The oil filter on a 2015 Nissan Altima is located on the engine block, on the passenger side, and is easier to reach from underneath the car with the front splash shield removed.
Engine variants and general access
Because the Altima was offered with more than one engine in 2015, the exact location can vary slightly by powertrain. The two common engines are the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the 3.5-liter V6. Here’s how to locate it for each engine type.
2.5L four-cylinder (QR25DE)
In the 2.5L engine, the oil filter is mounted on the side of the engine block toward the front passenger-side area, near the exhaust manifold. Access is typically from underneath the vehicle; you may need to remove the front splash shield or lower engine cover to reach it.
To locate it and prepare for replacement:
- Safely raise the front of the car and support it on stands; remove the right-side splash shield if present.
- Slide under the car and look along the passenger-side of the engine block for a cylindrical oil filter canister.
- Identify the filter by its size and the plastic cap or end cap that seals the canister.
- Have a drain pan ready in case of small drips when opening the cap or removing the canister.
Concluding: Once located, you can swap in a new filter cartridge and reset the oil-fill level as part of an oil change.
3.5L V6
The 3.5-liter V6 engine location for the oil filter is generally on the same side (passenger side) of the engine block, near the front, and is accessible from underneath with the front splash shield removed. Some variants may allow access from above after removing certain components; consult the service manual if in doubt.
To locate and prepare for replacement on the 3.5L engine:
- Raise and support the vehicle safely, and remove the front splash shield if needed.
- From underneath, locate the engine block area on the passenger side and look for the cylindrical oil filter housing.
- Check that you have the correct filter; the V6 uses a similar canister-type filter but with a different capacity rating.
- Prepare a drain pan and rags for any oil that may spill during removal.
Concluding: After removing the old filter and installing a new one with a fresh O-ring, refill engine oil and check for leaks.
Summary
For most 2015 Nissan Altima models, the oil filter is a cylindrical canister mounted on the engine block on the passenger side, near the front. Access is usually easiest from underneath the vehicle with the front splash shield removed. The exact position may differ slightly between the 2.5L four-cylinder and the 3.5L V6, so consult the owner's manual or a service manual for your exact trim if you’re unsure.