2017 Nissan Sentra Oil Type And Filter

Hey there, Sentra owners! Having trouble figuring out the right oil and filter for your 2017 Nissan Sentra? You're not alone. It's a common question, and using the correct products is crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and avoiding potentially costly repairs down the road. Let's break down everything you need to know.

Understanding the Importance of Using the Right Oil and Filter

Think of engine oil as the lifeblood of your Sentra. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, helps cool the engine, and carries away dirt and debris. Using the wrong oil can lead to several problems:

Premature Wear: Incorrect viscosity (thickness) can starve engine parts of lubrication, causing them to wear out faster.
Sludge Buildup: Some oils don't handle heat as well, leading to sludge formation, which restricts oil flow and reduces efficiency.
Poor Fuel Economy: Increased friction due to improper lubrication reduces fuel efficiency.
Engine Damage: In severe cases, using the wrong oil can lead to engine knocking, overheating, and even complete engine failure.

Similarly, the oil filter plays a vital role in keeping your oil clean. A good filter removes contaminants that can damage engine parts. A poor-quality or clogged filter can bypass dirty oil directly into the engine, negating the benefits of fresh oil.

The Correct Oil Type for Your 2017 Nissan Sentra

For the 2017 Nissan Sentra, the recommended oil type is 0W-20 full synthetic oil. This is what Nissan recommends for optimal engine performance and longevity. While 5W-30 might be used in some situations, particularly in older engines or under extreme conditions, sticking with 0W-20 is generally the best approach for your 2017 Sentra, especially if it's still under warranty or you're aiming for the longest possible lifespan.

Why 0W-20? The "0W" indicates the oil's viscosity at cold temperatures. A lower number means it flows more easily when the engine is cold, providing faster lubrication during startup, which is when most engine wear occurs. The "20" indicates the viscosity at operating temperature. 0W-20 offers a good balance of protection and fuel efficiency for your Sentra's engine.

Full Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: Full synthetic oils are engineered to provide superior performance compared to conventional oils. They offer better protection against wear, higher resistance to breakdown at high temperatures, and improved cold-weather flow. While synthetic blends exist, sticking with full synthetic ensures the best protection for your engine.

Where to Find the Information

Always double-check your owner's manual! It contains the most accurate and up-to-date information for your specific vehicle. You can also find the recommended oil type printed on the oil filler cap, although this is always something you should cross-reference with your manual.

Choosing the Right Oil Filter

Using the correct oil filter is just as important as using the right oil. Nissan recommends using a genuine Nissan oil filter. These filters are specifically designed to meet the requirements of your engine and provide optimal filtration. However, reputable aftermarket brands also offer high-quality filters that are compatible with your 2017 Sentra. Some popular and reliable aftermarket brands include:

Mobil 1
K&N
Purolator
Bosch
Wix

When choosing an aftermarket filter, make sure it's specifically designed for your 2017 Nissan Sentra. You can typically find this information on the filter packaging or the manufacturer's website.

Oil Filter Part Number: The Nissan part number for the oil filter commonly used on the 2017 Sentra is typically 15208-9F60A or 15208-65F0E (check your owner's manual to verify). This can help you when searching for aftermarket equivalents.

Performing an Oil Change: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're comfortable doing your own oil change, here's a general guide. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.

Tools and Materials Needed:

New oil (approximately 4.6 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic)
New oil filter
Oil filter wrench
Wrench for the oil drain plug (typically 14mm)
Drain pan
Funnel
Gloves
Rags or paper towels
Jack and jack stands (for lifting the vehicle)
Wheel chocks

Steps:

Prepare the Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
Lift the Vehicle: Carefully jack up the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Locate the Oil Drain Plug: The oil drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan.
Drain the Old Oil: Place the drain pan under the drain plug, then use the wrench to loosen and remove the plug. Let the oil drain completely (usually 15-30 minutes).
Remove the Old Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter (usually near the front of the engine). Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill.
Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil.
Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it another ¾ turn (or according to the filter manufacturer's instructions). Do not overtighten.
Reinstall the Drain Plug: Clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer (if applicable). Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque (usually around 25-30 ft-lbs). Do not overtighten.
Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Add New Oil: Locate the oil filler cap on the engine. Remove the cap and use a funnel to pour in the correct amount of new oil (refer to your owner's manual).
Check the Oil Level: Replace the oil filler cap. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes, then check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if needed to reach the "full" mark.
Dispose of Used Oil Properly: Take the used oil and filter to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal.

Important Note: This is a general guide. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and torque specifications for your 2017 Nissan Sentra. If you're not comfortable performing an oil change yourself, it's best to have it done by a qualified mechanic.

Cost of an Oil Change

The cost of an oil change for your 2017 Nissan Sentra will vary depending on whether you do it yourself or have it done at a shop. Here's a rough estimate:

DIY Oil Change: The cost of oil and a filter will typically range from $40 to $70, depending on the brand of oil and filter you choose.
Professional Oil Change: The cost of an oil change at a shop can range from $80 to $150 or more, depending on the shop and the type of oil used. Dealerships often charge a premium.

Troubleshooting Common Oil-Related Issues

Oil Light Illuminates:

If your oil light comes on, it indicates low oil pressure, which is a serious problem. Stop the vehicle immediately and check the oil level. If the oil level is low, add oil. If the oil level is normal, there may be a more serious issue, such as a faulty oil pump. Have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for diagnosis.

Engine Knocking:

Engine knocking can be caused by a variety of factors, including low oil level, using the wrong oil, or worn engine parts. If you hear knocking, have the engine inspected by a mechanic.

Oil Leaks:

Oil leaks can occur from various places, such as the drain plug, oil filter, valve cover gaskets, or crankshaft seals. If you notice oil leaks, have them repaired promptly to prevent engine damage.

In Conclusion

Using the correct 0W-20 full synthetic oil and a quality oil filter is essential for maintaining the health and performance of your 2017 Nissan Sentra's engine. By following the recommendations in your owner's manual and performing regular oil changes, you can help ensure that your engine runs smoothly and reliably for years to come. Remember, when in doubt, consult with a qualified mechanic for expert advice.