by Malcolm Woods
According to most Nissan dealerships, Nissan products do not need synthetic oil to function. However, they still do recommend it. With this recommendation, finding and choosing a good synthetic oil will do nothing other than enabling your vehicle to run smoothly and steadily throughout its lifetime. The oil's density or viscosity grade is one major characteristic to check out for in possible motor oil than synthetic.
Regarding the Nissan Altima, you will be on the right part if you are going for any synthetic oil with a rating of 5W-30. With this level of viscosity rating, the oil is sure to function perfectly in both hot and cold temperatures. The five (5) in 5W-30 represent the cold-weather rating or grade, while 30 represent the warm-weather rating. Thus, the 5W-30 is perfect for people who don't live in extreme or bizarre climates. This article will expose the best synthetic oils for Nissan Altima that belong to the 5W-30 category. Let's get right to it. Shall we?
Contents
Below is the list of the best synthetic engine oil 5W-30 for Nissan Altima. Alongside each product review is a corresponding list of pros and cons.
Safety and performance are incorporated into all Nissan's original parts. Thus, each part is optimally constructed and strictly tested at the Nissan faculty of development and research center.
Most Nissan models constructed in 2013 are factory-filled using the main Nissan 0W-20 motor oil. The Nissan 0W-20 engine oil is a high-performance oil formulated and developed specifically to enhance the operation of Nissan vehicles.
The utilization of 0W-20 motor oil is among the many components contributing to the enhanced fuel economy present in recent Nissan prototype. The exclusive variety of the main Nissan motor oil is obtainable from Nissan dealers only. They are also enclosed in a warranty package.
Pros
Cons
This is the current 0W-20 motor oil from ENEOS, which meets the ILSAC GF-5 standard. It is known to deliver a much better energy-conserving function. Thus, it plays an important role in conserving your fuel, perfectly protecting the turbine, improving the piston cleaning, and increasing the exhaust protection function, among others.
This motor oil features a low viscosity index of 0W-20, which provides tremendous fuel fair usage and reduces the rate at which harmful elements are emitted into the environment. Also, not only is it a high-performance motor oil, but it is also an efficient additive package, providing outstanding resistance to overhearing and oxidation.
ENEOS 0W20 fully synthetic motor oils also come with organic molybdenum, reducing or decreasing the friction coefficient. Because of this function, the motor oil minimizes the friction and boosts the general and all-around efficiency and running of the engine. It also meets the latest API (American Petroleum Institute) SN standard requirements.
Pros
Cons
This is yet another amazing motor oil to consider for your Nissan Altima. The Ravenol J1A1501 ECS 0W-20 fully synthetic engine oil is a low viscosity oil established on special USVO and poly-alpha-olefin (PAO) technology. It also features a verified CleanSynto technology for a car with diesel and gasoline engines with or without direct injection and turbocharging.
The featured USVO technology makes it possible to attain exceedingly high viscosity power. It also makes sure the product is exceptionally invulnerable to oxidation and reduces losses during the alternation period. This unusual technology also facilitates rapid fabrication of the motor oil, thus, keeping friction at the minimum and retaining the engine's efficiency and cleanliness.
This engine oil employs the positive characteristics of tungsten to sharpen the surface structure of the engine, reducing wear and friction and relatively enhancing the mechanical efficiency.
Pros
Cons
This is another unique product to consider for your Nissan Altima. This product is from the Royal Purple brand and is known to be effective in enhancing engine performance. This product was developed from the combination of proprietary additive technologies and high-quality base oils. Royal Purple API-Licensed SAE 0W-20 High-Performance Synthetic Motor Oil is incredible as it provides exceptional protection and enhances the performance in diesel and gasoline engines.
The Royal Purple API-Licensed High-Performance Synthetic Motor Oil meets most flexible commercial vehicles and passenger cars warranty requirements.
No special protocols or techniques are needed to change or upgrade to using the Purple Royal product. However, they (Royal Purple) advise that you wait until the first oil change planned by the manufacturer for new diesel and petrol engines before changing to Royal Purple. This motor oil is consistent with both conventional and synthetic engine oil.
