Your 2014 Infiniti QX60 holds exactly 5.2 quarts of oil when you replace the filter during an oil change. Getting this fluid level right protects your 3.5-liter V6 engine from premature wear and keeps fuel economy on target.
Using the wrong viscosity or missing the fill mark can trigger low-pressure warnings, rob power, or stress internal seals. Below, you'll find exact factory specifications, step-by-step DIY instructions, and torque values needed to service your luxury crossover correctly on the first try.
Exact Factory Specifications
The 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine requires specific fluid formulations to maintain proper lubrication across tight internal tolerances.
- Total Oil Capacity: 5.2 US quarts (4.9 liters) with a new oil filter change.
- Dry Engine Fill: 5.8 US quarts (5.5 liters) if the engine has been completely torn down and rebuilt.
- Oil Type: Fully synthetic oil meeting API SN, SM, or ILSAC GF-5 specifications.
- Viscosity Grade: SAE 0W-20 is standard for optimal fuel economy and year-round protection, though 5W-20 is acceptable in certain regional climates.
- Oil Filter Part Number: Nissan genuine part 15010-JA10J or equivalent aftermarket filters (such as Wix 51356 or Fram PH6607).
Why Oil Weight and Capacity Matter
Overfilling your crankcase creates excessive internal pressure, which can blow out gaskets and cause aeration as the crankshaft whips through standing liquid. Aerated oil reduces hydraulic pressure to critical components like the timing chain tensioners and valve lifters.
Conversely, running low on oil starves the main bearings of lubrication. Because the QX60 features complex variable valve timing systems controlled by engine oil pressure, maintaining the exact 5.2-quart level ensures smooth throttle response and prevents check-engine lights from erratic sensor readings.
Tools and Supplies Needed
Before sliding under your vehicle, gather these supplies to avoid mid-job trips to the auto parts store:
- 5.2 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil
- New oil filter and crushing washer for the drain plug
- 14mm socket and ratchet
- Oil filter wrench (cap style works best in tight spaces)
- Drain pan and clean shop rags
- Floor jack and heavy-duty jack stands (plus wheel chocks)
- Funnel to prevent spills on the plastic engine covers
Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure
- Warm the engine: Run the car for 5 minutes so the oil flows more freely. Turn off the ignition, engage the electronic parking brake, and wedge wheel chocks behind the rear tires.
- Elevate the front: Lift the front end securely using a hydraulic floor jack and support it with sturdy jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a hydraulic jack.
- Drain the old oil: Locate the oil pan drain plug near the bottom center of the engine bay. Position your drain pan underneath, remove the 14mm bolt counterclockwise, and let the old oil drain completely for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Replace the drain plug: Inspect the metal or crush washer on the drain plug. Replace it if worn, thread it in by hand to avoid cross-threading, and tighten it with your socket wrench to approximately 25 lb-ft (34 Nm).
- Change the filter: Locate the oil filter near the front passenger side of the engine block. Unscrew it using your filter wrench. Wipe the mounting base clean with a rag. Dip a clean finger in fresh oil and smear a light film onto the rubber gasket of the new filter. Spin it on by hand until it seats snugly, then turn it an extra three-quarters of a turn. Do not over-tighten with a wrench.
- Fill with fresh oil: Remove the oil filler cap under the hood, insert your funnel, and pour in 5.0 quarts of your 0W-20 synthetic oil. Save the remaining 0.2 quarts for final tuning.
- Check the level: Start the engine and let it idle for 30 seconds to fill the new filter and oil passages. Verify that the oil pressure dashboard light turns off promptly and check underneath for leaks. Turn off the car, wait two minutes for the oil to settle into the pan, pull the dipstick, wipe it, reinsert it, and add small splashes of the remaining oil until the fluid reaches the upper notch.
Resetting the Maintenance Reminder
After completing your service, remember to reset your onboard maintenance reminder so your dashboard doesn't display false service alerts.
Turn your ignition to the ON position without starting the engine. Use the directional pad on your steering wheel to navigate to Settings, select Maintenance, choose Engine Oil, and set your distance interval or select Reset.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 5W-30 oil in my 2014 Infiniti QX60?
While Infiniti specifies 0W-20 for maximum fuel efficiency, you can use 5W-30 if you live in an exceptionally hot climate or tow heavy loads frequently. However, sticking to the factory-recommended 0W-20 synthetic ensures optimal cold-start protection and maintains fuel economy ratings.
How often should I change the oil on this vehicle?
For normal driving conditions using full synthetic oil, change your oil every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. If you regularly drive in dusty conditions, tow heavy trailers, or take frequent short trips under 5 miles, drop your interval to every 3,750 miles or 3 months.
Where is the oil filter located on the 2014 QX60?
The oil filter sits near the front lower section of the V6 engine block, accessible from underneath the front bumper area once you remove the plastic aerodynamic splash guard held on by plastic clips and small bolts.
Why is my oil level dropping between changes?
Minor oil consumption (up to 1 quart every 1,500 to 2,000 miles) can occur in high-mileage VQ35DE engines. If you notice faster loss, inspect the valve cover gaskets, front main seal, and oil pan drain plug for active leaks.
