The best motor oil for Nissan Altima is a question that many car owners are asking themselves these days. There are countless brands of motor oil available, which can make it difficult to find the best one for your vehicle. In this article, we will discuss the best oils on the market for Nissan Altimas and why you should choose them over others. If you have any questions about which type of motor oil will best suit your needs or what you need to do when changing your engine’s oil, please leave a comment below!
The Nissan Altima is a well-rounded mid-size automobile that bridges the gap between less and more popular choices in the category. The Nissan isn’t as good in every aspect as the Honda Accord or as generic as the VW Passat. Instead, it’s notable for its attractive appearance, pleasant cabin, and unexpected athleticism. Its available all-wheel-drive system is a popular choice even though it doesn’t provide much additional capability.
All-wheel-drive isn’t compatible with the Nissan Altima’s modest four-cylinder engine, therefore buyers who are tempted by the more powerful VC-Turbo option are out of luck. Despite not having a hybrid or plug-in-hybrid edition like other family sedans, every Nissan Altima is notably fuel-efficient. You get a great automobile that most people will love when you combine its additional pleasurable elements.
2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
2018-2022 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
2.5L 4-cyl PR25DD engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 5.4 quarts (5.1 liters);
- Oil Type: 0W-20;
- Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 25 ft/lbs.
2.0L 4-cyl KR20DDET Turbo engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 5 quarts (4.7 liters);
- Oil Type: 5W-30;
- Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 25 ft/lbs.
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
2013-2017 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
3.5L 6-cyl VQ35DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters);
- Oil Type: 0W-20, 5W-30;
- Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 25 ft/lbs.
2.5L 4-cyl QR25DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters);
- Oil Type: 0W-20, 5W-30;
- Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 25 ft/lbs.
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
2007-2012 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
3.5L 6-cyl VQ35DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters);
- Oil Type: 5W-30;
- Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 25 ft/lbs.
2.5L 4-cyl QR25DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters);
- Oil Type: 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W-30;
- Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 25 ft/lbs.
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
2002-2006 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
3.5L 6-cyl VQ35DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 4.4 quarts (4.2 liters);
- Oil Type: 10W-30, 10W-40 (Above -18 °C)
5W-30 (All Temperatures); - Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 25 ft/lbs.
2.5L 4-cyl QR25DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 4.4 quarts (4.2 liters);
- Oil Type: 10W-30, 10W-40 (Above -18 °C)
5W-30 (All Temperatures); - Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 22-29 ft/lbs.
1998 1999 2000 2001 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
1998-2001 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
2.4L 4-cyl KA24DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 3.6 quarts (3.4 liters);
- Oil Type: 10W-30, 10W-40 (Above -18 °C)
5W-30 (All Temperatures); - Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 22-29 ft/lbs.
1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
1993-1997 Nissan Altima Engine Oil Capacity
2.4L 4-cyl KA24DE engine:
- Engine Oil Capacity with filter: 4.1 quarts (3.9 liters);
- Oil Type: 10W-30, 10W-40 (Above -18 °C)
5W-30 (All Temperatures); - Oil pan drain plug tightening torque: 22-29 ft/lbs.
How Much Oil Does a Nissan Altima Take?
2022 2.5L PR25DD Nissan Altima takes 5.4 quarts (5.1 liters) of 0W-20 oil. Choosing the wrong grade, quality, or viscosity of engine oil can result in reduced engine life and performance.
Only engine oils that have been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API) or International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) and adhere to the SAE viscosity requirement should be used.
API certification seals the front of the container. On the label, look for API certification marks to indicate that you’re using oils with valid quality standards. Oils that aren’t labeled as such might damage your engine.
Recommended Engine Oil For Nissan Altima
Oil additives are not recommended by NISSAN. When the correct oil is used and maintenance timings are adhered to, the usage of an oil additive is irrelevant. It’s best to avoid using any gear that has previously been in use or contains foreign particles.
Oil viscosity varies with temperature, which is why it’s important to pick an oil viscosity appropriate for the temperatures at which the car will be driven before its next oil change. Using a viscosity other than that recommended by the manufacturer may cause significant engine damage.
