06 M35 120K do transmission flush, any suggestion?

[markboss]

Hello, my car runs to 120k and everything is great. Recently I want do 120k maintenance for my car, include change spark plugs and transmission flush.
I'm the 2nd owner of the car, the 1st owner do every 30k 60k 90k manitenance and after 90k he sold. The dealer told me the 90k complete service is include transmission flush, so you are safe to do transmission flush.
Should I do transmission flush or Drain and Fill fluid?
And any suggestions in DFW area that change spark plugs cheaper and reliable? I don't want change it by myself, but the dealer charge me $300 for this little work.

[EniGmA1987]

You must use NGK spark plugs, and these are supposed to be changed between 100k - 105k miles

at the age of the transmission I would do a flush every 30k miles. These are not really dangerous like years ago so IDK why the dealer is telling you its "safe" cause you just had one not that long ago.

[wingFeather]

In the service schedule booklet, I don't see where transmission fluid is ever called for replacement (on schedule 1 & 2 plans). I only see it required under the "premium maintenance" schedule. Which makes me wonder... which schedule did my previous owner follow? Hmmm.

[Towncivilian]

A transmission "flush" uses the transmission's own pump to exchange all of the fluid with fresh fluid. There is no "power" flush using additional machinery to force fluid through at a higher pressure. A transmission flush is safe, go for it, it can only help.

You can perform a full fluid exchange using the transmission cooler return line if you wish:

You will need:

• 12 to 15 quarts of automatic transmission fluid, preferably Nissan Matic J
• A clear gallon jug, something like an empty milk jug
• Another large container to store used fluid for disposal

• 1. Disconnect the transmission cooler return line and secure it in a collection bucket such as a clear gallon milk jug. This will be the hose on the driver side of the vehicle (according to NTB00-056b - 1988 AND LATER NISSAN VEHICLES AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER CLEANING); disconnect the end leading towards the transmission.
  2. Have a helper start the car while you watch the bucket - once it's half full (2 quarts), yell for the helper to stop the engine.
  3. Add 2 quarts of ATF through the transmission dipstick.
  4. Drain collection jug into larger jug (i.e. a Disposoil - these only hold 10 quarts though in my experience, so have something else to hold the last 5 quarts).
  5. Repeat steps 2-4 until you're out of ATF.
  6. Check fluid for proper level (see the next question and answer for details), and recycle the old ATF. Any place that takes used oil will likely recycle ATF.

This is a slight variation of the method listed in the factory service manual on page MA-31. This method takes longer, but has less of a chance of running the transmission's pump dry.

Installation of a Magnefine in-line transmission filter on the transmission cooler return line is also highly recommended. The Magnefine contains a very strong magnet to catch all ferrous wear material, and filtering media in the range of 35 microns to catch anything non-ferrous. Install one on the power steering return line too to significantly prolong the usable life of the power steering fluid. A 3/8" Magnefine should fit both the transmission and power steering hoses (send Magnefine an e-mail to confirm if you choose to install one). See a Magnefine filter in use for 23,000 miles opened here. The transmission cooler return line is located on the driver side, and the power steering return hose is the one closer to the front of the vehicle (see this exploded parts view).

[The Bodyguard]

I try to follow the premium tier maintenance schedule and did my transmission and coolant flush at 60k however, the dealer said they do not do flush!! Only drain and fill and gasket replace (ofcourse) on transmission service!! Especially when its late in the life of the engine.... So if your car has 120k on it I would recommend you only do the drain and fill with new gasket!!

[Bumpcity]

Based on what I'm seeing online, a quart of the genuine ATF runs about $19-$22. Buying 15 quarts would be around $340+ just for the ATF.

Wouldn't it be better just to have the dealer do it?
Unless they only do a drain and re-fill.

Thanks

[Six_Legs]

Go to the Nissan dealer, its cheaper. Just bought 7 quarts for $7 bucks a pop.