Skip to content 
Nissan NS-3 is a low viscosity (LV) fluid built for redesigned CVTs introduced around 2013. NS-3 uses more modern base oils and an improved additive package compared to the older NS-2 formulation.
You can identify them by color when fresh: NS-2 is green, while NS-3 is blue. After thousands of miles in the transmission, both fluids darken and look similar.
NS-2 typically appears in 2007 to 2012 models like the Altima, while NS-3 serves 2013 and newer vehicles with updated transmission hardware. Some Nissan technicians suggest NS-3 can work as an upgrade in older NS-2 transmissions, but NS-2 should never go into an NS-3 transmission.
While Nissan’s modern CVTs require NS-spec fluids, older traditional automatic transmissions in the Nissan lineup typically require Nissan Matic equivalents to ensure proper gear synchronization.
Comparison of OEM NS-2 and NS-3
As Nissan updated their CVT transmissions around 2013, the mechanical design changed with tighter tolerances, different pulley surfaces, and updated belt materials. These specs demand lower friction, more precise friction control, and better thermal stability.
NS-3 addresses these needs with lower friction additives, optimized viscosity profiles for hydraulic precision across temperature ranges, and improved anti-shudder and anti-oxidation performance that NS-2 wasn’t engineered to provide.
Early Nissan CVTs were matched to NS-2’s higher friction modifiers and additive chemistry. NS-2 worked in older designs because the transmission hardware expected those exact friction and viscosity characteristics.
Nissan CVT Transmission Fluid NS-2
Nissan Genuine OEM CVT-2 Transmission Fluid
Nissan CVT NS-2 is the OEM fluid for belt-type continuously variable transmissions in Nissan and Infiniti vehicles that specify NS-2. You’ll recognize it by its green color when fresh.
This fluid is engineered with balanced additive chemistry to deliver anti-shudder performance, wear protection, and oxidation resistance under variable loads and temperatures. t breakdown.
The friction characteristics are critical here because CVTs rely on precise belt-to-pulley engagement. Using fluid that doesn’t meet NS-2 specification can affect transmission performance and may void your warranty. NS-2 should not be substituted for newer specifications like NS-3 without manufacturer guidance, as the two fluids are designed for different transmission hardware.
Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3
Nissan Genuine OEM CVT-3 Transmission Fluid
Nissan CVT NS-3 is the OEM fluid for continuously variable transmissions in Nissan and Infiniti vehicles that specify NS-3. This fully synthetic formulation replaced the older NS-2 specification in later model vehicles. You’ll recognize NS-3 by its blue color when fresh, compared to NS-2’s green.
The friction characteristics are optimized for smooth ratio changes and reduced belt slip under high contact stress. This is critical because CVTs depend on precise belt-to-pulley engagement.
After-market Equivalents to Nissan NS-2 and NS-3
Aftermarket companies use high-viscosity index chemistry to create a “middle-ground” fluid that remains thin enough for NS-3 efficiency while maintaining the film strength required for NS-2 protection. This allows them to market a single, versatile product that balances the different thickness requirements of both generations through advanced additive engineering.
If you own a mixed fleet of vehicles, you’ll find that several multi-vehicle synthetics act as both a Nissan NS-3 and a suitable Honda HCF-2 equivalent. Here are some CVT fluids that are compatible with NS-2 and NS-3.
Idemitsu CVTF
Idemitsu CVT Transmission Fluid Type N (NS-2)
Idemitsu CVTF is an aftermarket equivalent formulated to replace multiple OEM CVT fluids, including Nissan NS-2 and NS-3. This fully synthetic fluid uses hydrocracked base stock with friction modifiers designed for smooth shifting and protection against wear in Japanese-manufactured continuously variable transmissions.
Idemitsu markets this as compatible with NS-2 and NS-3, among other Honda, Toyota, and Subaru CVT specifications. Don’t be surprised if you meet mechanics who claim Idemitsu is the OEM supplier for Nissan’s proprietary fluids. This is unverified but commonly repeated.
