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What kind of oil does a 2018 Nissan Altima take?

I traded in a much older car for a used 2018 Nissan Altima. When I took it for an oil change, the mechanic said it needs synthetic oil. I wasn’t sure if that was true, or if I am just getting talked into a more expensive oil change. What kind of oil does a 2018 Nissan Altima take?

avatar
Lynell Spencer · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
When you are working with a
new mechanic
, it can be hard to know what information to trust. In this case, your mechanic is absolutely right.
According to manufacturer instructions,the 2018 Nissan Altima takes 0w-20 full synthetic oil.
Most newer cars are built to work with synthetic oils. And you’re right, they are more expensive—five quarts of conventional oil will cost around $28, and synthetic will run you around $45—but there are some benefits associated with that cost.
  • Synthetic oils last longer. Conventional oil needs to be changed every 3,000 miles, but with synthetics, you get 6,000-7,500 miles between oil changes.
  • Synthetic oils are cleaner. Because they are man-made, synthetic oil is less likely to contain debris or impurities that can settle into engine parts and cause build-up or corrosion. This makes them easier on your engine, your oil pump, and your oil filter.
  • Synthetic oils have a higher viscosity, meaning that they flow better through your engine.
Using the manufacturer-recommended oil for your car ensures that your engine has the best protection possible.
You can make sure your car has the best protection possible in other ways, too. If you have a question about your insurance coverage,
Jerry
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