I have tried to search for "oil change" with no luck, but someone recently posted that oil changes on the 5th gen are easy.

I have done plenty before, but couldn't even find the oil filter and don't want to jack it up... could someone perhaps post the instructions to the FAQ?

Cheers

 

To get to the oil filter you need to turn the wheels all the way to the left (I think) and pull back the plastic splash cover in the wheel well and the filter will be right there in front of you. It is really easy to get to. I still put mine up in the air because it is easier to get to the oil pan drop bolt, but you don't have too. Good luck.

 

I turned my wheel all the way to the right (left is also an option just depends on how you want to lay on the ground) the oil filter is just behind the splash guard near the drive axel.

I popped off the splash guard the first time to get an idea where everything was. Plus the factory had tightened the filter to the point where I had to use a wrench to get it off. Its easy. Just remember to be on level ground and enjoy a beer or two while the oil is draining!

 

I have about 1000 miles to go before the next change... then I'll do it at home... thanks folks!

 

It is easy! After 20+ years of doing my own oil changes, got tired of the mess and was going to local mechanic. Prior cars had filters up high on back of engine. Difficult to get at.

Now, 8 years later, after seeing that the filter and drain plug were so conveniently accessable on the 2K1 Maxima, did it myself this past weekend. Only took 15 minutes. No mess!

Nice to be able to put in Nissan filter and oil of my choice! (Not looking to get into a debate on the best oil. I'm sure everyone has their own preferences.)

 

Where can I get a Nissan filter? I think my next oil change will be performed by me, after my big fiasco.

Also, how do you jack the car up? It is too low to the ground to not have the car sitting pretty high!

 

You can get the Nissan oil filter at a local Nissan dealer, or you get one online at http://www.courtesyparts.com. It should be about $5.

You'll probably want to get a "crush ring", too. The crush ring will set you back about $0.75, at most. Since you haven't changed the oil yet on your Maxima, the Maxima uses a crush ring in between the drain plug and the oil pan, as a washer, so to speak. A Honda uses a true washer in that it does not crush when tightened, for example.

Jacking the car up is not necessary, unless your car is lowered. If the car has been lowered, it may be helpful to jack it up to enable your fat head ( ) to get up under the car to reach the oil drain plug, especially if you have short arms. Otherwise, just lay out on the ground and reach under there. You should be able to do it. Scope it out before hauling out the jack and stuff.

Also, after you do it a few times, you'll figure out how to NOT remove the plastic splash guard in order to remove the filter. Go ahead and remove it for now, since you are new at it, otherwise you'll end up with oil all over the place.