The Nissan 370Z is a sports car made by Nissan Motors. This car is the sixth generation of Nissan’s Z-car line, which started in 1969 with the 240Z. The 370Z was first introduced in 2008. The main features of this model include a 3.7-liter V6 engine, rear-wheel drive, and a design that blends modern and classic elements. The car’s advantages include its power, performance, and affordability compared to other sports cars.
Contents
- 1 Do I Need to Urgently Change the Oil Right Now?
- 2 Preparing to Change Engine Oil
- 2.1 What Type of Oil Should Be Used for a Car?
- 2.2 How to Choose Oil Depending on the Season and Operating Conditions?
- 2.3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Oils for Nissan 370Z
- 2.4 Engine Oil Selection
- 2.5 Which Oil Filter is Right for You?
- 2.6 Necessary Tools and Conditions
- 2.7 How to Warm Up the Engine Before Changing the Oil?
- 3 Step-by-Step Instruction
- 4 Replacing Transmission Fluid in Automatic Transmission
- 5 Possible Questions After Self-Service
Do I Need to Urgently Change the Oil Right Now?
It depends. Check your vehicle’s owner manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals. If you’re past due, or if your oil looks dark and dirty, then yes, you need to change it.
What is the Frequency for Changing Engine Oil?
Most mechanics recommend changing the engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, some newer oils and engines can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
A study conducted by General Motors (GM) in 1974 showed that lengthening the engine oil-change interval could reduce the frequency of automotive maintenance, the amount of oil required to service the car population, and the potential pollution problem resulting from the disposal of used oil.
How to Check the Engine Oil Level?
To check engine oil in a 370Z, park the car on level ground. Wait a few minutes after turning off the engine. Then, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and insert it fully again. Pull it out one more time to check the oil level. If it’s low, add more oil.
Visual Assessment of the Condition of Engine Oil
To visually assess engine oil, remove the dipstick, wipe it on a clean white piece of paper, and observe the oil. If it’s a clear, amber color, your oil is still good. If it’s dark and dirty, it’s time for an oil change.
Preparing to Change Engine Oil
To prepare for an oil change, gather the right tools and supplies. You’ll need the correct oil, an oil filter, an oil filter wrench, a socket set, an oil catch pan, and some rags.
What Type of Oil Should Be Used for a Car?
You should use the type of oil recommended by your car’s manufacturer. For a Nissan 370Z, Nissan typically recommends using synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-30.
How to Choose Oil Depending on the Season and Operating Conditions?
The type of oil you choose can depend on the weather and how you drive. In colder temperatures, a lower viscosity oil like 5W-30 will flow better. In hot weather or severe driving conditions, a higher viscosity oil may be more appropriate. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Oils for Nissan 370Z
Different types of oils have their pros and cons. Synthetic oil, for example, offers superior protection and performance, but it’s more expensive. Conventional oil is cheaper, but it doesn’t provide the same level of protection. Synthetic blend oils offer a middle-ground solution, with better protection than conventional oil and a lower price than full synthetic.
Engine Oil Selection
| Generation (Year) | Engine | Oil Viscosity | Popular Brands | Required Amount | Article Number | Approx. Cost in USA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (2009-2021) | 3.7L V6 | 5W-30 | Mobil 1 ($27), Castrol ($29), Valvoline ($29) | 5 Quarts | Varies by brand | $30-$50 |
| 2nd (2022-Current) | 3.7L V6 | 5W-30 | Mobil 1 ($27), Castrol ($29), Valvoline ($29) | 5 Quarts | Varies by brand | $30-$50 |
Which Oil Filter is Right for You?
| Generation (Year) | Engine | Popular Brands | Catalog Number | Approx. Cost in USA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (2009-2021) | 3.7L V6 | Fram ($5), Bosch ($7), K&N | PH6607 | $10-$15 |
| 2nd (2022-Current) | 3.7L V6 | Fram ($9), Bosch, K&N ($11) | XG6607 | $10-$15 |
Necessary Tools and Conditions
To change your Nissan 370Z’s oil, you’ll need an oil filter wrench, a socket set, an oil catch pan, a funnel, and the correct amount and type of oil. You’ll also need an oil filter. Do this in a well-ventilated area on a flat, stable surface.
