Quick Answer: Nissan Altima Oil Change
For most Nissan Altima models, you’ll need 4.9-5.1 quarts of 5W-30 oil (check your manual), an oil filter (OEM part 15208-9F60A), and basic tools. The process takes about 30-45 minutes and can save you $30-50 compared to dealership service.
A Rainy Tuesday at the Shop
It was one of those dreary Tuesday mornings at the shop when the rain was coming down in sheets, and I was nursing my second cup of coffee. Around 9:15 AM, a young woman pulled into our lot in a 2016 Nissan Altima that had definitely seen better days. She came in looking stressed, explaining that her oil change light had just come on, and she was worried about driving it to work.
“I just had it changed about 4,000 miles ago,” she said, “but the dealership told me I needed to come back in 3,000 miles for another one. I’ve been so busy with work that I completely forgot.”
After a quick inspection, I found her oil was already looking dark and gritty, and she was about 1,000 miles past the recommended interval. I told her we could get her in right away, but it would cost around $70 with the oil filter we use. She winced at the price but agreed.
As I was draining her oil, I couldn’t help but think how much money she could have saved by doing this simple maintenance herself. That’s when I decided to write this guide – to help Altima owners like her take control of their maintenance and keep some money in their pockets.
Why Change Your Own Oil?
As a mechanic with over 15 years of experience, I’ve seen countless cars come in with preventable engine problems, many of which stem from infrequent or improper oil changes. The Nissan Altima oil change is one of the most straightforward maintenance tasks you can perform yourself, and the benefits go beyond just saving money.
When you change your own oil, you control exactly what goes into your engine. You can choose high-quality synthetic oil that might last longer than what some quick-lube places use. You can also ensure the oil filter is installed correctly – I’ve seen countless cases where improperly installed filters led to catastrophic engine failure.
Plus, there’s a satisfaction that comes from maintaining your own vehicle. You’ll become more familiar with your Altima’s systems, potentially spotting other issues before they become serious problems. And let’s be honest – saving $40-60 every 5,000 miles adds up to significant money over the life of your vehicle.
Understanding Your Nissan Altima’s Oil System
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of changing your oil, it’s helpful to understand what’s happening under the hood. Your Altima’s engine contains numerous moving parts that create friction as they operate. Without proper lubrication, these parts would quickly wear out, leading to expensive repairs or complete engine failure.
Engine oil serves several critical functions:
- Lubricating moving parts to reduce friction
- Helping to cool engine components
- Cleaning internal engine parts by suspending contaminants
- Preventing corrosion and rust
- Sealing gaps between piston rings and cylinder walls
Over time, oil breaks down from heat and becomes contaminated with dirt, metal particles, and combustion byproducts. This is why regular oil changes are essential to keep your Altima running smoothly.
Nissan Altima Oil Specifications
The exact specifications for your Nissan Altima oil change can vary depending on the model year and engine type. Here’s what you need to know:
Engine Types and Oil Capacity
Nissan Altima models typically come with one of two engine options:
- 2.5L QR25DE 4-cylinder engine: Requires approximately 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) of oil
- 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine: Requires approximately 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of oil
Always check your owner’s manual for the exact capacity for your specific model, as there can be slight variations between model years.
Recommended Oil Types
The type of oil your Altima needs depends on your model year and driving conditions:
- Most models (2007-2020): SAE 5W-30 is recommended
- Newer models (2021+): May require 0W-20 for improved fuel efficiency
- Extreme temperatures: In very cold climates, 0W-30 might be better; in very hot climates, 10W-30 could be used
The difference between conventional and synthetic oil is significant. Synthetic oil typically lasts longer and performs better in extreme temperatures. While it costs more upfront, it can save you money in the long run by extending your oil change intervals. Check out our guide on [synthetic vs conventional oil](synthetic-vs-conventional-oil-guide) to understand the benefits of each.
Oil Filter Specifications
Using the right oil filter is just as important as using the right oil. Here are some common filter options for Nissan Altima:
- OEM Nissan filter: Part number 15208-9F60A (most common)
- Wix: 51334
- Fram: PH3593A
- Mobil 1: M1-110
- Bosch: 3323
- K&N: HP-1008
I’ve seen customers come in with all sorts of aftermarket filters, and while some work fine, others can cause problems. The OEM Nissan filter is specifically designed for your engine and provides excellent filtration. If you’re going with aftermarket, stick with reputable brands like Mobil 1 or Wix.
Drain Plug Torque Specifications
This is one area where many DIYers make mistakes. The drain plug on your Altima needs to be tightened to a specific torque to ensure it doesn’t leak or strip the threads:
- Most models: 22-29 ft-lbs (30-40 Nm)
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen overtightened drain plugs that cracked the oil pan or stripped threads. And I’ve cleaned up plenty of oil puddles from loose plugs. Use a torque wrench and get it right – exactly 22-29 ft-lbs, not “hand tight” and not “as tight as you can make it.”
