Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Transmission filter

Understanding the Transmission Filter on the 2017 Nissan Serena

The 2017 Nissan Serena is a popular people mover in Australia, known for its practicality and smooth driving experience. When it comes to the transmission system of the Serena, a common question among owners and mechanics is whether this vehicle uses a transmission filter, and if so, what role it plays in keeping the transmission running smoothly.

For the 2017 Nissan Serena, especially models equipped with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), a traditional transmission filter as found in many automatic transmissions does not exist. Instead, Nissan uses a design that relies heavily on a transmission fluid and a sophisticated internal mesh screen or strainer rather than a replaceable filter element.

This means the Serena's CVT does not have a separate serviceable transmission filter that needs routine replacement like conventional automatic transmission units. But why is this the case?

CVT systems, such as the one fitted to the 2017 Serena, operate differently from traditional automatic transmissions. Instead of using conventional clutch packs and bands, CVTs use a steel belt or chain running between two variable pulleys to provide seamless gear ratio changes. The transmission fluid in CVTs serves multiple purposes: lubricating the metal components, acting as a coolant, and transferring power hydraulically. Because of these unique characteristics, the CVT design favours filters that are integrated into the valve body or sump area as a fine mesh screen, which is generally not a replaceable part during normal servicing.

Rather than replacing a filter, the key maintenance item on the Serena's transmission is the CVT fluid itself. Over time, the fluid breaks down and picks up contaminants and metal particles from the transmission's moving parts, which could cause damage if not properly managed. When servicing the transmission, it is critical to drain and replace the CVT fluid to maintain hydraulic functionality and effective heat dissipation. This also helps prevent premature wear and helps keep the internal mesh screens clean.

Because automatic transmission filters are not fitted to this vehicle, Nissan recommends following a strict CVT fluid change interval as specified in the owner's manual. Typically, this interval is around every 60,000 to 90,000 kilometres, though some driving conditions such as frequent stop-start traffic or towing may warrant more frequent fluid changes. Professional servicing might also include inspection for fluid leaks and checking the transmission's overall operation during the service.

Failing to replace or maintain the CVT fluid can lead to a range of transmission issues including slipping, overheating, or even complete transmission failure. While the absence of a transmission filter might seem like an oversight, it is actually a conscious design decision that aligns with the special requirements of CVT systems.

If a Nissan Serena owner does have concerns about transmission cleanliness, it is best addressed by ensuring the use of the correct Nissan-approved CVT fluid and having the transmission serviced by a qualified technician with proper equipment for fluid changes. DIY transmission filter replacements are not applicable here, so maintaining fluid quality and regular servicing are the keys to prolonging transmission life.

To wrap it up, the 2017 Nissan Serena's transmission setup skips the traditional transmission filter in favour of a finely engineered filtering screen within the transmission itself. Regular CVT fluid maintenance is essential to keep everything working smoothly. So, if you drive a Serena, don't overlook your transmission fluid change intervals and make sure you get your CVT serviced properly to keep the vehicle running worry free on the roads down under.