2018 Nissan Frontier Transmission Fluid & Service
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
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Quick answer
- Transmission Make/Model: Nissan RE5R05A (5-Speed Automatic)
- OEM Fluid Spec: Nissan Matic-S ATF
- Drain & Fill Capacity: Approximately 4.0 - 5.0 quarts (3.8 - 4.7 liters)
- Full Overhaul Capacity: Approximately 10.3 quarts (9.75 liters)
- Filter OEM Part Number: Verify with Nissan dealer or service manual (typically a pan gasket and internal screen filter, often sold as a kit)
- Recommended Service Interval: Every 60,000 miles (normal duty) to 30,000 miles (severe duty/towing)
Fluid type explained
The 2018 Nissan Frontier, when equipped with the automatic transmission, utilizes the robust Nissan RE5R05A 5-speed automatic transmission. This transmission requires a very specific fluid to ensure its longevity and optimal performance: Nissan Matic-S ATF. It is crucial to use only Nissan Matic-S or an equivalent fluid that explicitly states compatibility with this specification. Using the wrong fluid can lead to premature wear, poor shift quality, overheating, and ultimately, transmission failure. Matic-S is a long-life, low-viscosity fluid specifically engineered for Nissan automatic transmissions, providing excellent friction characteristics, wear protection, and thermal stability.
Never substitute with older Nissan Matic-J, Matic-K, or generic multi-vehicle fluids unless they specifically state compatibility with Matic-S. Always check the fluid dipstick (if equipped) for the specified fluid type or consult your owner's manual.
Service procedure
There are two primary methods for servicing your transmission fluid: a drain and fill, and a full fluid exchange (flush).
Drain & Fill
A drain and fill involves removing the transmission pan, allowing the fluid to drain out, replacing the filter (if accessible and recommended), and then refilling the transmission with new fluid. This method typically replaces only a portion of the total fluid (around 4-5 quarts for the RE5R05A), leaving old fluid mixed in the torque converter and other internal components. While it doesn't replace all the fluid, it's a valid maintenance procedure, especially if performed regularly.
Capacity (Drain & Fill): Approximately 4.0 - 5.0 quarts (3.8 - 4.7 liters)
Full Fluid Exchange
A full fluid exchange, often referred to as a
More specs for the 2018 Nissan Frontier
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2018 Nissan Frontier Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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