NISSAN engine oil diesel and petrol

How do I choose the right engine oil for a Nissan car?

First of all, take into account the car manufacturer’s recommendations and viscosity grade. It defines the degree of lubrication of moving parts of the engine, and, as a result, the whole unit’s working lifespan. By the viscosity, the oils are divided into winter, summer, and all-season types. Thinner oils are efficient at temperatures below 0°C and help reduce the fuel consumption by 2% on the average. Thick oils prevent the engine from overheating in hot climates. Products of the 5W30 and 5W40 grades are considered universal.

Alongside this, pay attention to antiwear characteristics of the lubricants. Many of them contain additives that protect metal surfaces of the unit from early failure. Also, in order to prevent clogging of the assembly with combustion products, the fluid should have good cleaning properties.

How do I know which engine oil is suitable for cars of this make?

You can find recommendations for choosing the right lubricant in your vehicle’s technical documentation. The parameters can vary depending on the engine type and the climate where the car is used. The 5W30, 5W40, 10W30, 10W40, 10W60 lubricants are suitable for most models of this make. For the winter period with extremely low ambient temperatures, it is advisable to use the 0W20 or 0W30 products.

Does the Nissan car manufacturer have its own approval for engine oils?

Yes, it does. Apart from the generally accepted international classifications, such as API, ACEA, and SAE, this car maker has its own quality requirements. Among the approved lubricants are the following:

• SJ Extra Save X SAE 10W-30. Synthetic, for petrol engines.
• Motor Oil 0W-30. High-tech synthetic, used in petrol engines.
• Strong Save X E Special SM 5W-30. Suitable for petrol and diesel engines equipped with particulate filters, extends the working lifespan of the engine.
• GTR Endurance SM 10W-50. Synthetic. Used in sports cars equipped with petrol power units.
• 5W-40 A3/B4 SM/CF. For diesel power units. Extends their lifespan and cleans them effectively.

When should the service fluid be changed on a car of this make?

This depends on the engine type and vehicle’s operating conditions. The car manufacturer recommends replacing it on naturally-aspirated petrol engines once a year or every 15,000 kilometres, on turbocharged ones - every 10,000 kilometres.

As for diesel engines, the change interval is 6 months or 10,000 kilometres. This period can be reduced for SUVs and commercial vehicles.

How do I know if the engine oil needs to be changed on my Nissan car?

It’s necessary to check the amount and quality of the lubricant using a dipstick. For this end, pull it out from its seat in the cylinder head and assess the service fluid condition by dropping some of it on a clean napkin. The lubricant needs changing if it has become thinner, has a dark-brown tint, and contains soot particles or metal shavings.

Also, pay attention to the MAX and MIN marks on the dipstick. The former indicates the maximum allowable level of lubricant in the engine, while the latter – the minimum allowable. For optimal engine operation, the lubricant level should be between these two marks. If it is below the minimum, top up the fluid. For this end, buy the same lubricant that was used for the previous maintenance.