Choosing engine oil for Nissan - a task that requires attention to detail. Especially when it comes to popular viscosity 5W40 and volume 5 liters, which is optimal for complete replacement in most Japanese brand engines. But how not to make a mistake among the dozens of offers on the market? Original oil Nissan or a certified analogue? Synthetic or semi-synthetic? And why exactly 5W40 Is this often recommended for modern engines?
In this article we will analyze all the nuances: from decoding the labeling to trusted places of purchase, where the risk of running into a fake is minimal. You will find out which models Nissan (from Qashqai to Patrol) require this particular oil, how to distinguish an original canister from a fake, and why saving on lubricants can result in expensive repairs. We will also compare prices, specifications and provide a checklist for a safe purchase.
Why is 5W40 the best choice for Nissan?
Viscosity 5W40 is a compromise between easy starting in cold weather and reliable protection at high temperatures. Digit 5W indicates winter properties: the oil remains fluid until -35°C (and this is critical for Russian winters), and 40 guarantees a stable film on parts when heated to +40°C and above. For most engines Nissan turbocharged or high compression ratio (e.g. VR30DDTT in Infiniti Q50 or MR20DD in Qashqai J11) it's the perfect balance.
But not all oils 5W40 are the same. Original oil Nissan (article KE900-90132 for 5l) meets the standards:
- 🔹 API SN/SP — compatibility with modern exhaust aftertreatment systems;
- 🔹 ACEA A3/B4 — suitable for gasoline and diesel engines;
- 🔹 ILSAC GF-5 — energy-saving properties;
- 🔹 Nissan Genuine Oil — manufacturer certification.
I wonder what Nissan does not produce oil on its own - it is produced by partners (for example, TotalEnergies or Idemitsu) to the brand's strict specifications. This explains why the original oil may differ in composition in different batches, but always meets the stated standards.
- Original Nissan 5W40
- Analogue (Mobil, Castrol, Liqui Moly)
- Other original (Total, Idemitsu)
- I don't know what's in there
Compatibility with Nissan Models: Recommendation Table
Not all engines Nissan require 5W40. For example, for Almera N18 with motor H4M will do and 5W30, and here Patrol Y62 with VK56VD needs more viscous oil under extreme loads. Below is the compatibility table for popular models:
| Model Nissan | Engine | Recommended viscosity | Oil volume (l) | Nissan Approval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qashqai J11 (2014–present) | MR20DD (2.0) | 5W40 or 5W30 | 4.8 | Yes |
| X-Trail T32 (2014–present) | MR20DD, QR25DE | 5W40 | 5.0–5.4 | Yes |
| Juke F15 (2014–present) | HR16DE, MR16DDT | 5W40 (turbo) | 4.3–4.6 | Yes |
| Navara D40 (2005–2015) | YD25DDTi (diesel) | 5W40 (ACEA C3) | 7.4 | Conditionally |
| Patrol Y62 (2010–present) | VK56VD (5.6) | 5W40 or 10W60 | 7.8 | Yes (for 5W40) |
⚠️ Attention: For diesel engines Nissan (For example, YD25 in Navara) requires oil with low sulfur and phosphorus content (Low SAPS) that meets the standard ACEA C3. Normal 5W40 for gasoline engines may damage the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Original vs analogues: which is better for Nissan?
Original oil Nissan 5W40 (5L) is more expensive than analogues, but guarantees compatibility with variable phase control systems (VVT) and turbines. However, there are proven alternatives that are not inferior in quality:
- 🛢️ Total Quartz 9000 Energy 5W40 - official supplier for Nissan in Europe;
- 🛢️ Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W40 — Japanese oil used on the conveyor;
- 🛢️ Mobil 1 ESP 5W40 — suitable for diesel engines with a particulate filter;
- 🛢️ Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W40 - German quality for turbocharged engines.
The main difference between the original is the presence of additives adapted for specific engines. Nissan. For example, in oil for VR38DETT (as in GT-R R35) enhanced cleaning properties due to high thermal loads. Analogs may not contain such additives.
What are the dangers of saving on oil?
Cheap oils without certification API SN or ACEA A3/B4 may lead to:
- Scoring on the cylinder walls (due to insufficient oil film strength);
- System contamination VVT (due to low cleaning power);
- Turbine overheating (due to poor thermal stability).
Repairing a turbine or replacing camshafts will cost 10–20 times more than saving on oil.
How to distinguish original Nissan oil from a fake?
Counterfeit oils Nissan 5W40 found even in large stores. Here are the key features of the original:
- Canister: Dense plastic with straight seams, lid with a “click mechanism” (you can hear a click when opening). At the bottom is the production date in the format
YYMMDD(For example,230515- May 15, 2023). - Label: Hologram with logo Nissan, which changes color when tilted. The barcode must match the data on the manufacturer's website.
