2016 Nissan Altima Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2016 Nissan Altima takes 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil, meeting API SN or SN Plus standards, for both its 2.5L 4-cylinder and 3.5L V6 engines.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.8 US Quarts (4.5 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20
• Oil Spec: API SN or SN Plus, or ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6
• OEM Oil Filter: Nissan 15208-9E01A or 15208-9E000
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: PH6607
  • Wix: 57356
  • Mobil 1: M1-110A

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

For the 2016 Nissan Altima, recommended oil change intervals vary based on driving conditions:

• Normal Duty: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Severe duty includes conditions like frequent short trips, extensive idling, towing, driving in dusty conditions, or extreme temperatures.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for the 2016 Nissan Altima should be torqued to 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm). Always use a new crush washer with each oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Nissan typically uses a 12mm crush washer.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your 2016 Nissan Altima is a straightforward process for the DIY mechanic:

1. Gather Supplies: New oil, oil filter, appropriate wrenches (often 14mm for the drain plug), drain pan, funnel, and jack/jack stands if needed.
2. Warm Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, allowing it to drain more easily.
3. Lift and Secure (if necessary): Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and support it with jack stands.
4. Locate Drain Plug: The drain plug is on the bottom of the oil pan, usually towards the front or middle of the engine.
5. Drain Oil: Place your drain pan beneath the plug, then carefully remove the drain plug, allowing all the old oil to drain. Inspect the old crush washer.
6. Replace Filter: Locate the oil filter (often on the passenger side towards the front of the engine, or sometimes from the top on some models of the 2.5L), unscrew it, and let any remaining oil drain. Apply a thin film of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before screwing it on hand-tight plus about ¾ of a turn.
7. Replace Drain Plug: Install a new crush washer on the drain plug and tighten it to the specified torque of 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
8. Add New Oil: Lower the vehicle. Using a funnel, add 4.8 quarts of new 0W-20 oil to the engine through the oil filler cap.
9. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the oil. Turn it off, wait a few minutes, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Top off if necessary.
10. Dispose of Old Oil: Properly dispose of your used oil and filter at a local recycling center or auto parts store.

Common Issues / Tips

• CVT Transmission Fluid: The 2016 Altima, like many Nissans of this generation, uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While not related to engine oil, it's a critical fluid to maintain. Consult your owner's manual for the specific CVT fluid type and service intervals. Do not confuse engine oil and CVT fluid.
• Oil Filter Location: On some 2.5L models, the oil filter can be accessed from the top of the engine bay, making changes easier. On others, and typically on the 3.5L V6, it's accessed from underneath the vehicle.
• PCV Valve: A clogged PCV valve can lead to increased oil consumption and other engine issues. It's a relatively inexpensive part to replace and worth inspecting during higher mileage oil changes.
• Oil Consumption (2.5L Engine): Some 2.5L QR25DE engines from this era have been known to exhibit higher than normal oil consumption. While Nissan addressed this with updated piston rings in later models, it's important to regularly check your oil level between changes, even if your vehicle isn't showing symptoms.

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