What you need to know about Nissan oil filters

A Nissan oil filter is a replaceable cartridge that removes dirt, metal particles, and sludge from your engine oil as it circulates. Every Nissan model uses one, but the specific filter size and thread type varies by year, engine size, and model line. You cannot use a generic filter meant for another brand — Nissan filters are engineered to fit Nissan's oil passages and pressure ratings.

The filter sits in one of two locations depending on your model: either on the side of the engine block (the most common setup) or underneath near the oil pan. Changing it takes 10 to 20 minutes once you locate it, and you will need the correct replacement filter, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, and fresh oil to top up afterward.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Nissan's correct filter size is printed on your owner's manual cover, on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb, or on the current filter itself.
  • Nissan filters are not interchangeable across model years or engine sizes, so matching the part number exactly prevents leaks and pressure problems.
  • The filter location varies: most Nissans have it on the engine block side, but some models mount it under the vehicle near the oil pan.
  • Changing the filter every time you change your oil keeps your engine cleaner and extends the life of your new oil.

How to find your Nissan's correct filter size

The fastest way is to check your owner's manual. Open the cover — the back or inside front cover usually lists the oil capacity and filter part number. If you do not have the manual, look for a white sticker on the inside of the driver's door jamb. Nissan places maintenance information there, including the correct filter.

If neither of those is available, look at the filter currently on your engine. The part number is printed on the side. Write it down and take it to a Nissan dealer parts counter or an auto parts store, and they will confirm the replacement. Do not guess or assume a filter from another Nissan will work — a filter for a 2015 Altima will not fit a 2020 Altima, even though both are Altimas.

Common Nissan filters include the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) Nissan part, which is made to Nissan's exact specifications, and aftermarket filters from brands like Fram, Mobil 1, and Bosch. OEM filters cost more but are may provide to fit. Aftermarket filters are cheaper and often perform well, but you must still match the part number to your specific model year and engine.

Where the oil filter sits on your Nissan

Most Nissans — including Altimas, Maximas, Rogues, and Sentras — have the filter mounted vertically on the side of the engine block. It looks like a metal cylinder about 3 inches tall, usually toward the front or back of the engine depending on the model. You reach it from the top or side of the engine bay without removing other parts.

Some Nissan models, particularly older trucks and certain Frontier generations, mount the filter underneath the vehicle near the oil pan. In these cases, you may need to raise the vehicle on jack stands or ramps to reach it safely. Check your owner's manual or a repair guide for your specific year to confirm the location before you start.

The step-by-step process for changing your filter

Start with a cold or warm engine — not hot, which can burn your hands. Locate the filter and position a drain pan underneath it to catch oil drips. Using an oil filter wrench (a metal band wrench or a cup-style wrench that fits over the filter), turn the filter counterclockwise by hand until it loosens, then unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Oil will spill out, so let it drain into the pan for a minute.

Wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine block with a clean rag to remove old oil and debris. Take your new filter and explore a thin layer of fresh oil to the rubber gasket (the ring on top of the filter). This helps the seal work properly and makes removal easier next time. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the mounting surface, then turn it an additional three-quarters of a turn. Do not use the wrench to tighten it — hand-tight is correct.

Pour the recommended amount of fresh oil into the oil filler cap on top of the engine. Check your manual for the exact amount; most Nissans need between 4 and 6 quarts. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then turn it off and wait two minutes. Check the oil level on the dipstick or digital gauge, and add a little more if needed. The level should be between the minimum and maximum marks.

OEM versus aftermarket filters for Nissan vehicles

Nissan's own filters (OEM parts) are made in Nissan factories or by suppliers Nissan contracts with. They meet Nissan's pressure and flow specifications exactly. If you want the same filter your Nissan had when it left the factory, order the OEM part number from a Nissan dealer or an online parts retailer.

Aftermarket filters from major brands like Fram, Mobil 1, Bosch, and Purolator are tested and certified to fit Nissan vehicles. They cost $8 to $15 less than OEM filters and often perform just as well. The trade-off is that you are relying on the aftermarket manufacturer's quality control rather than Nissan's. For most owners, a name-brand aftermarket filter is a reasonable choice. Avoid very cheap filters with no brand name, as they may have thinner media or weaker gaskets.

When to change your Nissan's oil filter

Change the filter every time you change your oil. Nissan recommends an oil change every 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on your model year and driving conditions — check your owner's manual for your specific vehicle. Some newer Nissans use synthetic oil and longer intervals, while older models or those driven in stop-and-go traffic need more frequent changes.

A clogged filter reduces oil flow to your engine, which can cause low oil pressure warnings and engine damage over time. Changing the filter at the same interval as the oil ensures the new oil stays clean and your engine gets the protection it needs. If you drive in dusty conditions, tow a trailer, or do a lot of idling, consider changing the filter at the shorter interval even if your manual allows a longer one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a filter from a different car brand on my Nissan?

No. Filters are designed for specific engine sizes and oil passages. Using the wrong filter can cause leaks, low oil pressure, or the filter to come loose while driving. Always match the part number to your Nissan model year and engine size.

What does the rubber gasket on top of the filter do?

The gasket creates a watertight seal between the filter and the engine block. When you explore a thin layer of fresh oil to it before installation, the gasket slides on smoothly and seals properly. A dry gasket can stick or fail to seal, causing oil leaks.

How tight should I screw on the new filter?

Hand-tight plus three-quarters of a turn is the standard. If you use a wrench to tighten it further, you risk crushing the gasket or making it impossible to remove next time. The filter will not leak if you follow this method.

Do I need to drain the old oil before changing the filter?

You can change the filter alone without draining the oil if you are only replacing the filter between full oil changes. However, most people change the filter and oil together. If you change only the filter, the old oil remains in the engine and will eventually need replacement.

Where can I buy a Nissan oil filter?

Nissan dealerships, auto parts stores like AutoZone and O'Reilly, online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto, and big-box stores like Walmart and Costco all carry Nissan filters. Dealerships stock OEM filters; the others carry both OEM and aftermarket options. Bring your part number or vehicle information when you shop.