The Jatco JF015E hybrid variator is designed for installation on vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines with a volume of up to 1800 cm³ (torque up to 180 N*m). A 2-stage planetary gearbox was introduced into the design of the unit, which made it possible to reduce the dimensions of the gearbox housing. The equipment appeared in the plant’s production program in 2010.
CVT Jatco JF015E.
Where is it used?
The box is found in the following cars:
- Nissan Juke, Micra and Note, equipped with engines with a displacement of 0.9 to 1.6 liters. Mounted on Qashqai, Sentra and Tiida cars equipped with gasoline engines up to 1.8 liters.
- Renault Kaptur and Fluence with a 1.6 liter engine.
- Mitsubishi Lancer 10th generation with 1.5 and 1.6 liter engines.
- Small cars Suzuki Swift, Wagon R, Spacia and Chevrolet Spark with petrol power units up to 1.4 liters.
- Lada XRAY cars with a 1600 cm³ engine.
Which cars have the JF011E variator installed?
The peak of popularity of the JF011E gearbox came in 2005, when the transmission appeared on the market. It was widely used by various concerns and was found in the design of the following models:
- Nissan: Qashqai, X-Trail, Tiida, Juke and others;
- Mitsubishi Outlander and ASX;
- Peugeot: 4007 and 4008;
- Suzuki SX4 and Kizashi;
- Citroen C-Crosser;
- Dodge Caliber.
Contrary to erroneous belief, boxes of this model were not installed on Toyota and Mercedes-Benz cars, as well as on Renault Megane. You can find out whether such a variator is installed on your car in the manufacturer’s instruction manual or on one of the thematic sites.
Design and resource
The transmission is equipped with a V-belt mechanism consisting of adjustable conical pulleys and a lamellar belt. Due to the synchronous change in the diameters of the pulleys, a smooth adjustment of the gear ratio is ensured. A push-type belt is installed in the box, and a hydraulic coupling is located between the motor and the box. To ensure the circulation of working fluid in the variator, a high-pressure rotary pump is used.
Constructor jatco jf015e.
The design of the box includes a 2-speed hydromechanical automatic, which is necessary when the car is moving at speeds over 100 km/h. The introduction of an additional gearbox made it possible to avoid the operation of the variator in unfavorable conditions (when the lamellar belt is placed at the outer edge of the cones). Switching to reverse gear is performed in the hydromechanical part of the box; the variator is not involved. Using the unit, the driver switches gear ratios manually (from a series of fixed values).
The manufacturer estimates the resource of the box at 120-150 thousand kilometers. The declared figure is achieved with regular oil changes (every 30 thousand km) and gentle operation (warming up before driving, smooth acceleration and driving at speeds of up to 100-110 km/h). Boxes produced before 2014 have a reduced service life due to a number of components. Subsequent series of boxes have a modified pump and bearing supports, as well as an upgraded version of the software.
Features of Jatco automatic transmission Jatco
So, Jatco is the largest manufacturer of automatic transmissions (AT) and continuously variable transmissions (CVT). Today, the majority stake is owned by Nissan, meaning Jatco is actually a subsidiary of this Japanese automaker.
It's not surprising that Nissan universally installs Jatco automatic transmissions in its vehicles. Also after the merger with Renault (Renault-Nissan Alliance), Jatco automatic transmissions also appeared on Renault models. It should also be added that Jatco also supplies its boxes to the assembly line of Mitsubishi, Honda, Suzuki, GM and even AvtoVAZ.
As you can see, the Jatko assault rifle can be found on many popular models. The transmission manufacturer itself specializes in the development and production of compact and inexpensive automatic transmissions for installation in small and medium-class cars.
In other words, Jatco automatic transmissions are found everywhere both in budget small cars and in C/D class sedans, city SUVs, etc. For example, the domestic Lada Granta model has a Jatco JF 414E 4-speed automatic transmission, the popular Daewoo Matiz or Kia Picanto has a Jatco JF 402/405E gearbox, etc.
In practice, automatic transmissions from this manufacturer are distinguished by their compact dimensions, relative simplicity and reliability of design. Many Jatko gearboxes additionally have the Tiptronic manual gearshift function. Experts note that the Jatko automatic transmission is quite easy to maintain; in case of repair, there are no special problems with spare parts.
Also, even taking into account the compact dimensions, Jatco engineers managed to achieve increased transmission reliability thanks to a number of unique technical solutions and their own technological developments. This means that Jatko boxes have a long service life, and these units are well prepared for severe operating conditions.
At the same time, the manufacturer offers its automatic transmissions at an affordable price, as a result of which the final cost of a car with automatic transmission is reduced. However, a more affordable price does not mean that Jatco machines are a cheaper option.