- Oil: Color - amber, without turbidity. When shaken, the foam settles in 10–15 seconds.
⚠️ Attention: Counterfeit canisters often have misspellings on the label (for example, "Nissan Motor Oil"instead of"Nissan Genuine Oil") or unclear font. Check the article number: original - KE900-90132 (5l), KE900-90130 (1l).
☑️ Checking the originality of Nissan 5W40 oil
Where to buy Nissan 5W40 5l: prices and trusted sellers
Original oil price Nissan 5W40 (5l) varies from 3,200 to 4,500 rubles depending on region and seller. Here's where to buy safely:
- 🏢 Official Nissan dealers - guarantee of the original, but the price is higher than average (4,000–4,500 rubles).
- 🛒 Large chain stores: AutoSpetsCenter, Exist.ru, Koleso.ru — there are often promotions (RUB 3,200–3,800).
- 🌍 Online: Wildberries, Ozon (check reviews and seller ratings!).
⚠️ Attention: On Avito or Yule the risk of running into counterfeit or expired oil (shelf life - 5 years). Always ask for a receipt and a certificate of conformity.
Before purchasing, check the oil for authenticity through the service Nissan Oil Check (just enter the batch number from the canister).
Step-by-step instructions: how to change the oil in a Nissan yourself
Changing the oil in Nissan with engine MR20DD or QR25DE takes about 40 minutes. You will need:
- 🔧 14 mm wrench (for drain plug);
- 🔧 Oil filter puller;
- 🛢️ New oil 5W40 (5l);
- 🧻 Rags and container for working out (minimum 5 l).
Steps:
- Warm up the engine to 60–70°C (the oil will become less viscous).
- Raise the car on a lift or use a jack (install jack stands!).
- Drain the old oil through the plug in the pan (10–15 minutes).
- Replace the oil filter (part number for Qashqai J11 —
15208-9M00A). - Fill in new oil through the neck (volume - see table above).
- Check the level with a dipstick 5 minutes after filling.
⚠️ Attention: In engines Nissan with timing chain drive (for example, HR16DE) It is critical not to overfill the oil - excess leads to increased pressure and the risk of squeezing out the seals.
Use only original filter Nissan or certified analogues (for example, Mann or Framm). Cheap filters can burst under high pressure.
Common mistakes when choosing and changing oil
Even experienced car owners make mistakes that reduce engine life. Here are the most common:
- 🚫 Mixing oils of different brands. Even if the viscosity is the same (5W40), additives may react.
- 🚫 Ignoring the replacement date. For Nissan with turbocharger interval — 10,000 km (or once a year), even if the oil is “semi-synthetic”.
- 🚫 Neglecting washing. When switching from mineral oil to synthetic oil (5W40) be sure to use flushing oil (for example, Liqui Moly Oil-Schlamm-Spulung).
Another mistake is choosing oil according to the principle “the more expensive the better.” For example, 5W40 with markings ACEA C5 (ultra-low ash) not suitable for older engines Nissan (until 2010), as it can cause leaks through worn seals.
FAQ: answers to popular questions
Is it possible to fill 5W40 instead of 5W30 in Nissan Qashqai?
Yes, if the engine is not turbocharged and the mileage is less than 150,000 km. For MR20DD (2.0) in Qashqai J11 5W40 even preferable when operating in hot climates or with frequent loads. But for HR16DE (1.6) better stick 5W30 - this is indicated in the manual.
How often should you change 5W40 oil in a Nissan X-Trail with a mileage of 200,000 km?
With such a mileage, the replacement interval should be reduced to 7,000–8,000 km. It is also recommended to use oil with a high content of detergent additives (for example, Nissan Strong Save X 5W40) and add revitalizant (For example, XADO) every second replacement.
Is Nissan 5W40 oil suitable for the diesel Navara?
Only if it matches ACEA C3 (low ash). Normal 5W40 for gasoline engines will damage the particulate filter (DPF). For Navara D40 with engine YD25DDTi better to choose Nissan Diesel DPF 5W40 (article KE900-99945).
What to do if the check light comes on after changing the oil?
Possible reasons:
- Underfilling/overfilling of oil (check the level with a dipstick).
- Poor quality filter (may not hold pressure).
- Air entering the system (start the engine, let it idle for 5 minutes).
If the "check" does not go out, go urgently for diagnostics (there may be a problem with the oil pressure sensor).
Where is the cheapest place to buy original Nissan 5W40 5l oil?
The lowest prices are usually at official dealers during promotions (for example, “spring maintenance”) or at Exist.ru when ordering from 5 cans. It is also profitable to buy at the end of the year - stores reset their leftovers. But be careful with offers that are too cheap (below RUB 3,000 for 5 liters) - this is a sure sign of a fake.