2017 Sentra Transmission Fluid Change: A Step-by-Step Guide

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 60 views

Hey guys! So, you're here because you need to change the transmission fluid in your 2017 Nissan Sentra, right? Awesome! This is a pretty important maintenance task, and it's something you can totally tackle yourself. Not only will you save some serious cash compared to taking it to a mechanic, but you'll also learn a thing or two about your car. Changing your 2017 Sentra transmission fluid regularly is crucial for keeping your car running smoothly and preventing costly repairs down the road. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, making it super easy to understand and complete. We'll cover everything from what tools and fluids you'll need to exactly how to drain the old fluid and fill it with fresh stuff. Ready to dive in? Let's get started!

Why Change Your 2017 Sentra Transmission Fluid?

Alright, before we get our hands dirty, let's chat about why this is such a big deal. Think of your transmission fluid like the lifeblood of your car's transmission. It lubricates all the moving parts, prevents wear and tear, and helps keep everything running at the right temperature. Over time, the fluid breaks down. This can lead to all sorts of problems, like rough shifting, slipping gears, and eventually, a complete transmission failure – which, trust me, is not a fun (or cheap) situation. Changing your 2017 Sentra transmission fluid at the recommended intervals is a super effective way to prevent these issues.

So, how often should you change it? Well, it usually depends on your driving habits and the type of transmission your Sentra has (automatic or CVT). Generally, it's a good idea to change the fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but always check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendations. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, tow things, or drive in extreme conditions, you might need to change it more frequently. Ignoring this maintenance task can cause serious problems for your vehicle. Early transmission fluid change helps to avoid a full replacement of the transmission. The signs of bad transmission fluid are that your car experiences rough shifting and also the transmission makes a humming or whining noise. Be aware of any leaks that may occur. The bottom line is, it's way cheaper to change the fluid regularly than to replace the entire transmission. Remember, taking care of your car is an investment, not an expense!

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Okay, let's gather our supplies! Before you begin the 2017 Sentra transmission fluid change, make sure you have everything you need. You don't want to get halfway through the job and realize you're missing a crucial tool. Here's a list of what you'll need:

New Transmission Fluid: This is the most important part! Make sure you get the right type of fluid for your 2017 Sentra. Check your owner's manual or a reputable online source (like a parts store website) to find the correct specifications. Using the wrong fluid can seriously damage your transmission. It's usually a good idea to buy a few extra quarts just in case. It's better to have more than not enough. This is really an easy thing to avoid. Make sure you know what type of transmission fluid that your car needs.
Drain Pan: You'll need a drain pan to catch the old fluid. Make sure it's big enough to hold at least a few quarts, and preferably has a spout for easy disposal. An old oil pan works great for this.
Wrench: You'll need a wrench to loosen the drain plug and any other bolts. A socket set might also come in handy.
Funnel: A funnel with a long neck will make it much easier to pour the new fluid into the fill hole.
Gloves: Protect your hands! Transmission fluid can be messy and isn't great for your skin.
Rags or Paper Towels: For wiping up spills and cleaning up.
Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): You'll need to lift your car to get access to the drain plug and fill hole. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands for safety. Ramps are another safe alternative if you have them.
Wheel Chocks: For extra safety, especially if you're working on an incline.
Torque Wrench: This is optional but highly recommended. It allows you to tighten the drain plug to the correct specification, preventing leaks and damage.
Shop Light: To help you see what you're doing. Especially important if you are working in a garage or outside in the shade. It can be hard to see under the car otherwise.

Make sure to have all of these things before you start. The last thing you want is to not have the correct tools to get the job done. The correct tools will make the job much easier.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your 2017 Sentra Transmission Fluid

Alright, let's get down to business! Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have fresh transmission fluid in no time.

