engine oil NISSAN FRONTIER 2023 Owner's Manual

Removal of under-engine
protectors
1. Remove boltsOAand skid plate (if so
equipped).
LDI3626
O6Skid plate (if so equipped)
LDI3627
Skid plate (if so equipped)
LDI3628
Oil filter access cover (Type A) (if so equipped)
Do-it-yourself8-11

2. Remove boltsOBand oil filter access
cover.
Engine oil and filter
1. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug and oil filter.
2. Remove the oil filler cap.
3. Remove the drain plug with a wrench by turning it counterclockwise and com-
pletely drain the oil.
CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself, as the
engine oil is hot.
WARNING
• Prolonged and repeated contact
with used engine oil may cause skin
cancer.
• Try to avoid direct skin contact with
used oil. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand
cleaner as soon as possible.
• Keep used engine oil out of reach of
children.
4. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench by turning it counterclockwise.
Remove the oil filter by turning it by
hand.
5. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting sur- face with a clean rag.
CAUTION
Be sure to remove any old gasket ma-
terial remaining on the sealing surface
of the engine. Failure to do so could
lead to an oil leak and engine damage. •
The dipstick must be inserted in
place to prevent oil spillage from the
dipstick hole when filling the engine
with oil.
6. Coat the gasket on the new filter with clean engine oil.
It is recommended that you use a
Genuine NISSAN oil filter or equivalent,
visit your NISSAN dealer parts depart-
ment for proper part.
7. Screw in the oil filter clockwise until a slight resistance is felt, then tighten addi-
tionally more than 2/3 turn.
Oil filter tightening torque: 11 to 15 f t-lb (15 to 21 N·m)
8. Clean and re-install the drain plug with a new washer. Securely tighten the drain
plug with a wrench. Do not use exces-
sive force.
Drain plug tightening torque: 22 to 29 f t-lb (29.4 to 39.2 N·m)
9. Refill the engine with the recommended oil through the oil filler opening, and in-
stall the oil filler cap securely.
LDI3629
Oil filter access cover (Type B) (if so equipped)
8-12Do-it-yourself

CAUTION
Do not spill fluids on engine cover. This
could damage the engine cover. If flu-
ids are spilled, immediately clean sur-
face with a neutral detergent. Do not
use an organic solvent such as brake
cleaner.
For additional information about drain and
refill capacity, see “Recommended fluids/
lubricants and capacities” (P. 10-2). The
drain and refill capacity depends on the oil
temperature and drain time. Use these
specifications for reference only. Always
use the dipstick to determine the proper
amount of oil in the engine.
10. Start the engine and check for leakage around the drain plug and the oil filter.
Correct as required. Turn the engine off
and wait more than 15 minutes. Check
the oil level with the dipstick. Add en-
gine oil if necessary.Af ter the operation
1. Reinstall engine protectors in reverse or-der of removal.
2. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
3. Reset the oil and oil filter maintenance reminder. For additional information,
see “Vehicle information display” (P. 2-22).
• Dispose of waste oil and filter properly.
• Check your local regulations. When checking or replacement is required,
it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service.
CAUTION
• NISSAN recommends using Genuine
NISSAN Matic P ATF. Do not mix with
other fluids.
• Do not use CVT fluid or manual trans-
mission fluid in this transmission.
Damage caused by the use of fluids
other than as recommended is not
covered under NISSAN’s New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
• Using fluids that are not equivalent
to Genuine NISSAN Matic P ATF may
also damage the transmission. Dam-
age caused by the use of fluids other
than as recommended is not covered
under NISSAN’s New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID
(ATF)
Do-it-yourself8-13

Brake pedal:Check the pedal for smooth
operation. If the brake pedal suddenly goes
down further than normal, the pedal feels
spongy or the vehicle seems to take longer
to stop, have your vehicle checked imme-
diately. It is recommended that you visit a
NISSAN dealer for this service. Keep the
floor mat away from the pedal.
Brakes: Check that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
Parking brake: Check the parking brake
operation regularly. The vehicle should be
securely held on a fairly steep hill with only
the parking brake applied. If the parking
brake needs adjustment, it is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
Seats: Check seat position controls such
as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc., to
ensure they operate smoothly and all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraints/headrests
move up and down smoothly and the locks
(if so equipped) hold securely in all latched
positions.
Seat belts: Check that all parts of the seat
belt system (for example, buckles, anchors,
adjusters and retractors) operate properly
and smoothly, and are installed securely. Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying,
wear or damage.
Steering wheel:
Check for changes in the
steering system, such as excessive free
play, hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating
the heater or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check
that the wipers and washer operate prop-
erly and that the wipers do not streak.
Under the hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically (for example, each
time you check the engine oil or refuel).
Battery (for maintenance free batter-
ies)*: This vehicle is equipped with a sealed
maintenance free battery. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
service.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery dis-
charge and potential no-start conditions
such as:
1. Installation or extended use of elec- tronic accessories that consume bat-
tery power when the engine is not
running (Phone chargers, GPS, DVD
players, etc.).
2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or only driven short distances.
In these cases, the battery may need to
be charged to maintain battery health.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the fluid
level is between the MAX and MIN lines on
the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*: Check the coolant
level when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts*: Check engine drive
belts for wear, fraying or cracking and for
proper tension. Replace any damaged
drive belts.
9-4Maintenance and schedules

Engine oil level*:Check the level af ter
parking the vehicle on a level spot and
turning off the engine. Wait more than 15
minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil
pan.
Exhaust system: Make sure there are no
loose supports, cracks or holes. If the
sound of the exhaust seems unusual or
there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immedi-
ately have the exhaust system inspected. It
is recommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service. For additional infor-
mation, see “Exhaust gas (carbon monox-
ide)” (P. 5-4).
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for
fuel, oil, water or other fluid leaks af ter the
vehicle has been parked for a while. Water
dripping from the air conditioner af ter use
is normal. If you should notice any leaks or if
fuel fumes are evident, check for the cause
and have it corrected immediately.
Power steering fluid level* and lines:
Check the level when the fluid is cold, with
the engine off. Check the lines for proper
attachment, leaks, cracks, etc. Radiator and hoses:
Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects,
leaves, etc., that may have accumulated.
Make sure the hoses have no cracks, defor-
mation, rot or loose connections.
Underbody: The underbody is frequently
exposed to corrosive substances such as
those used on icy roads or to control dust. It
is very important to remove these sub-
stances, otherwise rust may form on the
floor pan, frame, fuel lines and around the
exhaust system. At the end of winter, the
underbody should be thoroughly flushed
with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accu-
mulate. For additional information, see
“Cleaning exterior” (P. 7-2 ).
Windshield-washer fluid*: Check that
there is adequate fluid in the reservoir. The following descriptions are provided to
give you a better understanding of the
scheduled maintenance items that should
be regularly checked or replaced. The
maintenance schedule indicates at which
mileage/time intervals each item requires
service.
In addition to scheduled maintenance,
your vehicle requires that some items be
checked during normal day-to-day opera-
tion. For additional information, see “Gen-
eral maintenance” (P. 9-2).
Items marked with
“*”are recommended
by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation.
You are not required to perform mainte-
nance on these items in order to maintain
the warranties which come with your
NISSAN. Other maintenance items and in-
tervals are required.
When applicable, additional information
can be found in the “Do-it-yourself ” section
of this manual.
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Maintenance and schedules9-5

NOTE:
NISSAN does not advocate the use of
non-OEM approved af termarket flush-
ing systems and strongly advises
against performing these services on a
NISSAN product. Many of the af termar-
ket flushing systems use non-OEM ap-
proved chemicals or solvents, the use of
which has not been validated by NISSAN.
For recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids,
grease, and refrigerant, see “Recom-
mended fluids/lubricants and capaci-
ties” (P. 10-2).
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE:
Drive belts*:Check engine drive belts for
wear, fraying or cracking and for proper
tension. Replace any damaged drive belts.
Engine air filter: Replace at specified inter-
vals. When driving for prolonged periods in
dusty conditions, check/replace the filter
more frequently.
Engine coolant*: Replace coolant at the
specified interval. When adding or replac-
ing coolant, be sure to use only Genuine
NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)
or equivalent with the proper mixture. (For additional information on the proper mix-
ture for your area, see “Engine cooling sys-
tem” (P. 8-6).
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant
or the use of non-distilled water may re-
duce the recommended service interval
of the coolant.
Engine oil and oil filter:
Replace engine oil
and oil filter at the specified intervals. For
recommended oil grade and viscosity, see
“Recommended fluids/lubricants and ca-
pacities” (P. 10-2).
Engine valve clearance*: Inspect only if
valve noise increases. Adjust valve clear-
ance if necessary.
Evaporative emissions control vapor
lines*: Check vapor lines for leaks or loose-
ness. Tighten connections or replace parts
as necessary.
Fuel filter: Periodic maintenance is not re-
quired. (in-tank type filter)
Fuel lines*: Check the fuel hoses, piping
and connections for leaks, looseness, or
deterioration. Tighten connections or re-
place parts as necessary.
Spark plugs: Replace at specified intervals.
Install new plugs of the same type as origi-
nally equipped.
CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake lines and cables: Visually inspect for
proper installation. Check for chafing,
cracks, deterioration, and signs of leaking.
Replace any deteriorated or damaged
parts immediately.
Brake pads and rotors:
Check for wear, de-
terioration and fluid leaks. Replace any dete-
riorated or damaged parts immediately.
Exhaust system: Visually inspect the ex-
haust pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks,
cracks, deterioration, and damage. Tighten
connections or replace parts as necessary.
Propeller shaf t(s): Check for damage,
looseness, and grease leakage.
In-cabin microfilter: Replace at specified
intervals. When driving for prolonged peri-
ods in dusty conditions, replace the filter
more frequently.
Steering gear and linkage, axle and sus-
pension parts, drive shaf t boots: Check
for damage, looseness, and leakage of oil
or grease. Under severe driving conditions,
inspect more frequently.
9-6Maintenance and schedules

Tire rotation:Rotate tires at the specified
interval shown in the maintenance sched-
ule. When rotating tires, check for damage
and uneven wear. Replace if necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil
and transfer case oil: Visually inspect for
signs of leakage at specified intervals.
Off-road maintenance: Check the follow-
ing items frequently whenever you drive
off-road through deep sand, mud or water:
• Brake pads and rotors
• Brake linings and drums
• Brake lines and hoses
• Differential, transmission and transfer case oil
• Steering linkage
• Propeller shaf t(s) and front drive shaf ts
• Engine air filter
• Clutch housing drain (AWD only) To help ensure smooth, safe and economi-
cal driving, NISSAN provides two mainte-
nance schedules that may be used, de-
pending upon the conditions in which you
usually drive. These schedules contain
both distance and time intervals, up to
120,000 miles (192,000 km)/96 months. For
most people, the odometer reading will in-
dicate when service is needed. However, if
you drive very little, your vehicle should be
serviced at the regular time intervals
shown in the schedule.
Af ter 120,000 miles (192,000 km)/96
months, continue maintenance at the
same mileage/time intervals.
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS
FOR SEVERE OPERATING
CONDITIONS
Additional maintenance items for severe
operating conditions
should be per-
formed on vehicles that are driven under
especially demanding conditions. Addi-
tional maintenance items should be per-
formed if you primarily operate your vehicle
under the following conditions:
• Repeated short trips of less than 5 miles (8 km). • Repeated short trips of less than 10 miles
(16 km) with outside temperatures re-
maining below freezing.
• Operating in hot weather in stop-and-go “rush hour” traffic.
• Extensive idling and/or low speed driving for long distances, such as police, taxi or
door-to-door delivery use.
• Driving in dusty conditions.
• Driving on rough, muddy or salt spread roads.
• Towing a trailer, using a camper or using a car-top carrier.
If your vehicle is mostly operated under the
severe conditions, follow the severe use
maintenance intervals shown in the main-
tenance schedule.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
Maintenance and schedules9-7

3.8L 6 CYLINDER (VQ38DD engine
model)
The following shows the maintenance
schedule.
Choose the maintenance schedule
needed based on your vehicle driving
conditions.
Af ter 120,000 miles (192,000 km)/96
months, continue maintenance at the
same mileage/time interval.
5,000 miles/(8,000 km)/6 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Not applicable. Proceed to next interval.
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads and rotors
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle and suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Propeller shaf t (4WD models)
• Exhaust system
Essential:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Lubricate propeller shaf t grease (4WDmodels)
7,500 miles/(12,000 km)/6 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Essential:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Tire rotation
Severe use maintenance:
Not applicable. Proceed to next interval.
9-8Maintenance and schedules

10,000 miles/(16,000 km)/
12 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Not applicable. Proceed to next interval
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads and rotors
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle and suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Propeller shaf t (4WD models)
• Exhaust system
Essential:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Replace brake fluid
• Lubricate propeller shaf t grease (4WDmodels)
15,000 miles/(24,000 km)/
12 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Automatic transmission fluid (2) (3)
• Brake lines and cables
• Brake pads and rotors
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Propeller shaf t (4WD models)
• Differential gear oil
• Transfer fluid
Essential:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Replace in-cabin microfilter
• Lubricate propeller shaf t grease (4WDmodels) (4)
• Tire rotation Severe use maintenance:
Not applicable. Proceed to next interval.
(2) Request a NISSAN dealer to inspect the
fluid deterioration data using a CONSULT. If
the deterioration data is more than 77000,
replace the AT fluid.
(3) If using under severe conditions such as
towing a trailer, using a car-top carrier, or
driving on rough or muddy roads, change
(not just inspect) oil at every 30,000 miles
(48,000 km) or 24 months. NISSAN recom-
mends using Genuine NISSAN Matic P au-
tomatic transmission fluid. Using auto-
matic transmission fluid that is not
equivalent to Genuine NISSAN Matic P may
damage the transmission or impact trans-
mission durability. Damage caused by the
use of fluid other than as recommended is
not covered under the NISSAN New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
(4) The propeller shaf t should be re-
greased af ter being immersed in water.
Maintenance and schedules9-9

15,000 miles/(24,000 km)/
18 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Not applicable. Proceed to next interval
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads and rotors
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle and suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Propeller shaf t (4WD models)
• Exhaust system
Essential:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Lubricate propeller shaf t grease (4WDmodels)
20,000 miles/(32,000 km)/
24 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Not applicable. Proceed to next interval
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads and rotors
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle and suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Propeller shaf t (4WD models)
• Exhaust system
Essential:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Replace brake fluid
• Replace transfer fluid
• Replace differential gear oil
• Lubricate propeller shaf t grease (4WDmodels)
22,500 miles/(36,000 km)/
18 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Intelligent Key battery
Essential:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Tire rotation
Severe use maintenance:
Not applicable. Proceed to next interval
9-10Maintenance and schedules