2016 Nissan Altima Oil Type & Capacity
The 2016 Nissan Altima oil type depends on the engine: the 2.5L takes 0W-20 (4.88 quarts qt with filter); the 3.5L takes 0W-20 (5.13 quarts qt with filter); the Base takes 0W-20 (4.88 quarts qt with filter); the S takes 0W-20 (4.88 quarts qt with filter); the SV takes 0W-20 (4.88 quarts qt with filter), per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
It depends on the engine:
- 2.5L: 0W-20, 4.88 quarts with filter
- 2.5L: 0W-20, 4.88 quarts with filter
- 3.5L: 0W-20, 5.13 quarts with filter
- 3.5L: 0W-20, 5.13 quarts with filter
- Base: 0W-20, 4.88 quarts with filter
- S: 0W-20, 4.88 quarts with filter
- SV: 0W-20, 4.88 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L — SL, 2.5L Eng VIN A, 2.5L Eng | API - SAE 0W-20 | 4.88 QTS. | 4.50 QTS. | NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil. |
| 2.5L — SR, 2.5L Eng VIN A, 2.5L Eng | API - SAE 0W-20 | 4.88 QTS. | 4.50 QTS. | NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil. |
| 3.5L — SL, 3.5L Eng VIN B, 3.5L Eng | API - SAE 0W-20 | 5.13 QTS. | 4.75 QTS. | NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil. |
| 3.5L — SR, 3.5L Eng VIN B, 3.5L Eng | API - SAE 0W-20 | 5.13 QTS. | 4.75 QTS. | NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil. |
| Base — 2.5L Eng | API - SAE 0W-20 | 4.88 QTS. | 4.50 QTS. | NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil. |
| S — 2.5L Eng | API - SAE 0W-20 | 4.88 QTS. | 4.50 QTS. | NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil. |
| SV — 2.5L Eng | API - SAE 0W-20 | 4.88 QTS. | 4.50 QTS. | NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil. |
More factory specs & repair guides for your Altima
🛞 2016 Nissan Altima Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2016 Nissan Altima Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2016 Nissan Altima Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2016 Nissan Altima Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
8.13 quarts (7.69 L) — Pre-diluted Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2016 Nissan Altima take?
It depends on the engine: 2.5L uses 0W-20; 3.5L uses 0W-20; Base uses 0W-20; S uses 0W-20; SV uses 0W-20.
What is the oil capacity of a 2016 Nissan Altima?
Oil capacity depends on the engine: 2.5L holds 4.88 quarts with filter; 3.5L holds 5.13 quarts with filter; Base holds 4.88 quarts with filter; S holds 4.88 quarts with filter; SV holds 4.88 quarts with filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 2016 Nissan Altima?
Most 2016 Nissan Altima 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 2016 Nissan Altima?
Yes. 0W-20 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2016 Nissan Altima. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.