2018 Nissan Altima SR: Oil Change Guide

Nov 13, 2025 by Alex Braham 40 views

Hey guys! Are you looking to change the oil on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR? You've come to the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Doing your own oil change can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. Let’s dive in!

Why is Oil Change Important?

Oil changes are critical for maintaining the health and longevity of your 2018 Nissan Altima SR's engine. Engine oil lubricates the engine's internal components, reducing friction and wear. Over time, the oil breaks down, becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, and loses its ability to effectively protect the engine. Regular oil changes prevent excessive wear, keep the engine running smoothly, and help maintain fuel efficiency. If you neglect oil changes, you risk serious engine damage, which can lead to costly repairs or even engine failure. Think of it like this: your engine oil is like the lifeblood of your car. Fresh, clean oil keeps everything running smoothly, while old, dirty oil can clog things up and cause major problems. It’s a small investment that pays off big time in the long run. Also, consider the impact on your car's performance. When your engine is properly lubricated, it operates more efficiently, giving you better gas mileage and a smoother ride. A well-maintained engine is also less likely to overheat, which can be a common issue with older or neglected vehicles. By staying on top of your oil changes, you’re not just maintaining your car; you're enhancing its performance and ensuring its reliability for years to come. Plus, you'll have peace of mind knowing that you're doing everything you can to keep your Altima SR in top condition. So, next time you're thinking about skipping that oil change, remember all the benefits it provides and how it protects your investment. Your car will thank you for it!

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you start, you'll need to gather all the necessary supplies. Here’s a list to make sure you’re fully prepared for your 2018 Nissan Altima SR oil change:

