Nissan Altima (L32) 2007-2012 Service Manual: Engine oil

Inspection

OIL LEVEL

NOTE: • Before starting the engine, check the oil level. If the engine is already started, stop it and allow 10 minutes before checking.

• Check that the oil level is within the range as indicated on the dipstick.

• If it is out of range, add oil as necessary. Refer to LU-23.

ENGINE OIL APPEARANCE

• Check engine oil for white milky or excessive contamination.

• If engine oil becomes milky, it is highly probable that it is contaminated with engine coolant. Repair or replace damaged parts.

OIL LEAKAGE

Check for oil leakage around the following areas: • Oil pan

• Oil pan drain plug

• Oil pressure switch

• Oil filter

• Oil cooler

• IVTC cover

• Front cover

• Mating surface between cylinder block and cylinder head

• Mating surface between cylinder head and rocker cover

• Crank oil seal (front and rear)

OIL PRESSURE CHECK

WARNING: • Be careful not to burn yourself, as engine oil may be hot.

• For M/T models, put the gearshift lever in the Neutral "N" position. For CVT models, put the selector lever in the Park “P” position.

1. Check the oil level.

2. Remove undercover using power tool.

3. Disconnect oil pressure switch harness connector at the oil pressure switch. Remove oil pressure switch and install Tools.

CAUTION: Do not drop or shock oil pressure switch.

4. Start the engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature.

5. Check oil pressure with engine running under no-load, using Tool. Refer to LU-32, "Oil Pressure".

If difference is extreme, check oil passage and oil pump for oil leaks.

6. After the inspections, install the oil pressure switch as follows: a. Remove the old sealant adhering to oil pressure switch and engine.

b. Apply thread sealant and tighten the oil pressure switch to specification.

Use Genuine High Performance Thread Sealant, or equivalent. Refer to GI-15, "Recommended Chemical Products and Sealants".

Oil pressure switch : 14.7 N·m (1.5 kg-m, 11 ft-lb)

c. After warming up engine, make sure there are no leaks of engine oil with engine running.

Changing Engine Oil

WARNING: • Be careful not to burn yourself, as the engine oil may be hot.

• Prolonged and repeated contact with used engine oil may cause skin cancer; try to avoid direct skin contact with used oil. If skin contact is made, wash thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner as soon as possible.

1. Position the vehicle so it is level on the hoist.

2. Warm up the engine and check for oil leaks from the engine.

3. Stop engine and wait for 10 minutes.

4. Remove the oil pan drain plug and oil filler cap.

5. Drain the engine oil.

6. Install the oil pan drain plug with a new washer and refill the engine with new engine oil.

CAUTION: • Be sure to clean the oil pan drain plug and install with a new washer.

• The refill capacity depends on the oil temperature and drain time. Use these specifications for reference only. Always use the dipstick to determine when the proper amount of oil is in the engine.

7. Warm up the engine and check around the oil pan drain plug and oil filter for oil leaks.

8. Stop engine and wait for 10 minutes.

9. Check the engine oil level using the dipstick.

CAUTION: Do not overfill the engine oil.