2020 NISSAN ALTIMA recommended oil

When performing any inspection or main-
tenance work on your vehicle, always take
care to prevent serious accidental injury to
yourself or damage to the vehicle. The fol-
lowing are general precautions which
should be closely observed.
WARNING
∙ Park the vehicle on a level surface, ap-ply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the ve-
hicle from moving. Move the shif t le-
ver to P (Park).
∙ Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or LOCK position when performing any
parts replacement or repairs.
∙ If you must work with the engine run- ning, keep your hands, clothing, hair
and tools away from moving fans,
belts and any other moving parts.
∙ It is advisable to secure or remove any loose clothing and remove any jew-
elry, such as rings, watches, etc. be-
fore working on your vehicle.
∙ Always wear eye protection whenever you work on your vehicle. ∙
Your vehicle is equipped with an auto-
matic engine cooling fan. It may come on
at any time without warning, even if the
ignition key is in the OFF position and the
engine is not running. To avoid injury, al-
ways disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
∙ If you must run the engine in an en- closed space such as a garage, be sure
there is proper ventilation for exhaust
gases to escape.
∙ Never get under the vehicle while it is supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, sup-
port it with safety stands.
∙ Keep smoking materials, flame and sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
∙ On gasoline engine models, the fuel filter or fuel lines should be serviced. It
is recommended that you visit a
NISSAN dealer for this service because
the fuel lines are under high pressure
even when the engine is off.
CAUTION
∙ Do not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down. ∙
Avoid contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine
oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle
fluids can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
∙ Never leave the engine or the trans- mission related component harness
connector disconnected while the ig-
nition switch is in the ON position.
∙ Never connect or disconnect the bat- tery or any transistorized component
while the ignition switch is in the ON
position.
This “Do-it-yourself ” section gives instruc-
tions regarding only those items which are
relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A Genuine NISSAN service manual is also
available. For additional information, refer
to “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual order
information” in the “Technical and con-
sumer information” section of this manual.
You should be aware that incomplete or
improper servicing may result in operating
difficulties or excessive emissions, and
could affect warranty coverage. If in doubt
about any servicing, it is recommended
that you have it done by a NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
8-2Do-it-yourself

CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself, as the
engine oil is hot.
WARNING
∙ Prolonged and repeated contact withused engine oil may cause skin
cancer.
∙ Try to avoid direct skin contact with used oil. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.
∙ Keep used engine oil out of reach of children.
4. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench by turning it counterclockwise.
Remove the oil filter by turning it by
hand.
5. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting sur- face with a clean rag.
CAUTION
Be sure to remove any old gasket mate-
rial remaining on the sealing surface of
the engine. Failure to do so could lead to
an oil leak and engine damage. ∙ The dipstick must be inserted in place
to prevent oil spillage from the dip-
stick hole when filling the engine with
oil.
6. Coat the gasket on the new filter with clean engine oil.
7. Screw in the oil filter clockwise until a slight resistance is felt, then tighten ad-
ditionally more than 2/3 turn.
Oil filter tightening torque: 11 to 15 f t-lb (14.7 to 20.6 N·m)
8. Clean and re-install the drain plug with a new washer. Securely tighten the
drain plug with a wrench. Do not use
excessive force.
Drain plug tightening torque: 22 to 29 f t-lb (29.4 to 39.2 N·m)
9. Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil through the oil filler open-
ing, and install the oil filler cap securely.
For additional information about drain and
refill capacity, refer to “Recommended
fluids/lubricants and capacities” in the
“Technical and consumer information” sec-
tion of this manual. The drain and refill ca-
pacity depends on the oil temperature and
drain time. Use these specifications for ref- erence only. Always use the dipstick to de-
termine the proper amount of oil in the
engine.
10. Start the engine and check for leakage
around the drain plug and the oil filter.
Correct as required. Turn the engine off
and wait more than 15 minutes. Check
the oil level with the dipstick. Add en-
gine oil if necessary.
Af ter the operation
1. Reinstall undercover in reverse order ofremoval.
2. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
3. Reset the oil control system (if so equipped) and oil and filter mainte-
nance reminder. For additional infor-
mation, refer to "Vehicle information
display" in the "Instruments and con-
trols" section of this manual.
∙ Dispose of waste oil and filter properly.
∙ Check your local regulations.
Do-it-yourself8-11