Best Nissan Altima 0W-20 Oil
- Genuine Nissan Synthetic 0W-20 Motor Oil
- Suitable For All Makes & Models That Require 0W-20 Motor Oil
- Meets The Requirements of ILSAC GF-5 API,SN,SM,SL
- Manufactured By ExxonMobil Oil Corporation
- Qty. (6 Quarts)
- Genuine Nissan 0W-20 Oil Change Kit
- Qty. 5 Quarts of Genuine Nissan Motor Oil 0W-20
- Includes Genuine Nissan Oil Filter 15208-65F0E (Small Nissan Filter)
- Includes Copper Washer 11026-JA00A
- Manufactured By ExxonMobil Oil Corporation
- Advanced protection against the four main causes of engine breakdown: wear friction heat and deposits
- Full synthetic 0W-20 formula offers 24X stronger protection against engine-killing contaminants than the leading full synthetic motor oil
- 40% better wear protection vs. industry standards as tested in the Sequence IVB engine test
- 25% better deposit protection with superior engine cleaning detergents as tested in the GMOD engine test
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN, GM dexos 1 Gen 3
- 6X better wear protection on critical engine parts than industry standards**
- 1.3X better sludge protection than industry standards*
- 3X Stronger against viscosity breakdown than leading full synthetic^
- Protection for 10,000 miles between oil changes
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN | ILSAC GF-6 | GM dexos1 Gen 3 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C962-A1 |
- Our best performing high mileage motor oil is formulated with ultra MaxLife Technology, the ultimate protection for vehicles with more than 75,000 miles
- 24X stronger protection against water intrusion than the industry-leading synthetic motor oil — it fights rust, corrosion, and other threats to help maximize vehicle life
- Designed with premium seal conditioners to treat and prevent oil leaks
- 10X stronger against oil breakdown and 50% greater wear protection than industry standards
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN
- Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy full-synthetic motor oil 0W-20 is low-viscosity to help improve fuel economy.*
- Utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness
- Helps protect critical engine parts for up to 10,000 miles between oil changesm,** controlling oxidation to prevent oil breakdown and maintaining excellent viscosity
- Meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean
- Helps extend engine life by working to prevent damaging deposits and sludge buildup
- Advanced protection against the four main causes of engine breakdown: wear friction heat and deposits
- Full synthetic formula offers 24X stronger protection against engine-killing contaminants than the leading full synthetic motor oil
- 40% better wear protection vs. industry standards as tested in the Sequence IVB engine test
- 25% better deposit protection with superior engine cleaning detergents as tested in the GMOD engine test
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN, GM dexos 1 Gen 3
- 3X Stronger than the leading full synthetic*
- 10X Better high stress performance**
- 20,000 miles between oil changes***
- Viscosity breakdown as measured in Kurt Orbahn test on 5W-30 grade
- As measured in Seq IX test under high load/torque conditions vs. API SQ test limits
- Ultimate protection against wear, friction, heat and deposits, the main reasons for engine breakdown
- 24X stronger protection against water contamination than the industry-leading synthetic motor oil — it fights rust, corrosion, and other threats to help maximize vehicle life
- Dual Defense Additive Technology helps keep your engine clean and running at peak performance for optimal fuel economy and performance
- 10X stronger against oil breakdown and 50% greater wear protection than industry standards
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN, dexos 1 Gen 3
Best Nissan Altima 5W-30 Oil
- Genuine Nissan 5W-30 Oil Change Kit
- Qty. 5 Quarts of Genuine Nissan Motor Oil 5W-30
- Includes Genuine Nissan Oil Filter 15208-65F0E (Small Nissan Filter)
- Includes Copper Washer 11026-JA00A
- Manufactured By ExxonMobil Oil Corporation
- MaxLife Technology prevents engine breakdown with 40% better wear protection than the industry standard
- Includes seal conditioners to reduce oil consumption and oil leaks in high mileage engines.
- Added detergents reduce sludge, corrosion, rust and deposits to help keep motors clean inside and ensure a smooth-running engine.
- Advanced friction-fighting additives help maximize performance and improve fuel efficiency.
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN
- Mobil 1 advanced full-synthetic motor oil 5W-30 utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness.