Maintenance Schedule
How often should you change your oil? This depends on several factors:
- With conventional oil: Every 3,000-5,000 miles
- With synthetic oil: Every 7,500-10,000 miles
- Severe driving conditions: (extreme temperatures, frequent short trips, towing) may require more frequent changes
Check your owner’s manual for the specific recommendations for your model year. If you’re unsure about how often to change your oil, our guide on [how often to service your engine](how-often-change-engine-oil) can help you decide.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin your Nissan Altima oil change, make sure you have everything you need. There’s nothing worse than having your car up on jack stands, oil draining everywhere, only to realize you forgot something crucial.
Essential Tools
- Oil filter wrench: A cap-type wrench that fits your specific filter (usually 65mm or 14-flute) works best
- Socket wrench: 14mm socket for the drain plug
- Torque wrench: Essential for properly tightening the drain plug
- Oil drain pan: To catch the old oil
- Funnel: For pouring new oil without spills
- Jack and jack stands: Or ramps to safely elevate your vehicle
- Wheel chocks: For safety when using a jack
- Gloves: Disposable nitrile gloves work great
- Shop rags or paper towels: For cleanup
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Fender cover: To protect your paint
- Oil filter cutter: To inspect your old filter for metal particles
- Oil pump extractor: If you prefer to extract oil through the dipstick tube
- Mechanic’s creeper: Makes working under the car more comfortable
Materials Needed
- Engine oil: 5 quarts of the appropriate type for your engine
- Oil filter: The correct filter for your model year
- Drain plug washer: A new crush washer is recommended
- Oil disposal container: For transporting used oil to a recycling center
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil (5 quarts) | $20-35 | Conventional: $20-25, Synthetic: $30-35 |
| Oil filter | $5-12 | OEM: $8-12, Aftermarket: $5-10 |
| Drain plug washer | $1-2 | Often included with filter |
| Tools (one-time cost) | $50-100 | Basic set if you don’t already own tools |
| Total per oil change | $26-49 | Not including initial tool purchase |
Compare this to the $50-80 you’d pay at a quick-lube or dealership, and you can see the savings add up quickly!
Step-by-Step Nissan Altima Oil Change
Now that you have all your tools and materials ready, let’s walk through the oil change process step by step. I’ll be using a 2016 Nissan Altima with the 2.5L engine as our example, but the process is similar for most model years.
Safety First: Before you begin, make sure you’re working on a level surface. If using a jack, always use jack stands – never rely solely on a jack to support your vehicle. Let your engine cool for at least 30 minutes before starting to avoid burns from hot oil.
Step 1: Preparation
Position your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. If you’re using ramps, drive up carefully. If using a jack, place it under the proper jacking point (consult your owner’s manual) and lift the vehicle, then secure it with jack stands.
Place wheel chocks behind the wheels that remain on the ground to prevent rolling.
Pop the hood and remove the oil filler cap. This helps the oil drain more quickly by allowing air to enter the engine.
Place your drain pan under the oil drain plug. The drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan, which is at the bottom of the engine.
Step 2: Draining the Oil
Put on your gloves to protect your hands from hot oil.
Using your 14mm socket wrench, turn the drain plug counter-clockwise to loosen it. Once it’s loose, finish unscrewing it by hand.
Pro Tip: As you remove the drain plug, push it slightly upward into the oil pan. This helps prevent oil from running down the side of the pan and making a mess. Position the drain pan so the oil stream hits the side of the pan rather than the bottom – this reduces splashing.
Allow the oil to drain completely. This can take 10-15 minutes. While you’re waiting, inspect the drain plug and washer for damage.
Once the oil has slowed to a drip, clean the drain plug and the surrounding area on the oil pan. If your drain plug washer looks damaged or flattened, replace it with a new one.
Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to 22-29 ft-lbs using your torque wrench. This is critical – don’t overtighten!
Step 3: Replacing the Oil Filter
Position your drain pan under the oil filter. On most Altimas, the filter is accessible from the top of the engine bay, but on some models, you may need to access it from underneath.
Using your oil filter wrench, turn the filter counter-clockwise to loosen it. Once loose, finish unscrewing it by hand.
Pro Tip: As you remove the filter, keep it upright to prevent oil from spilling. Have a rag ready to catch any drips. The filter will still have oil in it, so be prepared for that.
Clean the filter mounting surface on the engine with a clean rag. Make sure the old filter’s gasket didn’t stick to the engine – this is a common mistake that can cause serious leaks!