The Royal Purple API-Licensed High-Performance Synthetic Motor Oil is entirely synthetic, meaning they are not produced from refining crude oil, unlike most traditional motor oil. They can also be used in lubricating, cooling, and cleaning engines that possess maximum efficiency rate.
Pros
Cons
This is yet another amazing product that delivers exceptional protection. The Idemitsu full synthetic motor oil is a strong and reliable product that improves your engine performance.
With its friction-diminishing technology and synthetic base oil, your engine will run smoothly. Thus, keeping your engine in a cool condition while still delivering great power.
In most cases, when a motor oil is of low cost, deposits are allowed to form and wear out with weather changes. Notwithstanding, the 0W-20 oil product from the Idemitsu brand is quite different. Its viscosity doesn't alter or change, no matter how bad the weather condition is. Rather, it guarantees engine cleaning and adequate lubrication.
The Idemitsu full synthetic motor oil features a high technical quality, making it an exceptional choice for motor oil. It gives a closed seal and also permits for full fuel combustion. Hence, this ends up in less dirt settling on the pistons as well as on other components.
Also, this top-grade oil plays an important role in reducing overall emissions of the engine.
Pros
Cons
This outstanding engine oil is perfect for luxury class cars. It is also excellent for modern Japanese and American gas engines. The Liquimoly Special Tec AA engine oil features a heavy-duty composition, allowing it to act or be used for an extended period before changing it.
Unlike most blended synthetic oils, the Liquimoly special Tec AA engine oil is genuine, accounting for its sufficient lubrication. Even during the oil replacement, you will observe that it is still clean. In other words, the wearing rate of the motor engine is on low level, translating into an outstanding efficiency. With assorted superior additives present, protection is taken to an increased level. With the right engine operation, fuel usage is equally minimized or maintained.
The Liquimoly special Tec AA engine oil features a premium formulation, making it very hard or impossible for it to disappoint you. Unlike some motor would, this product is always accessible any time.
The Liquimoly special Tec AA engine oil is perfect for any car make.
Pros
Cons
The Castrol ultraclean 5W-30 engine oil is another great product that provides 50% mud protection compared to other models. This refined protection also helps a lot in preventing temperature and speed dropouts. Also, purchasing this oil model will offer you excellent high-temperature deposits protection.
Like most motor oils, this product features anti-wear additives and high-quality base oils that prolong your engine's life by many years. However, you must ensure that the oil is changed often as possible. Most people say it must be changed after every 3k. Others say it must be changed after every 6k, and others say it must be changed as frequently as possible.
Pros
Cons
The Mobil 1 synthetic engine oil is one fantastic product built and modeled to preserve or conserve your car's engine up to ten thousand (10,000) miles. This function is achieved by oiling or greasing the engine's metal parts to reduce wear. This further reduces horsepower and oil flow. This product also minimizes the level of impurities by preventing the build-up of deposits and sludge.
Also, since car engines run in cold and hot temperatures, synthetic oil plays a vital role in maintaining its oxidation and thermal power, up to five hundred degrees Fahrenheit (500 F). This helps in avoiding heat damage. The Mobil 1 synthetic engine oil also plays a significant role in conserving its viscosity, especially when the temperature falls to -30 degrees Fahrenheit.
You know it is time to replace the oil when the oil starts to turn dark brown.
While the Mobil 1 synthetic engine oil is not the ideal synthetic oil for old engines, it is the best option for all kinds of modern cars, including supercharged gas, high-performance diesel, and turbocharged car engines.
Pros
Cons
The Valvoline brand is one of the top car care brands known to deliver the best products. This synthetic oil from Valvoline is very affordable and highly efficient. After application, the Valvoline advanced full synthetic engine oil practically makes your car quiet and smooth by improving the overall performance of the car's engine.
This product also plays an essential role in lessening wearing and safeguarding the engine components from varnish and sludge.
The Valvoline advanced full synthetic engine oil also provides cold temperature preservation for fast start-ups and high-temperature protection in challenging driving conditions. The products also come in handy when conserving fuel efficiency is concerned.
The advance full synthetic engine oil is similar to all leading synthetic and conventional engine oils. It also features numerous bottle sizes you can choose from.