- Helps protect critical engine parts for up to 10,000 miles between oil changes,* controlling oxidation to prevent oil breakdown and maintaining excellent viscosity
- Meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean and helping to improve your fuel economy
- Mobil 1 is specially formulated to help remove sludge and lower engine temperatures
- Provides excellent internal engine heat protection (up to 500 degrees F) and low temperature protection (to -30 degrees F)
- 6X better wear protection on critical engine parts than industry standards**
- 1.3X better sludge protection than industry standards*
- 3X Stronger against viscosity breakdown than leading full synthetic^
- Protection for 10,000 miles between oil changes
- As measured in Sequence VH sludge test vs. API SP limits
- 3X Stronger than the leading full synthetic*
- 10X Better high stress performance**
- 20,000 miles between oil changes***
- Viscosity breakdown as measured in Kurt Orbahn test on 5W-30 grade
- As measured in Seq IX test under high load/torque conditions vs. API SQ test limits
- Phosphorus Replacement Technology to help extend the life of the emission system
- Reduces leaks, oil burnoff and power robbing deposits
- 15,000 miles between oil changes*
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN/SM | ILSAC GF-6 | Meets engine test requirements of Chrysler MS 6395 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C961-A3
- Or one year, whichever comes first
- Our most advanced full synthetic 5W-30 engine oil, designed for unbeatable engine protection*
- Pennzoil Ultra Platinum comes with a 20-year, 750,000 mile warranty** to protect your engine and give you peace of mind to drive every mile as hard as you can
- Made with natural gas
- Outstanding performance in extreme temperatures
- Designed for high-performance engines, it helps protect engines from loss of power
- MAXLIFE TECHNOLOGY PREVENTS engine breakdown with 40% better wear protection than the industry standard
- REFRESH AGING SEALS AND PREVENT LEAKS with seal conditioners
- REDUCE SLUDGE, DEPOSITS, CORROSION, AND RUST with added detergents – keep motors clean inside
- ENHANCED FRICTION PERFORMANCE HELPS MAXIMIZE POWER with advanced friction-fighting agents
- MEETS OR EXCEEDS ALL REQUIREMENTS of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN PLUS, API SN
Best Nissan Altima 5W-20 Oil
- Mobil 1 High Mileage full-synthetic motor oil 5W-20 is designed for engines with over 75,000 miles to go up to 10,000 miles between oil changes.*
- Utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness
- Meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean and helping to improve your fuel economy
- Provides excellent internal engine heat protection (up to 500 degrees F) and low temperature protection (to -30 degrees F)
- Mobil 1 is specially formulated to help remove sludge and lower engine temperatures
- MaxLife Technology prevents engine breakdown with 40% better wear protection than the industry standard
- Includes seal conditioners to reduce oil consumption and oil leaks in high mileage engines.
- Added detergents reduce sludge, corrosion, rust and deposits to help keep motors clean inside and ensure a smooth-running engine.
- Advanced friction-fighting additives help maximize performance and improve fuel efficiency.
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN
- Advanced protection against the four main causes of engine breakdown: wear friction heat and deposits
- 40% better wear protection vs. industry standards as tested in the Sequence IVB engine test
- 25% better deposit protection with superior engine cleaning detergents as tested in the GMOD engine test
- Full synthetic formula offers 24X stronger protection against engine-killing contaminants than the leading full synthetic motor oil
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN
- 6X better wear protection on critical engine parts than industry standards**
- 1.3X better sludge protection than industry standards*
- 3X Stronger against viscosity breakdown than leading full synthetic^
- Protection for 10,000 miles between oil changes
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN | ILSAC GF-6 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C960-A1 |
- Advanced protection against the four main causes of engine breakdown: wear friction heat and deposits
- Full synthetic 0W-20 formula offers 24X stronger protection against engine-killing contaminants than the leading full synthetic motor oil
- 40% better wear protection vs. industry standards as tested in the Sequence IVB engine test
- 25% better deposit protection with superior engine cleaning detergents as tested in the GMOD engine test
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN, GM dexos 1 Gen 3
- Phosphorus Replacement Technology to help extend the life of the emission system
- Reduces leaks, oil burnoff and power robbing deposits
- 15,000 miles between oil changes*
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN/SM ILSAC GF-6 | Meets engine test requirements of Chrysler MS 6395 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 | Meets Ford WSS-M2C960-A1
- Or one year, whichever comes first
- Advanced protection against the four main causes of engine breakdown: wear friction heat and deposits
- Full synthetic formula offers 24X stronger protection against engine-killing contaminants than the leading full synthetic motor oil
- 40% better wear protection vs. industry standards as tested in the Sequence IVB engine test
- 25% better deposit protection with superior engine cleaning detergents as tested in the GMOD engine test
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN, GM dexos 1 Gen 3
Best Nissan Altima 10W-30 Oil
- MaxLife Technology prevents engine breakdown with 40% better wear protection than the industry standard
- Includes seal conditioners to reduce oil consumption and oil leaks in high mileage engines.
