update Pathy stalls in all gears when the motor is cold only

[ncaadfinder]

My 01 Pathy, 3.5 L with auto trans. has started to stall when it is put in reverse only after starting it in the morning when the motor is cold. It only happens in the morning after being off overnight. I let it run for 30 seconds then put it in reverse and it instantly stalls, no chugging or sputtering. It may happen two to three times then it is fine for the rest of the day. This only happens in reverse. I have tried it in forward when it is cold and it is fine. I have owned it for 3 yrs and have never had this problem before. I did a transmission drain and fill approx. one month ago.It was not stalling prior to the drain and fill. Any suggestion

[2003Pathfinder]

I am in similar situation, but mine is not particular to the reverse mode. I did train and fill in trans fluid two weeks ago. Now the engine starts to stall. no service engine light on. I am going to change the fuel filter and clean the Massive air filter sensor.

btw, did you check the trans fluid level? I just wonder overfill in trans fluid can cause such problem?

[Towncivilian]

Yes, ensure the transmission fluid level is correct. Follow these steps if possible:

1. Drive around for 10 minutes in the city after the transmission is at operating temperature.
2. Park on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
3. With P selected, shift through every gear and return to P.
4. Pull the transmission dipstick with the engine idling, wipe it clean, reinsert it completely, and read the level. It must be within the notched area labeled "HOT". Check for fluid contamination after wiping on a paper towel.

[ncaadfinder]

Ok. I'll try rechecking my fluid again after following the method mentioned and post back in a while. Thanks.

[ncaadfinder]

The fluid level is correct as noted. Now it is stalling when put into all gears when cold ( except park and neutral). It is fine all day once it goes into gear.It takes about 3-4 tries before it doesn't stall.

[Towncivilian]

What kind of fluid did you use when you drained & filled the pan? Is your "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" light illuminated, or does the "O/D OFF" light blink when you turn the engine on?

[ncaadfinder]

I used Dexron 3 as the factory service manual recommends in Canada. No SEL light is on. I will check if the O/D light is blinking when the motor is turned on.

[2003Pathfinder]

um, I personally will never use other fluid type other than Nissan's matic D.
I suspect the issue maybe caused by the mixture of original fluid with the newly added dexron 3. if it is the case, need to suck out the trans fluid and fill in Nissan's matic D.

I guess you may bring the truck to a dealer, just try to get clues from those folks.

[Towncivilian]

Dexron III is suitable per the factory service manual. It should not cause major issues such as stalling in all gears when cold.

ncaadfinder, please try following the transmission self-diagnosis procedure described on page AT-47 of the factory service manual.

[ncaadfinder]

Good News.. The motor did not stall this A.M. as usual in reverse or forward. I did a low pressure flush using the transmission pump for circulation and removed all the old fluid yesterday. I decided upon the synthetic Valvoline Maxlife ATF fluid and one 24 oz. bottle of Lucas Transmission fix. I noticed an immediate difference in the transmission shifting through the gears it was way smoother then before. Case closed.

[Towncivilian]

Ugh, why did you put Lucas snot in there? All it does is thicken the fluid. Straight Maxlife would be a better choice.

[ncaadfinder]

Thanks for your polite opinion.

[ncaadfinder]

The truck is working perfectly now and does not stall out at all. I recommend doing what I did above to remedy the problem I was having. The transmission is now shifting better than ever before. I am glad the flush procedure link was available for my use. Thank you Nicoclub members for your help. This is an excellent club with members who have always followed up and make things happen..Also a special mention to Towncivillian who in my opinion makes an excellent moderator..keep up your passion it is encouraging and appreciated.

[Towncivilian]

Glad to hear that! I'm glad to be of help, thanks for your kind words.