How to change oil Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks model first came out in 2016. It was made for the urban driver and was originally introduced as a concept vehicle at the 2014 Sao Paulo International Motor Show. The car became very popular in Brazil before it was brought to North America.

There have been two generations of Nissan Kicks as of 2023. The first generation (2016-2020) was compact with a unique style, featuring fuel efficiency as a primary advantage. The second generation (2021 onwards) offered advanced technology, with features like a new front grille design, 7-inch driver assist display, and enhanced safety features.

Do I Need to Urgently Change the Oil Right Now?

This depends on your car’s current mileage and when the oil was last changed. Check the oil level and its condition. If it’s low or dirty, it’s time for a change.

Frequency for Changing Engine Oil

Typically, it’s good to change your engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or every 3 to 6 months, whichever comes first.

For the Nissan Kicks, the manufacturer recommends oil changes every 5,000 miles or every six months. But, if you drive in harsh conditions, like high temperatures or lots of stop-and-go traffic, you may need to change it more often.

Checking the engine oil level

Checking the engine oil level involves verifying the amount of oil present in the engine to ensure it is at an appropriate level. It is important to check the oil level periodically as part of regular vehicle maintenance. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and ensure the engine is turned off.
2. Open the hood of your car and locate the dipstick, which is usually marked with a bright-colored handle and labeled “Engine Oil.”
3. Remove the dipstick from its tube by pulling it out.
4. Wipe the dipstick clean using a cloth or paper towel to remove any existing oil.
5. Reinsert the dipstick fully back into its tube.
6. Pull out the dipstick again and observe the oil level on the end of the dipstick.
7. The dipstick will have markings indicating the minimum and maximum oil levels. The oil level should ideally be between these two marks.
8. If the oil level is below the minimum mark or significantly low, you may need to add oil to bring it up to the proper level. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and the correct procedure for adding oil.

Checking the engine oil level periodically is important for several reasons:

1. Lubrication: Engine oil lubricates various components within the engine, preventing excessive friction and wear. Maintaining the proper oil level ensures effective lubrication and helps extend the life of engine parts.
2. Cooling: Oil helps dissipate heat generated by the engine. Insufficient oil can lead to overheating and potential damage to engine components.
3. Monitoring Oil Consumption: By checking the oil level regularly, you can monitor the rate at which your engine consumes oil. If you notice a significant decrease in oil level between checks, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires attention.
4. Early Detection of Problems: Visual inspection of the oil level can reveal signs of oil leaks or excessive oil consumption, which may indicate mechanical issues or malfunctioning components. Detecting problems early can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Visual Assessment of the Condition of Engine Oil

A visual assessment of engine oil involves examining its appearance to determine its condition. You can perform a simple visual inspection to get an idea of the oil’s health. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and ensure the engine is off.
2. Open the hood and locate the dipstick for checking the engine oil level.
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
4. Reinsert the dipstick fully and then remove it again.
5. Observe the color and consistency of the oil on the dipstick.

During the visual assessment, you should look for the following indicators:

1. Color: Fresh engine oil is typically amber or light brown in color. As it ages and accumulates contaminants, it becomes darker.
2. Consistency: The oil should have a smooth and uniform texture. If it appears gritty or contains metal particles, it may indicate potential engine problems.
3. Clarity: Clean engine oil is transparent or slightly translucent. If the oil appears cloudy or murky, it may suggest the presence of contaminants or water contamination.
4. Odor: Fresh engine oil usually has a mild petroleum smell. If you detect a burnt or strong odor, it could signify issues with the engine or oil breakdown.

By conducting regular visual assessments of your engine oil, you can monitor its condition and identify any potential problems.

Preparing to Change Engine Oil

Before you change your oil, gather the necessary tools: an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, a new oil filter, and new oil. Also, make sure the engine is cool before you start.

Type of Oil Should be Used for a Car

For the Nissan Kicks, it’s recommended to use synthetic oil, such as 0W-20. Check your owner’s manual to be sure.

Choose Oil Depending on the Season and Operating Conditions

In colder weather, a lower viscosity oil like 5W-30 can help your engine start easier. In hotter weather or for heavy-duty use, a higher viscosity oil like 10W-40 may be better. Always check your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Oils for Nissan Kicks

The main types of oils you’ll consider for Nissan Kicks are conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic.

• Conventional oil is cheaper but doesn’t offer the same level of protection and efficiency as synthetic oils.
• Synthetic blend offers more protection than conventional oil and is more cost-effective than full synthetic. It’s a good middle ground.
• Full synthetic oil is the best for high performance and longevity of your engine, but it’s the most expensive.

