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What Transmission Do I Have?
1. The Classic “Slip-and-Slide” (Delayed Shifting)
The G35’s 5-speed automatic (model RE5R05A) is notorious for hesitation, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. You’ll notice revs climbing without acceleration, like the car’s ghost-shifting. Blame worn clutch packs, dirty fluid, or a cranky valve body. For manuals (6MT models), grinding gears often trace back to synchros waving the white flag.
Pro Tip: Swap fluid every 30-40k miles using Nissan Matic S or J (yes, brand matters). If shifts still lag, your mechanic might need to crack open the valve body or rebuild those clutch assemblies.
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2. Overheating: The Silent Killer
Aggressive driving? Summer traffic? The G35’s transmission runs hot, and the stock cooler is… underwhelming. Overheating fries fluid, warps parts, and turns seals into brittle rubber bands. If your dashboard feels like a sauna or you smell burnt toast (not the bread kind), pull over.
Fix It: Install an aftermarket cooler (cheap insurance). For automatics, a fluid temp gauge ($150-ish) can save you thousands.
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3. Solenoid Shenanigans
The RE5R05A relies on solenoids to control fluid flow. When these little guys fail (common around 100k miles), you’ll get erratic shifts, limp mode, or a check engine light (codes like P0720 or P0740).
Mechanic Talk: Replace solenoids in pairs and always use OEM (aftermarket ones are notorious for early deaths). Part numbers like 31707-31X0A might pop up—keep those handy.
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4. Torque Converter Tantrums
A shuddering feeling under acceleration? That’s your torque converter crying for help. Debris-clogged fluid or worn bearings are the usual suspects. Ignore it, and you’ll be shopping for a rebuild sooner than later.
DIY Check: Drain the fluid. If it’s glittery (metal flakes), start budgeting.
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5. Leaks: The Slow Drip of Doom
Aging seals or a cracked transmission pan (looking at you, 2003-2006 models) can leave puddles. Rear seals love to fail, especially if the driveshaft hasn’t been lubed since Bush was president.
Quick Fix: Use OEM seal kits. And no, RTV gasket maker isn’t a permanent solution.
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Why Go Remanufactured? Let’s Get Real
When your transmission taps out, a remanufactured unit beats a used one or a pricey new replacement. Here’s why:
– Upgraded Parts: Good rebuilders replace weak points (like those finicky solenoids) with heavy-duty versions.
– Warranty: Most offer 3+ years—way better than junkyard luck.
– Cost: Save 40-60% vs. new. For the RE5R05A, expect $2,500-$3,500 installed (depending on your mechanic’s coffee habit).
Key Specs: Ensure the rebuild includes a re-machined torque converter, updated valve body, and fresh seals. For manuals, verify synchro quality (OEM or better).
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Final Word
The G35’s transmission isn’t a time bomb—it just needs love (and timely fluid changes). But when things go south, a remanufactured unit keeps you on the road without draining your 401(k). Plus, you’ll sound like a genius when you tell your mechanic, “Let’s bench-test the solenoids first.”
Stay smooth, shift smarter, and keep that V6 singing.
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What Transmission Do I Have?
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