treefrog2

I recently purchased a 97 Pathfinder from EBAY. I got a very good price on it, but of course, I incurred some issues with the truck as well. I also own a 2001 Pathfinder that I am selling because I have a baby on the way and I need to cut expenses (monthly payments).

Anyway, the online dealer told me that the owner had the clutch replaced. After driving the truck for a few days, I began to notice a strong manual transmission fluid smell inside the truck. I first checked for leaks under the vehicle. None. Then I thought that the mechanic had spilled some fluid in the interior. I began to take the center console apart and clean all the plastic. I did notice a strong smell from the gearshift boot so I decided to leave the entire center console out of the vehicle for a week to see if that was the smell. Nope!

So right now, the center console is all open except for the rubber boots around the 2 gearshift arms. I still notice the smell and it gets worse when I crack the window open (I'm assuming because the open window draws air from the floor upward).

Is it possible that the mechanic did not replace some type of gasket that prevents the transmission fluid from entering the gearshift area?? I really don't want to take the truck to have it looked at. I'd rather solve it myself.

Any ideas?? thanks!

-Chris

carr

Did you ever figure out this problem?

I have a 2001 pathfinder same problem smells terrible on the highway once it heats up. Smells only with the windows open. I can't find a mechanic or dealer who can figure it out