The only concern I have about this product is the cap design. The advance full synthetic engine oil features a soft cap that can easily break off. Thus, users need to be extra careful while handling the cap. Also, most users (buyers) complained that the bottle leaks. However, I believe the manufacturer has rectified this issue.
Pros
Cons
This is yet another product, regarded as one of the best products as long as synthetic oil is considered. The Pennzoil ultra-platinum synthetic oil is gotten or derived from authentic natural gas with the help of the PurePlus technology. Hence, the Pennzoil ultra-platinum synthetic oil is a high-quality synthetic oil with fewer impurities than products derived from crude oils.
Generally, the Pennzoil ultra-platinum synthetic oil is manufactured for challenging road conditions as well as ultimate performance. The product also protects and cleans the car's engine, improving and boosting gas mileage and diminishing wearing. With the Pennzoil ultra-platinum synthetic oil, you are sure of a good fuel economy, cleaner pistons, and all-around satisfactory engine performance. Your car is sure to drive quietly and smoothly every time, not minding the road or weather conditions. Also, the product is ideal for all types of vehicles, vans, trucks, SUVs, among others.
However, the product comes with a significant setback, which is price. Although there is an exceptional deal for six bottles and a pack of three, the Pennzoil ultra-platinum synthetic oil remains the best choice for people on a tight budget.
Pros
Cons
The Valvoline synthetic oil with MaxLife is one high-mileage and high-performance oil that has made it to the premium category of life-expanding engine oil. This product is made explicitly for vehicle engines that possess over 75,000 miles. The Valvoline synthetic oil with MaxLife is constructed to repair or protect engines from old issues like oil burn-off, sludge, deposit build-up, and seal leaks.
As a synthetic oil, the Valvoline synthetic oil with MaxLife provides the engine with so much longevity with minor wear compared to other products.
The Valvoline synthetic oil with MaxLife is one of the few products that operate well when the oil change is done after every 10,000 miles rather than the usual 5,000.
The performance gains can be noticed even after numerous thousands of miles. However, the engine oil's resistance to burn-off is likely to decrease or lessen after the first 1 to 2,000 miles after the last oil change.
Pros
Cons
The Castrol EDGE engine oil is another fantastic oil featuring an SAE 5W-30 setup, indicating that it is perfect for harsh temperature conditions. To further enhance the strength of this oil, it was constructed using fluid titanium technology. This provides it with the ability to avoid breaking down when exposed to extreme operating situations.
The oil is also manufactured for cars with an odometer of over 75,000 miles. The Castrol EDGE engine oil also enhances the engine's performance by decreasing deposits, sludge, and other impurities, allowing the engine to run smoother and cleaner all the time. The Castrol EDGE engine oil also plays an essential role in avoiding the early failure of the car engine. This is achieved by lowering the phosphorus present in the emission system.
Although the Castrol EDGE engine oil does a great job in decreasing the impurities present in the car's engine, it is likely to contain tiny particles capable of stimulating high emissions. To gain a much better capturing efficiency, it is advised to upgrade to a much more high-quality filter.
Pros
Cons
Up next is the Royal Purple 11748 HMX synthetic oil, which is yet another incredible synthetic oil to consider. The Royal Purple 11748 HMX synthetic oil is perfect for people that own a high-mileage car that requires maximum protection against wearing.
The Royal Purple 11748 HMX synthetic oil is strengthened with phosphorus and zinc anti-wear additives blended with Synerlec additive technology from Royal Purple's proprietary. The latter provides superior protection against wearing and enhances the oil's film strength to withstand further or avoid degradation.
Additionally, the Royal Purple 11748 HMX synthetic oil features detergents that decrease the level of harmful carbon deposits present in the oil. This also improves the engine's life.
In general, this product is an outstanding product that plays a significant role in restoring hardened seals to decrease oil consumption. It is also perfect for an engine with four-cycle gas with a 75,000 miles mileage or above.
However, it is highly recommended that you first of all conduct a quick cleanup. This is achieved by draining the oil twice every 3,000 miles. After this, you are allowed to extend the oil change interval to 15,000 miles.
Pros
Cons
If you own or intend to own a Nissan Altima someday, then here are a couple of complaints you need to take note of.