Engine Oil Selection

Generation	Engine	Oil Viscosity	Popular Brands	Amount of Oil
1st (2016-2020)	1.6L 4-cyl Engine	0W-20	Mobil 1 ($29/5 quart), Pennzoil, Royal Purple ($38/5 quart)	3.7 quarts
2nd (2021-2023)	1.6L 4-cyl Engine	0W-20	Mobil 1 ($29/5 quart), Pennzoil, Royal Purple ($38/5 quart)	3.7 quarts

Oil Filter

Generation	Engine	Popular Brands	Catalog Number
1st (2016-2020)	1.6L 4-cyl Engine	FRAM ($6), Bosch, WIX	FRAM: TG7317, Bosch: 3323, WIX: 51358
2nd (2021-2023)	1.6L 4-cyl Engine	FRAM ($6), Bosch, WIX	FRAM: TG7317, Bosch: 3323, WIX: 51358

Necessary Tools and Conditions

To change your Nissan Kicks engine oil, you’ll need:

• A new oil filter
• The right amount and type of new engine oil
• A socket set
• An oil filter wrench
• An oil catch pan
• Funnel
• A jack and jack stands or a vehicle lift
• Gloves and shop rags

Warm Up the Engine Before Changing the Oil

To warm up the engine before changing the oil, simply run your vehicle for a few minutes. This makes the oil flow easier when you drain it. Just make sure it’s not so hot that you could burn yourself.

Step-by-step Instruction

1. First, gather all your tools and supplies. Make sure the engine is warm.
2. Use a jack to raise the front of your Nissan Kicks. Make sure it’s secure on the jack stands.
3. Position your oil catch pan beneath the oil drain plug.
4. Use your socket set to loosen and remove the oil drain plug. Allow all the oil to drain out.
5. Once the oil has drained, replace and tighten the oil drain plug.
6. Use your oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter.
7. Lubricate the new oil filter gasket with a little new oil, then screw it into place by hand.
8. Use the funnel to add the new engine oil through the oil filler cap on top of the engine.
9. Once you’ve added the oil, check the level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
10. Start your engine and let it run for a few minutes, then check the oil level again. Top up if needed.
11. Lower your vehicle off the jack stands.

Changing your oil can take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your experience and tools.

Replacing Transmission Fluid in Automatic Transmission

Frequency of Changing the Transmission Fluid in an Automatic Transmission

Typically, for an automatic transmission, it’s recommended to change the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, this can change based on your driving conditions. If you often drive in high-stress conditions like heavy traffic, hot weather, or while towing, you might need to change it more frequently. Always check your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Choose Transmission Fluid

Generation	Engine	Fluid Amount	Popular Brands	Catalog Number
1st (2016-2020)	1.6L 4-cyl	7.4 quarts	Valvoline ($26/Gallon), Castrol, Mobil	Valvoline: 773775, Castrol: 03520, Mobil: 55221
2nd (2021-2023)	1.6L 4-cyl	7.4 quarts	Valvoline ($26/Gallon), Castrol, Mobil	Valvoline: 773775, Castrol: 03520, Mobil: 55221

Required Tools

To replace the transmission fluid in a Nissan Kicks with an automatic transmission, you’ll need:

• A socket set
• A new transmission filter and gasket
• A jack and jack stands or a vehicle lift
• Transmission fluid
• A drain pan
• Funnel
• Torque wrench
• Gloves and shop rags

Step-by-step Instruction

1. Gather your tools and supplies.
2. Lift and secure your vehicle with a jack and jack stands.
3. Position your drain pan beneath the transmission pan.
4. Remove the transmission pan bolts, leaving one corner bolt in place. Carefully pry the pan loose with a screwdriver, allowing the fluid to drain.
5. Once drained, remove the last bolt and drop the pan. Clean it thoroughly before reinstalling.
6. Remove the old filter and replace it with the new one.
7. Reinstall the pan with the new gasket, tightening the bolts to the torque specified in your vehicle’s manual.
8. Lower the vehicle and, using a funnel, pour the new transmission fluid into the dipstick tube.
9. Start your car and let it warm up, then shift through the gears a few times. Check the fluid level and add more if necessary.
10. Check for leaks around the transmission pan. If none are present, the job is complete.

This can take about 2 hours depending on your experience and tools. Always check your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and to make sure you’re using the right type of fluid.

Possible Questions After Self-Service

What Problems Can Arise After an Incorrect Self-Changing Engine Oil?

If you don’t change your engine oil correctly, a few problems can come up:

• If the oil filter isn’t installed right, it could leak or come loose.
• Using the wrong type of oil could cause damage to your engine.
• If you don’t put enough oil, your engine could be starved of lubrication and get damaged.
• If you put too much oil, it could lead to increased pressure and cause leaks or seal damage.

How Can I Check for Engine Oil Leaks After Changing it Myself?

After you change your oil, look under your car for any signs of leaks. You can also check the oil level on your dipstick after running the car for a few minutes. If the level drops quickly, you might have a leak. Also, pay attention to any oil spots where you park your car.

How to Reset the Oil Change Counter?

To reset the oil change counter on a Nissan Kicks:

1. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
2. Navigate to the “Settings” menu in the driver’s display.
3. Select “Maintenance” then “Oil and Filter”.
4. Select “Reset” then “Yes”.
5. Turn off the ignition.

What to Do with Old Oil After Replacement?

After you change your oil, collect the old oil in a sealable container. Most auto parts stores or recycling centers will take used motor oil for free. Never pour old oil down drains or into the ground.