the parking brake applied. If the parking
brake needs adjustment, it is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
Seats:Check seat position controls such
as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc., to
ensure they operate smoothly and all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraints/headrests
move up and down smoothly and the locks
(if so equipped) hold securely in all latched
positions.
Seat belts: Check that all parts of the seat
belt system (for example, buckles, anchors,
adjusters and retractors) operate properly
and smoothly, and are installed securely.
Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying,
wear or damage.
Steering wheel: Check for changes in the
steering system, such as excessive free
play, hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating
the heater or air conditioner. Windshield wiper and washer*:
Check
that the wipers and washer operate prop-
erly and that the wipers do not streak.
Under the hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically (for example, each
time you check the engine oil or refuel).
Battery*: This vehicle is equipped with a
sealed maintenance free battery. It is rec-
ommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer
for service.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery dis-
charge and potential no-start conditions
such as:
1. Installation or extended use of elec-
tronic accessories that consume bat-
tery power when the engine is not
running (Phone chargers, GPS, DVD
players, etc.).
2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or
only driven short distances.
In these cases, the battery may need to
be charged to maintain battery health. Brake fluid level*:
Make sure that the brake
fluid level is between the MAX and MIN lines
on the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*: Check the coolant
level when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts*: Make sure the drive
belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level af ter
parking the vehicle on a level spot and
turning off the engine. Wait more than
15 minutes for the oil to drain back into the
oil pan.
Exhaust system: Make sure there are no
loose supports, cracks or holes. If the
sound of the exhaust seems unusual or
there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immedi-
ately have the exhaust system inspected. It
is recommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service. For additional infor-
mation, refer to “Exhaust gas (carbon mon-
oxide)” in the “Starting and driving” section
of this manual.
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for
fuel, oil, water or other fluid leaks af ter the
vehicle has been parked for a while. Water
dripping from the air conditioner af ter use
is normal. If you should notice any leaks or if
9-4Maintenance and schedules

Engine coolant*:Replace coolant at the
specified interval. When adding or replac-
ing coolant, be sure to use only Genuine
NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)
or equivalent with the proper mixture. (For
additional information on the proper mix-
ture for your area, refer to “Engine cooling
system” in the “Do-it-yourself ” section of
this manual.)
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant
or the use of non-distilled water may re-
duce the recommended service interval
of the coolant.
Engine oil and oil filter: Replace engine oil
and oil filter at the specified intervals. For
recommended oil grade and viscosity refer
to “Recommended fluids/lubricants and
capacities” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
Engine valve clearance*: Inspect only if
valve noise increases. Adjust valve clear-
ance if necessary.
Evaporative emissions control vapor
lines*: Check vapor lines for leaks or loose-
ness. Tighten connections or replace parts
as necessary.
Fuel filter: Periodic maintenance is not re-
quired. (in-tank type filter) Fuel lines*:
Check the fuel hoses, piping
and connections for leaks, looseness, or
deterioration. Tighten connections or re-
place parts as necessary.
Spark plugs: Replace at specified intervals.
Install new plugs of the type as originally
equipped.
CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake lines and cables: Visually inspect for
proper installation. Check for chafing,
cracks, deterioration, and signs of leaking.
Replace any deteriorated or damaged
parts immediately.
Brake pads and rotors: Check for wear,
deterioration and fluid leaks. Replace any
deteriorated or damaged parts immedi-
ately.
Exhaust system: Visually inspect the ex-
haust pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks,
cracks, deterioration, and damage. Tighten
connections or replace parts as necessary.
Propeller shaf t(s): Check for damage,
looseness, and grease leakage. (AWD) In-cabin microfilter:
Replace at specified
intervals. When driving for prolonged peri-
ods in dusty conditions, replace the filter
more frequently.
Steering gear and linkage, axle and sus-
pension parts, drive shaf t boots: Check
for damage, looseness, and leakage of oil
or grease. Under severe driving conditions,
inspect more frequently.
Tire rotation: PR25DD Engine model; Tires
should be rotated every 5,000 miles
(8,000 km) according to the instructions
under “Explanation of general mainte-
nance items” in this section. When rotating
tires, check for damage and uneven wear.
Replace if necessary.
KR20DDET Engine model; Tires should be
rotated every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) ac-
cording to the instructions under “Explana-
tion of general maintenance items” in this
section. When rotating tires, check for
damage and uneven wear. Replace if nec-
essary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil,
and transfer case oil: Visually inspect for
signs of leakage at specified intervals.
Replace at specified intervals.
9-6Maintenance and schedules

NOTE:
Maintenance items with “” should be performed more frequently according to “ Maintenance under severe driving conditions”.
(1) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
(2) If using a car-top carrier or driving on rough or muddy roads, inspect CVT fluid deterioration every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
then change CVT fluid if necessary. And if the inspection is not performed, change (not just inspect) CVT fluid every 60,000 miles
(96,000 km).
(3) Af ter 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months.
Replace the drive belts if found damaged.
(4) First replacement interval is 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 84 months. Af ter first replacement, replace every 75,000 miles
(120,000 km) or 60 months.
(5) Use only Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent with proper mixture ratio of 50% antifreeze and 50%
demineralized or distilled water. Mixing any other type of coolant or the use of non-distilled water may reduce the life expectancy
of the factory fill coolant.
(6) If the oil replacement indicator is displayed, change the engine oil and filter within two weeks or less than 500 miles (800 km).
(7) Periodic maintenance is not required.
(8) Periodic maintenance is not required. However, if valve noise increased, inspect valve clearance.
(9) Replace spark plug when the plug gap exceeds 0.053 in (1.35 mm) even if within specified periodic replacement mileage.
(10) For additional information on tire rotation, refer to “General maintenance” in the section
(11) If using a car-top carrier, or driving on rough or muddy roads, change (not just inspect) oil at every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or
24 months.
* Maintenance items and intervals with“*”arerecommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not
perform such maintenance in order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance items
and intervals are required.
9-12Maintenance and schedules

