Hi guys im new at this stuff, this is gonna be my first self oil change so any help would be appreciated. I have a couple of questions. I have a 2k maxima, i bought an oem filter part 15208-9E000 is that the correct one ? It is different from the one from courtesyparts.com, can some1 assure me if its the rt one or not. As part of the instructions it tells you to replace a washer, is it important to do so, and do i just pick 1 up at any auto shop (eg Kragen, Pep Boys). Finally, is it possible/safe to just use the jack on the car to do the change? Thanks

 

NO. Do NOT just rely on the jack to support the car while you are under it. Jack stands or ramps are relatively cheap, especially when you consider you can be crushed if the car comes down off the jack. I've seen it happen a few times.

I've never replaced those washers, and I don't have an issue with leaks, but they can be found at any auto parts or discount store.

There have been a few "how to" threads on oil changes recently if you're looking for more info.

 

When you change your oil, make sure the gasket from the old filter is not stuck on the car still, that is the biggest mistake I see people make... also make sure you don't over torque the drain plug, or you will have problems later...

 

I happen to have a Nissan dealer less than a mile from my house, so I just replaced the plug with o-ring at the oil change... It's like $2 for the part...

Get a good set of ramps - much safer!

 

I usually get a handful. The parts guy laughs when I ask for them. He says he almost forgot where they are kept because service doesnt use new ones and nobody asks for them :/

By all means, dont trust that jack.. if you must, just say clear as possible cause I've seen Max's come off that jack with no warning.

I jack the side, take off the wheel for easy access, then I throw a jack stand right next to the factory jack just to be safe. I lower the car down so the car wouldnt fall on the jack from any real distance.

 

I change oil on my Maxima the easy way. With engine on I turn steerind wheel all the way to the right. Turn engine off. There are 3 screws holding the bottom fender sleeve (it covers oil filter and drain plug). I remove screws and push liner out of way. You now have visual and mechanical access to oil filter and drain plug. Remove drain plug and drain oil out. Remove oil filter and replace with new one after wiping off mounting flange. Make sure to lubricate new filter rubber seal with a light coating of oil. Replace drain plug. Replace lower fender sleeve and three mounting screws. Put 4 + quarts of oil in engine. Start motor and check for leaks. Piece of cake, easiest oil and filter change you will ever do!

 

Ramps.

Yeah, yeah, I know you aren't supposed to use them, but the drain plug is on an angle at the rear of the pan, so I can't see how ramps could hurt.

Also, I just put on the Fram Sure Drain system. TimW was right- it sticks out a wee bit and if I bottom out REALLY hard (like, bend the Y-Pipe hard), I am screwed. I'm gonna take my chances though.....

 

I never took nothing off. Once the car is jacked up, you can easily access the drain plug and the filter.
And what's the deal with you guys just putting 4 quarts of oil. It's either you don't drain all of the dirty oil out, or you like to run on low. ehheehehee Mine took at least 4 and 1/3 qrts.
Good luck, and definitely give extra support with the jack stand.

 

Seriously, don't ever use a jack for this type stuff...and watch out for cheapie metal ramps...have heard one a set collapsing and killing a guy...you can buy a set of 10,000 lb. capacity solid molded plastic ramps for less than $30 bucks...way more weight capacity than you'll ever need for a Max.

 

I said 4 +(plus)quarts. Some Maximas take 4 quarts and 8 ounces, while others take 4 quarts and 20 ounces so they both take 4 + quarts of oil. Just trying to be accurate!

 

Thanks for all the input guys, gonna go work on it rt now. Got myself ramp, hopefully it will work out.