Owners of Nissan Altima have reported oil leaking from its car engine. This, in most cases, is caused by the cooler O-ring leaking oil.
This issue often occurs after changing the oil since the oil filter is attached to the cooler. Taking off and installing the filter now and then can reposition the seal.
This issue can be fixed by restoring the O-ring and in most times, the entire oil cooler.
If the oil leaking has been on for a long while, drivers are likely to get noise from the engine generated due to low oil pressure.
Also, owners of Nissan Altima have revealed that some of the Nissan Altima models exhibit premature fuel pump failure. Indications or signs of this problem include shaking while driving, not starting, and hampering at slow speeds.
Nissan, however, issued a recall for model years affected (2001-2015, 1991, and 1993). Unfortunately, no recall was made for the 2019 Nissan Altima cars.
Another issue reported is the failure of the catalytic converter, which leads to the check engine flash coming on. The check engine light is forced to on when it occurs, which is not good as elements from the catalytic converter are likely to be drawn into the engine. This will often lead to serious damages. The repairs often amount to $2,185. Yes, it's that serious.
While 16 model years were involved, 1999 - 2015 Nissan models did not issue a recall.
Some of the Nissan Altima models experienced a couple of issues which had to do with the vehicle engine refusing to start and running roughly when it finally does. This problem began in 1993 and went on till 2008. Model years 2015 and even 2010 were also involved.
Owners complained that the vehicle starts up, hamper, and then refuses to start up again, or in some other cases, shut down and won't start again after a long drive.
Other owners revealed that the vehicle runs very rough, with the engine cranking. This issue is related to the leaking of the camshaft.
These are the major and most common complaints received from the use of Nissan Altima. However, you should note that all problems have been rectified in the 2020 Altima.
However, if you think or assume that your Nissan Altima is one of a recall or might be having one of the problems mentioned above, please do take it to a Nissan dealership with immediate effect.
Have you ever wondered why Nissan dealers constantly advise that you utilize the 5W-30 completely synthetic engine oil for your Nissan Altima? Here's why. Synthetic oil is constructed in such a way that it functions much better than traditional oil. One of such benefits is longevity. Synthetic oils come life span that is not found in most standard oil.
From research, most synthetic oils are still great even after 10000 miles. Synthetic oils can last this long even more because of the purer formula they feature, better than the standard oils. In other words, synthetic oils lack impurities, which allows them to handle the job more effectively, making the engine and oil last longer.
You will need a new oil filter whenever you intend to change your synthetic oil after every 7000 miles or thereabout.
Nissan often produces their very own brand of oil filters. They usually come in the car. However, numerous oil filters from other brands work perfectly with Nissan cars, especially the Nissan Altima. Thus, it's okay if you want to go for those, or preferably you can acquire or buy the official Nissan filters. They can be found on Amazon.
The engine size is the main factor when it comes to how much oil the Nissan Altima takes.
Most Nissan Altima's feature a 2.0-liter engine that uses about 4.7 liters worth of oil. However, the Nissan Altima premium trims come with a 2.5-liter engine. Thus, they require about 5.1 liters of engine oil to perform correctly.
Please note that in most cases, you will have to purchase more than one (1) unit of oil to get the exact amount you require to change your Nissan Altima's oil.
Always make sure to locate your owner's manual and ford to the car manufacturer's recommendations. Manufacturers are likely to void the warranty of the car's engine if the maintenance plan is not strictly adhered to, regardless of prolonged performance oils. Most engines do utilize oil even between oil modifications; thus, you must check your oil level using a dipstick from time to time. This exercise will enable you to regulate or oversee the oil color and level. Changing your oil is one way to avoid inexpensive repairs.
Yes, but in bits. Conventional or regular oils are compatible with synthetic oils; thus, completing one with another when the corresponding one is unavailable is cool. However, regarding the additive variations of both oils, you should choose either the conventional or synthetic oil and hold on to it.
Blending conventional or regular oils with synthetic oils can also result in varnish and sludge over time.
The formulations of high mileage of conventional, fully synthetic, and synthetic blend engine oils come with additives capable of conditioning seals, thus helping to fight sludge and prevent leaks.
