Nissan Maxima Oil Type & Capacity
Nissan Maxima oil type and capacity by generation. Covers the VQ35DE and earlier V6 engines with filter part guidance.
Last updated: 2026-10-29 • Reading time: 8 min • By AllOEMManuals Editorial Team
Quick Answer
Most 2009-2023 Nissan Maxima models with the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 use 5W-30 full synthetic oil (2016+ can use 0W-20) with a capacity of about 4.9-5.1 quarts with filter.
| Generation | Years | Top spec |
|---|---|---|
| 8th Gen (2016-2023) | 2016-2023 | 0W-20 or 5W-30 Full Synthetic |
| 7th Gen (2009-2015) | 2009-2015 | 5W-30 Full Synthetic |
| 6th Gen (2004-2008) | 2004-2008 | 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional |
This vehicle's factory manual
The spec is above. This opens the 2016 Nissan Maxima factory book. Use another year if yours is older.
Nissan Maxima maintenance schedule
Know the exact oil type & capacity job for your Nissan Maxima
Most 2009-2023 Nissan Maxima models with the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 use 5W-30 full synthetic oil (2016+ can use 0W-20) with a capacity of about 4.9-5.1 quarts with filter.
Fluid type and capacity can change by engine, drivetrain, and transmission. Verify the exact branch before filling anything. Once the spec is confirmed, use the supplies and purchase links below to build the full one-trip shopping list before you start the repair.
Exact Vehicle Check
The button opens the factory book for this vehicle. Use the engine picker only when your trim is not the one this page already matched.
8th Gen (2016-2023)
7th Gen (2009-2015)
6th Gen (2004-2008)
Manual already checked Amazon for you
You came here for the exact spec. Now here is the exact part — plus the two things people always forget and have to run back to the store for.
Nissan Maxima 0W-20 Oil + Filter
The factory spec is 0W-20. Buy the exact oil and matching filter in one shot.
We earn a small commission if you buy through these links — at zero extra cost to you. We only suggest items that match the factory specs on this page.
Oil Change — Manual's Parts List
Everything for one clean oil change. No extra trips.
- 1Engine OilShop →
0W-20 — get the right number of quarts
- 2Oil FilterShop →
Match to your engine variant
- 3Drain Plug Crush WasherShop →
The #1 cause of post-change leaks
- 4Oil Filter WrenchShop →
Hand-tightened filters seize after heat cycles
- 5Shop Rags / Blue TowelsShop →
6-pack — you will use more than you think
Get everything at once
One search shows all of the above on a single page.
Links go to Amazon via our affiliate store (aiautorepair-20). We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it keeps the site running and the data free.
One-Trip Shopping List
Recommended supplies and tools for this job, grouped so you can buy everything before the repair starts.
Premium Full Synthetic Oil
Match the viscosity (e.g. 0W-20) to your vehicle spec.
Oil Filter
High-efficiency filter to match your specific engine model.
Oil Drain Pan
Low-profile pan for easy oil collection and disposal.
Filter Wrench
Adjustable or size-specific wrench to remove stuck filters.
Funnel Set
Prevent spills when refilling your engine oil.
Shop Towels
Lint-free towels for spills, dipsticks, and filter surfaces.
Project Essentials
Basic tool sets, gloves, and cleaning supplies for your Nissan Maxima so the job is ready when the parts arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use 0W-20 in a Nissan Maxima?
- 2016+ Maxima models permit 0W-20. Earlier models typically call for 5W-30. Check your owner manual and oil cap for the exact viscosity.
- How much oil does a 2020 Maxima take?
- A 2020 Nissan Maxima with the 3.5L V6 takes about 5.1 quarts of oil with a new filter.
- What oil type & capacity does a Nissan Maxima use?
- Most 2009-2023 Nissan Maxima models with the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 use 5W-30 full synthetic oil (2016+ can use 0W-20) with a capacity of about 4.9-5.1 quarts with filter.
- How much oil does a Nissan Maxima take?
- 0W-20 or 5W-30 Full Synthetic (2016-2023)
- How often should I change the oil in a Nissan Maxima?
- Most Nissan service manuals recommend oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions (towing, extreme temperatures, stop-and-go traffic) may require more frequent changes. Verify with your owner's manual for the exact interval.
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Author & Review
Published by AllOEMManuals, founded by Lyndon Bedford, an automotive technician with 20 years of experience. He owned and operated a mechanic shop in Hurst, Texas from 2014 to 2022 and continues hands-on repair work.
Content may combine manual references, general repair templates, and AI-assisted drafting. Confirm the source, vehicle configuration, and applicability before working. Report corrections through our contact page.
Last updated: 2026-10-29