2021 Nissan Altima Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2021 Nissan Altima takes 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic engine oil for both the 2.5L 4-cylinder and the 2.0L VC-Turbo engines.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20
• Oil Type Spec: API SN or higher (e.g., API SP) or ILSAC GF-6A
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number: 15208-65F0E
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: PH6607
  • Wix: 57356
  • Mobil 1: M1-110

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

Nissan recommends the following oil change intervals for the 2021 Altima:

• Normal Duty: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Severe duty conditions include frequent short trips, towing, extensive idling, dusty conditions, or extreme temperatures. If you often drive in stop-and-go traffic, make frequent short trips, or drive in very hot or cold climates, it's wise to follow the severe duty schedule.

Drain plug torque

The oil drain plug torque for the 2021 Nissan Altima is 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm). Always use a new crush washer when performing an oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The OEM crush washer part number is typically 11026-JA00A.

How to change the oil

1. Gather Supplies: Ensure you have the correct oil, oil filter, drain pan, wrench for the drain plug, oil filter wrench, funnel, and a new crush washer.
2. Warm Up Engine: Drive the car for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, which helps it drain more easily. Then, park on a level surface.
3. Lift Vehicle (Safely): Use a jack and jack stands to safely lift the front of the vehicle, or drive onto ramps.
4. Locate Drain Plug: Position the drain pan under the oil pan, then carefully remove the drain plug with a wrench.
5. Drain Oil: Allow all the old oil to drain completely. This can take 5-10 minutes.
6. Replace Drain Plug: Install a new crush washer on the drain plug and tighten it to 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
7. Remove Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter, place the drain pan underneath to catch any drips, and use an oil filter wrench to remove it. Be prepared for a small amount of oil to spill.
8. Install New Filter: Apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter. Screw on the new filter by hand until it's snug, then tighten an additional 3/4 to 1 turn (or as per filter manufacturer's instructions).
9. Add New Oil: Using a funnel, slowly add the recommended amount of new oil (4.8 quarts).
10. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
11. Check for Leaks: Visually inspect the drain plug and oil filter area for any leaks.
12. Dispose of Old Oil: Properly dispose of the used oil and filter at a certified recycling center.

Common issues / tips

• CVT Longevity: While not directly related to oil capacity, maintaining your engine oil religiously helps reduce overall stress on the powertrain, including the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) found in the Altima. Regular, high-quality oil changes are crucial for the long-term health of your vehicle.
• Direct Injection (2.5L): The 2.5L engine is direct-injected, which can sometimes lead to carbon buildup on intake valves over time. Using high-quality synthetic oil and adhering to recommended change intervals helps keep the engine clean and performing optimally.
• VC-Turbo Engine (2.0L): The 2.0L Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) is a sophisticated engine. Using the specified 0W-20 synthetic oil is critical for its advanced mechanisms and turbocharger lubrication. Do not deviate from the recommended viscosity.
• Oil Filter Access: The oil filter on both engines is relatively accessible from underneath the vehicle, making DIY oil changes straightforward.
• Engine Splash Shield: You may need to remove or partially unclip a portion of the engine's underbody splash shield to access the oil drain plug and filter.

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