Safety First! Before you do anything, make sure your car is parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and the engine is off. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for extra safety. Safety is paramount when working on your car, so never skip safety steps.
Lift and Secure Your Car: Use a jack to lift the front of your car, or drive it onto ramps. Once lifted, securely place jack stands under the frame of the car. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. This is super important! Make sure the jack stands are on a stable surface. Also make sure that the jack is rated to hold the weight of your vehicle.
Locate the Drain Plug: The drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the transmission pan. It's typically a bolt with a hex head. Consult your owner's manual or do a quick online search to pinpoint the exact location for your 2017 Sentra. The location may vary depending on the specific model. Check where the plug is located before you get under the vehicle.
Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan directly under the drain plug to catch the old fluid. Make sure the drain pan is positioned to catch the fluid as it drains. Ensure that you have enough space to remove the plug.
Loosen the Drain Plug: Using your wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug. Be prepared, because once you remove the plug, the fluid will start flowing out. The fluid may be hot, so try to avoid direct contact with it. If the plug is difficult to loosen, try using a breaker bar or penetrating oil to help. Don't strip the plug!
Remove the Drain Plug and Drain the Fluid: Once the drain plug is loose, carefully unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Allow the old fluid to drain completely into the drain pan. This might take a while, so be patient. While the fluid is draining, take the time to inspect the drain plug for any metal shavings or other debris, which could indicate a problem with your transmission.
Inspect and Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once the fluid has completely drained, clean the drain plug and inspect it for any damage or wear. If your drain plug has a crush washer, replace it with a new one. Reinstall the drain plug by hand, then tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench (if you have one). If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten it firmly but not too tight. Over-tightening can damage the threads. Check your owner's manual for the correct torque specifications. Make sure you don't overtighten the drain plug, this can damage the pan and cause leaks.
Locate the Fill Hole: The fill hole is usually located on the side of the transmission. It might have a dipstick or a separate fill plug. Again, your owner's manual or an online search will help you locate it on your 2017 Sentra.
Add New Transmission Fluid: Remove the fill plug or dipstick. Using your funnel, carefully pour the correct amount of new transmission fluid into the fill hole. Consult your owner's manual for the exact fluid capacity. It's usually a good idea to start with slightly less than the recommended amount and then add more as needed. You want to avoid overfilling the transmission.
Check the Fluid Level: After adding the fluid, check the fluid level using the dipstick (if your car has one) or by removing the fill plug and seeing if fluid starts to spill out. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid until it reaches the correct level. If you're using a dipstick, make sure the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Too much or too little fluid can cause transmission problems.
Reinstall the Fill Plug: Once you've confirmed the fluid level is correct, reinstall the fill plug or dipstick and tighten it securely. Again, don't overtighten.
Lower Your Car: Carefully lower your car back to the ground using the jack or by driving it off the ramps. Remove the jack stands or ramps and wheel chocks. Make sure the area around the drain plug is clean.
Check for Leaks: Start your car and let it run for a few minutes. Check the area around the drain plug and fill plug for any leaks. If you see any leaks, turn off the engine and re-tighten the plugs.
Final Check: After driving your car for a few miles, recheck the fluid level to make sure it's still correct. Also, pay attention to how your car shifts. If you notice any problems, take it to a qualified mechanic. Now, that wasn't so bad, right?

Important Considerations and Tips

Here are some extra tips and things to keep in mind when you're changing your 2017 Sentra transmission fluid:

Always use the correct fluid: This cannot be stressed enough! Using the wrong type of fluid can cause serious damage to your transmission. Double-check your owner's manual or a trusted source to make sure you're using the right stuff. The type of fluid is essential.
Be careful with hot fluid: The old transmission fluid can be hot, especially if you've been driving recently. Wear gloves and be careful not to spill it on yourself.
Dispose of the old fluid properly: Take the old fluid to a local auto parts store or recycling center for proper disposal. Don't pour it down the drain or into the environment.
Consider a transmission flush: Some mechanics recommend a transmission flush instead of a simple fluid change. A flush involves using a machine to force new fluid through the transmission, which can remove more contaminants. However, flushes are not always recommended, and can sometimes cause problems, especially on older cars. If you're considering a flush, do your research and talk to a trusted mechanic.
Take your time: Don't rush the process. Take your time and double-check your work to avoid mistakes.
If in doubt, consult a professional: If you're not comfortable with any of these steps, or if you're not sure about anything, it's always best to consult a qualified mechanic. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Sentra Running Smoothly

Changing your 2017 Sentra transmission fluid is a straightforward maintenance task that can save you money and extend the life of your car. By following these steps and taking your time, you can confidently tackle this job yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety, use the correct fluids, and dispose of the old fluid properly. Regular transmission fluid changes, along with other routine maintenance tasks, are key to keeping your Sentra running smoothly for years to come. Now go out there and get those gears shifting like new!