2005–2021 Nissan Frontier Oil Change
Exact oil type, capacity, filter part numbers, drain plug size and torque for the 2005–2021 Nissan Frontier with the VQ40DE engine, plus the tools you'll need and a step-by-step video.
⚠️ Safety first: Always use jack stands or drive-up ramps before getting under any vehicle. Never rely on a floor jack alone. Chock your wheels and engage the parking brake.
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Nissan 4.0L V6 — Frontier/Pathfinder/Xterra
2005–2021 Frontier · 2005–2012 Pathfinder · 2005–2015 Xterra
First Timer Friendly
✅ The VQ40DE is a tough, reliable truck engine. Spin-on filter with decent access. Straightforward DIY oil change.
Specs not yet verified. We're still checking this guide's oil type, capacity, part numbers and torque against the manufacturer's data. Confirm them in your owner's manual before you start.
Oil Type
5W-30 Full Synthetic
Capacity
5.4 quarts (with filter)
Oil Filter
Nissan #15208-31U00 | Fram PH3614
Engine Code
VQ40DE
Tools You'll Need
- 14mm drain plug socket or wrench
- Oil filter wrench (standard spin-on type)
- Oil drain pan — minimum 2 gallon capacity
- Torque wrench
- New crush washer (Nissan #11026-01M02)
- Funnel
- Rags or shop towels
Instructional Video
Video by YouTube — Watch on YouTube ↗
| Drain plug size | 14mm | Torque: 25 ft-lbs |
| Crush washer | Nissan #11026-01M02 |
| Filter type | Spin-on — standard filter wrench |
| Filter location | Passenger side of engine block |
| Oil change interval | 5,000–10,000 miles (full synthetic) or per OEM monitor |
| Oil life reset | Turn ignition to ON. Hold trip odometer for 10 seconds until oil light blinks. |
🛢️ Oil Pal tip: At 5.4 quarts Oil Pal handles this drain comfortably.
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