NTB14057A

Classification:
Reference:
EM14-004a
Date:
NTB14-057a
August 6, 2015
NISSAN; FLUID LEAK REPAIR SERVICE INFORMATION
This bulletin has been amended to apply to all models currently in production.
Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
APPLIED VEHICLES: All Nissan vehicles
SERVICE INFORMATION
The following information is provided to help ensure correct diagnosis and repair of fluid leaks.
All fluid leaks, when properly diagnosed, should be repaired (whether under warranty or
customer pay) to ensure proper vehicle operation. However, certain normal operating
conditions can be misdiagnosed as a leak requiring repair. Unnecessary repair or replacement
of parts in connection with incorrectly diagnosed “leaks” can negatively impact customer
satisfaction, be time consuming and costly, and if not performed correctly can lead to future
repairs.
When diagnosing a vehicle with a reported concern of an engine, transmission, or differential
related fluid leak, the guidelines below should be followed.
Conditions demonstrating a fluid leak that should be considered for repair:
1) Fluid is running and dripping onto the surface below the vehicle or to another area
of the vehicle.
2) Fluid is found pooling in an area of the engine, transmission, or any other component
such as the frame of the vehicle.
3) The fluid level can be measured and the technician can determine that fluid
consumption/loss is occurring. The technician must be able to determine the cause of
consumption/loss before determining the proper repair.
4) Heated fluid (other than coolant) can be smelled by the customer or technician and the
source of the leak can be identified.
Conditions unique to coolant leaks:
1a) The smell of coolant alone does not, by itself, support a conclusion that there is a fluid
leak that requires repair. Coolant smell is not uncommon and is normal under certain
operating conditions.
2a) If a coolant smell is detected AND one or more of conditions 1, 2, and 3 listed above is
also present, a repair is indicated.
3a) In some cases, some “crusting” of seeping coolant around head gaskets or coolant
hoses is normal and does not, by itself, support a conclusion that there is a fluid leak
that requires a repair. Technicians should first determine whether one or more of
conditions 1, 2, and 3 above also exists.
See the following pages for examples of oil and coolant seepage NOT needing repair.
Nissan Bulletins are intended for use by qualified technicians, not 'do-it-yourselfers'. Qualified technicians
are properly trained individuals who have the equipment, tools, safety instruction, and know-how to do a job
properly and safely. NOTE: If you believe that a described condition may apply to a particular vehicle, DO
NOT assume that it does. See your Nissan dealer to determine if this applies to your vehicle.
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Pictures of acceptable oil seepage
Transmission case halves area
Rear cover plate area
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Pictures of acceptable coolant seepage (crusting)
Head gasket area
Head gasket area
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