Nissan Xterra Engine Oil Capacity

Think your Nissan needs an oil change? We’ve got all the info you need to change your Nissan Xterra’s oil, plus some extra tips.
Written by Elaine Yang
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Known for its dependability, the
Nissan
Xterra is a truck-based SUV that drivers love to hit the road with. To prolong your vehicle’s lifespan and perform oil changes yourself, you need to know your Nissan Xterra engine oil capacity. 
With all your bills piling up, things like car maintenance can easily slip under the rug. But it’s essential that you don’t forget your regular maintenance—especially if you want to keep your car running for years to come. If you’d like to save some money, you can do an oil change yourself! Just make sure you’ve read your Nissan’s owner’s manual and know what your vehicle’s oil capacity is. 
From the
car
insurance app
Jerry
, here’s a guide to changing your Nissan’s oil, plus some extra tips on how you can save some money on your
Nissan Xterra insurance costs
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Nissan Xterra engine oil capacity

First things first—you need to figure out how much oil your Nissan Xterra needs
A Nissan Xterra’s oil capacity is 5.4 quarts. This shouldn’t be confused with its engine displacement, which is 4 liters. 
Oil capacity is how much oil you need for an oil change, and engine displacement tells you how much space your vehicle’s cylinders are taking up. Again, these numbers are not interchangeable.
MORE: How much should an oil change cost?

What kind of oil does a Nissan Xterra need?

Before popping your Nissan’s hood, you need to purchase the right type of engine oil. Look for engine oil labeled SAE 5W-30, preferably a synthetic blend. 
This oil works well during the winter because it’s thinner at high temperatures and has a lower viscosity at lower temperatures. That way, your Nissan’s engine will take less wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan. 
The owner's manual recommendation is to stick with the
Genuine Nissan Synthetic Oil SAE 5W-30.
However, if you are unable to find Genuine Nissan motor oil, any other 5W-30 oil will also work in your vehicle.

How often to change oil on a Nissan Xterra

You’re also going to need to recognize when your Nissan needs an oil change. 
Nissan recommends that drivers have an oil change every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.  
Since that’s a pretty big range, you can also keep an eye on your engine after every other refuel. Look for the following as a sign that your vehicle needs an oil change: 
  • Dirty oil (darker vs light brown)
  • A coarse or gritty texture
  • Noises coming from your engine
  • Weird smells (ex. oil, smoke, or burning)
  • Decrease in your vehicle’s performance

How to change your oil and oil filter

For an oil change, you’re going to need some
tools and supplies
including a socket wrench, a drain pan, a filter wrench, a new filter, and 5W-30 motor oil. 
Follow these steps:
  • Run your Nissan’s engine to warm it up to normal operating temperature (this should take around five minutes in normal weather)
  • Shut off the engine and pop the hood 
  • Remove the oil fill cap and the oil drain bolt and washer (which should be under the engine)
  • Let the old oil drain out
  • Remove the old filter and wait until the oil is finished draining
  • Insert a new filter
  • Replace the oil drain bolt using a new washer and tighten it to 29 lb-ft
  • Refill the engine with your new oil and replace the fill cap 
  • Run the engine for a few minutes once you’re done (keep an eye out for any leaks)
Your dipstick can act as an indicator to tell you when you‘ve added enough oil.
Your car's oil pressure light
should turn off if you’ve followed the steps correctly.
After changing your oil, it’s a good idea to turn on your car and let your engine run for about 30 seconds before you check the oil level. This will give you a more accurate measurement, and you’ll be able to top it off if necessary.
Don’t forget to clean everything up! Oil changes can be messy, but don’t just leave the old oil on the floor—seal it in a container and bring it to a participating recycling center or auto parts shop. 

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

If your priority is to save some money by doing your oil changes yourself, you’re going to want to optimize your savings across all aspects of car ownership—including when it comes to your
car insurance
policy. 
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