2018 Nissan Altima Fluid Type Specs

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	SAE 0W-20, API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6	4.9 US Quarts (4.65 Liters) with filter
Engine Coolant	Nissan Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant	7.6 US Quarts (7.2 Liters)
Transmission Fluid	Nissan NS-3 CVT Fluid	Consult owner's manual for specific procedure
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	Consult owner's manual or service manual
Power Steering	Electric Power Steering (no serviceable fluid)	N/A
Washer Fluid	Nissan Genuine Windshield Washer Fluid or equivalent	Consult owner's manual

Engine Oil

For the 2018 Nissan Altima, the manufacturer specifies SAE 0W-20 engine oil. It is crucial to use oil that meets API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 standards. These certifications ensure the oil meets the necessary requirements for engine protection, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. Always check for these designations on the oil bottle.

Capacity: The engine oil capacity for the 2018 Nissan Altima is approximately 4.9 US Quarts (4.65 Liters) when replacing the oil filter. It's important to always verify the correct fill level using the dipstick after adding oil, as slight variations can occur.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Nissan recommends engine oil and filter changes typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. However, severe driving conditions (frequent short trips, towing, extreme temperatures, dusty environments) may require more frequent changes. Refer to your owner's manual for the precise maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

Using an incorrect oil viscosity or an oil that does not meet the specified API/ILSAC standards can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential engine damage. Never use just any 0W-20 oil; always ensure it carries the correct certifications.

Engine Coolant

The 2018 Nissan Altima requires Nissan Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant. This is typically a blue-colored, ethylene glycol-based, silicate-free, long-life coolant. Nissan does not publicly provide a specific numeric spec for this coolant, but it is proprietary to Nissan and designed for extended service intervals.

Capacity: The total cooling system capacity for the 2018 Nissan Altima is approximately 7.6 US Quarts (7.2 Liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: The Nissan long-life coolant typically has a service life of 100,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. However, it's always best to consult your owner's manual for the exact recommended service interval.

Crucially, never mix different types of coolants. Mixing Nissan's proprietary long-life coolant with conventional (green) coolants or other types (like HOAT or OAT coolants from different manufacturers) can lead to chemical incompatibilities. This can cause gelling, corrosion, and damage to the cooling system components, including the radiator, water pump, and heater core. Always use Nissan Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or an approved equivalent that explicitly states compatibility with Nissan vehicles.

Transmission Fluid

The 2018 Nissan Altima is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This transmission requires Nissan NS-3 CVT Fluid. It is absolutely critical to use only NS-3 fluid for this transmission. Using any other type of transmission fluid, including "universal" CVT fluids or conventional automatic transmission fluids (ATF), will severely damage the transmission and void your warranty.

Capacity: The transmission fluid capacity for a drain and refill can vary. Due to the complexity of CVT fluid changes and the precise filling procedures, it is generally recommended to consult your owner's manual or an authorized Nissan service center for specific capacity and procedure details. Overfilling or underfilling can both lead to transmission issues.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Nissan typically recommends inspecting the CVT fluid every 30,000 miles and replacing it every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, if your vehicle is subjected to severe driving conditions (towing, commercial use, frequent stop-and-go traffic, very hot climates), more frequent fluid changes may be necessary. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate service intervals.

Never use universal ATF or any fluid not specifically designated as Nissan NS-3 CVT Fluid. The internal components and operational characteristics of a Nissan CVT are highly sensitive to the specific friction modifiers and properties of the NS-3 fluid. Incorrect fluid will lead to shuddering, slipping, premature wear, and eventual transmission failure.

Front and Rear Differential / Transfer Case

The 2018 Nissan Altima is primarily a front-wheel-drive vehicle. It does not have a separate transfer case or a rear differential as found in traditional 4WD/AWD vehicles. The transaxle (which houses the transmission and differential) uses the Nissan NS-3 CVT Fluid, as detailed above.

If you have an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant of the Altima (which may not always be available for all model years or regions, but check your vehicle configuration), it would have a rear differential. However, for a standard 2018 FWD Nissan Altima, these components are not present as separate, serviceable units with their own dedicated fluid.

Brake Fluid

The 2018 Nissan Altima uses DOT 3 brake fluid. It is essential to use a high-quality DOT 3 fluid to ensure proper braking performance and maintain the integrity of the brake system components.

Capacity: The brake fluid reservoir capacity is relatively small, and a full system flush typically requires 1-2 liters of brake fluid, depending on the method used. Always consult your owner's manual or service manual for the exact specifications and bleeding procedures.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Nissan recommends inspecting the brake fluid level and condition periodically. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. This moisture lowers the boiling point of the fluid, which can lead to a "spongy" pedal feel and reduced braking efficiency, especially under heavy braking. It can also cause corrosion within the brake system.

While there isn't always a strict mileage interval for brake fluid replacement, many technicians recommend flushing the brake fluid every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage, due to its moisture-absorbing properties. Never mix DOT 3 with DOT 4, DOT 5.1, or especially DOT 5 brake fluid. DOT 5 is silicone-based and incompatible with ABS systems and seals designed for glycol-based fluids (DOT 3, 4, 5.1).

Power Steering Fluid

The 2018 Nissan Altima is equipped with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. This means there is no traditional hydraulic power steering pump or fluid reservoir to service. The system uses an electric motor to assist steering, making it a maintenance-free component in terms of fluid.

Washer Fluid

For the windshield washer system, the 2018 Nissan Altima can use Nissan Genuine Windshield Washer Fluid or any commercially available, high-quality windshield washer fluid. It is advisable to use a washer fluid that contains antifreeze properties, especially in colder climates, to prevent freezing in the reservoir and lines.

Capacity: Consult your owner's manual for the specific capacity of the washer fluid reservoir.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Simply refill the reservoir as needed. Do not use plain water, especially in freezing temperatures, as it can freeze and damage the washer system components.

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

The 2018 Nissan Altima is a gasoline-powered vehicle and does not use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). DEF is exclusively used in diesel engines equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions.

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