The 2015 Altima uses a cartridge-style oil filter mounted on top of the engine
The 2015 Nissan Altima does not have a spin-on oil filter like many other vehicles. Instead, it uses a cartridge-style filter that sits in a housing on the top of the engine, near the front. This design means you remove a cap, pull out the filter element, and replace it — rather than unscrewing an entire canister.
The filter housing is located on the driver's side of the engine, just behind the valve cover. It is a cylindrical plastic cap about 3 inches across. You will need an oil filter wrench to remove the cap, since it is tight and hand-removal is difficult. The filter element itself costs between $8 and $15, and the job takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you have the right tool.
Key Takeaways
- The 2015 Altima has a cartridge filter on top of the engine, not a spin-on filter underneath.
- You need an oil filter wrench to remove the housing cap; the correct size is usually 74 mm or 86 mm depending on which engine you have.
- Always replace the rubber O-ring seal on the cap when you change the filter, or you risk an oil leak.
- Nissan recommends changing the oil and filter every 3,000 miles if you drive in severe conditions, or every 5,000 to 7,500 miles under normal driving.
Which engine you have determines the filter wrench size
The 2015 Altima came with two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder (standard) or a 3.5-liter V6 (in the SV and SL trims). Both use cartridge filters, but the housing cap size differs between them.
The 2.5-liter engine uses a 74 mm filter wrench. The 3.5-liter engine uses an 86 mm wrench. If you buy the wrong size, the wrench will not grip the cap properly and you risk stripping it. Check your owner's manual or the engine bay label to confirm which engine you have before purchasing a wrench. Most auto parts stores will let you return an unused wrench if you bring your receipt.
Step-by-step filter replacement
Start with the engine cold or warm but not hot. Locate the filter housing cap on the top of the engine. Place a drain pan underneath it — some oil will spill when you remove the cap, though not as much as with a spin-on filter.
Use the correct-size oil filter wrench to turn the cap counterclockwise. Turn slowly at first to break the seal, then unscrew it by hand once it is loose. Lift the cap straight up and the filter element will come out with it. Pour any remaining oil from the cap into your drain pan.
Inspect the rubber O-ring seal on the underside of the cap. If it looks cracked, hardened, or flattened, replace it. Nissan sells replacement O-rings for a few dollars. If the seal looks good, wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth and explore a thin coat of fresh oil to it — this helps the new seal sit properly.
Insert the new filter element into the housing. It should slide in smoothly and sit flat at the bottom. Screw the cap back on by hand first, then use the wrench to tighten it. Do not over-tighten; snug is enough. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then turn it off and wait a minute. Check the cap for leaks. If oil is dripping, the O-ring may not be seated correctly — remove the cap and reseat it.
Common mistakes that cause leaks
The most frequent problem is forgetting to replace or properly seat the O-ring. If you reuse an old O-ring without cleaning it or explore oil to it, it will not seal against the housing. The cap will look tight but oil will seep out within a few days of driving.
Over-tightening the cap is another common error. The plastic housing can crack if you use excessive force with the wrench. Tighten until you feel resistance, then give it a quarter-turn more. That is enough. If you hear a cracking sound, stop when ready and check for damage.
A third mistake is not draining the old filter element before reinstalling the cap. If oil is still sitting in the housing, it can overflow when you screw the cap back on, making a mess and potentially leaving you low on oil. Always let the housing drain into your pan for a minute or two after you remove the cap.
Oil filter part numbers and where to buy
Nissan's OEM filter part number for the 2015 Altima is 15208-9E000. This is the genuine Nissan cartridge filter. Most auto parts stores stock it or can order it the same day. The price is usually $12 to $18.
Aftermarket filters from Fram, Mobil 1, Bosch, and Mann+Hummel also fit the 2015 Altima and are widely available. These typically cost $8 to $12 and perform well. Check the packaging to confirm the filter is listed for the 2015 Altima 2.5L or 3.5L, depending on your engine. Do not assume all cartridge filters are the same size — they are not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the oil filter without changing the oil?
Yes, you can change just the filter. However, Nissan recommends changing the oil and filter together at the same interval. If you change only the filter, the old oil remains in the engine and continues to degrade. Most owners find it simpler and more economical to do both at once.
What happens if I use the wrong wrench size?
Using a wrench that is too small or too large will not grip the cap properly. You risk stripping the cap's edges, making it impossible to remove without damaging the housing. If this happens, you may need to drill out the cap or take the vehicle to a shop. Always confirm the correct size before you start.
Do I need to replace the O-ring every time?
No, but you should inspect it every time. If it looks clean, flexible, and undamaged, you can reuse it. If it is cracked, hard, or flattened, replace it. A new O-ring costs $2 to $5 and takes 30 seconds to install. It is cheap insurance against an oil leak.
How often should I change the filter on a 2015 Altima?
Nissan recommends every 3,000 miles if you drive in severe conditions (towing, frequent short trips, dusty roads), or every 5,000 to 7,500 miles under normal driving. Check your owner's manual for the exact interval for your driving habits. Some owners with synthetic oil go longer, but the filter should still be changed at the manufacturer's recommended interval.