The automatic transmissions of this company are high-tech, equipped with a complex electronic control system, have improved hydraulic units, reinforced clutch packs, etc. As a result, the unit shifts gears smoothly, which allows you to achieve a high level of driving comfort characteristic of a hydromechanical automatic transmission.
At the same time, the developers increased the efficiency of the transmission and achieved improved fuel efficiency. The software is also constantly being improved, and unique algorithms for the operation of the electronic unit are used.
Also, Jatco automatic transmissions use solenoids that are less demanding on the quality of the ATF transmission fluid and have better characteristics compared to many analogues. This solution allows you to change the oil in the automatic transmission less often, that is, in practice, it was possible to increase the service life of the automatic transmission fluid and filters.
As the manufacturer himself points out, in Jatco automatic transmissions, the transmission oil needs to be changed every 60-80 thousand km. mileage, the automatic transmission filter is changed at the same time. In this case, no other additional actions are required as part of the service.
Service Jatco JF015E
You cannot start driving in winter on a cold box. To warm up the working fluid, a heat exchanger connected to the engine cooling system is used. You should start moving smoothly, avoiding sudden jerks. The working fluid is checked after 6 months of operation; clear oil is considered normal. If cloudiness is detected, the liquid is changed along with the fine filter element (located on the box housing). To extend service life, annual preventive oil and filter changes are recommended.
Service Jatco JF015E.
The design of the machine has a radiator connected to the box. The heat exchanger honeycombs become clogged with dust and fluff, which leads to overheating of the oil. Radiators must be flushed annually at a specialized service center.
If the design does not have a box heat exchanger, then you can install the unit yourself (together with a thermostat that regulates the intensity of oil flow through the cooling block).
Main advantages, disadvantages and problems of the JF011E box
One of the key advantages of the CVT model under consideration is its high reliability. Fans of a number of Japanese cars agree that the JF011E turned out to be, if not the best, then one of the best CVTs in the line in general. But it has its pros and cons.
pros
it’s easy to find and install non-original spare parts without compatibility problems - belts, pump valves, bearings, valve bodies;
a large assortment of “donors” on the secondary market, if you need a replacement assembly, there will be no difficulties with this;
The box has been well studied in Russian automotive services, the craftsmen know how to work with it, so there will be no force majeure with repairs.
Minuses
When approaching 100 thousand kilometers, the variator belt can stretch greatly, which is why it will have to be replaced;
Drivers often notice the hum of bearings while driving;
The transmission design does not have the best solenoids and sensors, so problems can occur with them too.
If you operate the box correctly and maintain it on time, you are unlikely to encounter any breakdowns.
Problems with this model
The disadvantage of the box is that the oil is contaminated with metal particles formed during abrasion of the cones and the push belt. Jammed valves interfere with the normal circulation of the working fluid, which leads to immobilization of the car. An additional problem is the rolling bearings, which are damaged by metal shavings. If problems arise with the variator, further movement is prohibited. The car is delivered to the repair site using a tow truck; towing is not allowed.
Refusal to switch
The design of the box uses a hydraulic unit with solenoids, which is located in the lower part of the crankcase. If chips get into the valves, the supply of working fluid is disrupted, the box operates in emergency mode with a fixed gear ratio. Do not drive the machine as there is a risk of permanent damage to the cones by the belt.
Dirty oil
Contamination of the oil in the box occurs due to wear of the belt and bevel pulleys. Particles are captured by magnetic inserts and filters, but when the elements become clogged, dirt remains in the working fluid. The hydraulic unit becomes dirty, which leads to jerking when the machine moves. Continued operation of the vehicle with degraded oil leads to fatal damage to the block valves and V-belt drive components.
Oil contamination.
Bearing failure
Wear of the bearing supports of the primary and secondary shafts of the variator is rare. If the rolling elements or treadmills are damaged, the relative position of the shafts is disrupted, which can cause belt misalignment and noise during operation. With further operation of the box, the volume of metal shavings increases, which additionally wears out the friction surfaces and damages the bypass valves of the oil pump and the hydraulic unit.
Pump failure
The gearbox uses a rotary pump, unified with the unit from the previous variator model 011E. Metal particles or dirt getting into the pressure reducing valve can cause the unit to jam. In this case, the variator operates in emergency mode with a fixed gear ratio. The defect is observed on boxes of the first years of production; later the manufacturer modified the valve design.
Sun gear failure
The destruction of the sun gear, which is located in the hydromechanical unit, occurs due to sudden acceleration and prolonged movement at speeds above 140-150 km/h. Damage to the gear is a consequence of vibration loads that occur during sudden acceleration. If a gear is destroyed, the vehicle cannot move forward; the reverse gear remains operational.
Sun gear.
