How to Change Your Nissan Altima's Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Why Regular Oil Changes Matter
Oil keeps your Altima's engine running smoothly. Over time, oil breaks down and gets dirty, which can hurt how your engine works. Changing your oil regularly helps your engine last longer and run better.
Most Altimas need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, though newer models may go longer. Check your owner's manual for the right schedule for your specific year and model.
What You'll Need
Before you start, gather these items:
- New oil (the right type and amount for your Altima)
- A new oil filter
- An oil drain pan
- A wrench or socket set
- An oil filter wrench
- Jack and jack stands (if you need to lift the car)
- Ramps (optional, instead of a jack)
- Newspaper or cardboard (to catch spills)
- Gloves and old clothes
You can find these items at auto parts stores or online. Your owner's manual will tell you what type and weight of oil your Altima needs.
Step 1: Prepare Your Car
Park your Altima on a flat, level surface. Let the engine run for a few minutes to warm up the oil—warm oil flows better than cold oil. Then turn off the engine and let it cool for a minute or two.
Put on your gloves. If you need more room to work underneath the car, use ramps or a jack with jack stands to lift it safely. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Oil Drain Plug
Look underneath your Altima near the engine. You'll find the oil drain plug—a bolt sticking down from the oil pan. Slide your drain pan underneath it.
Use your wrench to loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise. Once it's loose enough, finish unscrewing it by hand. Be careful—the oil may still be warm. Let all the old oil drain completely into the pan. This may take a few minutes.
Step 3: Replace the Drain Plug
Once the oil has stopped dripping, wipe the drain plug clean with a rag. Screw it back in by hand first, then tighten it with your wrench. Don't overtighten it—just make it snug.
Step 4: Remove the Old Oil Filter
Find the oil filter on your engine. It's usually a cylindrical canister. Position your drain pan underneath it to catch any oil that spills out.
Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the filter by turning it counterclockwise. Once it's loose, unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Let the old oil drip out into the pan.
Step 5: Install the New Oil Filter
Take your new oil filter and apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket (the ring) on top of the filter. This helps create a good seal.
Screw the new filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket touches the engine. Then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Don't use the wrench—hand-tight is correct.
Step 6: Add New Oil
Open the hood and locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine. Twist it counterclockwise to remove it.
Pour in the amount of new oil recommended in your owner's manual. Start with slightly less than the full amount, then check the dipstick to see where the level is. Add more oil as needed until it reaches the "full" mark on the dipstick.
Replace the oil filler cap by twisting it clockwise until it's snug.
Step 7: Check Your Work
Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. Look underneath to make sure there are no leaks around the drain plug or oil filter. If you see drips, turn off the engine and tighten those connections a bit more.
Turn off the engine and wait a minute. Then check the dipstick again to make sure the oil level is still in the right range.
Step 8: Dispose of Old Oil
Never pour old oil down the drain or into the ground. Take it to an auto parts store, recycling center, or service station. Most places take used oil for free.
Tips for Success
- Work in good lighting so you can see what you're doing
- Keep a rag handy to wipe up spills
- Don't rush—take your time to do it right
- If you're not comfortable working under your car, a mechanic can do this for you
Changing your own oil can save you money and help you understand your Altima better. With practice, the job gets quicker and easier each time.