- Added detergents reduce sludge, corrosion, rust and deposits to help keep motors clean inside and ensure a smooth-running engine.
- Advanced friction-fighting additives help maximize performance and improve fuel efficiency.
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN
- 10W-30 motor oil formulated to keep engines clean and responsive
- Provides proven wear protection (based on Sequence IVA wear test using SAE 5W-30)
- Helps prevent dirt and contaminants from turning into performance-robbing deposits
- Compatible with engine seals and all conventional oils
- Suitable for all car, SUV, light van, and truck gasoline engines under all driving conditions
- Advanced protection against viscosity and thermal breakdown
- Superior protection against engine sludge
- Premium quality base oils and anti-wear additives to help extend the life of your engine
- Helps minimize oil consumption
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN/SM | ILSAC GF-6
- Mobil 1 advanced full-synthetic motor oil 10W-30 utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness.
- Helps protect critical engine parts for up to 10,000 miles between oil changes,* controlling oxidation to prevent oil breakdown and maintaining excellent viscosity
- Meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean and helping to improve your fuel economy
- Mobil 1 is specially formulated to help remove sludge and lower engine temperatures
- Provides excellent internal engine heat protection (up to 500 degrees F) and low temperature protection (to -30 degrees F)
- Phosphorus Replacement Technology helps extend emission system life
- Superior dispersancy that fights sludge build up
- Exceptional oil burn-off protection exceeding industry standards* | Seal conditioners to help reduce leaks
- Advanced additives that help prevent engine wear | Improved Fuel Economy**
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN/SM | ILSAC GF-6 | * Based on API and ACEA volatility specifications ** In 5W-20, 5W-30 and 10W-30 grades versus industry specifications
- SAE 10W-30 MOTOR OIL FOR SMALL ENGINES: One 32 fl oz bottle of STP Premium Synthetic Blend 4 Cycle Small Engine Oil SAE 10W-30, formulated for small engines in lawnmowers, generators, tractors, snow blowers, and other outdoor power equipment
- ALL-WEATHER FORMULA: This 4 cycle engine oil is a synthetic blend with an all-weather formula that promotes easier starts all year and can be used in all seasons
- FIGHTS THERMAL BREAKDOWN: Antioxidants fight thermal breakdown to enhance oil durability, helping the SAE 10W-30 oil handle high temperatures without losing its effectiveness
- REDUCES ENGINE WEAR AND OIL CONSUMPTION: Anti-Wear Technology minimizes engine wear, while the viscosity index improver helps reduce oil consumption and provides consistent lubrication at a wide range of temperatures
- PREVENTS BUILDUP: Detergents help keep small engine components clean and control carbon deposits, preventing buildup that can affect performance and start-up
Best Nissan Altima 10W-40 Oil
- MaxLife Technology prevents engine breakdown with 40% better wear protection than the industry standard
- Includes seal conditioners to reduce oil consumption and oil leaks in high mileage engines.
- Added detergents reduce sludge, corrosion, rust and deposits to help keep motors clean inside and ensure a smooth-running engine.
- Advanced friction-fighting additives help maximize performance and improve fuel efficiency.