Continuously variable transmission Nissan (Jatco)
The Nissan automobile concern has developed Jatco boxes, which are now installed not only on brand models, but also on cars from other manufacturers. There are quite a lot of cars on the Russian (secondary) automobile market with a Jatco CVT, so it’s not difficult to get information about the reliability of the gearbox and their service life.
CVT Nissan
Statistics from official and independent service centers allow us to evaluate the reliability and service life of variators, the cost and feasibility of repair work, and the availability of spare parts.
When considering boxes, the emphasis will be on the CVT Nissan Qashqai, other models will also come into view. This will answer the question of whether the Nissan CVT is reliable.
CVT Nissan Qashqai j10, X-trail T31 (T32), Murano (Z50 and Z51), Teana
Jatco models JF010E and JF011E represent the second generation of continuously variable transmissions. The second is combined with 2 and 2.5 liter petrol engines, the first comes with a 3.5 liter engine. There are no differences in design; the first variator only has reinforced elements for higher torque.
Jatco JF010E
The JF011E variator was installed on the Qashqai and X-Trail crossovers of the penultimate generation, as well as on the Mitsubishi Outlander (the last two generations). JF010E went to the Murano crossover (Z50 and Z51) and the Teana sedan.
The reliability of the Qashqai variator is beyond doubt, since the gearbox family in question is not distinguished by the presence of characteristic sores. The resource is about 150-200 thousand km. Once a Nissan CVT reaches the end of its life, its components are already critically worn out.
The advantage of CVTs is their maintainability. The cost of the latter is 150-180 thousand rubles. The concern produces a valve body or variator assembly for the spare parts market. You can find some spare parts on the market, others can be repaired. A new continuously variable transmission costs 200-230 thousand. If the resource allows, you need to choose this option.
Jatco JF011E
When compared with the first generation boxes, it turns out that the new generation is almost twice as inferior in terms of service life. Manufacturing savings and simplification play a role, which affects the reliability of the latest versions of transmissions.
Nissan (Renault) variator for small engines
Atmospheric internal combustion engines with a small volume received the JF015E power transmission. The specified CVT was installed on the Qashqai and Capture crossovers, as well as on Renault Fluence with a 1.6-liter engine. A design feature of CVTs for small-volume internal combustion engines is a two-stage planetary gear. The reduced cones were good in a theoretical sense, but in reality the result was a design that reduces its service life and affects reliability.
Jatco JF015E
Answering the question about how long the Nissan variator of this family lasts, it is worth noting that the natural wear and tear of elements due to ill-conceived technical solutions occurs earlier than planned. The resource of the variator is up to 120,000 km.
Repairing the box comes down to grinding the drive and driven shafts. The requirements for grinding equipment and the experience of the craftsman are high, so the life of the repaired part may not be long.
CVT Jatco JF15
The oil pump here is the same as on the JF010E and JF011E versions. In general, we can say that a continuously variable transmission for small cars is not very reliable, has a short service life and is prone to breakdowns.
CVT8 for Qashqai j11, X-Trail T32
The CVT8 series replaced the tenth family of Jatco CVTs. Models JF016E and JF017E are based on the technical solutions of their predecessors. The engine combinations also turned out to be inherited: the X-Trail and Qashqai CVT gearbox – JF016E. The JF017E model went to Murano and Pathfinder.
Jatco JF017E
In terms of design, the representatives of the series have acquired differences. Boxes for high-volume engines required a pin belt; for cars with a smaller volume, it was decided to leave the previous option - a plate one.
Malfunctions of the Nissan variator are associated with the complication of the control system in tandem with the hardware of the old base. The service life of the units has decreased, and their reliability has come into question. The advantage of the design is its maintainability. Restoring functionality costs 150,000 rubles, which is cheaper than it was before. The essence of the repair work is similar to that which was typical for CVTs of the tenth family. The similarity of the pumps used makes it possible to replace a failed pressure relief valve.
Jatco JF015E
Device diagnostics
Primary transmission diagnostics are carried out using a computer connected to a connector on the car. The technique allows you to find out problems associated with the oil pump and belt slipping on the pulleys. To determine the condition of the parts, you need to drain the oil and then separate the oil pan.
If a layer of chips is found on the magnets installed in the pan, then the variator needs to be rebuilt. It must be taken into account that if the sun gear breaks, no additional chips are generated.
What kind of oil should I fill in the JF011 variator?
Nissan CVT Fluid NS2 oil code - KLE52-00004
Mitsubishi DIA QUEEN CVTF-J1
: code
S0001401
- 20 l barrel code
S0001610
- 4 l canister code
MZ313973
- 1 l canister
Mitsubishi DIA QUEEN CVTF-J4
: code
MZ320185
, capacity 1 l code
MZ320261
, capacity 1 l Genuine CVT Fluid Eco J4 code
MZ320262
, capacity 4 l Genuine CVT Fluid Eco J4
Nissan NS-3
, CVT type, CVT NS-3, mineral (for cars 2013-2013) Nissan
NS-3
replaced
the NS-2
and in terms of characteristics corresponds to
DIA QUEEN CVTF-J4
.
