The Nissan Pathfinder has been produced since 1986 as a midsize SUV with multiple engine configurations across four generations. 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.
Different Pathfinder generations use varying engine options, including 3.3L V6, 3.5L V6, and 4.0L V6 engines. Each engine requires specific oil capacities ranging from 3.9 quarts to 5.4 quarts with filter replacement. Modern Pathfinder models use full synthetic 0W-20 oil, while older generations typically require 5W-30.
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2025 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DD |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25 lb-ft (34 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 VQ35DD engine that requires 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of full synthetic oil with filter replacement. Using SAE 0W-20 oil provides optimal protection and fuel efficiency under normal driving conditions.
2024 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DD |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25 lb-ft (34 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 engine that requires 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) of full synthetic 0W-20 oil. The manufacturer recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles, though some owners prefer shorter intervals.
2023 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DD |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25 lb-ft (34 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 engine requiring 5.1 quarts of full synthetic 0W-20 oil with filter. The extended 10,000-mile oil change interval applies when using manufacturer-approved synthetic oil.
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DD |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 25 lb-ft (34 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder uses a redesigned 3.5L V6 VQ35DD engine that requires 5.1 quarts of full synthetic 0W-20 oil. The oil drain plug torque specification is 25 lb-ft or 300 inch-pounds.
2021 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2021 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 engine requiring 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil. Either 0W-20 or 5W-30 viscosity is acceptable, depending on driving conditions.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine that requires 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil. Using 0W-20 or 5W-30 viscosity provides proper lubrication for this engine.
2019 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 engine requiring 5.1 quarts of full synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil. Regular oil changes maintain engine efficiency and extend service life.
2018 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 engine that requires 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil with filter replacement. Full synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil provides superior engine protection.
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine requiring 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil. The recommended viscosity is 0W-20 or 5W-30 depending on climate conditions.
2016 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 engine that requires 5.1 quarts of full synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil. Proper oil maintenance ensures optimal engine performance.
2015 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine requiring 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil with filter. Using 0W-20 or 5W-30 viscosity provides proper engine lubrication.
2014 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5L V6 engine that requires 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil. The engine accepts both 0W-20 and 5W-30 viscosity grades.
2013 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.1 qt (4.8 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 4.8 qt (4.5 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 7,500 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0E, K&N HP-1017, Mobil 1 M1-110A |
The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder introduced the fourth generation with a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine requiring 5.1 quarts of full synthetic oil. This model year began using 0W-20 or 5W-30 viscosity recommendations.
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2012 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 4.0L V6 VQ40DE engine that requires 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil with filter replacement. This engine uses conventional or synthetic blend oil.
2011 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2011 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 4.0L V6 engine requiring 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The VQ40DE engine provides reliable performance with proper oil maintenance.
2010 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2010 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 4.0L V6 VQ40DE engine that requires 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil with filter. Regular oil changes every 5,000 miles maintain engine health.
2009 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2009 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 4.0L V6 engine requiring 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The VQ40DE engine is known for durability when maintained properly.
2008 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2008 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 4.0L V6 VQ40DE engine that requires 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil with filter replacement. Conventional or synthetic blend oil is recommended.
2007 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2007 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 4.0L V6 engine requiring 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil. The oil capacity includes filter replacement for complete service.
2006 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2006 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 4.0L V6 VQ40DE engine that requires 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil with filter. This engine provides dependable performance with regular maintenance.
2005 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 VQ40DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.375 qt (5.1 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-65F0C, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2005 Nissan Pathfinder introduced the third generation with a 4.0L V6 VQ40DE engine requiring 5.375 quarts of 5W-30 oil. This model year began the R51 generation production.
2004 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E or 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) for VG33E, 5.3 qt (5.0 L) for VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) for VG33E, 5.0 qt (4.7 L) for VQ35DE |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2004 Nissan Pathfinder was available with either a 3.3L V6 VG33E requiring 3.9 quarts or a 3.5L V6 VQ35DE requiring 5.3 quarts of oil. Both engines use 5W-30 viscosity oil for optimal performance.
2003 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E or 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) for VG33E, 5.3 qt (5.0 L) for VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) for VG33E, 5.0 qt (4.7 L) for VQ35DE |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2003 Nissan Pathfinder uses either a 3.3L V6 VG33E or 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine with different oil capacities. The VG33E requires 3.9 quarts while the VQ35DE needs 5.3 quarts with filter.
2002 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E or 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) for VG33E, 5.3 qt (5.0 L) for VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) for VG33E, 5.0 qt (4.7 L) for VQ35DE |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2002 Nissan Pathfinder uses either a 3.3L V6 VG33E requiring 3.9 quarts or 3.5L V6 VQ35DE requiring 5.3 quarts of oil. SAE 5W-30 is the preferred viscosity for year-round use.