- Meets or exceeds all requirements of ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, API SN with SN Plus, API SN
- Mobil 1 High Mileage full-synthetic motor oil 10W-40 is designed for engines with over 75,000 miles to go up to 10,000 miles between oil changes.*
- Utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness
- Meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean and helping to improve your fuel economy
- Provides excellent internal engine heat protection (up to 500 degrees F) and low temperature protection (to -30 degrees F)
- Mobil 1 is specially formulated to help remove sludge and lower engine temperatures
- Advanced protection against viscosity and thermal breakdown
- Superior protection against engine sludge
- Premium quality base oils and anti-wear additives to help extend the life of your engine
- Helps minimize oil consumption
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN/SM | ILSAC GF-6
- Phosphorus Replacement Technology helps extend emission system life
- Superior dispersancy that fights sludge build up
- Exceptional oil burn-off protection exceeding industry standards* | Seal conditioners to help reduce leaks
- Advanced additives that help prevent engine wear | Improved Fuel Economy**
- High Mileage 10W-40 engine oil specially formulated to help stop leaks and reduce oil consumption in worn engines
- Recommended for vehicles with more than 75,000 miles
- Helps prevent sludge and other damaging deposits
- Proven wear protection for engine parts
- Suitable for modern turbocharged engines where low-speed pre-ignition protection is required
Recommended Engine Oil Filter For Nissan Altima
A Genuine NISSAN oil filter is included with your new NISSAN vehicle. Use a genuine NISSAN oil filter or one that is equivalent for the reason outlined in “Change intervals.”
- Proven protection for up to 10,000 miles
- Engineered for use with conventional or synthetic motor oil
- A special blend of fibers and resin creates a proprietary filter media that captures 95% of dirt particles that can cause harmful engine wear
- Designed for everyday drivers who perform frequent maintenance on their vehicles
- 95% dirt-trapping efficiency
- Vehicle Specific
- Manufacturer Warranty
- NIssan Quality Assured
- OEM, Not After Market
- Vehicle Specific
- ADVANCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE: Keep your engine clean for up to 15,000 miles thanks to high-density synthetic blend filter media; Expanded dirt-holding capacity captures over 99% of dirt; PurolatorONE gets the job done
- SYNTHETIC MEDIA: Made from high-density synthetic blend, these oil filters have long-lasting filtration capabilities, increasing time between oil changes and performance
- LEAK-PROOF SEAL: Thanks to the PTFE-Treated Gasket, you can rest easy knowing your engine is safe from leakage; It's heat resistant and flexible, and it's also easy to install and replace
- PROPER LUBRICATION: No dry starts—even after your vehicle has been sitting idle—thanks to the Silicone Anti-Drainback Valve; It keeps consistent oil flow and saves your engine from wear and tear during start-up, extending its lifespan
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Wear-resistant metal end caps and the Double-Helix High-Flow Center Tube provide structural integrity to the filter so it can withstand harsher conditions; It's built to last, keeping your engine strong for the long run
- Exclusive FILTECH media technology screens out and holds on to up to 14 grams of dirt and particles, preventing it from circulating throughout your engine and causing damaging wear that can lead to engine failure
- OE fit ensured through strong steel base plates and housings that prevent warpage, leaks and poor fit
- Silicone anti-drain back valve ensures engine receives a supply of clean oil when the vehicle is started
- High lubricity gasket design provides a tight, leak proof seal, yet allows for easy removal when it's time for an oil change; Metal spiral-wound center tube reinforces internal strength for durability
- Compatible with select vehicles including, but not limited to, the following (Note: vehicle trim level/engine may affect fitment - verify specific vehicle fitment details with fit checker above): CHEVROLET: 15-18 City Express; HONDA: 00-06 Insight
Change Intervals
The engine oil and filter changes are based on the use of approved high-quality oils and filters. Engine oil and filters that aren’t of the recommended quality, or changing them more frequently than necessary, may harm your vehicle’s performance and extend its life.
The NISSAN New Vehicle Limited Warranty does not cover damage to the engine caused by poor maintenance or using low-quality or thick oils and inadequate/viscous oil change intervals.
When your car was built, the manufacturer specified high-quality engine oil be used. There is no need to change the oil before the first scheduled service interval. The frequency of oil and filter changes is determined by how you drive your automobile.
When the vehicle is operated in the following circumstances, it will require more oil and filter changes:
- repeated short distance driving at cold outside temperatures
- driving in dusty conditions
- extensive idling
- stop and go commuting
Last update on 2025-07-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API