The oil filter is located on the front passenger-side of the engine, inside a canister, and you access it from underneath the vehicle.
The 2017 Maxima uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a canister attached to the engine block. Access generally requires lifting the car and removing the undercarriage splash shield; the filter is positioned on the front-right side of the engine near the oil pan and timing cover. When replacing, you’ll handle a new cartridge and O-ring, and you should consult the owner’s manual for the exact oil grade (commonly 5W-30) and total capacity (roughly 5 quarts with filter). Safety and proper procedure are crucial, so consider professional service if you’re not comfortable with undercarriage work.
Where to look in the engine bay
The following notes help you locate the filter housing and understand what you’ll need to access it:
- Front-right (passenger) side of the engine block, near the oil pan
- Inside a cartridge-style filter housing mounted to the engine
- Usually behind a plastic splash shield; removing the shield is common to gain access
- Accessibility is improved from underneath the car, not just from the engine bay top
These cues summarize the typical placement and access considerations for the Maxima's oil filter.
How to replace the oil filter
If you plan a DIY oil change, follow these steps to replace the cartridge filter properly and safely:
- Warm up the engine, then park on level ground and engage the parking brake. For extra safety, disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Raise the front of the car with a jack and secure it with stands; remove the engine undertray or splash shield if equipped.
- Place an oil catch pan under the filter housing to collect any spilled oil.
- Unthread the filter housing cap or remove the cartridge filter according to the service manual; take out the old cartridge and O-ring.
- Install a new O-ring, lightly lubricate it with fresh oil, and insert the new cartridge filter; reassemble the housing cap and tighten to the specified torque.
- Reinstall the splash shield, lower the car, and refill engine oil to the recommended level (check the owner's manual for exact capacity and the correct 5W-30 grade).
- Start the engine, check for leaks, and recheck the oil level after a brief run and a cool-down period.
Note: Access can vary with trim and aftermarket shielding; if in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or have a technician perform the change to ensure proper torque and sealing.
Summary
In a 2017 Nissan Maxima, the oil filter sits in a cartridge-style housing on the front passenger side of the engine, typically behind the undercarriage splash shield and accessible from underneath. Replacing the filter involves removing the old cartridge and O-ring, installing a new cartridge and O-ring, and refilling with the correct oil. Always verify specs in the owner’s manual and follow proper safety practices.