New Oil: Check your owner's manual to determine the correct type and amount of oil for your 2018 Altima SR. Typically, the 2.5L engine uses around 4.8 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil. Using the right oil is super important! It ensures that your engine gets the proper lubrication and protection it needs. Synthetic oil is generally recommended for newer vehicles like the 2018 Altima SR because it provides better performance and protection compared to conventional oil. It’s more resistant to breakdown at high temperatures and offers superior lubrication at low temperatures, which can extend the life of your engine. Always double-check your owner's manual for the specific oil requirements for your car, as using the wrong type of oil can potentially damage your engine or void your warranty.
New Oil Filter: Purchase a new oil filter that is compatible with your vehicle. A good quality oil filter will trap dirt and contaminants, keeping your oil clean and prolonging the life of your engine. Don't skimp on the oil filter; it's a crucial component in maintaining the health of your engine. A high-quality filter will have better filtration capabilities and a more robust construction, ensuring that it can effectively remove impurities from the oil. Look for reputable brands that are known for their quality and reliability. Also, make sure to check the manufacturer's recommendations for the correct oil filter for your 2018 Altima SR, as using the wrong filter can cause issues with oil flow and filtration. Replacing the oil filter with every oil change is a simple and cost-effective way to keep your engine running smoothly and prevent potential problems down the road.
Wrench: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug and the oil filter. Make sure you have the correct size for both to avoid damaging them. Having the right tools for the job is essential for a smooth and hassle-free oil change. Using the wrong size wrench can strip the drain plug or oil filter housing, leading to leaks or other complications. Invest in a good set of wrenches that fit your vehicle's specifications to ensure a secure and proper fit. A socket wrench set can be particularly useful, as it provides a variety of sizes and extensions for reaching tight spaces. Before you start, double-check that you have the correct wrench sizes for your 2018 Altima SR to avoid any frustrating setbacks during the oil change process. Proper tools not only make the job easier but also help prevent damage to your vehicle.
Oil Drain Pan: Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug to catch the old oil. Choose a pan with a large capacity to prevent spills. Spilling old oil can be messy and environmentally unfriendly, so it's important to have a reliable drain pan that can handle the volume of oil being drained. Look for a drain pan with a wide opening and a high capacity to minimize the risk of spills. Some drain pans also come with features like a spout or funnel for easy pouring of the used oil into a recycling container. Placing the drain pan in the correct position under the drain plug is crucial to avoid any mess. Make sure the pan is stable and won't tip over during the oil change process. With a good drain pan, you can safely and cleanly collect the old oil, making the oil change process much more manageable.
Funnel: Use a funnel to pour the new oil into the engine to avoid spills. A funnel with a flexible spout can be particularly helpful. Pouring new oil into the engine without a funnel can be tricky and often results in spills, which can make a mess and potentially damage engine components. A funnel ensures that the oil goes directly into the fill hole without any drips or spills. A funnel with a flexible spout is especially useful because it can be easily maneuvered to reach the fill hole, even in tight spaces. Before you start pouring, make sure the funnel is clean to avoid contaminating the new oil. Using a funnel is a simple yet effective way to keep the oil change process clean and efficient, and it can save you time and hassle in the long run.
Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the dirty oil. Nitrile gloves are a good option because they are resistant to oil and chemicals. Working with used motor oil can be messy and potentially harmful to your skin, so wearing gloves is essential for protecting your hands. Nitrile gloves are a great choice because they are resistant to oil, grease, and other chemicals that you might encounter during the oil change process. They also provide a good grip, which can be helpful when handling tools and parts. Make sure the gloves fit snugly but comfortably to allow for dexterity. Disposable gloves are convenient because you can simply throw them away after use, keeping your hands clean and preventing the transfer of oil to other surfaces. With a good pair of gloves, you can keep your hands clean and protected while working on your 2018 Altima SR.
Rags or Shop Towels: Keep rags or shop towels handy to wipe up any spills or drips. Having plenty of rags will help keep your workspace clean and prevent messes. Oil changes can be messy, and having plenty of rags or shop towels on hand is crucial for wiping up any spills or drips. These absorbent materials can quickly clean up oil that gets on your hands, tools, or the ground. Shop towels are especially useful because they are durable and can withstand repeated use without falling apart. Keep a stack of rags or shop towels within easy reach so you can quickly address any messes that occur during the oil change process. Cleaning up spills promptly not only keeps your workspace tidy but also prevents oil from staining surfaces or causing slip hazards. With an ample supply of rags or shop towels, you can maintain a clean and safe environment while working on your 2018 Altima SR.
Wheel Chocks: Use wheel chocks to secure the rear wheels. Safety first! Wheel chocks are essential for preventing your vehicle from rolling while you're working underneath it. By placing them behind the rear wheels, you ensure that the car remains stationary, minimizing the risk of accidents. Choose wheel chocks that are sturdy and appropriate for the size and weight of your vehicle. Make sure they are properly positioned and firmly in place before you start any work. Safety should always be your top priority when performing any maintenance on your car, and using wheel chocks is a simple yet effective way to protect yourself and prevent potential damage. Always double-check that the wheel chocks are secure before getting under the vehicle to start the oil change process.

Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, with all your supplies in hand, let’s get started with the actual oil change on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR. Follow these steps carefully:

