How to Change Oil on Your Nissan 350Z and 370Z

Why Regular Oil Changes Matter

Oil keeps your 350Z or 370Z engine running smoothly. Over time, oil breaks down and collects dirt and debris. Changing your oil at regular intervals helps your engine last longer and run better. Most Nissan Z owners change their oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, though you should check your owner's manual for the exact schedule your vehicle needs.

Fresh oil reduces friction inside the engine, helps it stay cool, and removes harmful particles. Neglecting oil changes can lead to engine damage that costs thousands to repair. By learning how to do this yourself, you save money and stay in control of your car's maintenance schedule.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these items so you have everything within reach:

• New oil (check your manual for the correct type and amount)
• New oil filter
• Oil drain pan
• Wrench or socket set
• Oil filter wrench
• Jack and jack stands (or ramps)
• Newspapers or cardboard to catch spills
• Rag or paper towels
• Funnel for pouring oil
• Oil cap wrench (if needed for your model)

Having everything ready before you begin makes the process smoother and keeps you from running back and forth to find tools. You can find most of these items at any auto parts store or online retailer.

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

Park your 350Z or 370Z on a level, flat surface. Engage the parking brake firmly. If your driveway is sloped, park so the front of the vehicle points downhill—this helps oil drain better and faster into your pan.

Let the engine cool for a few minutes if you've been driving. Warm oil drains faster than cold oil, but very hot oil can burn you. A lukewarm engine is ideal. You want the oil warm enough to flow but cool enough to touch the engine block without pain. This balance makes draining easier and safer.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the front of your car, then place jack stands underneath the frame for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack—this is dangerous and can cause serious injury. Always use stands as backup support. Lower the vehicle onto the stands slowly and carefully.

If you have ramps instead of a jack and stands, drive the front wheels onto the ramps slowly and carefully. Make sure the ramps are on level ground and won't slip. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for extra safety.

Step 3: Access the Drain Plug

Look underneath the engine for the oil drain plug. On the 350Z and 370Z, it's located at the bottom of the oil pan. You may need to remove a plastic undertray or splash guard to reach it—check your owner's manual if you're unsure. Place your drain pan underneath the plug to catch old oil.

Use your wrench to loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise. Once it's loose enough to turn by hand, carefully unscrew it the rest of the way. Oil may still be warm, so go slowly and use a rag to protect your hand from heat and spills.

Step 4: Drain the Old Oil

Let the old oil drain completely into the pan. This can take 5 to 10 minutes depending on how warm the oil is. While you wait, you can locate your oil filter and prepare to replace it. Use this time to organize your new filter and supplies nearby.

Once the oil stops dripping steadily, wipe the drain plug clean with a rag and set it aside on a clean surface. Check the rubber washer or gasket on the plug—if it looks cracked or damaged, replace it with a new one before reinstalling.

Step 5: Replace the Oil Filter

The oil filter on your Z is usually located on the side of the engine. Consult your manual if you can't find it right away. Use your oil filter wrench to loosen it by turning counterclockwise. Once loose, unscrew it by hand and let any remaining oil drain into your pan. Be prepared for a small amount of oil to spill.

Take your new filter and apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on top. This helps create a good seal and makes the next filter change easier. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the engine, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Hand-tight is all you need—over-tightening can damage the filter.

Step 6: Reinstall the Drain Plug

Screw the drain plug back in by hand first to make sure the threads line up correctly. Once hand-tight, use your wrench to snug it down firmly. Don't over-tighten—just make it snug enough that it won't leak. A good rule is to tighten it until you feel resistance, then give it a quarter turn more.

If your drain plug has a crush washer, you may want to replace it with a new one each time you change oil. This helps prevent leaks and is inexpensive. Check your owner's manual to see if this is recommended for your model.

Step 7: Add New Oil

Lower your vehicle back to the ground carefully using your jack. Once the vehicle is fully on the ground, remove the jack stands and any ramps. Locate the oil cap on top of the engine and unscrew it. Place a funnel in the opening to prevent spills.

Pour in the amount of new oil recommended in your owner's manual. For a 350Z or 370Z, this is typically around 4.5 to 5.5 quarts, depending on whether you're also replacing the filter. Add the oil slowly and carefully to avoid overfilling. You can always add more, but removing excess oil is messy.

Step 8: Check Your Work

Replace the oil cap securely. Start the engine and let it run for about one minute. This circulates the new oil through the engine and filter. Turn off the engine and wait one minute, then check the oil level using the dipstick or digital gauge on your dashboard.

Add a little more oil if needed to reach the full mark. Check underneath the vehicle for any leaks around the drain plug and filter. If you see drips, tighten the drain plug or filter slightly and recheck. Small drips may stop after a few minutes as the oil settles.

Step 9: Dispose of Old Oil

Never pour old oil down the drain or into the ground. This harms the environment and is illegal in most places. Take your old oil to a local recycling center, auto parts store, or service station that accepts used oil. Most places take it for free or may even give you a small discount on future purchases.

Many auto parts retailers will take your old oil when you buy new oil from them. Call ahead to confirm their policy. Some communities also have hazardous waste collection days where you can drop off used oil at no charge.

Final Tips

Keep track of when you change your oil so you know when the next one is due. Some people mark it on a calendar or keep a simple log in the glove box. This helps you stay on top of maintenance and keeps your 350Z or 370Z running strong for years to come.

Consider labeling your new oil filter with the date and mileage using a marker. This makes it easy to remember when your last change was. Over time, you'll become faster and more confident with the process, and it will feel like a routine part of caring for your Z.

Key Takeaways

• Regular oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles keep your 350Z or 370Z engine healthy and running smoothly.
• Gather all tools and supplies before you start to make the process faster and easier.
• Always use jack stands for safety—never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
• Let old oil drain completely, replace the filter, and add the correct amount of new oil recommended in your manual.
• Check for leaks after starting the engine and dispose of old oil responsibly at a recycling center or auto parts store.
• Keep a simple log of your oil changes to stay on top of your maintenance schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in my 350Z or 370Z?

Most Nissan Z owners change their oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, the exact interval depends on your driving habits and the type of oil you use. Synthetic oil often lasts longer than conventional oil. Check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendation for your specific model year and driving conditions.

What type of oil should I use in my 350Z or 370Z?

Your owner's manual specifies the correct oil type and viscosity for your vehicle. Common recommendations for Z models include 5W-30 or 10W-30. Using the wrong oil type can affect engine performance and longevity. When in doubt, consult your manual or call a Nissan dealer to confirm the right choice for your model year.

Can I change my oil without lifting the vehicle?

It's very difficult to reach the drain plug and filter without lifting the vehicle or using ramps. Most Z owners find it necessary to raise the front end to gain enough clearance. Ramps or a jack with stands make the job much easier and safer. If you're uncomfortable with lifting, consider having a professional handle this maintenance task.

What should I do if oil leaks after I reinstall the drain plug?

Small drips may stop after a few minutes as the oil settles. If leaking continues, turn off the engine and let it cool slightly. Tighten the drain plug a quarter turn more using your wrench. If the leak persists, the drain plug or its gasket may be damaged and need replacement. Remove the plug and inspect it carefully.

How do I know if I've added too much oil?

Check the oil level using your dipstick or digital gauge after the engine has run and cooled slightly. The level should reach the full mark. If it's above the full mark, you've added too much. Excess oil can damage the engine. Use a turkey baster or oil extractor to remove the excess until the level is correct.