Hey guys! Changing your oil is one of the most important things you can do to keep your 2018 Nissan Altima SR running smoothly. It's like giving your engine a refreshing drink and a good scrub all in one! This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, so even if you've never changed oil before, you'll be able to tackle it with confidence. We’ll cover everything from gathering your supplies to properly disposing of the used oil. So, grab your tools, and let's get started!

Why is Changing Your Oil Important?

Okay, so why all the fuss about changing your oil? Well, your engine's oil is its lifeblood. It does a bunch of important stuff, like:

• Lubricating: Oil coats all the moving parts in your engine, reducing friction and preventing them from grinding against each other. Think of it like the WD-40 for your engine's insides!
• Cooling: As oil circulates, it absorbs heat from the engine, helping to keep it from overheating. Over time, the oil's ability to cool diminishes, making regular changes important.
• Cleaning: Oil picks up dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can build up in your engine. These contaminants can cause wear and tear if they're not removed. Imagine tiny sandpaper particles constantly rubbing against your engine parts – not good!
• Protecting: Oil contains additives that help to protect engine parts from corrosion and wear. These additives break down over time, so fresh oil is essential for continued protection.

Dirty oil can lead to some serious problems, like reduced engine performance, decreased fuel economy, and even engine damage. Regular oil changes help to prevent these problems and keep your Altima running like a champ for years to come.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

For the 2018 Nissan Altima SR, the recommended oil change interval is typically around every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. However, it's always a good idea to check your owner's manual for the specific recommendations for your vehicle. Your driving habits can also affect how often you need to change your oil. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, tow heavy loads, or drive in extreme temperatures, you may need to change your oil more frequently. Keep an eye on your oil level and condition, and if it looks dirty or low, it's probably time for a change. Neglecting this maintenance item can seriously impact your car's longevity.

What You'll Need

Alright, before we dive in, let's gather all the supplies you'll need for your 2018 Nissan Altima SR oil change. Having everything on hand will make the process much smoother and prevent any frustrating mid-job trips to the auto parts store. Here's a checklist:

• New Oil: Make sure you get the right type and amount of oil for your Altima SR. Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil viscosity and capacity. Typically, the 2018 Altima SR uses 5W-30 full synthetic oil, but double-check to be sure! You'll likely need around 4.8 quarts with a new filter.
• New Oil Filter: A new oil filter is essential for removing contaminants from the oil. Use the correct filter for your Altima SR. You can usually find this information in your owner's manual or at your local auto parts store. Nissan recommends using a genuine Nissan oil filter to ensure optimal performance and protection.
• Wrench for the Oil Filter: You'll need a special wrench to remove the old oil filter. There are several types of oil filter wrenches available, so choose one that fits your filter and is easy for you to use.
• Wrench for the Drain Plug: You'll also need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug. The size of the wrench will vary depending on your Altima SR, but it's usually around 14mm or 17mm. Make sure you have the correct size wrench before you start.
• Oil Drain Pan: This is essential for catching the old oil as it drains from the engine. Choose a drain pan that's large enough to hold all the oil and has a spout for easy pouring.
• Funnel: A funnel will help you pour the new oil into the engine without spilling it. Nobody wants an oily mess!
• Gloves: Protect your hands from the dirty oil with a pair of disposable gloves.
• Rags or Shop Towels: You'll need these to wipe up any spills or drips.
• Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): You'll need to lift the car to access the oil drain plug and oil filter. Jack stands are essential for safety!
• Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling while you're working on it.

Having all these items ready will make your oil change a breeze. Trust me, being prepared saves a lot of headaches!

Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, with all our supplies ready, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a step-by-step guide to changing the oil in your 2018 Nissan Altima SR:

1. Prepare the Car:
   • Park your Altima SR on a level surface.
   • Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels.
   • Let the engine run for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil flows more easily.
   • Turn off the engine.
2. Lift the Car:
   • Using a jack, lift the front of the car and securely place jack stands under the frame rails.
   • Never work under a car supported only by a jack!
   • Alternatively, you can use ramps to drive the front of the car up.
3. Locate the Oil Drain Plug:
   • Crawl under the car and locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. It's usually a large bolt.
4. Drain the Old Oil:
   • Place the oil drain pan under the drain plug.
   • Using the correct size wrench, loosen the drain plug.
   • Be careful! The oil may be hot.
   • Completely remove the drain plug and let the oil drain into the pan.
   • Allow the oil to drain completely, which may take 15-20 minutes.
5. Remove the Old Oil Filter:
   • Locate the oil filter. It's usually near the front of the engine.
   • Place the oil drain pan under the oil filter to catch any drips.
   • Using the oil filter wrench, loosen and remove the old oil filter.
   • Be prepared for some oil to spill out.
6. Install the New Oil Filter:
   • Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil.
   • Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact.
   • Tighten the filter another ¾ to 1 full turn. Don't overtighten it!.
7. Reinstall the Drain Plug:
   • Clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer (if applicable).
   • Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque. If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten it snugly but don't overtighten it.
8. Add New Oil:
   • Locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine.
   • Remove the cap and insert a funnel.
   • Pour in the correct amount of new oil, as specified in your owner's manual. For the 2018 Altima SR, it's usually around 4.8 quarts with a new filter.
9. Check the Oil Level:
   • Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully.
   • Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should be between the minimum and maximum marks.
   • Add more oil if necessary.
10. Start the Engine:
    • Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
    • Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
    • Turn off the engine and check the oil level again.
11. Lower the Car:
    • Carefully lower the car back to the ground.

Congratulations! You've successfully changed the oil in your 2018 Nissan Altima SR!

Tips and Tricks

• Warm Up the Engine: Running the engine for a few minutes before draining the oil helps it flow more easily.
• Use a New Crush Washer: Always use a new crush washer on the drain plug to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks.
• Don't Overtighten: Overtightening the oil filter or drain plug can damage the threads.
• Double-Check: After starting the engine, double-check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
• Proper Disposal: Dispose of the used oil and filter properly at a local recycling center or auto parts store. Don't pour it down the drain or into the environment!

Choosing the Right Oil

Selecting the right oil for your 2018 Nissan Altima SR is crucial for optimal engine performance and longevity. Using the wrong oil can lead to decreased fuel economy, increased engine wear, and even engine damage. Consult your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil viscosity and specifications. Generally, a 5W-30 full synthetic oil is recommended for the 2018 Altima SR, but always verify this information. Full synthetic oils offer superior protection against wear and tear, better high-temperature performance, and improved cold-start capabilities compared to conventional oils. Consider reputable brands known for their quality and performance. Investing in high-quality oil is an investment in the long-term health of your engine.

Proper Disposal of Used Oil

Proper disposal of used oil is not only environmentally responsible but also often legally required. Never pour used oil down the drain, into the sewer system, or onto the ground, as it can contaminate soil and water sources. Instead, collect the used oil in a sealed container and take it to a designated recycling center or auto parts store. Many auto parts stores offer free oil recycling services as a customer convenience. They will typically accept used oil filters as well. By properly disposing of used oil, you're helping to protect the environment and conserve valuable resources. So, remember to be a responsible car owner and dispose of your used oil the right way!

Conclusion

So there you have it! Changing the oil in your 2018 Nissan Altima SR is a straightforward process that you can easily do yourself with the right tools and a little bit of know-how. Not only will you save money on labor costs, but you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing you're taking good care of your car. Remember to follow the steps carefully, use the correct oil and filter, and dispose of the used oil properly. With regular oil changes, your Altima SR will continue to run smoothly and reliably for many years to come. Happy wrenching, guys!