AU/NZ use, a sensible approach is:

• Automatic (RE5R05A): change ATF every 60,000–80,000 km or 4 years, sooner (40,000–60,000 km) if towing, beach work or heavy urban stop‑start.
• Manual (FS6R31A): replace GL‑4 75W‑85 every 60,000–100,000 km, earlier if shifts feel notchy or the oil looks dark/contaminated.

Stick with the exact spec: Nissan Matic S (or an approved JASO 1A equivalent) for the auto, and GL‑4 75W‑85 for the manual. Avoid GL‑5 in the manual box — it can be harsh on synchros. On autos, a drain-and-fill is generally preferred to aggressive machine flushes, repeating drain/fill cycles will safely exchange more of the fluid. Replace the pan gasket/filter where applicable, use new crush washers, and set the fluid level at the correct temperature per the service manual. If the auto has no dipstick, level is checked via the overflow method at a specified temp — a scan tool helps here.

Watch for red flags that the fluid needs love: delayed or flaring upshifts, shudder, whining, burnt smell, or leaks from the pan, cooler lines or axle seals. During a service, it’s smart to check transfer case and diffs too, as they cop similar loads.

• Recommended specs:
  • 5‑speed auto: Nissan Matic S ATF (JASO 1A)
  • 6‑speed manual: API GL‑4 75W‑85
• Typical quantities (approx.): auto drain/refill 4–5 L, manual 2–3 L — confirm by VIN/service data.

Technical references: Nissan Navara D40 Owner’s Manual MY2013 (AU/NZ) — Fluids & Lubricants, Nissan Service Manual D40 — AT (RE5R05A) and MT (FS6R31A) sections, Nissan Australia maintenance schedule (severe service guidance).

Popular questions

What transmission fluid does a 2013 Nissan Navara use?

Automatic models (RE5R05A) take Nissan Matic S ATF meeting JASO 1A. Manual gearboxes (FS6R31A) use API GL‑4 75W‑85 gear oil. Using the exact spec matters for shift quality and component life — steer clear of GL‑5 in the manual box.

How often should the transmission fluid be changed in Australia or New Zealand?

For everyday mixed driving, plan on 60,000–80,000 km or 4 years for the auto, and 60,000–100,000 km for the manual. If the Navara tows, does beach work, heavy off‑road, or lots of hot stop‑start, shorten the interval to around 40,000–60,000 km.

Is a full flush better than a drain-and-fill?

A gentle drain-and-fill is usually the safer bet on the RE5R05A. If you want more exchange, do two or three drain/fills a few hundred kilometres apart. High‑pressure flushes can stir debris or overfill — not ideal on higher‑km transmissions.