Last reviewed: March 28, 2026
2018 Nissan Altima Oil Type & Fluid Specs
Oil Filter Part Numbers
Complete Fluid Specifications
0W-20 Oil for Your 2018 Nissan Altima
Nissan recommends 5,000-mile oil change intervals for the 2018 Altima — shorter than Honda or Toyota, which recommend 7,500–10,000 miles. This is partly because Nissan has historically been more conservative with their interval recommendations, and partly because their CVT transmissions can put different thermal demands on the engine. The shorter interval is worth following.
The 2.5L 4-Cylinder takes 5 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic with a filter change. Nissan's OEM filter (15208-65F0E) has a different form factor than Honda or Toyota filters — make sure you're buying the right cross-reference. The FRAM PH6017A is the most common match. One important Nissan-specific note: if your Altima has a CVT transmission, that fluid (Nissan NS-3 CVT Fluid) is critical to maintain on schedule — CVT failures are the most common expensive repair on Nissan vehicles, and staying current on CVT fluid changes is the best prevention.
Save on Your Next Oil Change
Use our oil change cost calculator to see exactly what a DIY change costs compared to a shop — most Altima owners save $30–$60 per change. Not sure when to change it? Our oil change interval calculator gives you a personalized recommendation based on your actual driving habits, climate, and vehicle age.
Sources & Methodology
- 2018 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual — Fluid specifications section
- American Petroleum Institute (API) — Oil certification standards
- FRAM, Mobil 1, Bosch — Oil filter cross-reference catalogs
Data last verified: March 28, 2026
2018 Nissan Altima — Common Questions
The 2018 Nissan Altima with the 2.5L 4-Cylinder engine takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic oil meeting API SN specifications. You'll need 5 quarts with a new filter.
Nissan recommends oil changes every 5,000 miles or 6 months for the 2018 Altima, whichever comes first. If you frequently drive in severe conditions — lots of short trips, stop-and-go traffic, towing, extreme temperatures, or dusty roads — consider shortening that interval to 5,000 miles.
Nissan specifies full synthetic oil for the 2018 Altima. While using conventional oil in an emergency won't immediately damage your engine, it doesn't meet the same performance standards that your engine was designed around. Synthetic oil provides better protection at temperature extremes, lasts longer between changes, and reduces internal engine friction. For the relatively small price difference ($10–$15 more per oil change), stick with synthetic — your engine will thank you.
The OEM oil filter part number for the 2018 Nissan Altima is 15208-65F0E. Compatible aftermarket filters include the FRAM PH6017A, Mobil 1 M1-113A, and Bosch 3300. Any of these will work well — the key is to always replace the filter with every oil change and to make sure the gasket on the old filter comes off cleanly when you remove it.