Nissan first debuted the Rogue in North America in 2007. The vehicle quickly set the standard for what a small SUV could be. SUVs were no longer required to be big, clunky, gas-guzzling machines. Instead, they could be small, compact, and fuel-efficient. Since then, the Rogue has continued to be one of the most popular small SUVs in America.
One of the top reasons why the Rogue has become so popular is its longevity and durability. This is due in part to the 2.5-Liter inline-four cylinder engine. Although it’s small, Nissan has managed to engineer the 2.5 to produce 181 horsepower, which is more than enough to give the SUV decent pickup and acceleration while still allowing it to retain its famous fuel efficiency.
If you want to ensure that your Rogue lasts as long as possible, then the best thing to do is make sure that you’re using the best oil to keep it lubricated. This means keeping up with your regular oil changes and using high-quality oil with synthetic additives to preserve the integrity of the engine.
In today’s post, we’re going to show you four of the best oil brands and types that you can put in your Rogue to keep it running smoothly well past 100,000 miles. Additionally, we’ll also provide you with a brief overview of how to change your Rogue’s oil and answer a few of the most commonly asked questions on the subject!
As we mentioned, most Nissan Rogue models use a smaller 2.5-Liter engine. However, they did produce an even smaller 2.0-Liter engine which is used in hybrid Rogues. The slight loss in engine power is easily compensated by the hybrid’s powerful battery, giving it the same level of performance as the larger gas-powered engine.
For both the 2.0 and the 2.5-Liter engines, Nissan recommends using an oil with a viscosity of 0W-20. This oil is has a relatively low viscosity which allows it to flow quickly, giving the engine’s pistons less resistance. The decreased level of resistance ensures that the Rogue is able to maintain its high levels of fuel efficiency of up to 35 mpg while driving on the highway.
The one exception to this rule is if your Rogue has higher mileage. As these engines age, they can sometimes lose pressure, which decreases fuel efficiency and power output. As such, Nissan recommends switching to a thicker viscosity 5W-30 motor oil once the engine passes 100,000 miles.
Below, you’ll find out top picks for OW-20 and 5W-30 motor oil to use in your Nissan Rogue!
List of the Best Oil For Nissan Rogue
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20 Motor Oil
Valvoline has formulated a very high-quality 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil for use in Nissan’s modern, fuel-efficient engines. One of the best features of this particular oil is that it contains added detergents that are designed to keep your cylinders clean. As the oil is circulated through your engine, the cleaning agents remove sludge and other buildups that can decrease performance over time.
Pros
- Full synthetic for maximum protection.
- Added detergents for a cleaner-burning engine.
- Easy-to-pour spout on large 5-quart jugs.
Cons
- May not perform as well in high-mileage engines.
Genuine Nissan 0W-20 Oil Change Kit
If you’re going to be changing your own oil (see below), then you’ll really enjoy this kit. It comes with everything you need to perform a driveway oil change, including 5 quarts of 0W-20 oil, a Nissan OEM oil filter (with a high-quality copper washer), and even an extra piece of cardboard to keep your shirt clean while you’re underneath the car!
This particular oil is a synthetic blend that uses a conventional oil base with added synthetic compounds to provide added protection against wear and tear. The one disadvantage of this oil is that you’ll need to change it every 5,000 miles since it’s not a full synthetic.
Pros
- Comes with everything you need to change your own oil.
- Synthetic blend with added compounds for engine protection.
Cons
- Since it’s not full synthetic, you’ll need to change the oil every 5,000 miles.
Castrol 03128C Edge High Mileage 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Remember how we mentioned that higher mileage Nissan Rogues should use a thicker 5W-30 motor oil? Castrol Edge High Mileage is a full synthetic oil that’s specially formulated for use in older engines. The thicker oil viscosity provides added protection from engine wear and helps the cylinders maintain proper pressure, preserving fuel efficiency.
Additionally, this oil contains added detergents to keep your engine burning clean, titanium molecules for protection under extreme temperatures, and to help maintain engine seals.
Pros
- Formulated for high-mileage Nissan Rogues.
- Added detergents for a clean-burning engine.
- Titanium molecules for added protection.
Cons
- May be too thick to use in lower-mileage engines.
Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Nissan has partnered with ExxonMobil and recommends using Mobil 1 Full Synthetic 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy for all 2.0 and 2.5-Liter inline-four cylinder engines. While it is a bit expensive, it’s also the best stuff that you can possibly use in your Nissan Rogue. I
It’s specially formulated to maintain the fuel economy of your Rogue so that your fuel costs stay down. As a full synthetic, it also contains added detergents to keep your engine clean and compounds designed to provide full lubrication to all parts of the engine, even while it’s sitting idle.
Pros
- Recommended by Nissan for Rogues.
- Full synthetic with added compounds for protection.
- Added detergents for a cleaner burning engine.
Cons
- It’s a bit expensive.
How To Change The Oil on Nissan Rogue
Since you’re buying your own motor oil, you may as well go ahead and change your own oil, right? Thankfully, changing the oil on your Nissan Rogue is a relatively simple task. Here’s how to do it quickly and efficiently.
Step 1: Park The Car On A Flat Surface
Step 2: Remove Plastic Underguard
Step 3: Open Oil Cap
Step 4: Remove Drain Plug
Step 5: Remove Oil Filter
Step 6: Replace Drain Cap and Install New Filter
Step 7: Refill Your Oil (Holds 4.9 Quarts)
Here is the video demonstration on how to change oil.
Buyer’s Guide and F.A.Q.
Now that you’ve had a chance to look at the best oil for your Nissan Rogue and have the knowledge you need to change your own oil, it’s time to answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding oil types and manufacturer’s recommendations for your Rogue.
What Type of Oil Does a Nissan Rogue Use?
Most Nissan Rogues have a 2.5-Liter inline-four cylinder engine, which means that you’ll be using the same type of motor oil no matter what model year you have. In this case, Nissan recommends using fuel-efficient 0W-20 motor oil for your engine. The same type of oil should also be used in the hybrid models with the smaller 2.0-Liter engine.
The only exception to the rule is Nissan Rogues that have surpassed the 100,000-mile mark. For older, higher mileage Nissan Rogues, you should use a 5W-30 motor oil instead.
What Kind of Oil Does a 2017 Nissan Rogue Take?
The 2017 Nissan Rogue uses the same 0W-20 motor oil that all other Nissan Rogue models require.
What Brand of Oil Does Nissan Recommend?
Nissan officially recommends using Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy motor oil. This was the fourth oil type that we reviewed above.
Does Nissan Rogue Require Synthetic Oil?
No, the Nissan Rogue does not require synthetic oil. The engine will function just fine with conventional or even a synthetic blend. However, using a full synthetic motor oil can greatly enhance the longevity of your engine, ensure maximum power output, increase fuel efficiency, and increase the resale value of your Rogue.
Conclusion
The secret to maintaining the value of your car and avoiding costly engine repairs is to use high-quality synthetic oil to lubricate your engine. When it comes to your motor oil, you can never spend “too much.” That extra $5 or $10 you spend on quality synthetic oil can save you thousands of dollars down the road in potential repairs.
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