Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Specs
Engine oil type, capacity & service interval for the Nissan Maxima (2000–2023). Select your year below for full specifications.
Choose Maxima year
Oil grade changes by year
Do not assume every Nissan Maxima year uses the same oil. Some years specify 5W-30 (years 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000) while others specify 5W-20 (years 2009). Select your exact year and engine configuration before buying oil.
Select Year – Nissan Maxima Engine Oil
23 years foundNissan Maxima Engine Oil Specs by Year
All 23 years| Year | Engine | Oil Grade | Capacity | Interval | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 10,000 mi | View → |
| 2022 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 10,000 mi | View → |
| 2021 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 10,000 mi | View → |
| 2020 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 10,000 mi | View → |
| 2019 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 7,500 mi | View → |
| 2018 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 7,500 mi | View → |
| 2017 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 7,500 mi | View → |
| 2016 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 7,500 mi | View → |
| 2014 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2013 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 4.6 qt | 7,500 mi | View → |
| 2012 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2011 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 4.5 qt | 7,500 mi | View → |
| 2010 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2009 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-20 | 4.5 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2008 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2007 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2006 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 5.0 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2005 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 5.5 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2004 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 4.5 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2003 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 4.6 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2002 | 3.5L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 6.0 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2001 | 3L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 5.5 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
| 2000 | 3L 6-Cylinder | 5W-30 | 4.5 qt | 5,000 mi | View → |
Nissan Maxima Engine Oil Guide
The Nissan Maxima was produced from 2000 to 2023. This model typically uses 5W-30 full synthetic engine oil — a specification common to most Nissan Max-series vehicles.
Selecting the correct oil viscosity for your Nissan Maxima is essential. Using a grade that is too thin reduces protection at operating temperature, while too thick an oil impairs cold-start flow and reduces fuel economy. Always match the exact grade shown for your specific model year.
The recommended oil change interval for the Nissan Maxima is every 10,000 miles or 12 months. Under severe driving conditions — track use, towing, or frequent cold starts — shorten this interval by 25–30%.
When servicing your Nissan Maxima, always replace the oil filter at every oil change. Using a quality filter — such as Fram, Mobil 1, or OEM equivalent filters — ensures clean oil circulation through the engine block.
Oil change costs for the Nissan Maxima at a US dealership or local service center typically range from $60 to $110 for a standard synthetic blend or full synthetic service. DIY oil changes cost approximately $30–$65 in parts (oil + filter) and take about 30 minutes with the right tools.
Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual to confirm the exact specification for your specific trim and engine variant, as some Nissan Maxima configurations may have different requirements.
Newer Japanese engines (Toyota/Honda/Nissan) require light viscosity oils like 0W-20 or 0W-16. Do not use thicker oils, as it impairs VVT-i systems.
For frequent short trips (under 5 miles) or dust-prone environments, shorten change intervals to 5,000 miles / 6 months to avoid premature wear.