Apply a thin coat of new oil to the rubber gasket on your new filter. This helps it seal properly and makes it easier to remove during your next oil change.
Install the new filter by hand. Tighten it until the gasket contacts the mounting surface, then give it an additional 3/4 to 1 turn. Do not overtighten the filter!
Step 4: Refilling with New Oil
Remove your drain pan and any tools from under the vehicle. Lower the car if it’s on jack stands.
Place your funnel in the oil filler opening and begin adding oil. For a 2.5L engine, start with about 4.5 quarts.
Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the dipstick. Add more oil as needed to bring the level to the “Full” mark. Don’t overfill!
Important: Overfilling your engine with oil can be just as damaging as running it with too little oil. If you overfill, you can drain some out through the drain plug, or use a fluid pump to remove the excess.
Replace the oil filler cap and make sure it’s tightened securely.
Step 5: Final Checks
Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes, then check the oil level again on the dipstick. Top up if necessary.
Reset your oil change light if your Altima has one. The procedure varies by model year, so consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure how to do this.
Record the date and mileage of your oil change so you know when your next one is due.
Dispose of your used oil properly. Most auto parts stores and some service stations will accept used oil for recycling. Never pour oil down a drain or throw it in the trash!
Congratulations! You’ve just completed your own Nissan Altima oil change. The whole process should take about 30-45 minutes once you’ve done it a few times.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
After 15 years in the shop, I’ve seen just about every mistake you can make during an oil change. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them:
Overtightening the Drain Plug or Filter
This is probably the number one mistake DIYers make. I’ve seen drain plugs that were tightened so much they cracked the oil pan, and filters that were so tight they had to be destroyed to remove them.
Pro Tip: For the drain plug, always use a torque wrench set to 22-29 ft-lbs. For the filter, tighten it by hand until the gasket contacts the engine, then give it an additional 3/4 to 1 turn. That’s all it takes!
Forgetting to Replace the Drain Plug Washer
The crush washer on your drain plug is designed to compress when tightened, creating a seal. Reusing a flattened washer can lead to leaks. These washers are cheap – always replace them!
Using the Wrong Oil
Using the wrong viscosity oil can reduce engine life and fuel economy. Always check your owner’s manual or the oil cap for the recommended oil type. If you’re unsure, check out our guide on [best oil for high mileage engines](best-oil-high-mileage-engines) for more information.
Leaving the Old Filter Gasket on the Engine
I’ve seen this happen more times than I can count. The old filter’s rubber gasket sticks to the engine, and when the new filter is installed, you now have two gaskets. This will almost certainly cause a serious oil leak.
Always check: After removing your old filter, run your finger around the filter mounting surface to make sure the old gasket came off with it.
Not Checking for Leaks
After completing your oil change, always start the engine and check for leaks around the drain plug and filter. It’s much easier to fix a leak now than to deal with the consequences of driving with an oil leak.
Overfilling or Underfilling the Oil
Too much oil can cause foaming and reduced lubrication, while too little oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and increased engine wear. Always check the dipstick after adding oil and after running the engine for a few minutes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best instructions, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some common issues you might encounter during or after your oil change and how to address them:
Oil Leaking from the Drain Plug
If you notice oil dripping from the drain plug after your oil change:
- First, check that the plug is tightened to the proper torque (22-29 ft-lbs)
- If it’s properly tightened and still leaking, you may have a damaged drain plug or oil pan threads
- Try replacing the crush washer if you didn’t already
- If the threads are damaged, you might need to install an oversized drain plug or repair the oil pan
Oil Leaking from the Filter
If you see oil leaking from the filter area:
- Check that the filter is tightened properly – it should be hand-tight plus 3/4 to 1 turn
- Make sure the old filter gasket wasn’t left on the engine
- Check for any damage to the filter mounting surface
- Ensure you’re using the correct filter for your model
Oil Pressure Warning Light On
If your oil pressure light comes on after your oil change:
- Immediately turn off the engine to prevent damage
- Check the oil level on the dipstick – it may be too low
- Make sure you used the correct type and amount of oil
- Check for any leaks that might have drained oil
- If everything looks correct but the light stays on, don’t drive the car – have it inspected by a professional
Can’t Remove the Oil Filter
If you can’t get the old filter off:
- Try a different type of filter wrench – strap-style, cap-style, or plier-style
- If it’s still stuck, you can carefully drive a screwdriver through the filter and use it as a lever (this will make a mess, so have rags ready)
- For future reference, don’t overtighten the filter when installing
Stripped Drain Plug
If you’ve accidentally stripped the drain plug or oil pan threads:
- You can try installing an oversized, self-tapping drain plug
- For a more permanent fix, you can install a helicoil insert
- In severe cases, you might need to replace the oil pan
- Consider having a professional handle this repair if you’re not comfortable with it
Cost Analysis: DIY vs. Professional Service
Let’s break down the costs of changing your own oil versus having it done professionally:
DIY Oil Change Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Conventional oil (5 quarts) | $20-25 |
| Synthetic oil (5 quarts) | $30-35 |
| Oil filter | $5-12 |
| Drain plug washer | $1-2 |
| Total (conventional) | $26-39 |
| Total (synthetic) | $36-49 |
These costs don’t include the initial purchase of tools, which might be $50-100 for a basic set. However, these tools will last for many oil changes.
