The 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 L typically requires 5W-30 engine oil (synthetic or synthetic blend) that meets API SN or higher.
In detail, the engine holds about 4.8 quarts of oil with a filter. Use a 5W-30 oil that meets API SN (or higher) and ILSAC GF-5 (or higher). Always verify the exact specification in your owner's manual or with a Nissan dealer, since climate and driving conditions can influence viscosity recommendations and service intervals.
Oil type and viscosity recommendations
These guidelines cover the common oil types and viscosity for the 2.5 L engine in the Altima.
- 5W-30 synthetic oil (full synthetic) that meets API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or higher.
- 5W-30 synthetic-blend oil that meets API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or higher.
Conclusion: Choose a 5W-30 oil in synthetic or synthetic-blend form that satisfies the API and ILSAC specifications noted above. This ensures proper lubrication across typical driving conditions for the Altima’s 2.5 L engine.
Oil capacity and change intervals
Information on how much oil your engine takes and how often to change it.
- Oil capacity: Approximately 4.8 quarts (with filter).
- Change intervals: When using synthetic oil, many drivers schedule changes up to about 7,500 miles (or roughly 12 months), while conventional oil typically requires more frequent changes (often around 3,000–5,000 miles or 3–6 months), with more frequent service under severe driving conditions. Always follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual for the exact interval.
- Oil filter: Replace with every oil change.
Conclusion: Use the owner's manual as the authority for exact intervals and capacities, and adjust for your climate and driving habits. If in doubt, a Nissan dealer or trusted shop can tailor the plan for you.
Brands and product suggestions
Popular, readily available brands that offer 5W-30 oils meeting API SN and ILSAC GF-5 for this engine include:
- Mobil 1 5W-30 (Synthetic)
- Castrol EDGE 5W-30 (Synthetic)
- Valvoline SynPower 5W-30 (Synthetic)
- Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30
- Quaker State Full Synthetic 5W-30
Conclusion: Any 5W-30 oil from a reputable brand that meets API SN and ILSAC GF-5 (or higher) is suitable. Always confirm the oil meets the vehicle’s specification on the bottle’s label and in your owner’s manual.
Summary
For a 2012 Nissan Altima with the 2.5 L engine, use 5W-30 oil in a synthetic or synthetic-blend formulation that meets API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or higher. The oil capacity is about 4.8 quarts with a filter, and oil-change intervals vary by oil type and driving conditions; consult the owner’s manual for exact guidance. When choosing a brand, select a reputable 5W-30 option that satisfies the required specifications, and adjust intervals based on climate and usage.