Quick answer: the 2013–2019 Nissan Frontier 2.5L 4-cylinder (QR25DE) takes 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) of oil with a filter change, and the 4.0L V6 (VQ40DE) takes 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L). Both use SAE 5W-30.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Without filter | Oil type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-cylinder (QR25DE) | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 4-1/2 US qt (4.3 L) | 5W-30 |
| 4.0L V6 (VQ40DE) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) | 5-1/8 US qt (4.8 L) | 5W-30 |
Unlike most newer Nissans, the Frontier stayed on 5W-30. Every manual from 2013 to 2019 lists SAE 5W-30 for both engines. For the 2.5L, the 2015–2016 manuals also allow 5W-30 or 10W-30 conventional oil.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | 2.5L | 4.0L V6 |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) |
| 2014 | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) |
| 2015 | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) |
| 2016 | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) |
| 2017 | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) |
| 2018 | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) |
| 2019 | 4-7/8 US qt (4.6 L) | 5-3/8 US qt (5.1 L) |
We read the “Recommended fluids/lubricants and capacities” tables of all seven owner’s manuals.
Recommended oil type
2.5L (QR25DE): engine oil with the API Certification Mark, SAE 5W-30. The 2015–2016 manuals allow SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 conventional oil as alternatives.
4.0L V6 (VQ40DE): SAE 5W-30; the manuals recommend Genuine Nissan Ester Oil from a Nissan dealer.
How to reset the oil change reminder on the 2013–2019 Nissan Frontier
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 the 2.5L; the V6 needs a little more than 5 quarts.
- Add a little less than the full capacity, 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 Frontier owner’s manual
- 2014 Frontier owner’s manual
- 2015 Frontier owner’s manual
- 2016 Frontier owner’s manual
- 2017 Frontier owner’s manual
- 2018 Frontier owner’s manual
- 2019 Frontier 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 Frontier take?
4-7/8 US quarts (4.6 L) for the 2.5L and 5-3/8 US quarts (5.1 L) for the 4.0L V6, with a filter change.
What oil does a 2013–2019 Frontier use?
SAE 5W-30 for both engines.
Can I use 10W-30 in a Frontier?
The 2015–2016 manuals allow 10W-30 conventional oil for the 2.5L only.
How much oil without changing the filter?
4-1/2 US quarts (4.3 L) for the 2.5L and 5-1/8 US quarts (4.8 L) for the V6.
How do I reset the oil light on a Frontier?
Use the vehicle information display maintenance menu (Settings, Maintenance, Oil and Filter) on trucks that have it.
Newer Frontier? See the 2020–2025 Nissan Frontier oil type and capacity.