P0897Generic code

P0897 Code: Transmission Fluid Deteriorated

The P0897 code means the computer calculates that the transmission fluid has degraded and needs to be changed. After the fluid change you must reset the deterioration counter with a scan tool, or the code will come back. You can drive, but change the fluid soon.

Severity
Medium
Can I keep driving?
Yes, no immediate risk
Estimated cost
$100 to $300
Difficulty
Easy
System
Transmission
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P0897 code means

Some transmissions, especially Nissan CVTs and GM transmissions, estimate how much the fluid has deteriorated based on temperature and time in use. When the estimate passes the limit, they store the P0897 code and may reduce performance.

After a fluid change, the deterioration counter has to be reset with a scan tool. If you skip that, the code returns. Read up on the P0700 code too, since it explains how transmission codes are read and why you need a scan tool that can talk to the transmission module.

On Nissan CVTs, the computer keeps a deterioration index for the fluid that climbs faster at high temperatures. With a high index, some transmissions reduce performance to protect themselves. After the fluid change, use the specified fluid, never a universal one, and reset the counter with the scan tool. If not, the code will keep appearing.

P0897 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Poorer shifting or vibration (CVT).

Likely causes of the P0897 code

  1. Fluid degraded by use or temperature. It loses its properties.
  2. Counter not reset after the change. The computer keeps calculating from the old fluid.
  3. Repeated high temperatures from towing or demanding driving.

How to diagnose the P0897 code step by step

  1. Inspect the fluid.
  2. Read the deterioration counter with the scan tool.

How to fix the P0897 code

  • Change the fluid using the specified type.
  • Reset the deterioration counter.

Technical reference data

  • Use only the specified fluid, for example NS-2 or NS-3 in Nissan CVTs.
  • Approximate values only: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

This code is very common on certain transmissions, and the fluid type matters a great deal. Always confirm the exact fluid specification before the service.

P0897 on Nissan

It is very common on Nissan CVTs (Jatco), which count a fluid deterioration index and need the correct specified fluid.

P0897 on GM

It is also common on GM transmissions that estimate fluid life.

Frequently asked questions about P0897

Can I drive with a P0897 code?
Yes, but change the fluid soon. Old fluid wears the transmission faster, and some units reduce performance to protect themselves.
Do I have to reset anything?
Yes, the deterioration counter. Without a reset, the computer keeps counting the old fluid and the code returns.
Which fluid should I use?
The one the manufacturer specifies. For example, Nissan CVTs call for NS-2 or NS-3, and a universal fluid is not a safe substitute.
How much does it cost to fix P0897?
Between $100 and $300 for the fluid service and the counter reset.
What does the P0897 code mean?
The P0897 code is a generic OBD2 code that means the transmission computer estimates that the fluid has degraded past its limit.
Will a P0897 code clear itself?
No. It stays until the fluid is changed and the deterioration counter is reset.
What is the most common cause of P0897?
Fluid that is simply old or has run hot, or a counter that was not reset after a fluid change.

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