Warm-Up the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Warm oil flows more easily, making it easier to drain. However, don't let it get too hot, as you could burn yourself. Warming up the engine slightly before an oil change helps to thin out the oil, allowing it to drain more quickly and completely. Run the engine for about 2-3 minutes, just enough to warm the oil without overheating it. Be cautious when handling hot engine parts and always wear gloves to protect your hands. Avoid running the engine for too long, as extremely hot oil can be dangerous and increase the risk of burns. The goal is to make the oil more fluid so it drains effectively, but not so hot that it becomes a safety hazard. With the engine slightly warmed, you'll be ready to proceed with the oil change process.
Secure the Vehicle: Park your Altima SR on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety. Never rely solely on the parking brake. Ensuring that your vehicle is securely parked is crucial for your safety while performing an oil change. Park the car on a level surface to prevent it from rolling, and engage the parking brake firmly. As an extra precaution, place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to further secure the vehicle. Never rely solely on the parking brake, as it can sometimes fail. Double-checking that the car is stable and properly secured will give you peace of mind and help prevent any accidents while you're working underneath it. Safety should always be your top priority, so take the time to secure your vehicle before proceeding with the oil change.
Locate the Oil Drain Plug: Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine. It’s usually at the bottom of the oil pan. Consult your owner's manual if you're unsure. The oil drain plug is typically located on the underside of the engine, at the bottom of the oil pan. It's a bolt or nut that, when removed, allows the old oil to drain out of the engine. If you're not sure where the drain plug is located on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR, consult your owner's manual for a diagram or detailed instructions. Identifying the correct drain plug is important to avoid accidentally removing the wrong bolt, which could lead to other issues. Once you've located the drain plug, you'll be ready to position the oil drain pan and prepare to remove it.
Position the Drain Pan: Place the oil drain pan directly under the oil drain plug. Make sure it's properly aligned to catch the oil as it drains. Ensuring that the drain pan is correctly positioned is essential for a clean and mess-free oil change. Place the drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug, making sure it's properly aligned to catch the stream of oil as it drains. A drain pan with a wide opening is helpful for minimizing the risk of spills. Double-check the placement before removing the drain plug to avoid any surprises. If the drain pan is not properly aligned, you could end up with oil splattering on the ground, which can be messy and environmentally unfriendly. Taking a moment to position the drain pan correctly will help keep your workspace clean and make the oil change process much more manageable.
Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct size wrench, carefully loosen and remove the oil drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to start flowing. Once you've positioned the drain pan, carefully loosen the oil drain plug using the correct size wrench. As you loosen the plug, be prepared for the oil to start flowing out of the engine. Have a firm grip on the wrench and turn the plug counterclockwise to loosen it. Once it's loose enough, you can remove it by hand. Be cautious, as the oil may be hot, especially if you recently warmed up the engine. Allow the oil to drain completely into the drain pan. Removing the drain plug is a crucial step in the oil change process, and doing it carefully will help prevent any messes or complications.
Let the Oil Drain Completely: Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan. This may take 10-15 minutes. Be patient and let it drip. Allowing the oil to drain completely is essential for removing as much of the old, contaminated oil as possible. This process may take 10-15 minutes, so be patient and let it drip. You can use this time to inspect the drain plug and make sure it's clean and in good condition. Once the oil has stopped dripping and is only trickling out, you can proceed to the next step. Removing as much of the old oil as possible helps to ensure that the new oil will perform optimally and protect your engine effectively.
Replace the Drain Plug: Once the oil has finished draining, replace the drain plug. Make sure to use a new crush washer if applicable, and tighten the plug to the manufacturer's specified torque. Replacing the drain plug after the oil has drained is an important step in the oil change process. Before you reinstall the plug, inspect it for any damage or wear. If your vehicle uses a crush washer, make sure to replace it with a new one to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench. Overtightening the plug can damage the threads, while undertightening it can cause leaks. Consulting your owner's manual or a repair manual for the correct torque specification is crucial. Properly tightening the drain plug will help prevent leaks and ensure that the oil stays where it's supposed to be.
Locate the Oil Filter: Find the oil filter. It's usually located near the engine block. Consult your owner's manual if needed. The oil filter is typically located near the engine block, but its exact location can vary depending on the vehicle. If you're not sure where the oil filter is on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR, consult your owner's manual for a diagram or detailed instructions. Identifying the correct oil filter is important to avoid accidentally removing the wrong component. Once you've located the oil filter, you'll be ready to proceed with removing it.
