Quick answer: the 2013–2019 Nissan Sentra 1.8L (MRA8DE) takes 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) of SAE 0W-20 with a filter change. The 1.6L turbo (MR16DDT) in the SR Turbo and NISMO takes 4-3/4 US qt (4.5 L) in the 2017 manual and 4-5/8 US qt (4.4 L) in the 2018–2019 manuals, also 0W-20.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Without filter | Oil type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8L 4-cylinder (MRA8DE) | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | 4 US qt (3.8 L); 3.7 L in 2018–2019 | 0W-20 |
| 1.6L turbo (MR16DDT), 2017 | 4-3/4 US qt (4.5 L) | 4-1/2 US qt (4.3 L) | 0W-20 |
| 1.6L turbo (MR16DDT), 2018–2019 | 4-5/8 US qt (4.4 L) | 4-3/8 US qt (4.1 L) | 0W-20 |
5W-30 is allowed only in older manuals. The 2013–2016 manuals say SAE 5W-30 conventional oil may be used as an alternative to 0W-20 and still meets the warranty requirements. The 2017–2019 manuals recommend Genuine Nissan Motor Oil 0W-20 SN only.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | 1.8L | 1.6L turbo |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | — |
| 2014 | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | — |
| 2015 | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | — |
| 2016 | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | — |
| 2017 | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | 4-3/4 US qt (4.5 L) |
| 2018 | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | 4-5/8 US qt (4.4 L) |
| 2019 | 4-1/4 US qt (4.0 L) | 4-5/8 US qt (4.4 L) |
We read the “Recommended fluids/lubricants and capacities” tables of all seven owner’s manuals.
Recommended oil type
1.8L (MRA8DE): engine oil with the API Certification Mark, SAE 0W-20. The 2013–2016 manuals allow SAE 5W-30 conventional oil as an alternative.
1.6L turbo (MR16DDT): Genuine “Nissan Motor Oil 0W-20 SN” or an equivalent oil of the same grade and viscosity.
How to reset the oil change reminder on the 2013–2019 Nissan Sentra
See also: Oil life reset by brand.
Nissan’s owner’s manuals handle the oil reminder from the vehicle information display: open Settings, select Maintenance, then Oil and Filter and reset the reminder. Newer models also have an Oil Control System item that resets the current oil interval; reset it only after an oil change.
Oil change tips
- A 5-quart jug covers one change on either engine.
- Add about 4 quarts, check the dipstick, then top up.
- Nissan lists these as approximate capacities: after refilling, run the engine, turn it off, wait more than 10 minutes and check the level with the dipstick.
Sources and how we checked
All capacities and oil grades on this page come from Nissan’s owner’s manuals, published on Nissan USA’s official manuals site (“Recommended fluids/lubricants and capacities”):
- 2013 Sentra owner’s manual
- 2014 Sentra owner’s manual
- 2015 Sentra owner’s manual
- 2016 Sentra owner’s manual
- 2017 Sentra owner’s manual
- 2018 Sentra owner’s manual
- 2019 Sentra owner’s manual
If your owner’s manual shows something different, follow your manual and tell us.
Last checked: October 22, 2026.
FAQ
How much oil does a 2013–2019 Nissan Sentra take?
The 1.8L takes 4-1/4 US quarts (4.0 L) with a filter change. The 1.6L turbo takes 4-3/4 qt (4.5 L) in 2017 and 4-5/8 qt (4.4 L) in 2018–2019.
What oil does a 2013–2019 Sentra use?
SAE 0W-20. The 2013–2016 manuals also allow SAE 5W-30 conventional oil.
Can I use 5W-30 in a Sentra?
Only the 2013–2016 manuals list 5W-30 conventional oil as an alternative; later manuals call for 0W-20.
How much oil without changing the filter?
4 US quarts (3.8 L) for the 1.8L (3.7 L in the 2018–2019 manuals).
How do I reset the oil light on a Sentra?
In the vehicle information display, open Settings, then Maintenance, then Oil and Filter, and reset the reminder.
Newer Sentra? See the 2020–2025 Nissan Sentra oil type and capacity.