How to Warm Up the Engine Before Changing the Oil?
To warm up your engine, just drive your car for about 10-15 minutes. This helps thin out the oil so it drains out more easily. But be careful, you don’t want the engine to be too hot to safely work on.
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Warm up your engine.
- Park on a flat surface, turn off your car, and let it cool down for a few minutes.
- Jack up your car and secure it with jack stands.
- Place your oil catch pan under the oil drain plug.
- Use your socket set to remove the drain plug and let the oil drain.
- Once all the oil is drained, replace the drain plug.
- Use your oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter.
- Install the new oil filter.
- Lower your car back to the ground.
- Use a funnel to pour the new oil into your engine via the oil filler cap.
- Check the oil level with the dipstick and add more oil if necessary.
- Start your car and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
- Check for leaks.
This process usually takes about an hour for a beginner.
Replacing Transmission Fluid in Automatic Transmission
What is the Frequency for Replacing Transmission Fluid in Automatic Transmission?
The typical recommendation for changing automatic transmission fluid is every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you drive under severe conditions, like heavy traffic or towing, you may need to change the fluid as often as every 15,000 miles. Factors affecting this include driving habits and operating conditions.
What Transmission Fluid to Choose?
| Generation (Year) | Engine | Required Amount | Popular Brands | Approx. Cost in USA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (2009-2021) | 3.7L V6 | 7.4 Quarts | Valvoline ($26/Gallon), Castrol ($27/Gallon), Mobil 1 | $60-$100 |
| 2nd (2022-Current) | 3.7L V6 | 7.4 Quarts | Valvoline ($26/Gallon), Castrol ($27/Gallon), Mobil 1 | $60-$100 |
Required Tool
To replace the transmission fluid in a Nissan 370Z automatic transmission, you’ll need a socket set, torque wrench, jack stands, a car jack, a drain pan, and a funnel. Make sure to work on a flat and stable surface.
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Jack up the car and secure it with jack stands.
- Place a drain pan under the transmission pan.
- Use your socket set to loosen the drain plug and allow the fluid to drain out.
- Once drained, replace and tighten the drain plug.
- Lower the car.
- Locate the transmission fluid dipstick, remove it, and insert a funnel into the tube.
- Pour in the new transmission fluid.
- Start the car and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears.
- Check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more if needed.
- Replace the dipstick.
Please keep in mind that the process can vary slightly depending on the specific model of the car, so always refer to your car’s owner manual.
Possible Questions After Self-Service
What Problems Can Arise After an Incorrect Self-Changing Engine Oil?
If engine oil is not changed correctly, it can lead to various problems. These include oil leaks, engine damage due to overfilling or underfilling with oil, and reduced engine performance if the wrong type of oil is used. If the oil filter is not replaced or installed correctly, it could also cause oil leaks or poor engine performance.
How Can I Check for Engine Oil Leaks After Changing It Myself?
After changing the oil, start your car and let it run for a few minutes. Then, turn off the engine and inspect the area around the oil drain plug and the oil filter for any signs of leaking oil. You can also check the ground beneath your car for any oil stains after it’s been parked for a while.
How to Reset the Oil Change Counter?
To reset the oil change counter on a Nissan 370Z:
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position but don’t start the engine.
- Use the directional pad on the steering wheel to highlight “Settings” on the display.
- Select “Maintenance”, then “Oil and Filter”.
- Select “Reset”, then “Yes” to confirm.
Always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for the most accurate information.
What to Do with Old Oil After Replacement?
Never throw away old engine oil in the trash or down a drain. Instead, take it to a local recycling facility or auto parts store. Many of these places accept used motor oil and recycle it for free. Just store the old oil in a sealed container and transport it carefully to avoid spills.
