Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity: All Years & Engines

The Nissan Maxima has been produced from 1981 to 2023 with multiple engine configurations. Using the correct oil capacity, viscosity, and type is essential for maintaining performance and longevity. This guide lists all model years with full oil specifications and maintenance recommendations.

The eighth generation (A36) Maxima, produced from 2016 to 2023, features the VQ35DE 3.5L V6 engine requiring 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil. Earlier generations used different capacities and viscosity grades based on engine specifications and model year.

2023 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2023 Nissan Maxima uses a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine that requires 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil. Using 0W-20 viscosity oil provides the right balance of protection and efficiency under normal driving conditions.

2022 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2022 Nissan Maxima uses a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine requiring 5.1 quarts of full synthetic 0W-20 oil. Nissan recommends using genuine 0W-20 motor oil or equivalent synthetic oil meeting API SP standards.

2021 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2021 Nissan Maxima requires 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic oil for optimal engine protection. The VQ35DE V6 engine benefits from low viscosity synthetic oil for improved fuel economy.

2020 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2020 Nissan Maxima with the 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine takes 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil. Full synthetic oil provides superior engine protection and performance compared to conventional oil.

2019 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2019 Nissan Maxima uses 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic oil with an oil change interval of 7,500 miles. The engine oil capacity includes the oil filter replacement during service.

2018 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2018 Nissan Maxima requires 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil for the VQ35DE engine. The oil drain plug torque specification is 22 lb-ft to prevent leaks and damage.

2017 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2017 Nissan Maxima with the 3.5L V6 engine uses 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic oil. Nissan genuine 0W-20 oil is the factory fill and recommended choice.

2016 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2016 Nissan Maxima marks the start of the eighth generation requiring 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil. This generation introduced the 0W-20 viscosity requirement for improved fuel economy.

2015 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2015 model year was not produced. Nissan redesigned the Maxima for 2016 after ending the seventh generation in 2014.

2014 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2014 Nissan Maxima uses a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine requiring 4.9 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil. This seventh generation model uses a different oil capacity than the 2016+ models.

2013 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2013 Nissan Maxima requires 5.1 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil, an increase from previous seventh-generation years. The engine oil capacity changed mid-generation for improved lubrication.

2012 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2012 Nissan Maxima with the VQ35DE engine takes 4.9 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil. Using the correct oil viscosity ensures proper engine protection across temperature ranges.

2011 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2011 Nissan Maxima requires 4.9 quarts of 5W-30 full synthetic oil for the 3.5L V6 engine. Regular oil changes at 5,000 mile intervals help maintain engine performance.

2010 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2010 Nissan Maxima uses 4.9 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil with filter replacement. The seventh generation Maxima started in 2009 with updated engine specifications.

2009 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2009 Nissan Maxima with the 3.5L VQ35DE engine requires 4.9 quarts of 5W-30 synthetic oil. This was the first year of the seventh generation with redesigned engine specifications.

2008 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2008 Nissan Maxima uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil with the 3.5L V6 engine. Multiple viscosity grades are acceptable depending on operating temperature conditions.

2007 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2007 Nissan Maxima requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the VQ35DE engine. The sixth-generation models accept multiple viscosity grades based on climate.

2006 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2006 Nissan Maxima with the 3.5L V6 takes 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil. Synthetic blend or full synthetic oil provides better protection than conventional oil.

2005 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2005 Nissan Maxima requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil with the VQ35DE engine. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 lb-ft to prevent leaks.

2004 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2004 Nissan Maxima uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the 3.5L V6 engine. This sixth generation model accepts multiple viscosity options depending on temperature.

2003 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2003 Nissan Maxima requires 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil with the VQ35DE engine. Regular oil filter replacement is essential during each oil change service.

2002 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2002 Nissan Maxima with the 3.5L V6 uses 4.4 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The VQ35DE engine provides reliable performance with proper oil maintenance.

2001 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2001 Nissan Maxima uses a 3.0L VQ30DE engine requiring 4.2 quarts of 5W-30 oil. This fifth generation model offered the VQ30DE before transitioning to the VQ35DE.

2000 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 2000 Nissan Maxima with the 3.0L VQ30DE engine takes 4.2 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The fifth generation models featured the VQ30DE as a primary engine option.

