The 2017 Nissan Altima, when equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, uses a cartridge-style oil filter rather than a traditional spin-on canister. The official Nissan parts for this setup typically include the cartridge filter with part numbers such as 15208-6N01A or 15208-6N00A. Always verify the exact part with your VIN or at a parts counter to ensure a perfect fit.
Engine and filter style
The 2017 Altima’s 2.5L engine (QR25DE) uses an internal cartridge-style oil filter housed in a dedicated canister. Replacement involves exchanging the old cartridge element and its gasket, rather than unscrewing a traditional metal canister. The design is common across many Nissan 2.5L applications, though the exact filter part can vary by production date.
To ensure you purchase the correct filter, check the dealer or parts retailer with your vehicle identification number (VIN) and confirm the exact Nissan part number for your car.
- Nissan OEM oil filter cartridge: 15208-6N01A
- Nissan OEM oil filter cartridge (alternate/early production): 15208-6N00A
In practice, these two OEM numbers cover the common production runs of the 2017 Altima 2.5L. If you're buying aftermarket, look for a cartridge-style filter designed for the QR25DE engine and specified for Nissan Altima models of the same year.
Oil type, capacity and service interval
For the 2.5L Altima, Nissan generally recommends a 0W-20 full synthetic oil. The oil capacity with a new filter is typically around 4.7 quarts (approximately 4.4 liters). Regular oil changes are advised every 5,000–7,500 miles under normal driving, with more frequent changes under severe driving conditions. Always confirm oil grade and capacity in the owner's manual or with a Nissan dealer for your specific vehicle and market.
The following list summarizes the key oil-and-filter details to help you plan maintenance.
- Oil type: 0W-20 full synthetic (Nissan spec; verify in your manual)
- Oil capacity with new filter: about 4.7 quarts (4.4 L)
- Recommended change interval: roughly 5,000–7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions
For precise guidance, match the oil grade and capacity to your manual and local service bulletins, and consider the climate and driving style when setting change intervals.
DIY replacement steps for the cartridge oil filter
If you’re planning to replace the filter yourself, here are general steps to follow. The exact steps may vary slightly depending on the filter housing design in your car, so consult the service manual if needed.
- Warm up the engine briefly, then park on level ground and engage the parking brake.
- With the engine off, place a drain pan under the oil pan and remove the drain plug to drain the old oil.
- Remove the oil filter housing cap or cover to access the cartridge filter.
- Take out the old cartridge filter and the seal/gasket from the housing.
- Install the new cartridge filter and its new seal, ensuring a proper fit and seal.
- Reinstall the housing cap, tighten to the manufacturer’s specification, and replace the drain plug if needed.
- Refill the engine with the recommended 0W-20 oil to the proper level, then run the engine and check for leaks. Recheck oil level and top off if necessary.
- Reset the oil-change indicator if your vehicle has one.
After completing the replacement, double-check for any leaks around the filter housing and ensure the oil level is correct. Proper disposal of used oil and the old filter is important for environmental and safety reasons.
Summary
For a 2017 Nissan Altima with the 2.5L engine, use a cartridge-style oil filter—typical Nissan OEM part numbers are 15208-6N01A or 15208-6N00A. Use 0W-20 full synthetic oil, with an approximate capacity of 4.7 quarts plus the filter, and follow the recommended 5,000–7,500 mile maintenance interval (adjust for driving conditions). If in doubt, verify parts with the VIN and consult a dealer or trusted parts retailer to confirm the exact filter fitment.