Change the Oil and Oil Filter in a 2005 Nissan Xterra

Changing your oil and oil filter can seem overwhelming if you're not mechanically inclined. It doesn't have to be, though. All you need are a few tools and just enough confidence to get you under your vehicle.

Steps

Changing the Oil and Filter

  1. Let the oil settle and cool, then raise the hood. Allow your car to sit for at least 30 minutes.
    • This allows the oil to settle and cool, giving it an accurate reading on the dipstick and preventing serious burns.
    • The hood latch will push to the left, allowing the hood to be raised.
  2. Drain the oil. Place the drain pan under the plug. You will need a 9/16 socket or wrench to remove the plug. The plug sits near the middle of the vehicle, on the passenger’s side. After 15 minutes, the old oil should be completely drained out. Wipe down, then replace, the plug.
  3. Remove the oil filter. Place the drain pan under the filter. Remove the plate covering the oil filter. The filter can be seen from the side. Unscrew the filter counterclockwise.
  4. Install the new filter. Pour a small amount of oil into the filter. Put the new oil filter back into the space behind the plate. When it “fits” onto the engine, turn it clockwise to fully install the filter.
    • Once the filter starts tightening, make ¾ of a turn more to ensure it’s tightened properly.
    • Leave the plate off until after confirming there are no leaks in Part 3.
  5. Replace the oil. Remove the oil cap on top of the engine block, then put the funnel into the fill hole. Pour the new oil into the funnel. When you’ve finished pouring the oil, replace the plug.

Wrapping Up

  1. Confirm the oil level. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Replace the dipstick, then remove it to check the oil level. It should be in the "full" range.
  2. Start the vehicle. Start the Xterra and allow it to run for a few minutes. After confirming the gauge is reading right, check under the Xterra for potential leaks. If there are no leaks and everything looks good, the job's almost done!
  3. Replace the oil filter faceplate. Tighten down the plate, but only just enough. There’s no need to overtighten as these screws are easily stripped.
  4. Clean up! Wipe down everything with excess oil on it and empty your drain pan into an oil-safe container. Return the used oil to the automotive store of choice (AutoZone, O’Reilly, etc.). 
    • The newly emptied oil bottles will work well for this.

Tips

  • While the basic wrenches shown in the necessary equipment section will certainly work, it may be easier to use a socket wrench instead.
  • Make sure that the drain pan is well centered under the drain plug and oil filter as you're taking them out. It's a simple, but easily overlooked, step. Watch your elbows!
  • You will get oily. Make sure you wear clothes you don't mind ruining, just in case oil runs too far up your arm.

Warnings

  • Even after waiting 30 minutes, the oil in your vehicle may still be hot. Be careful! Don't let yourself get burned by rushing into the job or leaving your hands and arms under the draining oil for too long.

Things You'll Need

  • Funnel
  • 9/16" wrench or socket (10 mm wrench or socket)
  • Rags
  • Drain pan
  • 5.1 liters of Oil or 6 quarts (Use ⅒ of the sixth quart.)
  • Oil filter
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