Also compatible with:
- Honda: HMMF, Dia-Queen CVTF J1/J4
- Toyota: ECVT, i-CVT Fluid/FG
- Subaru: SCVT, CVT Fluid Green-1/Green IV/Green 2
Aisin CFEx Fully Synthetic CVTF
Aisin Continuously Variable Transmission NS-2
Aisin CFEx is an aftermarket equivalent designed for push-belt type CVTs across multiple manufacturers, including Nissan NS-2 and NS-3 applications. This fully synthetic fluid uses advanced friction modifiers to maintain steel-on-steel friction and prevent shudder. Its formulation is aimed at extended service intervals and compatibility across Japanese, American, and European CVT systems.
Critical: This fluid is not suitable for chain-type CVTs like Audi Multitronic or Subaru Lineartronic, nor for power-split hybrid CVTs in Toyota Prius models.
Also compatible with:
- Toyota: CVTF TC, CVTF FE
- Honda: HMMF (excluding starting clutch models), HCF2
- Mitsubishi: CVTF-J1, SP-III
- Ford: MERCON C, CVT23, CVT30
- GM: DEX-CVT
- Mercedes-Benz: 236.20
Triax CVT ATF
TRIAX CVT ATF OEM Grade Universal Non-Slip CVT Transmission Fluid
Triax CVT ATF is an aftermarket equivalent marketed as a universal replacement for multiple OEM CVT fluids, including Nissan NS-1, NS-2, and NS-3. This fully synthetic fluid uses friction modifiers aimed at preventing shudder and providing smooth power transfer across a wide range of continuously variable transmissions
Triax claims this formula meets requirements for 98% of CVT vehicles and can lower transmission operating temperatures by 10-15 degrees.
Also compatible with:
- Honda/Acura: HMMF, HCF-2
- Toyota/Scion: TC, FE
- Subaru: Lineartronic CVTF, High Torque CVT Fluid
- Ford: MERCON C, CVT23/30
- GM: DEX-CVT
- Mercedes-Benz: 236.20
Eneos Import CVT Fluid
ENEOS Import for Nissan CVTF NS-2 and NS-3
Eneos Import CVT Fluid is an aftermarket equivalent engineered specifically for Nissan NS-2 applications. This fully synthetic fluid is formulated by JX Nippon Oil & Energy, a major supplier to Asian automakers, using selected synthetic base oils and proprietary additives designed to match OEM specifications for JATCO continuously variable transmissions.
Eneos positions this product as purpose-built for Nissan CVTs rather than a universal multi-vehicle formula, which may offer better compatibility than broader-spectrum alternatives.
Related Eneos products:
- Model N Plus: For Nissan NS-3 (blue)
- Model T-FE: For Toyota FE (red)
- Model S: For Subaru CVTF II (green, not suitable for high-torque applications)
- Model H: For Honda CVT Fluid/HCF-2 (orange)
Mannol CVT NS-3 8220
Mannol NS-3 Synthetic CVT Fluid
Mannol CVT NS-3 8220 is an aftermarket equivalent formulated as a universal replacement for multiple OEM CVT fluids, including Nissan NS-3. This fully synthetic fluid uses a high-viscosity base stock with friction modifiers designed for smooth operation across a wide temperature range, from -45°C and below to extreme summer heat.
Mannol markets this specifically for the latest JATCO CVT8 variators (JF016E/JF017E) found in Nissan Teana, Pathfinder, Altima, and Serena models.
Also compatible with (claimed):
- Toyota: CVT Fluid TC, CVT Fluid FE
- Honda: HMMF, HCF-2
- Subaru: Lineartronic CVTF II/III, High Torque CVT
- Ford: MERCON C, CVT23/30
- Mercedes-Benz: 236.20
Valvoline CVT Fluid
Valvoline CVT Full Synthetic CVT Fluid
Valvoline CVT Fluid is an aftermarket equivalent marketed as a premium multi-vehicle replacement for both belt and chain-driven CVTs, including Nissan NS-1, NS-2, and NS-3 applications. This fully synthetic fluid uses premium base oils and balanced additives designed for maximum protection against wear, corrosion, and deposits.
Critical: This is a high-viscosity formula. Valvoline notes that low-viscosity applications like Honda HCF-2, Nissan NS-3, and some Daihatsu and Mitsubishi fluids may not be optimal matches despite claimed compatibility.
Also compatible with:
- Toyota/Lexus: TS, FE, WS (Prius eCVT only)
- Subaru: Lineartronic CV-30/CVTF II, High Torque CVTF
- Mercedes-Benz: 236.20
- VW/Audi: TL 052 180/052 516
