2018 Nissan Altima SR: DIY Oil Change Guide

by Alex Braham 44 views

Hey guys! Changing your oil is one of the most important things you can do to keep your 2018 Nissan Altima SR running smoothly. It's like giving your car a regular health checkup. Dirty oil can cause all sorts of problems, from reduced engine performance to serious damage. So, whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the process of changing the oil in your 2018 Nissan Altima SR like a pro.

Why Change Your Oil?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's quickly cover the why. Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car. It lubricates all the moving parts, reduces friction, dissipates heat, and carries away dirt and debris. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated, losing its ability to protect your engine effectively. This can lead to increased wear and tear, reduced fuel economy, and even engine failure. Regular oil changes prevent these issues, extending the life of your engine and keeping your Altima SR running at its best. Think of it as preventative maintenance – a little effort now can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road.

How often should you change your oil?

The frequency of oil changes depends on several factors, including your driving habits and the type of oil you use. However, as a general rule of thumb, most manufacturers recommend changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles when using conventional oil, or every 7,500 to 10,000 miles when using synthetic oil. Check your owner's manual for the specific recommendations for your 2018 Nissan Altima SR. Also, if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, tow heavy loads, or drive in extreme temperatures, you may need to change your oil more frequently.

Gathering Your Supplies

Okay, let's get started! First things first, you'll need to gather all the necessary supplies. Nothing's worse than getting halfway through the job and realizing you're missing something. Here's a checklist of what you'll need:

  • New Oil: Check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount of oil for your 2018 Nissan Altima SR. Typically, the 2.5L engine requires about 4.8 quarts of 0W-20 oil.
  • New Oil Filter: Again, consult your owner's manual or a parts store to find the correct oil filter for your vehicle. Using the right filter is crucial for proper oil filtration.
  • Wrench: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug. The size will vary, but a 14mm or 17mm wrench is usually the right fit. Make sure you have the correct size before you start!
  • Oil Filter Wrench: This specialized wrench makes it much easier to remove the old oil filter. Trust me, it's worth the investment.
  • Drain Pan: You'll need a container to catch the old oil. Make sure it's large enough to hold all the oil from your engine (at least 5 quarts).
  • Funnel: A funnel will help you pour the new oil into the engine without spilling it. Less mess, more success!
  • Gloves: Protect your hands from getting dirty and oily. Nitrile gloves are a good choice.
  • Rags or Shop Towels: For wiping up spills and cleaning your hands.
  • Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): You'll need to safely lift your car to access the oil drain plug and oil filter. Never work under a car supported only by a jack!
  • Wheel chocks: For secure parking, place wheel chocks behind the rear tires.

A Quick Note on Safety: Safety first, guys! Before you start any work on your car, make sure it's parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and the wheels are chocked. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands to support the vehicle.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil

Alright, now for the main event! Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your oil changed in no time.

  1. Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil flows more easily, making it easier to drain. However, be careful not to let the engine get too hot, as you could burn yourself.
  2. Secure the Vehicle: Park your Altima SR on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Use a jack to lift the front of the car and securely place jack stands under the frame rails. Make sure the car is stable before proceeding.
  3. Locate the Oil Drain Plug: The oil drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan. It's usually a large bolt. Consult your owner's manual if you're not sure where it is.
  4. Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug to catch the old oil.
  5. Remove the Oil Drain Plug: Using the correct size wrench, carefully loosen the oil drain plug. Once it's loose, unscrew it by hand, being careful not to drop it into the drain pan. Let the oil drain completely.
  6. Remove the Old Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter. It's usually near the engine block. Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill when you remove the filter.
  7. Prepare the New Oil Filter: Before installing the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the rubber gasket with fresh oil. This will help ensure a good seal. Screw the new oil filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block, then tighten it another half to three-quarters of a turn. Don't overtighten it!
  8. Reinstall the Oil Drain Plug: Once the oil has completely drained, clean the oil drain plug and install a new crush washer (if applicable). Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque. If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten it snugly but don't overtighten it, as you could damage the oil pan.
  9. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
  10. Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil filler cap. Remove the cap and insert a funnel. Pour in the correct amount of new oil, as specified in your owner's manual. Start with slightly less than the recommended amount, as you can always add more later.
  11. Check the Oil Level: After adding the oil, replace the oil filler cap and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes, then turn it off and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to reach the