2.5CVT fluid change at 30k mi?

[AltimaJA10]

My '10 Altima 2.5SL (bought new) just turned 4 yrs old & only has 28k mi on it. Prob to prepare me for the upcoming expense, at last oil change the dealer's svc manager warned me that the 30k mi service would be ~$3-400. This apparently includes changing coolant and CVT fluid. Nissan owner's manual does not include either service at 30k, but the "premium"/severe duty schedule does. I'm not a hard driver, car is always garaged here in Midwest, & my usage does not fit definition of "severe service". From what I've read, long-life coolants are good for 6-7 yrs and most seem to think 50-60k mi is about right for CVT fluid change. My car has been bullet-proof so far & would like to keep it that way. But also don't want to waste $$$ on overzealous service writer tactics either. What's NICO general opinion- Is 30k too soon for CVT fluid & coolant changes?

[AZhitman]

I am a big believer in coolant changes more frequently... On the CVT, that seems premature, but I'll let others chime in. Some of our techs and factory guys may know better.

You can do your own coolant change (encouraged) - Cost you less than $10 and 30 minutes in the garage. Get a new radiator cap while you're at it, it's cheap insurance and they DO go bad.

[Rogue One]

Check out these two threads in the Rogue forum. There's a fair amount to weed through, but I'm confident it will answer your questions.
CVT fluid change
CVT fluid change 2

[ImStricken06]

first of all, no one can tell what state your cvt fluid is in, just by mileage and or age. its done via the computer. they hook it up and the computer comes up with a number, and that number dictates the fluid life. so tell that service writer to piss off. i have seen people nearing 80k and the computer says the fluid is just over 'half done'.

follow your manual! nissan cant void your warranty for following your manual. if you feel your car doesn't fall under the "sever" list, then don't listen to an over zealous service adviser who gets commission on all the things he writes up.

you can go to any local shop and ask for a coolant drain, flush, & refill. i am sure its gonna be cheaper than at the dealership.

[AltimaJA10]

Check out these two threads in the Rogue forum. There's a fair amount to weed through, but I'm confident it will answer your questions.
CVT fluid change
CVT fluid change 2

Thanks for the links!
Dave's pic of fresh vs old CVT fluid at "only" 37k was impressive.
Old timers were big believers in doing an early (500-1k mi) 1st engine oil change to flush out any assembly grit. Makes me wonder if similar logic might apply to our CVT's.

[CoupeVQ35CVT]

I got mine done at 30k intervals (CVT fluid change). I can't remember if it was a full on flush and refill or drain and fill, but whatever the manual says for the coupe. Note that 2.5 and 3.5 MAY be different, or not. Mine was a 3.5.

As for coolant flush, I'd get it done annually or every 2 years, or just whatever your manual says (I forget all the details at the moment).

The only thing I got done 'early' was an engine oil change at just a hair under 3,000 miles and I always used the factory spec dino oil. Never ever had any engine leaks, kinks or issues in over 100,000 miles before I sold it.

Also, be watchful/careful if you decide to take your beloved coupe to any local Firestone/Kwiky places. They're notorious for often screwing up something or offering 'factory recommended' B.S. flushes which hurt more than help.

I always took my coupe for all minor/major services to the dealer, and even for oil changes only paid $20-$35 which was LESS than what the chain shops charged. I can't say what the Nissan dealers charge in your region but that's my advice. I avoid local chain auto shops as much as I can.