2017 Nissan Altima Oil Change

Maintaining your 2017 Nissan Altima with regular oil changes is crucial for its longevity and performance. Engine oil acts as a lubricant, coolant, and cleaner, ensuring all the moving parts within your engine function smoothly. Neglecting oil changes can lead to increased friction, overheating, and ultimately, engine damage. This article provides a comprehensive guide to performing an oil change on your 2017 Nissan Altima, covering everything from the necessary supplies to step-by-step instructions.

Why are Regular 2017 Nissan Altima Oil Changes Important?

Your 2017 Nissan Altima relies on clean engine oil to function efficiently. Over time, oil degrades due to heat, friction, and the accumulation of contaminants. Here's why regular oil changes are so vital:

Lubrication: Oil reduces friction between moving engine parts, preventing wear and tear.
Cooling: Oil helps dissipate heat away from critical engine components, preventing overheating.
Cleaning: Oil carries away dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts, keeping the engine clean.
Protection from Corrosion: Oil provides a protective barrier against corrosion, extending engine life.
Improved Fuel Economy: Clean oil allows the engine to operate more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy.

Failing to change your oil at the recommended intervals can lead to serious engine problems, including reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, and even catastrophic engine failure. The cost of an oil change is significantly less than the cost of repairing or replacing an engine.

Recommended Oil Type and Oil Change Interval for a 2017 Nissan Altima

Consult your 2017 Nissan Altima owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding recommended oil type and oil change intervals. However, generally speaking:

Oil Type: The 2017 Nissan Altima typically uses SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil. Always verify the correct viscosity in your owner's manual. Using the wrong oil type can negatively impact engine performance and void your warranty.
Oil Change Interval: Nissan typically recommends changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. If you frequently drive in severe conditions (e.g., stop-and-go traffic, towing, extreme temperatures), you may need to change the oil more frequently, such as every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

It's crucial to adhere to the recommended oil change interval to ensure your engine is properly lubricated and protected. Keep a record of your oil changes to track when your next service is due.

Tools and Materials Needed for a 2017 Nissan Altima Oil Change

Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth and efficient oil change. Here's a checklist:

New Oil Filter: Purchase the correct oil filter for your 2017 Nissan Altima. Refer to your owner's manual or a parts store for the correct part number. Using a high-quality oil filter is essential for removing contaminants from the oil.
New Engine Oil: Purchase the correct amount of the recommended oil type (SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 full synthetic). The 2017 Nissan Altima typically requires around 4.8 quarts of oil. Check your owner's manual for the exact capacity.
Wrench for Oil Filter: An oil filter wrench is necessary to loosen and tighten the oil filter.
Wrench for Drain Plug: You'll need a wrench to remove and tighten the oil drain plug. The size is usually 14mm or 17mm, but confirm this before starting.
Oil Drain Pan: A drain pan is essential for collecting the old oil.
Funnel: A funnel makes it easier to pour the new oil into the engine without spilling.
Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): You'll need to safely lift your Altima to access the oil drain plug and oil filter. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands. Ramps are a safe alternative.
Gloves: Protect your hands from dirty oil.
Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning up spills and wiping down tools.
Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
Torque Wrench: To tighten the drain plug to the correct specification.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Oil in a 2017 Nissan Altima

Follow these step-by-step instructions to safely and effectively change the oil in your 2017 Nissan Altima. If you are not comfortable performing this task, it's best to have a qualified mechanic do it for you.

Prepare the Vehicle: Park your Altima on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety. Let the engine run for a few minutes to warm the oil, making it flow more easily. Then, turn off the engine.
Lift the Vehicle: Using a jack, lift the front of your Altima and securely place jack stands under the frame rails. Ensure the jack stands are properly positioned and stable before proceeding. Alternatively, drive your Altima onto ramps.
Locate the Oil Drain Plug: The oil drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan, which is usually at the bottom of the engine. Refer to your owner's manual if you're unsure of its location.
Position the Drain Pan: Place the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug.
Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct wrench, carefully loosen the oil drain plug. Once loosened, unscrew the plug by hand, being careful as the oil will be hot. Let the oil drain completely into the pan. This may take 15-20 minutes.
Inspect the Drain Plug: Check the drain plug for any damage to the threads or sealing washer. Replace the washer if necessary.
Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once the oil has completely drained, clean the drain plug and install a new sealing washer if needed. Carefully screw the drain plug back into the oil pan by hand to avoid cross-threading. Then, tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench. Consult your owner's manual or a repair manual for the correct torque specification. Over-tightening the drain plug can damage the oil pan.
Locate the Oil Filter: The oil filter is usually located near the front of the engine. Refer to your owner's manual if you're unsure of its location.
Loosen the Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old oil filter. Place the drain pan underneath the filter to catch any spills.
Remove the Oil Filter: Unscrew the oil filter by hand. Be careful, as it will contain some oil.
Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh engine oil. This will help create a good seal.
Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine. Then, tighten it another 1/2 to 3/4 turn, according to the instructions on the filter. Do not over-tighten the oil filter.
Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands (if used) or back it down from the ramps.
Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil filler cap. Remove the cap and insert a funnel. Pour in the recommended amount of new engine oil (approximately 4.8 quarts for a 2017 Nissan Altima, but verify in your owner's manual).
Check the Oil Level: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should be between the "Min" and "Max" marks. Add more oil if necessary, but do not overfill.
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.
Check the Oil Level Again: Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Check the oil level again and add more if needed.
Reset the Oil Life Monitoring System: Your 2017 Nissan Altima has an oil life monitoring system. Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to reset it.
Dispose of the Used Oil Properly: Take the used oil and oil filter to a local auto parts store or recycling center for proper disposal. Do not pour used oil down the drain or into the environment.

Tips for a Successful 2017 Nissan Altima Oil Change

Here are some additional tips to help ensure a successful oil change:

Read Your Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual contains valuable information about your specific vehicle, including recommended oil type, oil capacity, and oil change intervals.
Use Quality Parts: Use a high-quality oil filter and the recommended oil type.
Work in a Well-Lit Area: Ensure you have adequate lighting to see what you're doing.
Take Your Time: Don't rush the process. Take your time and double-check your work.
Clean Up Spills Immediately: Clean up any oil spills immediately to prevent accidents.
Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from splashing oil.

When to Seek Professional Help

While changing the oil in your 2017 Nissan Altima is a relatively straightforward process, there are times when it's best to seek professional help. Consider taking your vehicle to a mechanic if:

You are not comfortable performing the task yourself.
You have any mechanical experience or doubts.
You encounter any problems during the oil change, such as a stripped drain plug or a stuck oil filter.
You suspect there may be underlying engine problems.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully change the oil in your 2017 Nissan Altima and keep your engine running smoothly for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations. Regular oil changes are the best way to prolong the life of your 2017 Nissan Altima engine and ensure optimal performance. If you're unsure about any step, seek help from a professional.