The oil is the same and interchangeable. (According to information) code KLE53-00004
, capacity 4 l code
999MP-NS300P
, capacity 1 l code
KLE53-00002
, capacity 20 l
ELF ELFMATIC CVT oil
MOPAR CVTF + 4 oil
packaging 0.946 l (quart), article number
05191184AA
, packaging 3.785 l (gallon), article number
05191185AA
, packaging 1 l, article number
68004937EA
, packaging 4 l, article number
68004942EA
When carrying out service work, it is recommended to use original spare parts and lubricants that approved by the manufacturer. Attempts to save on oil quality will invariably lead to problems when operating the car.
CVT repair
During a major overhaul of the JF015E variator, the hydraulic transformer is serviced with the replacement of gaskets and seals. The standard heat exchanger has a reduced volume, the internal channels become clogged with dirt. If the car owner complains about the box overheating, then instead of the heat exchanger, an adapter is inserted to allow the installation of a radiator. To check the operating temperature, it is practiced to apply special stickers that change color when heated to 120°C.
To rebuild the box, you need to purchase a set of gaskets and seals and a set of clutches. Together with the friction blocks, the pump valve is often replaced (original or repair) and new input shaft bearings are installed. For the box, belts with 8 or 9 tapes are used; it is allowed to use an element from Honda CVTs (Bosch 901064), which is equipped with 12 tapes. If, upon opening the box, damage to the working surfaces of the cones is detected, then the elements are replaced with parts borrowed from a disassembled used variator.
Advice from experienced craftsmen on the correct operation of the Jatko variator
Despite the characteristics of the Jf011e CVT gearbox as an “indestructible variator”, the mechanism requires proper care and maintenance. During operation, it is recommended to observe the following rules:
- once a year or after every 30,000 km of travel, you need to change the external oil filter cartridge (transmission fluid receives the main contamination from fragments of burnt clutches that clog the channels of the hydraulic system);
- It is not recommended to accelerate quickly or aggressively without warming up the variator, especially in winter at sub-zero ambient temperatures; the normal operating oil temperature is +65°C;
- in the cold, a cold belt slips when the car accelerates, resulting in abrasion of the honed surfaces of the cones by the metal elements of the belt;
- it is necessary to constantly monitor the state of the ATF oil: temperature, color, degree of transparency, absence of burning odor, metallic inclusions, suspensions of friction wear products, etc.;
- if accelerated aging of the lubricant is suspected, it is urgently necessary to replace it with a new, fresh composition;
- It is not recommended to frequently accelerate over 150 km/h, as this reduces the service life of the belt, cones, bearings and other expensive variator spare parts.
For frequent trips along city streets with stressful traffic conditions, stops at traffic lights, and traffic jams, it is recommended to install an additional cooling radiator complete with a thermostat, since overheated or insufficiently heated lubricant is equally harmful to a working variator.
Should I buy used and how much does it cost?
A JF011E variator from 50 thousand km is considered used. Transmissions are supplied by organizations that dismantle damaged or written-off vehicles. Some boxes are imported to order from Japan and Southeast Asian countries. If a car owner purchases a Jatco box with low mileage (30-40 thousand km), then the price of the unit increases to 100-120 thousand rubles.
When purchasing a used unit, there is a risk of getting a box that has been used in harsh conditions. It is impossible to visually check the condition of the transmission components, so you have to rely only on the mileage declared by the seller. For those wishing to play it safe, we offer units that have undergone restoration repairs. New JF011E variators are supplied only on order, the cost of the unit exceeds 300 thousand rubles.
Source
Reviews about the pros and cons of the JF015E variator
If you study reviews of the popular Japanese CVT, you can form an objective opinion about the box. Users note such advantages as a relatively low price when compared with older versions, a range of spare parts and “donors” on the secondary market.
Negative reviews about the JF015E transmission occur regularly and contain a number of complaints about its reliability. Car owners note the insufficient service life of the variator and the need for frequent oil changes. People often complain about the problem of bearing noise.
Valery: “It’s a normal gearbox for a 1.6 engine, I’ve already run 150 thousand kilometers. I don’t think that the engine is moving much more, so I don’t see any reason to worry. Now at 2.0 there will be questions, because the engines there last 500 thousand with proper care, and changing the variator three times during this period - well, that’s it.”
Sergey: “I have a JF015E in Renault, a rather weak box of course, the old Nissan with JF011E is a different matter. Well, at least it doesn’t kick and howl like all sorts of machine guns assembled on the knee, that’s good.”
Perhaps your car also has a JF015E, share your impressions of its operation in the comments.
