2025 Nissan Altima: Fluid Type Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	0W-20, API SP	~5.1 quarts
Engine Coolant	Nissan Long Life Blue	~7.5 quarts
Transmission Fluid	Nissan CVT NS-3	~7.0 quarts
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering	N/A (Electric)	N/A
Washer Fluid	API/ISO Certified	~4.5 quarts

Engine Oil

Type: 0W-20 Spec: API SP

For the 2025 Nissan Altima, the recommended engine oil is a 0W-20 viscosity grade that meets the API SP specification. This specific oil type ensures optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and protection against wear and tear. It's crucial to use an oil that explicitly lists the API SP certification to avoid potential engine damage.

Intervals:

• Change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions.
• Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate service interval.

Common Pitfalls:

• Do not use oils with a different viscosity, as this can lead to reduced fuel economy and increased engine wear.
• Ensure the oil is API SP certified; using non-certified oils can void your warranty.

Engine Coolant

Type: Nissan Long Life Blue Spec: OAT (Organic Acid Technology)

All 2025 Nissan Altimas come factory-filled with Nissan Long Life Blue coolant. This is an OAT-based coolant, which is specifically designed to protect the aluminum components in the cooling system. It is essential to use this type of coolant to prevent corrosion and ensure the longevity of your engine.

Intervals:

• First change at 105,000 miles or 7 years.
• Subsequent changes every 75,000 miles or 5 years.

Common Pitfalls:

• Never mix OAT coolants with other types, such as HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology). Mixing coolants can cause them to gel, leading to blockages and overheating.
• Do not use universal coolants, as they may not provide the same level of protection as the factory-spec fluid.

Transmission Fluid

Type: Nissan CVT NS-3

Spec: N/A

The 2025 Altima is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which requires a specific fluid to function correctly. The recommended fluid is Nissan CVT NS-3. Using any other type of transmission fluid will result in poor performance and can cause irreversible damage to the transmission.

Intervals:

• Inspect every 30,000 miles.
• Change as recommended in your owner's manual, typically around 60,000 miles.

Common Pitfalls:

• Never use a universal ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) in a CVT. The frictional properties are different and will lead to slippage and eventual failure.
• Always ensure the fluid is genuine Nissan CVT NS-3 to avoid costly repairs.

Brake Fluid

Type: DOT 3

Spec: N/A

For the braking system, the 2025 Nissan Altima requires DOT 3 brake fluid. This is a glycol-based fluid that is compatible with the materials used in the brake lines and seals. It is essential to use a high-quality DOT 3 fluid to ensure your brakes perform as expected.

Intervals:

• Replace every 2 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Common Pitfalls:

• Do not mix DOT 3 with other types of brake fluid, such as DOT 5, which is silicone-based. This can cause the seals to swell and lead to brake failure.
• Always use a fresh, unopened bottle of brake fluid, as it absorbs moisture over time, reducing its boiling point.

Power Steering

The 2025 Nissan Altima is equipped with an electric power steering system, so it does not require any power steering fluid.

Washer Fluid

Type: API/ISO Certified

Spec: N/A

For the windshield washer system, it is recommended to use an API or ISO certified washer fluid. These fluids are formulated to effectively clean your windshield without damaging the paint or rubber trim.

Intervals:

• Refill as needed.

Common Pitfalls:

• Avoid using water in place of washer fluid, as it does not have the same cleaning properties and can freeze in cold weather.

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