NOTE:
Maintenance items with “” should be performed more frequently according to “ Maintenance under severe driving conditions”.
(1) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
(2) If using a car-top carrier or driving on rough or muddy roads, inspect CVT fluid deterioration every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
then change CVT fluid if necessary.
And if the inspection is not performed, change (not just inspect) CVT fluid every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
(3) Af ter 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months.
Replace the drive belts if found damaged.
(4) First replacement interval is 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 84 months. Af ter first replacement, replace every 75,000 miles
(120,000 km) or 60 months.
(5) Use only Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent with proper mixture ratio of 50% antifreeze and 50%
demineralized or distilled water.
Mixing any other type of coolant or the use of non-distilled water may reduce the life expectancy of the factory fill coolant.
(6) If the oil replacement indicator is displayed, change the engine oil and filter within two weeks or less than 500 miles (800 km).
(7) Periodic maintenance is not required.
(8) Periodic maintenance is not required. However, if valve noise increased, inspect valve clearance.
(8) Replace spark plug when the plug gap exceeds 0.049 in (1.25 mm) even if within specified periodic replacement mileage.
(9) For additional information on tire rotation, refer to “General maintenance” in the section
* Maintenance items and intervals with “*” are recommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not perform
such maintenance in order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance items and
intervals are required.
Maintenance and schedules9-17

10 Technical and consumer information
Recommended fluids/lubricants and
capacities...................................... 10-2
Fuel recommendation ....................... 10-4
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendations .......................... 10-7
Air conditioner system refrigerant and
oil recommendations .......................10-8
Specifications .................................. 10-9
Engine ...................................... 10-9
Wheels and tires ............................ 10-10
Dimensions and weights ...................10-10
When traveling or registering in another
country ......................................... 10-11
Vehicle identification ........................... 10-11
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
plate ........................................ 10-11
Vehicle identification number
(chassis number) ............................ 10-11
Engine serial number ....................... 10-12
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label ........10-12
Emission control information label .........10-13 Tire and Loading Information label
.........10-13
Air conditioner specification label ...........10-13
Installing front license plate ....................10-14
Vehicle loading information ...................10-14
Terms ...................................... 10-14
Vehicle load capacity ....................... 10-15
Loading tips ................................ 10-17
Measurement of weights ...................10-17
Towing a trailer ................................ 10-18
Flat towing ................................. 10-18
Uniform tire quality grading ....................10-18
Emission control system warranty .............10-19
Reporting safety defects ......................10-20
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M)
test ............................................ 10-21
Event Data Recorders (EDR) ....................10-21
Additional Data Recording (on vehicles
equipped with optional ProPILOT
Assist) ...................................... 10-22
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual order
inf
ormation ................................... 10-23

The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be slightly different. When refilling, follow the procedure
described in the “Do-it-yourself ” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Fluid typeCapacity (approximate) Recommended Fluids/Lubricants
Metric
Measure US
Measure Imperial
Measure
Fuel FWD:
61.3 L 16 1/4 gal 13 1/2 gal
• For additional information, refer to “Fuel recommendation” in
this section.
AWD: 60.6 L 16 gal 13 3/8 gal
Engine oil*1
Drain and refill
*1: For additional
information, refer
to “Engine oil” in
the “Do-it-yourself ”
section of this
manual. PR25DD
With oil filter
change 5.1 L 5-3/8 qt 4-1/2 qt • Genuine “Nissan Motor Oil 0W-20 SN” (or equivalent) is
recommended.
• If the above motor oil (or engine oil) is not available, a synthetic
0W-20 GF-5 SN motor oil (or engine oil) may be used. Damage
caused by the use of motor oil (or engine oil) other than as rec-
ommended is not covered under NISSAN’s New Vehicle Limited
Warranty. For additional information, refer to “Engine oil and oil
filter recommendations” in this section.
Without oil
filter change 4.8 L 5-1/8 qt 4-1/4 qt
KR20DDET With oil filter
change 4.7 L
5 qt 4-1/8 qt • Genuine “Nissan Motor Oil Ester 5W-30 SN” (or equivalent) is
recommended.
• If the above motor oil (or engine oil) is not available, a synthetic
SAE 5W-30 GF-5 SN motor oil (or engine oil) may be used. Dam-
age caused by the use of motor oil (or engine oil) other then as
recommended is not covered under NISSAN’s New Vehicle Lim-
ited Warranty. For additional information, refer to “Engine oil and
oil filter recommendations” in this section.
Without oil
filter change 4.6 L 4-7/8 qt 4 qt
Engine coolant
with reservoir PR25DD
8.3 L 2-1/4 gal 1-7/8 gal
• Pre-diluted Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)
or equivalent
KR20DDET 8.2 L 2-1/8 gal 1-3/4 gal
RECOMMENDED FLUIDS/
LUBRICANTS AND CAPACITIES
10-2Technical and consumer information