Full Guide to Changing Engine Oil in Infiniti QX60

Infiniti QX60 is a popular luxury SUV that has been sold on the US market for several years. It has gone through multiple generations, with each one bringing improvements and updates. The first generation of the Infiniti QX60 was introduced in 2013, and it continued until 2022. This generation featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, providing a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. The QX60 is known for its spacious and comfortable interior, making it a popular choice among families.

As for the names of the Infiniti brand in different countries, it is generally known as Infiniti worldwide. However, in some markets, such as Japan, the brand is sold under the name Nissan Infiniti. In essence, Infiniti is the luxury vehicle division of the Nissan Motor Company.

Now let’s move on to the process of changing the engine oil on an Infiniti QX60.

Simple plan to change engine oil

Changing the oil 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 in Your Infiniti QX60

How Often Should You Change Engine Oil?

The frequency of oil changes for an Infiniti QX60 depends on various factors, including driving conditions, mileage, and the recommendations of the manufacturer. Typically, it is recommended to change the engine oil in your QX60 every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. However, it is important to consult your owner’s manual for the specific oil change interval recommended for your model year.

Step-by-Step Guide: Checking Engine Oil Level

To check the engine oil level in your Infiniti QX60, follow these steps:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and locate the dipstick, which is usually labeled “Engine Oil.”
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
4. Insert the dipstick back into the tube fully.
5. Pull out the dipstick again and observe the oil level.
6. The dipstick will have markings indicating the minimum and maximum oil levels. The oil level should ideally be between these two marks.
7. If the oil level is below the minimum mark, add oil gradually and recheck the level until it reaches the recommended range.
8. If the oil level is above the maximum mark, you may need to drain some oil to bring it to the correct level.

Visual Inspection of Engine Oil: What to Look for in Infiniti QX60

A rough visual inspection of the engine oil in your Infiniti QX60 can provide some indication of its quality. Here’s a simple method using a sheet of paper and a drop of oil:

1. Take a clean sheet of white paper and place a drop of engine oil on it.
2. Observe the drop of oil as it spreads on the paper.
3. If the oil is clean and transparent, it indicates that it is in good condition.
4. However, if the oil appears dirty, dark, or contains particles, it may be a sign that it needs to be changed.

Please note that this method is not as accurate as a proper oil analysis, but it can give you a rough idea of the oil’s condition.

Additional Maintenance Tasks When Changing Engine Oil in Infiniti QX60

When changing the engine oil in your Infiniti QX60, it is common to perform additional maintenance tasks at the same time. These tasks may include:

1. Replacing the oil filter: The oil filter should be replaced with a new one to ensure efficient filtration and prevent contaminants from circulating in the engine.
2. Inspecting the drain plug: Check the condition of the drain plug and replace it if necessary to prevent oil leaks.
3. Replacing the drain plug ring: It is recommended to replace the drain plug ring to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.
4. Checking other fluid levels: Take the opportunity to check the levels of other vital fluids, such as coolant and brake fluid, and top them up if needed.

Comparing Engine Oils for Infiniti QX60: Pros and Cons of Different Types

When choosing engine oil, it is essential to consider the recommended specifications and the climate in which you typically drive. Here are some common types of engine oils and their pros and cons:

1. Conventional (Mineral) Oil:
   • Pros: Affordable, widely available.
   • Cons: May break down faster under high temperatures, shorter change intervals.
2. Synthetic Oil:
   • Pros: Offers better engine protection, longer change intervals, performs well in extreme temperatures.
   • Cons: More expensive than conventional oil.
3. Synthetic Blend Oil:
   • Pros: Provides a balance between synthetic and conventional oils, better protection than conventional oil, cost-effective compared to full synthetic oil.
   • Cons: Not as superior in extreme temperatures as full synthetic oil.

For the Infiniti QX60, it is generally recommended to use synthetic oil that meets the manufacturer’s specifications. Synthetic oil offers better engine protection and longer change intervals, which can contribute to the longevity and performance of the vehicle. However, always refer to your owner’s manual or consult a professional mechanic for the specific oil type and viscosity recommended for your Infiniti QX60 model.