2001 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E or 3.5L V6 VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) for VG33E, 5.3 qt (5.0 L) for VQ35DE |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) for VG33E, 5.0 qt (4.7 L) for VQ35DE |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, Nissan 15208-65F0E |
The 2001 Nissan Pathfinder introduced the 3.5L V6 VQ35DE engine option requiring 5.3 quarts of oil alongside the 3.3L V6 VG33E requiring 3.9 quarts. The 3.5L engine provides increased power output.
2000 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 2000 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.3L V6 VG33E engine that requires 3.9 quarts of oil with filter replacement. SAE 5W-30 provides optimal protection across all temperature ranges.
1999 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.3L V6 VG33E engine requiring 3.9 quarts of oil with filter. This engine features sequential fuel injection and two valves per cylinder.
1998 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 1998 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.3L V6 VG33E engine that requires 3.9 quarts of oil with filter replacement. The VG33E produces 170 horsepower at 4,800 rpm.
1997 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 1997 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.3L V6 VG33E engine requiring 3.9 quarts of oil with filter. This engine features cast iron block construction with aluminum cylinder heads.
1996 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L V6 VG33E |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 3.9 qt (3.7 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Conventional or Synthetic Blend |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22-29 lb-ft (30-39 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | Nissan 15208-9E01A, K&N HP-1008, Fram PH16 |
The 1996 Nissan Pathfinder introduced the second generation R50 with a 3.3L V6 VG33E engine requiring 3.9 quarts of oil. SAE 5W-30 is recommended for all temperature conditions.
Oil Maintenance and Service Tips
Check engine oil level regularly using the dipstick when the engine is cold and the vehicle is on level ground. Add oil as needed to maintain proper levels between minimum and maximum marks. Always use the manufacturer-recommended oil viscosity and type for your specific model year.
Replace the oil filter with every oil change to ensure proper filtration and engine protection. Tighten the oil drain plug to the specified torque value to prevent leaks and damage. Follow the recommended oil change interval based on your driving conditions.
Severe driving conditions require more frequent oil changes. These conditions include frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, towing trailers, driving in dusty areas, or operating in extreme temperatures. Under severe conditions, reduce the oil change interval by approximately 50 percent.
| Driving Condition | Oil Type | Change Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Normal (Synthetic) | Full Synthetic | 7,500-10,000 miles |
| Normal (Conventional) | Conventional | 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Severe (Synthetic) | Full Synthetic | 5,000 miles |
| Severe (Conventional) | Conventional | 3,000 miles |
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of oil does a Nissan Pathfinder use?
Modern Nissan Pathfinder models from 2013 onward use full synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil, while 2005-2012 models use 5W-30 oil. Older Pathfinder models from 1996-2004 typically use conventional or synthetic blend 5W-30 oil. Always consult your owner’s manual for the specific oil type recommended for your model year.
How much oil does a Nissan Pathfinder take?
Nissan Pathfinder oil capacity varies by model year and engine. Models from 2013-2025 with 3.5L V6 engines require approximately 5.1 quarts with filter. The 2005-2012 models with 4.0L V6 engines need 5.375 quarts. Earlier models with 3.3L engines require 3.9 quarts, while those with 3.5L VQ35DE engines need 5.3 quarts.
What is the recommended oil type for a Nissan Pathfinder?
The recommended oil type depends on the model year. Pathfinder models from 2022 onward require full synthetic 0W-20 oil. Models from 2013-2021 use full synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil. Earlier models from 2005-2012 use conventional or synthetic blend 5W-30 oil. Nissan recommends using oils that meet API SN or higher specifications.
What is the oil change interval for a Nissan Pathfinder?
Oil change intervals vary based on oil type and driving conditions. Pathfinder models using full synthetic oil can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between changes under normal conditions. Models using conventional oil should have oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. The 2022 and newer Pathfinder models have a 10,000-mile service interval when using approved synthetic oil.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 in my Nissan Pathfinder?
For 2013-2021 Pathfinder models, both 0W-20 and 5W-30 viscosities are approved and can be used interchangeably depending on climate conditions. However, 2022 and newer models are designed specifically for 0W-20 oil for optimal fuel efficiency and should use that viscosity. Always check your owner’s manual for the approved viscosity grades for your specific model year.
What oil filter does a Nissan Pathfinder use?
Nissan Pathfinder oil filters vary by model year. Current models (2013-2025) typically use Nissan part number 15208-65F0E or equivalent aftermarket filters like K&N HP-1017 or Mobil 1 M1-110A. Models from 2005-2012 use Nissan 15208-65F0C or equivalents. Earlier models (1996-2004) use Nissan 15208-9E01A or compatible aftermarket options.
Conclusion
The Nissan Pathfinder requires specific oil capacities, viscosities, and types depending on the model year and engine configuration. Modern Pathfinder models from 2013 onward use full synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil with capacities around 5.1 quarts, while earlier generations have different requirements.
Using manufacturer-approved oil specifications ensures optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Regular oil changes at the recommended intervals prevent premature engine wear and maintain proper lubrication. Always consult your owner’s manual or a certified Nissan technician to verify the correct oil specifications for your specific Pathfinder model.
Proper maintenance with the correct oil type and capacity protects your investment and ensures reliable performance for years to come.