Remove the Old Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill. Removing the old oil filter can be a bit messy, so be prepared for some oil to spill. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the filter. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the filter. Once it's loose enough, you can remove it by hand. Hold a rag or shop towel underneath the filter as you remove it to catch any oil that spills. Dispose of the old oil filter properly. Removing the old oil filter is a crucial step in the oil change process, as it removes the old, dirty filter and prepares the engine for the new, clean filter.
Lubricate the New Oil Filter: Before installing the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the rubber gasket with new oil. This helps create a good seal. Lubricating the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil helps to create a good seal between the filter and the engine. This prevents leaks and ensures that the oil filter functions properly. Simply dip your finger in some new oil and lightly coat the rubber gasket before installing the filter. This simple step can make a big difference in preventing leaks and ensuring the longevity of your oil filter.
Install the New Oil Filter: Screw on the new oil filter by hand until it's snug, then tighten it an additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn as directed on the filter. Don't overtighten. Installing the new oil filter correctly is essential for preventing leaks and ensuring that it functions properly. Screw on the new oil filter by hand until it's snug. Then, tighten it an additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn as directed on the filter. Avoid overtightening the filter, as this can damage the threads or the filter itself. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for tightening the filter. Properly installing the new oil filter will help ensure that it effectively filters the oil and protects your engine.
Lower the Vehicle: If you raised the vehicle, carefully lower it back to the ground. Ensure it is stable before proceeding. If you raised your 2018 Nissan Altima SR to access the oil drain plug and filter, carefully lower it back to the ground once you've completed the under-car tasks. Use a jack and jack stands to safely lower the vehicle. Ensure that the car is stable and secure before proceeding with the remaining steps. Lowering the vehicle carefully helps prevent any damage to the car or injury to yourself.
Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil fill cap. Remove the cap and insert a funnel. Pour in the correct amount of new oil as specified in your owner's manual. Check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is correct. Adding the correct amount of new oil is crucial for proper engine lubrication. Open the hood and locate the oil fill cap. Remove the cap and insert a funnel to prevent spills. Pour in the correct amount of new oil as specified in your owner's manual. After adding the oil, check the dipstick to ensure that the oil level is correct. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. Adding too much or too little oil can damage your engine, so it's important to get it right.
Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. Keep an eye on the oil pressure light. Starting the engine after an oil change allows the new oil to circulate and lubricate the engine components. Let the engine run for a few minutes, and check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. Keep an eye on the oil pressure light to ensure that the oil is circulating properly. If you notice any leaks or the oil pressure light stays on, stop the engine immediately and address the issue. Monitoring the engine after an oil change helps ensure that everything is functioning correctly and prevents potential damage.
Check the Oil Level Again: After running the engine, turn it off and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, check the oil level again using the dipstick. Add more oil if needed to reach the correct level. Ensure it's between the min and max marks. Checking the oil level again after running the engine ensures that the oil has settled and provides an accurate reading. Turn off the engine and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oil to drain back into the oil pan. Then, check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if needed to reach the correct level, which should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. Maintaining the correct oil level is crucial for proper engine lubrication and preventing damage.
Reset the Oil Life Indicator: Reset the oil life indicator in your 2018 Nissan Altima SR. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to do this. Resetting the oil life indicator after an oil change is important for keeping track of your maintenance schedule. The oil life indicator is designed to remind you when it's time for your next oil change. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to reset the indicator in your 2018 Nissan Altima SR, as the process can vary depending on the vehicle. Resetting the indicator will ensure that you receive accurate reminders for future oil changes.

Dispose of the Old Oil Properly

It’s super important to dispose of the old oil and filter properly. Take them to a local recycling center or auto parts store that accepts used oil. Never pour oil down the drain or onto the ground – that’s bad for the environment!. Used motor oil is a hazardous waste and can contaminate soil and water if not disposed of properly. Take the old oil and filter to a local recycling center or auto parts store that accepts used oil. These facilities will recycle the oil and dispose of the filter in an environmentally responsible manner. Never pour oil down the drain or onto the ground, as this can pollute waterways and harm wildlife. Proper disposal of used oil is essential for protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future.

Conclusion

Changing the oil on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and this guide, you can totally handle it! Not only will you save some cash, but you’ll also get to know your car a little better. Just remember to take your time, be careful, and always prioritize safety. Happy wrenching!

So there you have it! A complete guide to changing the oil on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can keep your engine running smoothly and extend the life of your vehicle. Happy motoring!