The Infiniti QX56 is a full-size luxury SUV produced from 2004 to 2013 with two distinct generations. The first generation (2004-2010) utilized the VK56DE engine, while the second generation (2011-2013) featured the upgraded VK56VD direct injection V8.

Using the correct oil capacity, viscosity, and type is essential for maintaining engine performance and longevity. This guide provides complete oil specifications and maintenance recommendations for all model years.
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2013 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56VD |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U0A, Mobil 1 M1-110, K&N HP-1004 |
The 2013 Infiniti QX56 uses a 5.6L V8 VK56VD engine that requires 6.9 quarts of full synthetic oil. Using SAE 5W-30 viscosity provides optimal protection and efficiency under normal driving conditions.
2012 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56VD |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U0A, Mobil 1 M1-110, K&N HP-1004 |
The 2012 Infiniti QX56 features the VK56VD direct injection V8 requiring 6.9 quarts of full synthetic oil. SAE 5W-30 viscosity is recommended for balanced engine protection and fuel efficiency.
2011 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56VD |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U0A, Mobil 1 M1-110, K&N HP-1004 |
The 2011 Infiniti QX56 debuted the VK56VD engine with direct injection technology. This powerplant requires 6.9 quarts of full synthetic SAE 5W-30 oil for proper lubrication.
2010 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U01, Fram PH7317, Wix 51365 |
The 2010 Infiniti QX56 uses the VK56DE V8 engine with multi-point fuel injection. This model requires 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 oil for optimal performance.
2009 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U01, Fram PH7317, Wix 51365 |
The 2009 Infiniti QX56 features the VK56DE 5.6L V8 engine. This SUV requires 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend oil with SAE 5W-30 viscosity for normal operation.
2008 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U01, Fram PH7317, Wix 51365 |
The 2008 Infiniti QX56 received exterior updates while maintaining the VK56DE engine. This powerplant requires 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 oil.
2007 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U01, Fram PH7317, Wix 51365 |
The 2007 Infiniti QX56 uses the VK56DE V8 engine producing 320 horsepower. This model requires 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend oil with SAE 5W-30 viscosity.
2006 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U01, Fram PH7317, Wix 51365 |
The 2006 Infiniti QX56 continues with the VK56DE 5.6L V8 engine. This SUV requires 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 oil for proper engine protection.
2005 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U01, Fram PH7317, Wix 51365 |
The 2005 Infiniti QX56 uses the VK56DE V8 engine with 315 horsepower output. This model requires 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend oil with SAE 5W-30 viscosity.
2004 Infiniti QX56 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 VK56DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25-30 lb-ft (34-41 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 15208-31U01, Fram PH7317, Wix 51365 |
The 2004 Infiniti QX56 debuted with the VK56DE 5.6L V8 engine producing 315 horsepower. This first model year requires 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 oil.
Oil Maintenance & Service Tips
Check engine oil level every 1,000 miles or monthly. Park on level ground and wait five minutes after turning off the engine for accurate readings. Add oil if the level falls below the minimum mark on the dipstick.
Always use manufacturer-approved oil filters during oil changes. Replace the oil filter with every oil change to prevent contamination. Use a torque wrench when tightening the drain plug to avoid overtightening. Inspect the drain plug gasket for damage and replace if necessary.
Synthetic oil provides better protection in extreme temperatures and extended change intervals.
| Driving Condition | Oil Change Frequency |
|---|---|
| Normal Driving | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
| Severe Driving | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
Severe driving includes towing, extensive idling, dusty conditions, or frequent short trips under 10 miles.
When exploring Infiniti, don’t miss our detailed guides on popular models like the Infiniti QX30, Infiniti Q70, Infiniti QX60, and Infiniti FX50. Understanding engine oil capacity is crucial for proper maintenance, and our expert resources explain the exact oil requirements for these models. You’ll also find insights on recommended oil types, service intervals, and common issues linked to incorrect oil levels, ensuring your Infiniti always delivers reliable performance.
FAQs Section
What kind of oil does an Infiniti QX56 use?
The Infiniti QX56 uses full synthetic or synthetic blend oil depending on model year. Second generation models (2011-2013) with VK56VD engines require full synthetic SAE 5W-30 oil. First generation models (2004-2010) with VK56DE engines use synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 oil.
How much oil does an Infiniti QX56 take?
The Infiniti QX56 requires 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) with filter for 2011-2013 models. First generation models from 2004-2010 require 6.8 quarts (6.5 liters) with filter. Always verify capacity with the dipstick after filling.
What is the recommended oil type for an Infiniti QX56?
The recommended oil type is full synthetic for 2011-2013 models and synthetic blend for 2004-2010 models. Always use oil meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 specifications for optimal engine protection and performance.
What is the oil change interval for an Infiniti QX56?
The recommended oil change interval is every 7,500 miles or 12 months under normal driving conditions. For severe driving conditions including towing or dusty environments, change oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months.
What is the correct oil viscosity for an Infiniti QX56?
SAE 5W-30 is the recommended viscosity for all Infiniti QX56 model years. This viscosity provides proper flow characteristics during cold starts and adequate protection at operating temperature. Alternative viscosities like 10W-30 or 10W-40 may be used in specific climate conditions.
Can I use synthetic oil in my Infiniti QX56?
Yes, synthetic oil is recommended for all QX56 models. Full synthetic oil provides superior protection, especially for the direct injection VK56VD engine in 2011-2013 models. Synthetic blend oil is acceptable for 2004-2010 models with VK56DE engines.
Conclusion
The Infiniti QX56 requires specific oil specifications based on model year and engine type. First generation models (2004-2010) with VK56DE engines need 6.8 quarts of synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 oil. Second generation models (2011-2013) with VK56VD engines require 6.9 quarts of full synthetic SAE 5W-30 oil. All models share a 7,500-mile or 12-month oil change interval under normal conditions. Using manufacturer-approved oil and filters ensures engine longevity and maintains warranty compliance. Follow proper maintenance procedures for reliable performance throughout the vehicle’s service life.

