2019 Nissan Altima Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2019 Nissan Altima takes 5.3 quarts (5.0 liters) of 0W-20 oil for the 2.5L engine, and 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) for the 2.0L VC-Turbo engine, both including a filter change. As an ASE-certified master technician, I highly recommend using full synthetic oil to ensure the variable compression technology (if equipped) and the direct fuel injection systems stay clean and well-lubricated.

Here is your comprehensive, quick-reference guide for servicing the oil on the completely redesigned 2019 Altima (L34 generation).

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 5.3 quarts (5.0 L) for the 2.5L; 4.9 quarts (4.6 L) for the 2.0L VC-Turbo (with filter).
• Recommended Weight: 0W-20 Full Synthetic
• Oil Specification: API SN or SP / ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6A
• OEM Oil Filter: Nissan part # 15208-65F0E or 15208-65F1B
• Aftermarket Filters: Fram XG7317, Mobil 1 M1-110A, Wix 51356

Capacity by engine option

The 2019 Altima debuted a brand-new engine lineup, replacing the old 2.5L with a revised unit and swapping the V6 for a groundbreaking Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo). Make sure you know which engine is under your hood before buying your oil.

Oil change interval

Modern direct-injected engines and turbochargers require clean oil to prevent timing chain wear and carbon buildup. Nissan outlines two distinct maintenance schedules based on how you drive:

• Normal Duty: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first). This applies if you drive mostly highway miles in mild weather.
• Severe Duty: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months. This applies to the vast majority of drivers who encounter stop-and-go traffic, short trips under 5 miles, extreme temperatures, or dusty conditions. Given the complexity of the VC-Turbo engine, I strongly advise sticking to the 5,000-mile interval.

Drain plug torque

• Torque Spec: 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm)
• Crush Washer: Always replace the 14mm copper crush washer on the drain plug. Reusing the old washer is the most common cause of a slow driveway drip after an oil change.

How to change the oil

1. Warm up the engine: Let the car run for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain faster and suspend contaminants. Shut it off.
2. Lift and secure: Raise the vehicle using a jack and support it properly with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a hydraulic jack.
3. Remove the access panel: The 2019 Altima has a plastic underbody shield. Remove the push-clips or 10mm bolts to access the oil pan and filter.
4. Drain the oil: Place a catch pan under the 14mm drain plug. Remove the plug and let the oil drain completely.
5. Replace the filter: While it drains, unscrew the oil filter. Wipe the engine mounting surface clean. Apply a light coat of fresh oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter, and spin it on hand-tight (about 3/4 of a turn past first contact).
6. Reinstall drain plug: Install a new crush washer on the drain plug and torque to 25 ft-lbs.
7. Refill and check: Lower the vehicle, pour in the recommended capacity of 0W-20 oil. Start the engine, let it idle for 30 seconds, and check for leaks. Shut it off, wait 3 minutes, and verify the level on the dipstick.

Common issues / tips

The 2019 model year introduced the L34 generation Altima. For the 2.0L VC-Turbo engine, precision lubrication is absolutely critical due to the complex multi-link system that changes the piston stroke on the fly. Do not use anything thicker than 0W-20 or you risk starving these intricate components of oil during cold starts.

Additionally, both engines use Direct Injection (DIG). Direct injection engines are prone to fuel dilution—where a small amount of fuel slips past the piston rings into the oil pan. This is another reason why adhering to the 5,000-mile Severe Duty oil change interval is the safest bet to protect your engine's longevity.

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