🛢️Oil Type & Capacity
Nissan Maxima Oil Type & Capacity
Find the correct oil type, weight, and capacity for your Nissan Maxima. Covers all model years with filter recommendations and drain intervals.
Quick Answer
The Nissan Maxima uses synthetic motor oil — typically 0W-20 for newer models (2010+) or 5W-30 for older ones. Capacity varies by engine; check below for your specific year.
2018-2023
2018-2023Recommended Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval7,500 - 10,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Modern engines require full synthetic — conventional oil may void warranty
- →Many newer models have extended drain intervals up to 10,000 miles
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
2012-2017
2012-2017Recommended Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval7,500 - 10,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Modern engines require full synthetic — conventional oil may void warranty
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
2006-2011
2006-2011Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
2000-2005
2000-2005Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1994-1999
1994-1999Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1988-1993
1988-1993Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1982-1987
1982-1987Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1981-1981
1981-1981Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Nissan owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of oil does a Nissan Maxima use?
- Most newer Nissan Maxima models (2010+) use 0W-20 full synthetic oil. Older models typically use 5W-30. The exact specification depends on your engine — check the oil cap or owner's manual for the definitive answer.
- How many quarts of oil does a Nissan Maxima take?
- Oil capacity for the Nissan Maxima ranges from 4.0 to 6.5 quarts depending on engine size and whether you're replacing the filter. Four-cylinder engines are typically on the lower end, V6 and V8 on the higher end.
- Can I use conventional oil in my Nissan Maxima?
- For 2010+ Nissan Maxima models, full synthetic is strongly recommended (and often required). Older models can typically use conventional, but synthetic provides better protection, longer drain intervals, and improved fuel economy.
- How often should I change the oil in my Nissan Maxima?
- Modern Nissan Maxima models typically call for oil changes every 5,000 - 10,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Older models should stick to 3,000 - 5,000 miles. Severe driving (towing, extreme heat, short trips) may require more frequent changes.
- What happens if I use the wrong oil in my Nissan Maxima?
- Using oil that's too thick can reduce fuel economy and increase engine wear during cold starts. Oil that's too thin may not protect adequately under load. For best results, always use the manufacturer-specified weight.