The Infiniti 5.6L V8 typically requires full-synthetic 5W-30 motor oil, about 7 quarts with a filter. Always verify the exact specification for your model year in the owner’s manual or on the oil filler cap.
This article explains the oil type for Infiniti’s 5.6L engine family (VK56DE/VD), including recommended viscosity, capacity, and maintenance guidelines for Armada, QX56, and QX80 models that use the 5.6L engine.
Oil grade and viscosity
Choosing the correct viscosity and meeting current standards is essential for protecting the VK56’s moving parts across climates and driving conditions.
- Preferred: full-synthetic 5W-30 that meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer.
- Alternative (if approved by your manual and climate): full-synthetic 0W-30 for extremely cold environments.
- Oil should meet Nissan/Infiniti specifications or approvals (e.g., Nissan/Infiniti genuine motor oil or an OEM-approved equivalent).
- Always follow the oil specification and viscosity listed in your vehicle’s owner’s manual for your exact model year.
In practical terms, the majority of 5.6L VK56 applications run best on a 5W-30 synthetic oil that complies with current API and ILSAC standards and is approved by Nissan/Infiniti. Check your manual or the under-hood label to confirm the exact requirement for your car.
Oil capacity and change intervals
Knowing how much oil the engine holds and how often to change it helps maintain the VK56’s reliability and performance.
- Oil capacity: roughly 7 quarts (about 6.6 liters) with the filter; exact capacity can vary slightly by model year and engine variant.
- Change interval: typically 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) under normal driving conditions; under severe driving (towing, frequent short trips, extreme heat/cold), more frequent changes are advised.
- Use of a quality full-synthetic oil and a new oil filter at every change is recommended to maximize engine protection.
These guidelines align with common Infiniti/Nissan service recommendations for the 5.6L VK56 family, but always follow the interval specified in your owner’s manual or by your dealer, especially if your driving conditions are strenuous.
Summary
For Infiniti’s 5.6L V8 (VK56DE/VD) engines found in the Armada, QX56, and QX80, the standard oil is full-synthetic 5W-30 that meets API SN+/ILSAC GF-5 or newer, with an approximate capacity of 7 quarts (with filter). Verify the exact specification and capacity for your model year in the owner’s manual and adhere to the recommended change interval—usually 5,000–7,500 miles under normal conditions, sooner under severe use. When in doubt, consult your dealer or the manual to ensure you use the correct oil for your vehicle.