2017 Nissan Maxima 3.5 Oil Type and Maintenance Guide

Understanding Oil Types for Your Nissan Maxima

When it comes to keeping your 2017 Nissan Maxima running smoothly, one of the most crucial factors is the oil you choose. The right oil not only lubricates your engine but also helps in reducing wear and tear, maintaining optimal performance, and ensuring longevity. Let’s break down the oil types that are best suited for your vehicle based on owner feedback and experiences shared in forums.

SAE Ratings

SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) ratings are essential for understanding the viscosity of motor oil. For the Nissan Maxima’s 3.5L V6 engine, you’ll typically want to look for oils that meet the following SAE ratings:

Owners often report that using 0W-20 oil provides better cold start performance, especially in colder climates. This oil flows more easily at low temperatures, which can help reduce engine wear during those chilly mornings when you start your car.

ACEA Standards

ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association) standards ensure that the oil meets specific performance criteria. While the Nissan Maxima is primarily designed for the North American market, it’s still beneficial to understand the ACEA classifications that might apply:

Many Maxima owners have shared that using oils that meet ACEA A3/B4 or C3 standards helps in maintaining engine cleanliness and reducing deposits, which is crucial for the longevity of your engine.

Viscosity and Its Importance

Viscosity refers to the thickness of the oil and its ability to flow. The right viscosity is critical for ensuring that your engine components are adequately lubricated. Here’s a quick rundown of why viscosity matters:

• Cold Starts: Thinner oils (like 0W-20) flow better during cold starts, which is essential for engine protection.


• High Temperature Stability: Oils with higher viscosity ratings (like 5W-30) can maintain their protective qualities even at elevated temperatures.


• Fuel Efficiency: Lower viscosity oils can improve fuel economy by reducing friction.

Owners have found that sticking to the recommended viscosity not only enhances performance but also provides peace of mind, knowing their engine is well-protected.

In summary, understanding the oil types, SAE ratings, ACEA standards, and viscosity is crucial for maintaining your Nissan Maxima’s engine health. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific recommendations and consider the climate you’re driving in to make the best choice for your vehicle.

Oil Capacity for Your Nissan Maxima

When it comes to maintaining your 2017 Nissan Maxima, knowing the oil capacity is crucial for ensuring your engine runs smoothly. An oil change isn’t just about swapping out the old oil for the new; it’s about putting in the right amount to keep your engine lubricated and functioning optimally. Let’s dive into the specifics of oil capacity for your vehicle.

Engine Oil Capacity

For the 2017 Nissan Maxima equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine, the oil capacity is as follows:

• With Filter: 5.4 quarts (approximately 5.1 liters)
• Without Filter: 5.0 quarts (approximately 4.7 liters)

It’s essential to note that the capacity can vary slightly based on the specific engine configuration and whether you are changing the oil filter. Always check your owner’s manual for the most accurate information tailored to your specific vehicle.

Importance of Correct Oil Capacity

Using the correct oil capacity is vital for several reasons:

1. Engine Protection: Too little oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, causing increased wear and tear on engine components. This can result in severe engine damage over time.
2. Heat Dissipation: Oil helps to absorb and dissipate heat generated by the engine. Insufficient oil can lead to overheating, which can compromise engine performance and longevity.
3. Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining the proper oil level ensures that the engine operates efficiently. An engine with the right amount of oil can perform better and consume less fuel.

Checking Oil Level

Regularly checking your oil level is a straightforward process and should be part of your routine vehicle maintenance. Here’s how to do it:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
2. Open the hood and locate the dipstick, which is usually marked with a bright handle.
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
4. Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again to check the oil level. The dipstick will have markings indicating the optimal oil level.
5. If the oil level is below the recommended mark, add the appropriate oil type until it reaches the correct level.

Oil Change Considerations

When changing your oil, keep the following in mind:

• Always replace the oil filter when changing your oil to ensure that your new oil remains clean.
• Use a funnel when adding new oil to avoid spills and ensure you don’t overfill.
• After adding oil, run the engine for a few minutes and check for leaks. Recheck the oil level afterward to ensure it’s within the recommended range.

Maintaining the correct oil capacity is a fundamental aspect of vehicle ownership. Regular checks and changes will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your Nissan Maxima running at its best.

Change Interval and Recommended Oil Brands for Your Nissan Maxima

Regular oil changes are crucial for the longevity and performance of your 2017 Nissan Maxima. Knowing when to change your oil and which brands to trust can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Let’s break down the recommended change intervals and some of the top oil brands that owners and mechanics swear by.

Change Interval

For the 2017 Nissan Maxima with a 3.5L V6 engine, the recommended oil change interval can vary based on driving conditions and the type of oil used. Here’s a general guideline:

Standard Driving Conditions

• Conventional Oil: Change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km).
• Synthetic Oil: Change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km).

Severe Driving Conditions

If you often drive in severe conditions—such as stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, towing heavy loads, or frequent short trips—you should consider changing your oil more frequently:

• Conventional Oil: Change every 3,000 to 4,000 miles (4,800 to 6,400 km).
• Synthetic Oil: Change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km).

According to the Nissan owner’s manual and various automotive maintenance guidelines, sticking to these intervals can help ensure that your engine remains well-lubricated and free from harmful deposits.

Recommended Oil Brands

Choosing the right oil brand is just as important as the type and interval. Here are some of the top brands that are frequently recommended by mechanics and Nissan enthusiasts alike:

1. Mobil 1

Mobil 1 is one of the most popular synthetic oil brands on the market. It offers excellent protection against wear and oxidation, making it a favorite among performance-minded drivers.

2. Castrol Edge

Castrol Edge is known for its advanced full synthetic formula, which provides superior strength under pressure. It’s a great choice for those who drive in demanding conditions.

3. Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic

Valvoline’s Advanced Full Synthetic oil is designed to provide excellent engine protection and performance. It’s a solid choice for both everyday drivers and those who push their cars to the limit.

4. Pennzoil Platinum

Pennzoil Platinum is another highly regarded synthetic oil that offers excellent cleaning properties, which can help keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently.

5. Royal Purple

Royal Purple is known for its high-performance synthetic oils that provide superior lubrication and protection. It’s often recommended for high-performance vehicles and those looking for the best protection.

Justification for Change Intervals and Oil Brands

The recommended oil change intervals and brands are backed by extensive research and statistical data from automotive experts and manufacturers. According to a study published by the American Petroleum Institute (API), synthetic oils have been shown to provide better protection and longer intervals than conventional oils.

Furthermore, the Nissan owner’s manual specifies these intervals and recommends certain oil types, reinforcing the importance of following these guidelines for optimal engine performance. Mechanics and automotive professionals consistently emphasize the importance of regular oil changes, citing that neglecting this simple maintenance task can lead to increased engine wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and costly repairs.

By adhering to these change intervals and selecting reputable oil brands, you can ensure that your 2017 Nissan Maxima continues to perform at its best for years to come.