Nissan Sentra Engine Oil Specs

Engine oil type, capacity & service interval for the Nissan Sentra (2000–2025). Select your year below for full specifications.

Typical Oil Grade
0W-20
Capacity
4.2 qt
Change Interval
10,000 mi
Years Available
26

Oil grade changes by year

Do not assume every Nissan Sentra year uses the same oil. Some years specify 0W-20 (years 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2011) while others specify 5W-20 (years 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2006, 2003) while others specify 5W-30 (years 2012, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2005, 2004, 2002, 2001, 2000). Select your exact year and engine configuration before buying oil.

Nissan Sentra Engine Oil Specs by Year

All 26 years
Year Engine Oil Grade Capacity Interval
2025 2L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 4.2 qt 10,000 mi View →
2024 2L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 4.2 qt 10,000 mi View →
2023 2L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 4.2 qt 10,000 mi View →
2022 2L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 4.2 qt 10,000 mi View →
2021 2L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 4.2 qt 10,000 mi View →
2020 2L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 4.2 qt 10,000 mi View →
2019 1.6L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 3.7 qt 7,500 mi View →
2018 1.6L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 3.7 qt 7,500 mi View →
2017 1.6L 4-Cylinder 5W-20 3.7 qt 7,500 mi View →
2016 1.8L 4-Cylinder 5W-20 4.2 qt 7,500 mi View →
2015 1.8L 4-Cylinder 5W-20 4.2 qt 7,500 mi View →
2014 1.8L 4-Cylinder 5W-20 4.2 qt 5,000 mi View →
2013 1.8L 4-Cylinder 5W-20 4.2 qt 5,000 mi View →
2012 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.7 qt 5,000 mi View →
2011 2.5L 4-Cylinder 0W-20 4.5 qt 7,500 mi View →
2010 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.7 qt 5,000 mi View →
2009 2L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.2 qt 5,000 mi View →
2008 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.7 qt 5,000 mi View →
2007 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.7 qt 5,000 mi View →
2006 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-20 4.2 qt 5,000 mi View →
2005 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.6 qt 5,000 mi View →
2004 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.7 qt 5,000 mi View →
2003 2.5L 4-Cylinder 5W-20 4.2 qt 7,500 mi View →
2002 1.8L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.2 qt 5,000 mi View →
2001 2L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 4.2 qt 5,000 mi View →
2000 2L 4-Cylinder 5W-30 3.5 qt 5,000 mi View →

Nissan Sentra Engine Oil Guide

The Nissan Sentra was produced from 2000 to 2025. This model typically uses 0W-20 full synthetic engine oil — a specification common to most Nissan Sen-series vehicles.

Selecting the correct oil viscosity for your Nissan Sentra 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 Sentra 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 Sentra, 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 Sentra 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 Sentra configurations may have different requirements.

⚠ Viscosity Precaution

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.

Severe Duty Cycles

For frequent short trips (under 5 miles) or dust-prone environments, shorten change intervals to 5,000 miles / 6 months to avoid premature wear.