1999 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 1999 Nissan Maxima requires 4.2 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the 3.0L VQ30DE engine. Using the correct oil capacity ensures proper lubrication and engine protection.

1998 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 1998 Nissan Maxima with the VQ30DE engine uses 4.2 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The oil drain plug torque specification is 22 lb-ft for all Maxima models.

1997 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 1997 Nissan Maxima requires 4.2 quarts of 5W-30 oil with the 3.0L V6 engine. Regular oil changes at 3,750 mile intervals help maintain engine longevity.

1996 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 1996 Nissan Maxima with the VQ30DE engine takes 4.2 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The fourth generation Maxima introduced the VQ engine family.

1995 Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Capacity

The 1995 Nissan Maxima uses 4.2 quarts of 5W-30 oil for the 3.0L VQ30DE engine. This was the first year of the fourth generation with the VQ engine.

Oil Maintenance and Service Tips

Checking engine oil regularly ensures proper lubrication and helps detect potential issues early. Park the vehicle on level ground, allow the engine to cool for at least 10 minutes, then remove the dipstick to check the oil level. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.

Using full synthetic oil provides superior protection compared to conventional oil, especially in extreme temperatures. Synthetic oil maintains viscosity better and resists breakdown under high heat conditions. Most modern Nissan Maxima models require synthetic oil for optimal performance and longevity.

Oil change intervals vary based on driving conditions and model year. Normal driving conditions typically require oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Severe driving conditions include frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, towing, or dusty environments. Under severe conditions, reduce the oil change interval to 3,000 to 3,750 miles.

Always replace the oil filter during each oil change to maintain proper filtration. Use OEM Nissan oil filters or high-quality equivalents such as Mobil 1 or K&N filters. Torque the oil drain plug to 22 lb-ft to prevent leaks without damaging the threads.

When exploring Nissan, don’t miss our detailed guides on popular models like the Nissan Xterra, Nissan Versa Note, Nissan Quest, and Nissan Versa Sedan. 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 Nissan always delivers reliable performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of oil does a Nissan Maxima use?

The Nissan Maxima uses full synthetic oil for 2016 and newer models, with 0W-20 viscosity. Models from 2009 to 2015 use 5W-30 synthetic oil, while earlier models accept 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic blend or conventional oil. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact oil specification for your model year.

How much oil does a Nissan Maxima take?

The Nissan Maxima takes 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) for 2016 and newer models. Models from 2009 to 2012 require 4.9 quarts (4.7 liters), while 2004 to 2008 models need 4.4 quarts (4.2 liters). Earlier models with the 3.0L VQ30DE engine take 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters). These capacities include the oil filter replacement.

What is the recommended oil type for a Nissan Maxima?

Nissan recommends full synthetic 0W-20 oil for 2016 and newer Maxima models. Older models from 2009 to 2015 use full synthetic 5W-30 oil. Models before 2009 can use synthetic blend or conventional oil with 5W-30 viscosity.

What is the oil change interval for a Nissan Maxima?

The oil change interval for 2016 and newer Nissan Maxima models is 7,500 miles or 6 months under normal driving conditions. Older models recommend 5,000 miles or 6 months. Severe driving conditions require more frequent changes every 3,000 to 3,750 miles.

Can I use 5W-30 oil instead of 0W-20 in my Nissan Maxima?

Nissan recommends using 0W-20 oil for 2016 and newer Maxima models. While 0W-20 oil is approved as a replacement for 5W-30 in older models, using 5W-30 in place of 0W-20 is not recommended. Using incorrect oil viscosity may affect engine performance and warranty coverage.

What is the oil drain plug torque for a Nissan Maxima?

The oil drain plug torque for all Nissan Maxima models is 22 lb-ft (30 N·m). Proper torque prevents oil leaks and protects the drain plug threads from damage. Always use a torque wrench to ensure accurate tightening.

Conclusion

The Nissan Maxima requires specific engine oil specifications based on model year and engine type. Current models from 2016 to 2023 use 5.1 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic oil, while earlier generations vary from 4.2 to 4.9 quarts with different viscosity grades. Using manufacturer-approved oil with the correct viscosity ensures optimal engine protection and performance.

Following the recommended oil change intervals and using quality oil filters maintains engine health and longevity. Always torque the drain plug to 22 lb-ft and check oil levels regularly between changes. Proper oil maintenance is essential for keeping your Nissan Maxima running reliably for years to come.