Essential Pre-Work Checkpoints for Safe Motor Oil Change

Before starting the motor oil change in your Infiniti QX60, there are a few essential pre-work checkpoints to ensure a safe and smooth process:

1. Safety First: Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Make sure the engine is cool to avoid burns.
2. Gather the Required Tools: Prepare all the necessary tools, including a socket set, oil filter wrench, drain pan, funnel, gloves, and safety goggles.
3. Check the Owner’s Manual: Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity, oil capacity, and oil filter specifications for your specific Infiniti QX60 model.
4. Acquire the Right Engine Oil and Oil Filter: Purchase the appropriate engine oil and oil filter that meet the manufacturer’s specifications for your Infiniti QX60.
5. Dispose of Old Oil Properly: Prepare a suitable container or bring the used oil to a recycling center for proper disposal. Do not pour it down the drain or dispose of it in the trash.

How to Choose the Right Engine Oil for Your Infiniti QX60

Here is a table with the selection of engine oil for different generations of Infiniti QX60:

Generation (Year)	Engine	Suitable Oil Viscosity	Popular American Brand	Required Amount
1st (2013-2020)	3.5L V6	0W-20	Mobil 1 ($29/5 quart) Royal Purple ($38/5 quart)	5.1 quarts
2nd (2021-present)	3.5L V6	0W-20	Mobil 1 ($29/5 quart) Royal Purple ($38/5 quart)	5.1 quarts

Please note that the article numbers may vary depending on the specific product and brand.

Picking the Best Oil Filter

Here is a table with the selection of oil filters for different generations of Infiniti QX60:

Generation (Year)	Engine	Popular American Brand
1st (2013-2020)	3.5L V6	Fram, Bosch, Purolator
2nd (2021-present)	3.5L V6	Bosch, Nissan, Porulator

Please note that the specific oil filter part numbers may vary depending on the manufacturer and brand.

Must-Have Tools for DIY Motor Oil Change in Infiniti QX60

To change the engine oil in your Infiniti QX60, you will need the following tools and conditions:

1. Socket Set: To remove the oil drain plug and oil filter.
2. Oil Filter Wrench: To loosen and remove the oil filter.
3. Drain Pan: To collect the old oil.
4. Funnel: To pour the new oil into the engine.
5. Gloves and Safety Goggles: To protect your hands and eyes from oil spills and splashes.
6. Jack and Jack Stands: If necessary, to raise the vehicle safely.
7. New Engine Oil: As per the manufacturer’s recommended oil specifications.
8. New Oil Filter: To replace the old oil filter.
9. Shop Rags or Paper Towels: To clean up any spills or messes.

Ensure you have a well-ventilated workspace and the engine is cool before beginning the oil change process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Motor Oil: A Detailed Breakdown

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

To properly warm up the engine before changing the oil in your Infiniti QX60, follow these steps:

1. Start the Engine: Turn on the engine and let it idle for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the oil to warm up and flow more freely.
2. Engage Accessories: Turn on the headlights, air conditioning, and any other electrical accessories to put a slight load on the engine.
3. Rev the Engine: Gently rev the engine a few times, increasing the RPM to around 2,000 for a brief moment. This helps circulate the oil throughout the engine.

Warming up the engine before an oil change ensures that the oil is more fluid, making it easier to drain and allowing impurities to be carried away with the old oil.

DIY Guide: Changing Engine Oil in Your Infiniti QX60 at Home

Here is a step-by-step guide for beginners to change the engine oil in their Infiniti QX60 at home:

1. Gather the Required Tools: Ensure you have all the necessary tools, including a socket set, oil filter wrench, drain pan, funnel, gloves, and safety goggles.
2. Prepare the Vehicle: Park the car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and ensure the engine is cool.
3. Warm Up the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil.
4. Locate the Oil Drain Plug: Consult the owner’s manual to find the location of the oil drain plug on the engine oil pan.
5. Place the Drain Pan: Position the drain pan underneath the oil drain plug.
6. Remove the Drain Plug: Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the oil drain plug, allowing the old oil to drain completely into the pan.
7. Replace the Drain Plug: Clean the drain plug, apply a new crush washer if necessary, and reinstall the plug tightly.
8. Locate the Oil Filter: Find the oil filter, typically located near the bottom of the engine.
9. Remove the Old Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter, allowing any remaining oil to drain into the pan.
10. Prepare the New Oil Filter: Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
11. Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand, then give it an additional three-quarters turn using the oil filter wrench.
12. Fill with New Oil: Remove the oil filler cap and use a funnel to pour the recommended amount of new oil into the engine.
13. Check the Oil Level: Insert the dipstick, remove it, and check the oil level. Add more oil if necessary, but avoid overfilling.
14. Clean Up and Dispose: Clean any spilled oil and properly dispose of the used oil and filter.

