1990 Nissan Pathfinder Oil Type & Capacity: 5W-30 (4.25 quarts)
The 1990 Nissan Pathfinder takes 5W-30 motor oil — 4.25 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
5W-30 — 4.25 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE, 2D Utility, Automatic | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| SE, 2D Utility, Standard | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| SE, 4D Utility, Automatic | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| SE, 4D Utility, Standard | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| XE, 2D Utility, Automatic | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| XE, 2D Utility, Standard | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| XE, 4D Utility, 4WD, Automatic | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| XE, 4D Utility, 4WD, Standard | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| XE, 4D Utility, RWD, Automatic | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
| XE, 4D Utility, RWD, Standard | API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures | 4.25 QTS. | 3.10 QTS. | — |
More factory specs & repair guides for your Pathfinder
🛞 1990 Nissan Pathfinder Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 1990 Nissan Pathfinder Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 1990 Nissan Pathfinder Light Bulb Sizes →📖 1990 Nissan Pathfinder Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
9.75 quarts (9.22 L) — 50/50 mixture of Ethylene Glycol Base Antifreeze and water
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 1990 Nissan Pathfinder take?
The 1990 Nissan Pathfinder takes 5W-30 motor oil (API - SAE 5W-30 is preferred for all ambients temperatures), per the factory service manual.
What is the oil capacity of a 1990 Nissan Pathfinder?
The 1990 Nissan Pathfinder oil capacity is 4.25 quarts with a filter change, or 3.1 quarts without changing the filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 1990 Nissan Pathfinder?
Most 1990 Nissan Pathfinder owners follow a 5,000–7,500 mile interval with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with full synthetic. Always check the oil life monitor if equipped, and consult your owner's manual — Nissan recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 1990 Nissan Pathfinder?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 1990 Nissan Pathfinder. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.