Oil
- Viscosity
- 5W-30
- Oil type
- Conventional or Synthetic
- Capacity (with filter)
- 5.6 qt
- Capacity (without filter)
- 5.1 qt
OEM notes: API SN
2012 Nissan Frontier Maintenance & Specs
Everything you need to maintain your 2012 Nissan Frontier — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.
The 2012 Nissan Frontier takes 5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic with a total capacity of 5.6 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 14mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 34 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Nissan 15208-65F0E, with 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Note: this vehicle has 3 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.
Data last verified: April 30, 2026
Oil
5W-30
Conventional or Synthetic
Buy on Amazon →
Capacity
5.6 qt
with filter
Drain plug
14 mm
34 Nm torque
Filter
15208-65F0E
Nissan (OEM)
Buy on Amazon →
OEM spec: API SN
Quick DIY Tips for the 2012 Nissan Frontier
- Torque your drain plug to 34 Nm (25 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
- Using the OEM filter (Nissan 15208-65F0E) is recommended for warranty compliance.
- Always use 5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic as specified by Nissan — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
- Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
Filter options
Drain bolt & hardware
- Socket size
- 14 mm
- Thread size
- M12x1.25
- Torque spec
- 34 Nm
- Gasket type
- Crush washer
Notes: 2nd generation D40 (4.0L VQ40DE V6)
Fluid specifications
Transmission Fluid
Buy →- Type
- Nissan Matic S
- Capacity
- 5.5 qt
- Change interval
- 50,000 mi
Brake Fluid
Buy →- DOT type
- DOT 3
- Change interval
- 45,000 mi
Coolant
Buy →- Type
- Long Life
- Color
- Green
- Capacity
- 8 qt
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Power Steering Fluid
Buy →- Type
- Nissan PSF
Differential Fluid (rear)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-90 GL-5
- Capacity
- 2.5 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Parts & specifications
Spark Plugs
- Type
- Iridium
- Gap
- 0.044
- Quantity
- 4
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Battery
- Group size
- 35
- CCA
- 650
Tires
- Size
- 265/70R17
- Front pressure
- 35 PSI
- Rear pressure
- 35 PSI
Air Filter
Cabin Air Filter
Brake Pads
Wiper Blades
Maintenance schedule
Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.
Towing & Payload
Max Towing Capacity
6,720 lbs
Max Payload
1,610 lbs
Curb Weight
4,300 lbs
GVWR
5,900 lbs
Max Tongue Weight
670 lbs
Hitch Class
III
Source: manufacturer
Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$38,000
Private Party Value
$10,108 – $11,172
Dealer Retail Value
$11,704 – $13,300
Trade-In Value
$9,044 – $10,108
Depreciation
72%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Safety recalls3
Technical Service Bulletins109
Torque specifications
- lug nut
- 100 ft-lbs / 135.6 Nm
- spark plug
- 18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm
14mm thread, aluminum head
Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$160 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.
Shop Parts for the Nissan Frontier
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2012 Nissan Frontier on Amazon.
Tools & supplies
Step-by-step guide
Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.
Read guide →How often to change oil
Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.
Read guide →Synthetic vs. conventional
Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.
Read guide →Have info for this vehicle?
Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.
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