Professional Oil Change Costs
| Service Provider | Cost (Conventional) | Cost (Synthetic) |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Lube Chain | $35-50 | $55-75 |
| Independent Shop | $40-60 | $60-80 |
| Nissan Dealership | $50-70 | $70-90 |
Long-Term Savings
Let’s say you drive 15,000 miles per year and change your oil every 5,000 miles (three times per year):
- DIY with conventional oil: $78-117 per year
- DIY with synthetic oil: $108-147 per year
- Professional with conventional oil: $105-210 per year
- Professional with synthetic oil: $165-270 per year
That’s a savings of $27-123 per year with conventional oil, or $57-123 per year with synthetic oil. Over five years of ownership, that’s $135-615 in savings!
Pro Tip: The savings are even greater if you use high-quality synthetic oil that allows you to extend your oil change intervals to 7,500-10,000 miles. This reduces the number of oil changes needed per year, further increasing your savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change the oil in my Nissan Altima?
For most Nissan Altima models, you should change your oil every 5,000 miles if using conventional oil, or every 7,500-10,000 miles if using synthetic oil. However, if you frequently drive in severe conditions (extreme temperatures, short trips, dusty environments), you may need to change it more often. Always check your owner’s manual for the specific recommendations for your model year.
Can I use 5W-20 oil instead of 5W-30 in my Altima?
While 5W-20 may work in some newer Altima models, it’s generally recommended to stick with the oil viscosity specified in your owner’s manual (typically 5W-30 for most models). Using a different viscosity can affect engine performance and longevity. If you’re unsure, check with a Nissan service technician or consult your owner’s manual.
Do I really need to use a torque wrench for the drain plug?
Yes, absolutely. I’ve seen countless cases of overtightened drain plugs that cracked the oil pan or stripped threads, leading to expensive repairs. A torque wrench ensures you tighten the plug to the exact specification (22-29 ft-lbs for most Altimas), preventing both leaks and damage. A basic torque wrench costs around $20-30 and is a worthwhile investment for any DIY mechanic.
Is it okay to use aftermarket oil filters instead of Nissan OEM filters?
While OEM filters are specifically designed for your engine, many high-quality aftermarket filters work just fine. Brands like Mobil 1, Wix, and Bosch make excellent filters that meet or exceed OEM specifications. However, I would avoid the cheapest generic filters you might find at discount stores – the few dollars you save aren’t worth the risk to your engine.
How do I reset the oil change light on my Altima?
The procedure varies by model year. For most recent models (2013+), you can reset the oil change light through the vehicle’s information display system. Typically, you’ll navigate to “Maintenance” > “Oil” > “Reset” using the steering wheel controls and display button. For older models, there might be a specific sequence of turning the ignition on and off while pressing the gas pedal. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact procedure for your model.
Can I reuse my drain plug washer?
It’s not recommended. The crush washer is designed to compress when tightened, creating a seal. Once used, it may not seal properly on reinstallation. These washers are inexpensive (usually $1-2), and replacing them with each oil change is cheap insurance against leaks.
Is it better to change oil when the engine is hot or cold?
It’s best to change oil when it’s warm but not hot. Warm oil flows more freely and carries more contaminants with it as it drains. However, if the engine is too hot, you risk burning yourself. Let the engine cool for about 30 minutes after driving before starting your oil change.
Conclusion
Performing your own Nissan Altima oil change is a rewarding and money-saving maintenance task that’s well within the capabilities of most DIY mechanics. With the right tools, materials, and knowledge, you can complete this job in about 30-45 minutes and save $30-50 each time compared to professional service.
Throughout this guide, I’ve shared the technical specifications, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips I’ve learned from 15+ years as an ASE-certified master technician. I’ve seen the consequences of neglected oil changes and improper oil service, and I can tell you that taking care of this simple maintenance task is one of the best things you can do for your Altima’s longevity.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY mechanic or just getting started with car maintenance, changing your own oil is a great skill to learn. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also gain confidence in working on your vehicle and develop a deeper understanding of how it works.
So next time your Altima is due for an oil change, consider doing it yourself. With this guide, you have all the information you need to do the job right. Your engine – and your wallet – will thank you.
Happy wrenching!