Can Nissan X-Trail use 5w40 engine oil?
3 Answers
Nissan X-Trail cannot use 5w40 engine oil. The high viscosity of 5w40 oil will increase fuel consumption and reduce power after replacement. Recommended engine oil for Nissan X-Trail: It is recommended to use the original specification 5W30 oil. The X-Trail comes factory-filled with high-quality composite oil suitable for year-round use, but winter-grade oil should be used in extremely cold areas. Methods for selecting engine oil: Choose based on oils produced by major brands or manufacturers; select according to the API grade of the oil; choose appropriate oil according to the season. It is recommended to use 5W30 oil in winter, and even 0W in northern regions; 5W40 can be used year-round in most areas.
Using 5W-40 oil in a Nissan X-Trail is theoretically possible, but it depends on the specific situation. Having driven several generations of the X-Trail, I’ve noticed that the factory manual mostly recommends 5W-30 oil, which has lower viscosity for better fuel efficiency and adequate engine protection, especially for newer models. Switching to 5W-40 may not cause major issues—it could even offer faster cold starts in winter, but the higher viscosity at high temperatures might slightly increase fuel consumption and potentially lead to sludge buildup over time. For older vehicles with high mileage or minor wear, 5W-40 can provide better oil pressure support and reduce internal friction damage. I’d suggest checking the owner’s manual or using Nissan’s app to confirm the recommended viscosity via the VIN before making any changes. If you frequently drive long distances or carry heavy loads, consulting a professional mechanic for an oil pressure test might be wise. Sticking to factory recommendations during routine maintenance is the safest bet to avoid engine issues—and remember, regular oil changes matter more than the oil type for long-term performance. In short, weigh the pros and cons carefully; don’t take unnecessary risks for minor adjustments.
For young people driving the X-Trail, I'd advise against casually using 5W-40 engine oil, as many friends have made this mistake. The X-Trail typically comes factory-filled with 5W-30 oil, which suits the precision design of modern engines and can improve fuel efficiency to save costs. While 5W-40 performs decently in cold starts with less stuttering in winter, its higher viscosity increases fuel consumption by 5-10%, costing you dozens more each month. In desert or high-temperature areas, it might offer better heat dissipation, but it's unnecessary for new cars and could potentially clog filters. You can quickly check the manufacturer's recommendations through apps like Nissan Connect—don't rely on guesswork. I've tried 40-weight oil in older cars and only noticed the engine sound becoming heavier. Remember to choose fully synthetic oil with anti-corrosion additives, and stick to regular maintenance—changing oil frequently matters more than obsessing over grades. Before an oil change, check the dipstick; if it's too dark, it's time for a replacement—a simple step that saves hassle.
