The 2004 Nissan Xterra uses Nissan ATF Matic-D in its automatic transmission and 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil in its manual transmission. Always confirm with the owner's manual or a Nissan dealer for your exact build.
Automatic transmission (4-speed)
For the 4-speed automatic transmission used in the 2004 Xterra, the fluid specification is specific and important for proper shifting and longevity. The following guidelines summarize what to use and how to apply it.
Use only Nissan ATF Matic-D (Nissan Matic-D) for the automatic transmission. While some older cross-reference sources may mention Dexron compatibility, Nissan officially specifies Matic-D for this transmission and recommends against mixing fluids.
Before listing the fluid options, here is a concise guide to the fluid type and service considerations.
- Recommended fluid: Nissan ATF Matic-D (Nissan Matic-D ATF).
- Substitutes: Do not substitute with other ATFs unless specifically approved by Nissan for your VIN.
- Service practice: Refill with fresh ATF, replace the pan and filter as per service intervals, and ensure the system is burped correctly after service.
Concluding notes: Follow Nissan's service schedule for the automatic transmission, typically aligning with your vehicle’s mileage and maintenance plan.
Manual transmission (5-speed)
The 2004 Xterra’s manual transmission uses gear oil rather than ATF. The following details cover the recommended lubricant and related considerations.
Gear oil specification: 75W-90 GL-4 (use GL-4 rather than GL-5 unless a Nissan-approved exception applies). If the vehicle has a limited-slip differential, use the recommended friction modifier in addition to the GL-4 oil as directed by the manual or dealer.
Before listing the fluid options, the following describes the manual transmission fluid options and filling considerations.
- Recommended oil: 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil (Nissan-spec or an equivalent approved by Nissan).
- Limited-slip differential: If equipped, add the specified friction modifier per the manual.
- Filling/level check: Fill to the correct level per service procedures and recheck after the vehicle reaches operating temperature.
Concluding notes: Use the recommended GL-4 gear oil and adhere to the manual’s guidance for LSD-equipped variants to avoid wear or shifting issues.
Summary
In short, the 2004 Nissan Xterra requires Nissan ATF Matic-D for the automatic transmission and 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil for the manual transmission. Always verify the exact specification for your VIN with the owner’s manual or a Nissan dealer, and follow the recommended service intervals and procedures when changing fluids.
What type of transmission fluid does a 2004 Nissan Xterra take?
FRAM – FRAM Full Synthetic Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart (Part No. F426)
Does Nissan need special transmission fluid?
Types of Nissan Transmission Fluids
Generally, Nissan vehicles with manual transmissions require Type M fluid, while vehicles with automatic transmissions require Type D fluid. Some older Nissan models may require Type J fluid, so you should always double-check your owner's manual to be sure.
Can low transmission fluid cause stuttering?
If shuddering occurs primarily between 30-45 mph, this suggests torque converter problems related to low fluid levels. This specific speed range often reveals transmission issues that might not be noticeable at other speeds.
What type of transmission does a 2004 Nissan Xterra have?
Next is the 180-horsepower SOHC 3.3-liter V6, which comes with either a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission and like the supercharged model is available in 2-wheel drive or part-time 4-wheel drive configurations.