2021 Nissan Frontier Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2021 Nissan Frontier with its 3.8L V6 engine takes 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic engine oil.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20 Full Synthetic
• Oil Specification: API SN PLUS or later, or ILSAC GF-6
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number: 15208-9E01A or 15208-65F0E (Always verify with your dealer based on VIN)
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: PH6607
  • Wix: 51356
  • Mobil 1: M1-110

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

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

• Normal Duty: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. This applies if you frequently drive in conditions such as heavy city traffic, dusty roads, towing, or extreme temperatures.

Drain plug torque

The oil drain plug for the 2021 Nissan Frontier should be torqued to 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm). Always use a new crush washer to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The OEM crush washer part number is 11026-JA00A.

How to change the oil

Changing the oil on your 2021 Nissan Frontier is a straightforward process:

1. Warm up the engine slightly, then park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Locate a suitable point on the frame to jack up the front of the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
3. Place a drain pan under the oil pan. Using a 14mm wrench, carefully remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely. Be mindful as the oil may be hot.
4. Once drained, clean the drain plug, install a new crush washer, and reinstall the drain plug, torquing it to 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
5. Locate the oil filter on the front of the engine, usually accessible from underneath. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter.
6. Apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter. Install the new filter by hand, turning it until the gasket makes contact with the engine block, then tighten it an additional 3/4 to 1 turn.
7. Lower the vehicle off the jack stands.
8. Remove the oil fill cap on top of the engine and add 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic engine oil.
9. Reinstall the oil fill cap, start the engine, and allow it to run for a few minutes while checking for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
10. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to bring it to the "FULL" mark.
11. Reset the oil maintenance reminder on your dashboard.

Common issues / tips

• Updated Engine: The 2021 Frontier features a new 3.8L V6 engine (VQ38DD) that requires 0W-20 full synthetic oil. This is a change from previous generations, so ensure you use the correct oil type and weight.
• Oil Filter Location: The oil filter housing is located at the front of the engine, making it relatively accessible for DIY changes.
• Crush Washer: Always replace the drain plug crush washer. Failing to do so can lead to oil leaks.
• Oil Life Monitor: The 2021 Frontier has an Intelligent Oil Life Monitor system that will illuminate a light when an oil change is due. While it helps, following the recommended mileage/time intervals is still crucial.
• Synthetic Oil Benefits: Because the 3.8L V6 is a modern, direct-injection engine, using the recommended full synthetic 0W-20 oil is important for optimal engine protection, fuel efficiency, and to prevent issues like Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI).

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