As an engine becomes old, the piston rings and other internal elements or units seize up. Thus, unique detergent packages present in high-mileage oil blends play an important role in keeping the various components of the engine moving freely. This also lengthens the life and improves the oil flow of the engine.
Apart from the cost, fully synthetic oil defeats its other counterparts in terms of performance. It acts to reduce the number of irritants that come with regular oil changes and the resulting mud aggregation in the engine.
However, if the cost is a barrier, you can go for the blended option or, better still, revolve between the two options while you keep track of your vehicle's mileage.
Changing your car's oil type has no negative effect on the vehicle's engine. However, it is always the right thing to consult or refer to your manufacturer's manual. This will give you information on your oil's:
1. Oil specification.
2. Viscosity grade.
Never go against the recommended oil viscosity. Always ensure you strictly adhere to the recommendation made by the car's manufacturer. Going for an oil with a lighter weight compared to the manufacturer's specification will lead to failure in the heat-resistant function. Also, going for oil with a heavier weight than the one recommended by the manufacturer will overstress the internal engine components. Both can trigger serious and expensive repairs; thus, it's best to go for the engine oil recommended by the car's manufacturer for your usage and climate.
The cost has been the greatest flaw of using synthetic oils. Not until automakers employed the usage of synthetic oil in producing new modern cars. The prices have since then fallen.
Synthetic oils are better than conventional oils because they retain their chemical properties and are better engine protectors.
However, the synthetic oil does not burn well when it gets to the convection chamber, which is likely to occur in older cars with worn piston rings or seals.
While synthetic oils do not degrade seals, they are thinner compared to their conventional counterpart. Because of this, they can easily pass through already existing worn leaks or seals, appearing to worsen the underlying issues.
AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 Motor Oil (Quart) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Shell Rotella Gas Truck Full Synthetic Motor Oil - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
New Genuine Nissan Engine Oil 0W-20 6 Quarts Synthetic OE 999PK000W20N - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife Technology SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil 5 QT - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Idemitsu Full Synthetic 5W-30 Engine Oil SN/GF-5-5QT - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Total (185645-1QT Quartz 9000 Future ACEA/API 0W-20 Engine Oil - 1 Quart - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil SN/GF-5-5QT - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 qt. 2 Pack - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Genuine Honda Parts 08798-9036 0W-20 Blended Synthetic Motor Oil - 1 Quart - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
RAVENOL J1A1505-005 VFE 5W-20 Fully Synthetic Motor Oil API SN, ILSAC GF-5 (5 Liter) - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Mag 1 61792 Full Synthetic 5w-20 Motor Oil Quart, Pack of 6 - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Ford MOTORCRAFT - Oil - Engine (XO5W205Q3SP) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Castrol 1597B1 Edge Extended Performance 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quart - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 0701-012S Supreme 7000 Synthetic Plus Gasoline Engine Oil - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Liqui Moly (2011) Top Tec 4200 SAE 5W-30 Longlife Motor Oil - 5 Liter - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Quaker State Motor Oil, Synthetic Blend 5W-30 (5-Quart, Single Pack) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Castrol 03110 GTX High Mileage 10W-30 Motor Oil - 5 Quart - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
HAVOLINE PRO DS Full Synthetic 10W30 Oil, 5 quart, PRO DS Full Synthetic Motor Oil - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
STP 10w30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Engine & Car Care, Bottles, 1 Quart, Pack of 6, 17481-6PK - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Mobil 1 120758 Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy, 5 Quart - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
When the time comes for you to replace or change your Nissan Altima's oil, make sure you go for the proper or perfect oil to keep your car's health in good shape.
Make sure you stick to a synthetic oil like the ones I mentioned under the product review section. It doesn't matter if you are getting the job done yourself at home or you are employing the help of a professional mechanic. These fully synthetic oils will make sure your Nissan Altima keeps running smoothly.
Don't forget to share this with your family and friends.
About Malcolm Woods
Malcolm Woods is a blogger who enjoys writing about technology and solar power. He has a passion for learning new things, and loves to share his knowledge with others. Malcolm is also an advocate for sustainable living, and believes that everyone has a responsibility to do their part in preserving our planet.
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