What Type of Oil Does a Nissan Altima Take? Viscosity, Capacity & Specs
Modern Nissan Altima sedans (2013 to present) require Full Synthetic 0W-20 Motor Oil meeting API SP / ILSAC GF-6 specifications for both the standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and the advanced 2.0L Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine. Older model years (pre-2013) and 3.5L V6 models utilize 5W-30 or 5W-20 motor oil. Using the exact viscosity and oil capacity guarantees optimal fuel economy and protects internal timing components.
Nissan Altima Oil Viscosity & Capacity by Model Year & Engine
Factory oil specifications across Nissan Altima generations:
| Model Year Range | Engine Option | Recommended Oil Viscosity | Oil Capacity (With Filter) | Recommended Service Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 – Present (6th Gen) | 2.5L DOHC 4-Cylinder (PR25DD) | Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20 | 5.4 Quarts (5.1 Liters) | 5,000 – 7,500 Miles / 6 Months |
| 2019 – Present (6th Gen) | 2.0L VC-Turbo 4-Cyl (KR20DDET) | Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20 | 5.0 Quarts (4.7 Liters) | 5,000 Miles / 6 Months |
| 2013 – 2018 (5th Gen) | 2.5L 4-Cylinder (QR25DE) | Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20 | 4.9 Quarts (4.6 Liters) | 5,000 – 7,500 Miles |
| 2013 – 2018 (5th Gen) | 3.5L V6 (VQ35DE) | Synthetic / Conventional SAE 5W-30 | 5.1 Quarts (4.8 Liters) | 5,000 Miles |
| 2007 – 2012 (4th Gen) | 2.5L 4-Cyl / 3.5L V6 | SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 | 4.9 Quarts / 4.8 Quarts | 3,750 – 5,000 Miles |
Why Full Synthetic 0W-20 Is Essential for Nissan Engines
Modern Nissan engines feature tight internal bearing tolerances and hydraulic Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoids. High-viscosity 0W-20 synthetic oil flows instantaneously during cold winter morning startups (the '0W' rating), preventing dry metal-on-metal camshaft friction while maintaining high thermal breakdown resistance at high highway speeds.
How to Change Oil on a Nissan Altima in 4 Steps
DIY oil and filter change procedure.
Step 1: Lift Front End and Remove Underbody Splash Shield
Safely raise car on jack stands and pop off plastic push clips to access oil pan and filter.
Step 2: Drain Warm Engine Oil into Collection Pan
Loosen the 14mm oil drain plug and let dirty oil drain for 10 minutes, replacing the copper crush washer.
Step 3: Replace Oil Filter (Fram / OEM Nissan 15208-65F0E)
Lube the new rubber O-ring with fresh oil and hand-tighten filter 3/4 turn past contact.
Step 4: Refill with 5.4 Quarts of 0W-20 Synthetic Oil and Reset Maintenance Meter
Pour in fresh oil, check dipstick level, and reset the dashboard oil maintenance reminder.
Frequently Asked Questions (7 Questions Answered)
Q1: Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 in my Nissan Altima?
For emergency top-offs, 5W-30 can be used, but Nissan recommends replacing it with 0W-20 at the next oil change to maintain fuel efficiency and cold-start lubrication.
Q2: How many quarts of oil does a 2020 Nissan Altima take?
A 2020 Nissan Altima 2.5L takes 5.4 US quarts (5.1 liters) of 0W-20 oil with a new oil filter replacement.
Q3: How often should you change oil in a Nissan Altima?
With full synthetic oil, change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 months (5,000 miles for VC-Turbo models).
Q4: What happens if you use conventional oil in a newer Altima?
Conventional oil breaks down faster under high engine temperatures, leading to sludge buildup in variable valve timing solenoids and potentially voiding manufacturer warranties.
Q5: What size oil drain plug socket is on a Nissan Altima?
Nissan Altima oil pan drain plugs universally use a standard 14mm hex socket.
Q6: How do you reset the oil change light on a Nissan Altima?
Use the steering wheel menu buttons to navigate to Settings > Maintenance > Oil and Filter > Reset.
Q7: Does the Altima VC-Turbo engine require special synthetic oil?
Yes, the 2.0L VC-Turbo requires high-grade API SP / ILSAC GF-6 certified full synthetic 0W-20 to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and turbo bearing wear.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding what type of oil does a nissan altima take? viscosity, capacity & specs provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.