Oil For A 2017 Nissan Altima

Choosing the right engine oil for your 2017 Nissan Altima isn't just about grabbing the cheapest bottle off the shelf. It's about understanding the intricate needs of your engine, the specific properties of different oils, and how these factors combine to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and fuel efficiency. This guide delves into the technical aspects of oil selection for your Altima, providing a deeper understanding than you might find in your owner's manual alone.

Understanding Your 2017 Altima's Engine Needs

The 2017 Nissan Altima typically comes with one of two engine options: a 2.5-liter inline-4 (QR25DE) or a 3.5-liter V6 (VQ35DE). While both are robust engines, they have slightly different needs and tolerances. The 2.5L is known for its reliability and fuel economy, while the 3.5L prioritizes power and responsiveness. Regardless of which engine you have, understanding some core concepts is crucial.

Viscosity: More Than Just "Thick" or "Thin"

Viscosity is the resistance of a fluid to flow. Engine oil viscosity is described by a two-number system, like 0W-20 or 5W-30, which is defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). The first number (e.g., 0W or 5W) indicates the oil's viscosity at cold temperatures (the "W" stands for Winter). A lower number indicates better flow at cold temperatures, which is critical for cold starting when the oil is thickest and needs to lubricate quickly. The second number (e.g., 20 or 30) represents the oil's viscosity at 100°C (212°F), a typical operating temperature for an engine. A higher number indicates a thicker oil at operating temperature.

Nissan typically recommends 5W-30 oil for the 2017 Altima in most climates. However, in colder regions, 0W-20 might be preferable for improved cold-start performance. Consult your owner's manual for the precise recommendation for your specific engine and climate.

Why is viscosity so important? Too thin of an oil won't provide adequate lubrication, leading to increased wear and potential engine damage. Too thick of an oil will create excessive drag, reducing fuel efficiency and potentially hindering the engine's ability to rev freely. Maintaining the correct viscosity is a balance, ensuring sufficient lubrication without excessive resistance.

API and ILSAC Standards: Decoding the Symbols on the Bottle

Beyond viscosity, look for oil that meets the standards set by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC). These organizations test and certify oils to ensure they meet certain performance requirements. Look for the API "donut" symbol and the ILSAC "starburst" symbol on the oil bottle. These symbols indicate that the oil has been tested and certified to meet the latest industry standards.

For your 2017 Altima, you'll want to look for oils meeting API SN or SN Plus (and now SP) standards. These standards ensure the oil provides improved high-temperature deposit protection for pistons, more stringent sludge control, and enhanced seal compatibility. SN Plus also adds protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in turbocharged engines, which while not applicable to the standard Altima engines, indicates a generally higher quality oil.

Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: A Technical Comparison

The debate between synthetic and conventional oil is a common one. Here's a breakdown from a technical perspective:

Conventional Oil: Conventional oil is refined directly from crude oil. It's generally less expensive than synthetic oil, but it also has some limitations. Conventional oils tend to break down more quickly at high temperatures, and they don't flow as well at cold temperatures. They are adequate for many applications but require more frequent changes.
Synthetic Oil: Synthetic oil is created through a more complex chemical process. This process allows manufacturers to create oil with superior properties, including better high-temperature stability, improved cold-flow characteristics, and greater resistance to oxidation. Synthetic oils can also contain more advanced additives that further enhance their performance. Synthetic blends are a mid-range option that combines some of the benefits of both types, typically by mixing a synthetic base stock with a conventional base stock.

For a 2017 Altima, synthetic or synthetic blend oil is highly recommended, especially if you frequently drive in extreme temperatures or subject your engine to heavy loads. While more expensive upfront, the extended drain intervals and improved engine protection offered by synthetic oil can often offset the cost in the long run. Specifically, full synthetic oils offer better protection during extended oil change intervals.

The Role of Oil Filters

The oil filter is a critical component of the lubrication system. It removes contaminants like dirt, metal particles, and combustion byproducts from the oil, preventing them from circulating through the engine and causing wear. Choosing a high-quality oil filter is just as important as choosing the right oil.

Look for oil filters that meet or exceed the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications. These filters are designed to provide optimal filtration efficiency and flow rate for your Altima's engine. Avoid using cheap, generic filters, as they may not provide adequate filtration and could even restrict oil flow. Some filter manufactures offer both economy and premium filters, with the premium filters using higher quality filtration media.

Understanding Oil Additives

Engine oils contain a variety of additives that enhance their performance. These additives include:

Detergents: Clean deposits and prevent sludge formation.
Dispersants: Keep contaminants suspended in the oil, preventing them from clumping together and forming harmful deposits.
Anti-wear additives: Reduce friction and wear between moving engine parts. ZDDP (Zinc dialkyldithiophosphate) is a common anti-wear additive, though its concentration is often reduced in modern oils to protect catalytic converters.
Viscosity Index Improvers: Help the oil maintain its viscosity over a wider range of temperatures.
Corrosion Inhibitors: Protect engine components from corrosion.
Antifoam Agents: Prevent the formation of foam, which can reduce the oil's ability to lubricate.

While it's tempting to add aftermarket oil additives, it's generally not recommended. Reputable oil manufacturers carefully formulate their oils with the optimal blend of additives. Adding aftermarket additives can disrupt this balance and potentially harm your engine.

Practical Recommendations for Your 2017 Altima

Based on the technical information discussed above, here are some practical recommendations for choosing oil for your 2017 Nissan Altima:

Consult your owner's manual: This is the most important step. Your owner's manual will provide the specific oil viscosity and API/ILSAC specifications recommended for your engine and climate.
Choose a reputable brand: Stick with well-known and respected oil brands that have a proven track record of quality and performance.
Consider synthetic or synthetic blend oil: The superior properties of synthetic oil offer improved engine protection and potentially longer drain intervals.
Use a high-quality oil filter: Choose a filter that meets or exceeds OEM specifications.
Follow the recommended oil change interval: Nissan typically recommends an oil change interval of 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions. If you use synthetic oil, you may be able to extend the interval, but consult your owner's manual and consider having your oil analyzed to determine the optimal interval.

Conclusion

Choosing the right engine oil for your 2017 Nissan Altima is a critical aspect of maintaining its performance and longevity. By understanding the technical aspects of oil viscosity, API/ILSAC standards, synthetic vs. conventional oil, and the role of oil filters, you can make an informed decision that will protect your engine and ensure years of reliable service. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for the specific recommendations for your engine and driving conditions. Proper oil selection and maintenance are an investment in the long-term health of your vehicle.