Hey guys! Changing your own oil might seem intimidating, but trust me, it's totally doable and can save you some serious cash. If you own a 2018 Nissan Altima SR, this guide is tailored just for you. We'll walk through each step, from gathering your supplies to properly disposing of the old oil. So, grab your tools, and let's get started!

Why Change Your Own Oil?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's quickly cover the why. Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining your Altima's engine health. Clean oil lubricates the engine's moving parts, preventing friction and wear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, reducing its effectiveness. Neglecting oil changes can lead to engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and even costly repairs down the road. Doing it yourself ensures you know exactly what type of oil is going into your car and that the job is done right. Plus, there's a certain satisfaction that comes with taking care of your own ride. You're in control! Think of it as a little bonding time with your Altima. You'll get to know its underbelly a bit better, and you'll feel a sense of accomplishment knowing you're keeping it running smoothly. And hey, who knows? You might even discover a hidden talent for automotive maintenance. So, grab your tools, put on some old clothes, and let's get ready to give your Altima some much-needed TLC. You'll be surprised at how easy and rewarding it can be. With a little practice, you'll be a pro in no time, and you'll be able to tackle other basic maintenance tasks with confidence. Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and get that oil changed!

What You'll Need

Okay, first things first, gather your supplies. This is like prepping your ingredients before you start cooking – essential for a smooth process. For your 2018 Nissan Altima SR oil change, you'll need:

• The Right Oil: Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity. Typically, a 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil is recommended for the 2018 Altima SR, but double-check to be sure. Using the correct oil is critical for optimal engine performance and longevity. Don't skimp on quality here – invest in a good synthetic oil from a reputable brand. The amount you'll need is usually around 4.8 quarts, but again, refer to your manual for the exact capacity.
• Oil Filter: Again, consult your owner's manual or a parts store to find the correct oil filter for your 2018 Altima SR. Using the right filter ensures proper filtration and prevents contaminants from circulating through your engine. A quality oil filter will trap dirt and debris, keeping your oil clean and your engine running smoothly. Don't just grab any filter off the shelf – make sure it's the right one for your car.
• Wrench: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug. Make sure you have the correct size wrench for your Altima's drain plug to avoid stripping it. An adjustable wrench can work in a pinch, but a properly sized wrench is always the best option.
• Oil Filter Wrench: This tool helps you remove the old oil filter. Oil filters can sometimes be on there pretty tight, so an oil filter wrench is a must-have.
• Drain Pan: This catches the old oil as it drains from your engine. Choose a drain pan that's large enough to hold all the oil and has a spout for easy pouring. Nobody wants an oily mess in their driveway!
• Funnel: This helps you pour the new oil into the engine without spilling. A funnel with a long neck is ideal for reaching the oil fill hole.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from getting covered in oil. Nitrile gloves are a good choice because they're resistant to oil and chemicals.
• Rags or Shop Towels: For wiping up spills and cleaning your hands. You'll definitely need these!
• Jack and Jack Stands (Optional but Recommended): These will lift your car, giving you more room to work underneath. Safety first! Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands.
• Wheel Chocks (Optional but Recommended): Added safety measure to prevent the car from rolling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil

Alright, now for the fun part! Let's get that oil changed. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare Your Car: Park your Altima on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and, if you're using them, place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. If you're using a jack and jack stands, consult your owner's manual for the proper jacking points. Carefully lift the car and secure it with jack stands. Again, never work under a car supported only by a jack!
2. Warm Up the Engine (Slightly): Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil. Warm oil flows more easily, making it drain more completely. However, be careful not to let the engine get too hot, as you could burn yourself. A few minutes is all you need.
3. Locate the Oil Drain Plug: Crawl under the car and locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan. It's usually a large bolt at the bottom of the pan.
4. Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan directly beneath the oil drain plug.
5. Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct size wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug. Once it's loose, unscrew it by hand, being careful as the oil will start to flow out. Let the oil drain completely. This may take 10-15 minutes.
6. Remove the Old Oil Filter: While the oil is draining, locate the oil filter. Use your oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill when you remove the filter, so have a rag handy.
7. Prepare the New Oil Filter: Before installing the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the filter with fresh oil. This helps to create a good seal. Then, screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until it's snug. Don't overtighten it with the wrench, as this can damage the filter or the engine.
8. Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once the oil has completely drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer (if applicable). Then, tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque. If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten it snugly, but don't overtighten it.
9. Lower the Car (If Applicable): If you used a jack and jack stands, carefully lower the car back to the ground.
10. Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil fill hole. Remove the oil fill cap and insert the funnel. Pour in the correct amount of new oil, as specified in your owner's manual. It's always a good idea to start with slightly less oil than recommended and then check the dipstick to avoid overfilling.
11. Check the Oil Level: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully. Then, remove it again and check the oil level. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to reach the correct level.
12. Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and the oil filter. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections slightly.
13. Check the Oil Level Again: After running the engine for a few minutes, turn it off and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, check the oil level again and add more oil if necessary.
14. Reset the Oil Life Monitoring System: Consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to reset the oil life monitoring system. This is important so that you know when your next oil change is due.

Proper Disposal of Used Oil

Never pour used oil down the drain or onto the ground! This is harmful to the environment. Instead, take your used oil to a local auto parts store or recycling center that accepts used oil for recycling. They will dispose of it properly.

Congratulations!

You've successfully changed the oil in your 2018 Nissan Altima SR! Give yourself a pat on the back. You've saved some money, learned a new skill, and helped to keep your car running smoothly. Now go enjoy the open road!

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable performing this task, it is best to take your car to a qualified mechanic.