What brand of engine oil does the Kicks use?
3 Answers
The original factory engine oil for the Kicks uses the 0W-20 Japan Genuine Super Fully Synthetic Engine Oil. If you want to change the oil during later maintenance, you can choose from brands such as Shell, Mobil, Castrol, and Great Wall. The official user manual recommends the 5W-30 SN/GF-5 and 5W-30 SM/GF-4 synthetic engine oils. Any oil that meets the officially recommended specifications can be used. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so special attention is needed to its performance under both low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity. 5W means it can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, making cold starts smoother. The second number represents the kinematic viscosity at 100°C. A higher value means the oil can maintain its viscosity better at high temperatures, which can also be understood as better lubrication performance under high-temperature conditions. The method for changing the engine oil in a Kicks is as follows: Wait for the engine temperature to drop, allowing the oil to flow back into the oil pan; Use a wrench to loosen the drain plug and place an oil pan to catch the old oil until no more oil flows out. Start the engine for 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passage to drain; Use a specialized wrench to remove the oil filter; Apply oil to the seal of the new oil filter and tighten it clockwise by hand; Add new oil through the engine valve cover filler port, usually filling about three-quarters of the bottle; Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes, then check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If leaks are found, perform necessary repairs; After stopping the engine, pull out the dipstick to check that the oil level is within the standard range.
Every time I service my car, I have to choose the right engine oil. For the Kicks model, the manufacturer recommends using synthetic oil with API SN or higher grade, with a viscosity of 0W-20 or 5W-30, as long as it meets the factory standards. In terms of brands, Nissan's genuine oil is produced in collaboration with Idemitsu, which is quite reliable. If you can't find the original oil, big brands like Shell and Mobil are also compatible. I often see mechanics using Mobil 1 for Kicks customers at the shop, and the results are stable. The key is to check the certification marks on the oil container—don’t buy random off-brands to avoid premature engine wear. Regular changes are recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 kilometers, with an oil capacity of about 4.5 liters. When changing the oil, check that the oil level is correct—too much or too little can negatively affect fuel consumption. Using the right oil can also improve fuel efficiency, so you don’t have to worry about long trips even if the engine feels a bit sluggish.
When I first started driving the Kicks, I was always confused about which oil brand to choose. Later, I checked the owner's manual and found out that the recommended viscosity is 0W-20. I've used Shell's HELIX series, which worked smoothly. The brand isn't particularly fixed—Nissan has its own genuine oil, but popular brands like Castrol and Valvoline are also fine as long as they match the SN grade. Don't cheap out on low-end oil, as it can cause carbon buildup and make the engine louder. I change the oil every 6,000 km, and oil choice affects long-term fuel efficiency—saving money while protecting the engine. I consulted professional technicians, and they said synthetic oil is best for quick winter starts and smooth summer performance. A suggestion: get regular fluid checks at the 4S shop—don't DIY and risk mistakes. Choosing a compatible brand is more important than blindly chasing big names for daily car maintenance.
