For the oil change, you need the following tools:
- 8mm socket and compatible ratchet
- 13mm socket and compatible ratchet
- 27mm socket and compatible ratchet
- Long extension for ratchet (minimum 12", I used 18")
- Torque wrench that can handle 30 lb-ft
- Drain pan or container to drain used oil into
You also need the following parts:
- Oil filter (I use Mann HU7116Z)
- Copper drain plug washer, 14mm ID / 20mm OD (Infiniti Part# 11206-HG00H)
- Six (6) quarts MB 229.5 certified oil (I use Mobil 1 European Car Formula 0W40)
I like to remove the oil filter, as the first step. This helps the oil drain more smoothly, as air can easily enter from the top. To remove the oil filter, you'll need a 27mm socket, a long extension, and a compatible ratchet.
The oil filter cap is easily visible at the rear of the engine on the passenger side.
Unscrew the oil filter cap.
Once unscrewed, remove the oil filter cap with your hand. The oil filter will come out with the cap.
Set the oil filter cap aside. We will come back to it, later.
Remove the oil filler cap.
Go underneath the vehicle and you will see a splash shield on the passenger side of the vehicle. This must be removed.
Use an 8mm socket and compatible ratchet to remove the three (3) bolts that hold on the splash shield. The shield will easily come out once the three bolts are removed.
With the splash shield removed, the engine oil pan is visible. The drain plug is in the bottom center of the oil pan, facing the front.
Position a drain pan beneath the drain plug, and use a 13mm socket and compatible ratchet to unscrew the drain plug.
Used engine oil will drain rapidly from the oil pan.
Clean up the drain plug and inspect it. Ensure the bolt head and threads are in good shape. If the bolt looks good, reuse it. If either the threads or bolt head are damaged, replace the drain plug. ALWAYS replace the drain plug gasket with a new one.
When the oil is done draining, clean the area with a lint-free rag. Thread the drain plug and new washer into the oil pan.
Torque the drain plug down to 30 lb-ft
Go back to the oil filter cap. Remove the oil filter. It should lift right off the shaft in the cap.
I put the old filter into a zip lock bag. It keeps my work area clean, and provides a convenient way for me to store the filter and transport it for recycling. Always recycle your used oil and filters. Don't throw them in the garbage.
There are three o-rings that should be replaced at every oil change. One small, medium, and a large o-ring. Use a pick or small screw driver to aide in removal.
The new oil filter should include new o-rings, as well.
Install the new o-rings, and seat the new oil filter onto the shaft in the oil filter cap. Ensure the filter is pressed firmly and completely onto the shaft.
Re-install the oil filter cap into the oil filter housing.
Torque the oil filter housing to 18 lb-ft.
Using a funnel, fill your engine with 5.9 quarts (I just used a full six) of your desired oil. Whatever oil you choose to use should be certified to meet MB 229.5. You can see what oils are certified here:
Multigrade engine oils (Specification 229.5). I am using Mobil 1 European Car Formula 0W40.
Replace your oil filler cap, and start the engine. Let it idle for a couple minutes then shut the engine off. Wait at least 5 minutes, then check the oil level using the dipstick.
Add oil, if neccessary.
To reset the service reminder:
- Turn the vehicle power to accessory mode, but do not start the engine.
- Using the arrows on the left of the steering wheel, navigate to "TRIP".
- Press the "OK" and "Phone" buttons, simultaneously and hold for approximately three (3) seconds.
- A menu will appear on the instrument cluster.
- Scroll to the option "Maintenance", and press OK.
- Scroll to the option "Full Service", and press OK.
- Scroll to the option "Conf. Full Serv.", and press OK.
- Scroll to the option "Oil Grade 229.5", and press OK.
- Confirm service was carried out by scrolling to "Yes", and press OK.
Once satisfied, your oil change is complete.
Taking the vehicle off the jackstands is the reverse process from lifting it.