The time required for this oil change process can vary, but it usually takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on your experience level.

Common Queries After DIY Engine Oil Change: Your FAQs Answered

Here are some common queries and their answers related to DIY engine oil changes in Infiniti QX60:

1. How often should I change the engine oil in my Infiniti QX60?
   • It is generally recommended to change the engine oil in your Infiniti QX60 every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
2. Can I reuse the oil filter?
   • It is recommended to replace the oil filter with a new one during each oil change. Reusing the oil filter may lead to reduced filtration efficiency and potential engine damage.
3. What happens if I use the wrong oil viscosity?
   • Using the wrong oil viscosity can affect engine performance and potentially cause damage. Always use the recommended oil viscosity specified in your Infiniti QX60 owner’s manual.
4. Should I replace the crush washer on the drain plug?
   • If your Infiniti QX60’s drain plug has a crush washer, it is recommended to replace it with a new one during each oil change to ensure a proper seal.
5. How do I dispose of the used oil and filter?
   • Check with your local recycling center or an auto parts store for proper disposal options. Do not dispose of used oil or filters in regular trash or pour the oil down the drain.

Potential Problems After Incorrect DIY Oil Change in Infiniti QX60

If an oil change is performed incorrectly in your Infiniti QX60, the following problems may arise:

1. Insufficient Lubrication: Using incorrect oil or not changing the oil at the recommended intervals can result in inadequate lubrication, leading to increased wear on engine components.
2. Oil Leaks: Improper installation of the oil filter or drain plug can cause oil leaks, resulting in oil loss and potential engine damage.
3. Engine Overheating: Inadequate oil circulation due to incorrect oil level or viscosity can lead to engine overheating and potential breakdown.
4. Reduced Performance: Using the wrong oil viscosity can affect engine performance, leading to reduced power and fuel efficiency.

If you encounter any of these issues after an oil change, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic to resolve the problem.

Detecting Engine Oil Leaks: A Checklist After DIY Oil Change

After performing a DIY oil change in your Infiniti QX60, you can check for engine oil leaks by following these steps:

1. Inspect the Drain Plug: Ensure the drain plug is tight and not leaking any oil.
2. Examine the Oil Filter: Check around the oil filter for any signs of oil leakage. Ensure it is properly installed and not loose.
3. Look for Oil Residue: Inspect the engine and surrounding areas for any oil residue or drips.
4. Monitor Oil Level: Check the oil level regularly over the next few days to ensure it remains consistent. A sudden drop may indicate a leak.

If you notice any oil leaks, address them promptly to prevent further issues. Tighten loose components or replace faulty gaskets or seals as necessary.

Resetting the Oil Change Counter in Your Infiniti QX60: A Step-by-Step Guide

To reset the oil change counter in your Infiniti QX60 after a service, follow these steps:

1. Turn the Ignition On: Without starting the engine, turn the ignition key to the “ON” position.
2. Press the Trip Computer Button: Locate the trip computer button on the instrument cluster and press and hold it.
3. Turn the Ignition Off and On: While holding the trip computer button, turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and then back to the “ON” position. Continue holding the button.
4. Reset the Oil Change Counter: After a few seconds, the oil change counter should reset and display “RESET” or “0000” on the instrument cluster.
5. Release the Trip Computer Button: Release the trip computer button.

The oil change counter should now be reset, indicating that the oil change has been properly logged.

Responsible Disposal: What to Do with Used Engine Oil After Changing it in Infiniti QX60

To responsibly dispose of used engine oil after changing it in your Infiniti QX60, follow these guidelines:

1. Store the Used Oil: Collect the used oil in a clean, leak-proof container with a secure lid.
2. Take it to a Recycling Center: Check with your local recycling center or waste management facility for drop-off locations that accept used oil.
3. Do Not Mix with Other Substances: Avoid mixing the used oil with other fluids or contaminants.
4. Do Not Pour Down Drains: Never dispose of used oil by pouring it down drains, sewers, or onto the ground.

Properly disposing of used engine oil helps protect the environment and prevents contamination.