Hey guys! Changing your oil is one of the most important things you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Today, we're diving into how to change the oil on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR. It might seem a little intimidating at first, but trust me, it’s totally doable, and you’ll save some cash by doing it yourself. Let's get started!

What You'll Need

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s make sure we have everything we need. Having the right tools and materials will make the whole process much smoother. Here’s a checklist:

• New Oil: Check your Altima's manual to see the recommended oil type and quantity. Usually, it's a 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil, but always double-check!
• New Oil Filter: Again, refer to your car's manual or a trusted auto parts store to find the correct oil filter for your 2018 Altima SR.
• Wrench Set: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug and the oil filter. Make sure you have the right size!
• Oil Filter Wrench: This is a special wrench designed to grip and turn the oil filter. It makes the job much easier.
• Drain Pan: To catch the old oil. Trust me; you don't want to skip this!
• Funnel: For pouring the new oil into the engine without making a mess.
• Gloves: To keep your hands clean. Oil can be nasty stuff.
• Rags or Shop Towels: For wiping up any spills.
• Jack and Jack Stands: To safely lift your car and keep it secure.
• Wheel chocks: For added safety, place these behind the wheels opposite the ones you're lifting.

Having all these items ready will save you time and frustration. Trust me, preparation is key! You don't want to get halfway through and realize you're missing something crucial.

Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, let's get into the actual oil change. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be golden.

1. Prepare Your Car

First things first, warm up your engine. Let it run for about 5-10 minutes. This makes the oil flow more easily. But be careful! Don't let it run too long, or the oil will be too hot to handle safely. Once it’s warmed up, turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. Now, grab your jack and jack stands. Consult your car's manual for the correct jacking points. Typically, these are reinforced areas of the frame near the front wheels. Jack up the car and securely place the jack stands under the frame. Never work under a car supported only by a jack! Safety first, always. Ensure the car is stable before proceeding.

2. Locate and Remove the Drain Plug

Crawl under the car with your wrench and drain pan. Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan. This is usually a large bolt at the bottom of the pan. Position the drain pan directly underneath the drain plug. Use your wrench to loosen the drain plug. Once it's loose, carefully unscrew it by hand. Be ready for the oil to come gushing out! Keep your hands out of the way to avoid getting burned by the hot oil. Let the oil drain completely. This might take 10-15 minutes. Be patient and let gravity do its thing.

3. Remove the Old Oil Filter

While the oil is draining, let's tackle the oil filter. Locate the oil filter. It’s usually near the front of the engine. Place your drain pan under the oil filter to catch any spills. Use your oil filter wrench to loosen the filter. Once it’s loose, unscrew it by hand. Again, be prepared for some oil to spill out. Before installing the new filter, take a bit of the new, clean oil and lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter. This helps create a good seal. Screw the new filter on by hand until it’s snug. Then, use the oil filter wrench to tighten it about ¾ of a turn. Don't overtighten it! You could damage the filter or the engine.

4. Reinstall the Drain Plug

Once the oil has completely drained, clean the drain plug with a rag. Inspect the drain plug's crush washer. If it looks worn or damaged, replace it. A new crush washer ensures a good seal and prevents leaks. Reinstall the drain plug by hand until it’s snug. Then, use your wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque. Check your car’s manual for the correct torque specification. Overtightening the drain plug can damage the oil pan, so be careful.

5. Add New Oil

Now it’s time for the good stuff! Open the hood and locate the oil filler cap. It usually has an oil can symbol on it. Remove the cap and insert your funnel. Consult your car's manual to find out how much oil your 2018 Altima SR needs. Typically, it’s around 4.8 quarts, but always double-check. Pour in the new oil, using the funnel to avoid spills. After adding the specified amount, replace the oil filler cap.

6. Check the Oil Level

Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully. Then, pull it out again and check the oil level. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. If it’s low, add a little more oil. If it’s overfilled, you’ll need to drain some out. Maintaining the correct oil level is crucial for engine health.

7. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks

Before lowering the car, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and the oil filter. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections. Turn off the engine and double-check the oil level again. If everything looks good, carefully remove the jack stands and lower the car.

Disposal of Old Oil

Don't just dump the old oil down the drain! That’s bad for the environment. Most auto parts stores will accept used oil for recycling. Pour the used oil into a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. They’ll dispose of it properly. Also, dispose of the used oil filter properly. Some auto parts stores will also recycle used oil filters. Do your part to keep the planet clean!.

Final Thoughts

Changing your oil on your 2018 Nissan Altima SR is a straightforward process that can save you money and help prolong the life of your engine. By following these steps and taking your time, you can easily do it yourself. Just remember to be safe, double-check everything, and dispose of the old oil properly. Happy wrenching, guys! Doing your own oil changes not only saves money but also gives you a better understanding of your vehicle and its needs. So next time your Altima is due for an oil change, consider giving it a shot yourself. You might just surprise yourself with how easy it is.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult your vehicle's manual and follow safety precautions when performing maintenance. If you are not comfortable performing this task, seek professional assistance. Performing maintenance on your vehicle can involve risks, and it's essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your vehicle. Remember, safety always comes first, so don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed.