Proactive Maintenance: How to Change Engine Oil in an Infiniti QX80

Changing engine oil for a Infiniti QX80 can be an overwhelming task for an unprepared person, and stretch out for a whole day. Although the work can be done in just 30 minutes. I’m here to share my experience and secrets with you! Let’s start with a few words about the car.

The Infiniti QX80 is a full-size luxury SUV that has been sold in the US market since 2010. It is manufactured by the Japanese automaker Nissan under its luxury brand Infiniti. The QX80 is known for its spacious interior, powerful performance. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the QX80 has gone through two generations, with the current generation starting in 2010. It is equipped with a range of engines, including V8 gasoline engines, providing ample power for its size.

Simple Plan to Change Engine Oil

Changing the oil on Infiniti QX80 is critical because it keeps the engine running smoothly. It removes dirt and debris that can damage the engine and helps improve fuel economy. Regular oil changes prolong the life of your engine, saving you money on repairs in the long run.

So, let’s define the basic steps for performing a car engine oil change.

Warm up the engine to operating temperature

Drain the used engine oil and remove the old oil filter

Install a new filter and fill with fresh oil

Check the oil level with a dipstick

By following these simple steps, you can service your car. Now let’s take a closer look at each of the steps, select the recommended oil and filter. At the end of this page I will answer possible questions.

What You Need to Know Before Changing Engine Oil

How Often Should You Change Engine Oil on Infiniti QX80

The frequency of oil changes for the Infiniti QX80 may vary depending on the model year, engine, driving conditions, and the type of oil used. However, as a general guideline, it is common to change the engine oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. It is important to consult the owner’s manual or contact an authorized Infiniti service center for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations for your vehicle.

Step-by-Step Guide: Checking Engine Oil Level

1. Park the vehicle on level ground and ensure the engine is turned off.
2. Open the hood and locate the dipstick, which is typically a brightly colored handle labeled “Engine Oil.”
3. Pull the dipstick out of the dipstick tube.
4. Wipe the dipstick clean with a cloth or paper towel.
5. Reinsert the dipstick fully back into the dipstick tube.
6. Pull the dipstick out again and observe the oil level.
   • If the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick, it is within the acceptable range.
   • If the oil level is below the minimum mark, it indicates that the engine is low on oil and requires topping up.
   • If the oil level is above the maximum mark, it indicates that there is an overfill and some oil needs to be drained.
7. If the oil level is too low, add the recommended oil through the oil filler cap, a little at a time, and recheck the level using the dipstick.
8. If the oil level is too high, drain the excess oil using the drain plug and recheck the level.

Visual Inspection Infiniti QX80 of Engine Oil

To perform a rough visual inspection of the engine oil in your Infiniti QX80, you can follow these steps:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and locate the engine oil dipstick.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
4. Insert the dipstick back into the dipstick tube and then pull it out again.
5. Observe the color and consistency of the oil on the dipstick. Clean engine oil typically appears amber or light brown in color.
6. Rub a drop of oil between your fingers and check for any particles or contaminants.
   • If the oil appears excessively dark, gritty, or contains metal particles, it may indicate a potential issue and further inspection by a professional is recommended.
   • If the oil appears clean and within the acceptable range on the dipstick, it is likely in good condition.

Additional Maintenance Tasks When Changing Engine Oil

When changing the engine oil in your Infiniti QX80, it is recommended to perform the following maintenance tasks:

• Replace the oil filter: The oil filter should be replaced with every oil change to ensure proper filtration and engine protection.
• Inspect the drain plug: Check the drain plug for any signs of damage or leaks. Replace the drain plug if necessary.
• Replace the drain plug ring: It is a good practice to replace the drain plug ring or washer to prevent oil leaks.
• Inspect other fluid levels: Take the opportunity to check the levels of other important fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Top up if necessary.
• Inspect the air filter: Check the air filter for dirt and debris. Replace if needed for improved engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Comparing Engine Oils for Infiniti QX80

When selecting engine oil for your Infiniti QX80, it is crucial to choose the right type of oil that meets the manufacturer’s specifications. Here are some common types of engine oils along with their pros and cons:

1. Conventional Oil:
   • Pros: Affordable, widely available.
   • Cons: Lower resistance to high temperatures, shorter lifespan compared to synthetic oils.
2. Synthetic Oil:
   • Pros: Excellent high-temperature resistance, longer lifespan, better engine protection.
   • Cons: Higher cost compared to conventional oil.
3. Synthetic Blend Oil:
   • Pros: Provides a balance between performance and affordability.
   • Cons: May not offer the same level of protection as full synthetic oil.

How to Choose the Right Engine Oil for Your Infiniti QX80

Here’s a table with the selection of engine oil for different generations of the Infiniti QX80:

Generation (Year)	Engine	Suitable Oil Viscosity	Popular American Brands (3)	Required Amount of Oil
1st (2004-2010)	5.6L V8	5W-30	Mobil 1 ($27/5 qarts) Royal Purple ($38/5 quarts) Pennzoil ($21/5 quarts)	6.9 quarts (6.5 liters)
2nd (2011-2013)	5.6L V8	5W-30	Pennzoil ($21/5 quarts) Castrol ($29/5 quarts) Valvoline ($29/5 quarts)	7.9 quarts (7.5 liters)
3rd (2014-2017)	5.6L V8	5W-30	Pennzoil ($21/5 quarts) Castrol ($29/5 quarts) Valvoline ($29/5 quarts)	7.9 quarts (7.5 liters)
4th (2018-present)	5.6L V8	5W-30	Mobil 1 ($27/5 qarts) Royal Purple ($38/5 quarts) Pennzoil ($21/5 quarts)	7.9 quarts (7.5 liters)

Note: The above information is for general reference. Always refer to the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific oil requirements of your Infiniti QX80.

Picking the Best Oil Filter for Your Infiniti QX80

Here’s a table with the selection of oil filters for different generations of the Infiniti QX80:

Generation (Year)	Engine	Popular American Brands (3)	Article Number
1st (2004-2010)	5.6L V8	Fram, Purolator, Bosch, WIX	XG7317, 57356XP
2nd (2011-2013)	5.6L V8	FRAM, AC Delco, BOSCH, NISSAN	15208-9E01A, XG7317, 3323
3rd (2014-2017)	5.6L V8	Mann-Filter, NISSAN, Hastings, FRAM	15208-9E01A, XG7317
4th (2018-present)	5.6L V8	FRAM, Baldwin, WIX	57356XP, PH7317

Note: The table provides examples of popular oil filter brands for the Infiniti QX80. Make sure to check the owner’s manual or consult with a trusted mechanic for the specific oil filter recommendations for your vehicle.

Must-Have Tools for DIY Motor Oil Change in Infiniti QX80

Before starting the DIY motor oil change in your Infiniti QX80, ensure you have the following tools and conditions:

1. Car ramps or jack stands to lift the front of the vehicle safely.
2. Oil drain pan to collect the old oil.
3. Wrench or socket set to remove the drain plug.
4. Oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter.
5. New oil filter that meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
6. Correct type and viscosity of new engine oil as recommended in the owner’s manual.
7. Funnel to pour the new oil.
8. Clean cloth or paper towels for cleaning and wiping.
9. Oil filter drain pan or container to drain the old oil filter.
10. Latex gloves to keep your hands clean and protected.
11. Safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes.
12. Wheel chocks to secure the rear wheels and prevent movement.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Motor Oil in Infiniti QX80

Preparing: How to Warm Up the Engine Before an Oil Change:

To properly warm up the engine before changing the oil, let the vehicle run for a few minutes. Warm oil flows more smoothly, making it easier to drain and ensuring that all contaminants are removed from the engine.

DIY Guide: Changing Engine Oil in Your Infiniti QX80 at Home

1. Gather the tools and materials listed above.
2. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. Warm up the engine by letting it run for a few minutes.
4. Lift the front of the vehicle using car ramps or jack stands.
5. Locate and remove the oil drain plug to drain the old oil.
6. Remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench.
7. Install the new oil filter by hand, making sure it’s snug.
8. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.
9. Add the new oil through the oil filler cap.
10. Check the oil level using the dipstick and adjust if necessary.
11. Dispose of the old oil and oil filter responsibly.

The entire process may take approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on your familiarity with the task.

Common Queries After DIY Engine Oil Change

1. How often should I change the oil? Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or as specified in the owner’s manual.
2. What type of oil should I use? Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity.
3. How do I reset the oil change reminder? Consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to reset the oil change reminder system.

Potential Problems After Incorrect DIY Oil Change in Infiniti QX80:

1. Over-tightened or loose drain plug: Over-tightening the drain plug can damage the oil pan, while a loose drain plug can cause oil leaks.
2. Improperly installed oil filter: If the oil filter is not installed correctly, it can lead to oil leaks and inadequate filtration.
3. Incorrect oil type or viscosity: Using the wrong oil type or viscosity can affect engine performance and potentially cause damage.

Detecting Engine Oil Leaks: A Checklist After DIY Oil Change:

1. Inspect the drain plug: Ensure the drain plug is securely tightened and not leaking.
2. Check the oil filter: Verify that the oil filter is properly installed and not leaking.
3. Inspect the oil pan: Look for any signs of oil pooling or leaks around the oil pan.
4. Monitor oil levels: Check the oil level regularly to ensure it remains stable and there are no sudden drops.

Resetting the Oil Change Counter: A Step-by-Step Guide:

To reset the oil change counter in your Infiniti QX80, follow these steps:

1. Turn the ignition to the “ON” position without starting the engine.
2. Press the “Menu” or “Settings” button on the instrument cluster until you see the maintenance menu.
3. Navigate to the “Oil & Filter” or “Maintenance” submenu.
4. Select the “Reset” option to reset the oil change counter.
5. Confirm the reset when prompted.
6. Turn off the ignition and start the engine to verify if the oil change counter has been reset.

Responsible Disposal: What to Do with Used Engine Oil After Changing it in Infiniti QX80:

It is important to dispose of used engine oil properly to protect the environment. Here’s what you can do:

1. Store the used oil: Place the used oil in a clean, leak-proof container with a secure lid.
2. Take it to a recycling center or service station: Many recycling centers and service stations accept used engine oil for proper disposal.
3. Check with your local authorities: Contact your local waste management agency or municipality to inquire about designated collection sites or pickup services.
4. Do not dispose of used oil in the trash, down the drain, or on the ground: Improper disposal can harm the environment and contaminate water sources.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure responsible disposal of used engine oil after a self-replacement.