2018 Nissan Frontier Oil Capacity & Filter Specs

The 2018 Nissan Frontier takes between 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) and 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) of oil, depending on the engine.

Quick Answer

Here's a quick overview for the 2018 Nissan Frontier:

• 2.5L 4-cylinder Engine:

  • Oil Capacity: 3.5 US Quarts (3.3 Liters)
  • Recommended Oil Weight: 5W-30
  • Oil Type Specification: API SN or later, ILSAC GF-5 or later
  • OEM Oil Filter: Nissan 15208-65F0C
  • Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
    • Fram: PH6607
    • Wix: 51356
    • Mobil 1: M1-105

• 4.0L V6 Engine:

  • Oil Capacity: 4.9 US Quarts (4.6 Liters)
  • Recommended Oil Weight: 5W-30
  • Oil Type Specification: API SN or later, ILSAC GF-5 or later
  • OEM Oil Filter: Nissan 15208-EA000
  • Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
    • Fram: PH7317
    • Wix: 51356
    • Mobil 1: M1-105

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2018 Nissan Frontier was available with two engine options, each with a different oil capacity:

Oil Change Interval

Nissan recommends the following oil change intervals for the 2018 Frontier:

• Normal Duty: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Severe duty includes conditions such as frequent short trips, towing, extensive idling, or driving in dusty conditions.

Regular oil changes are crucial for the longevity of your engine, especially given the various demands placed on a truck like the Frontier.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for both the 2.5L 4-cylinder and 4.0L V6 engines on the 2018 Nissan Frontier should be torqued to 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm). Always use a new crush washer (often included with new oil filters or drain plug kits) to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your 2018 Nissan Frontier is a straightforward process:

1. Warm up the Engine: Drive the truck for a few minutes to get the oil to operating temperature, which helps it drain more easily.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Always use appropriate safety precautions.
3. Locate and Drain: Place a drain pan under the oil pan. Locate the drain plug (usually on the passenger side of the oil pan) and carefully remove it with a wrench. Allow all the oil to drain completely.
4. Replace Filter: Locate the oil filter (typically on the driver's side, near the front of the engine for the V6; consult your owner's manual for the 4-cylinder). Unscrew the old filter and replace it with a new one. Apply a thin layer of new oil to the new filter's rubber gasket before threading it on.
5. Reinstall Drain Plug: Once all oil has drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer and tighten to the specified torque.
6. Refill Oil: Lower the vehicle. Remove the oil filler cap on the engine and carefully pour in the recommended amount of new oil.
7. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary, being careful not to overfill.
8. Dispose: Properly dispose of the used oil and filter at an authorized recycling center.

Common Issues / Tips

• V6 Timing Chain Guides: The 4.0L V6 (VQ40DE) engine in this generation of Frontier is known for potential issues with timing chain guides, particularly if oil changes are neglected. Using the correct oil and adhering to recommended intervals is critical for preventing premature wear.
• Oil Consumption: Some 4.0L V6 engines may exhibit minor oil consumption. It's always a good practice to check your oil level regularly between changes, especially if you drive in severe conditions or tow frequently.
• Aftermarket Filters: While the listed aftermarket filters are popular, always verify fitment with your chosen brand and retailer. Quality aftermarket filters meet or exceed OEM specifications.
• Synthetic vs. Conventional: While Nissan