Nissan Armada 2025-2026 Owner's Manual: Capacities and recommended fluids/ lubricants

Basic information

The values listed below represent approximate service capacities for the Nissan Armada and are intended as a general reference for maintenance planning.

Actual refill quantities for your Nissan Armada may vary slightly depending on operating conditions and servicing procedures. When refilling any fluid, always follow the detailed instructions provided in the "Do-it-yourself" section to accurately determine the correct level and avoid overfilling or underfilling.

Fuel

• Refer to "Fuel information" for complete specifications and recommendations for your Nissan Armada

Engine oil*1

Drain and refill

*1: For complete details, refer to "Changing engine oil and filter" in the Nissan Armada manual.

• Genuine "NISSAN Motor Oil 0W-20 SP" (or an equivalent high-quality oil) is strongly recommended for optimal Nissan Armada engine performance.
• If the specified oil is unavailable, a fully synthetic 0W-20 GF-6A SP oil may be used. However, using oil that does not meet Nissan specifications may lead to reduced engine protection and is not covered under the NISSAN New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Engine coolant

• Use pre-mixed Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or an approved equivalent specifically designed for the Nissan Armada cooling system

Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)

• Use Genuine NISSAN Matic P ATF or an equivalent fluid approved for Nissan Armada transmissions
• NISSAN strongly recommends using only Matic P ATF in Nissan Armada automatic transmissions to ensure proper function and durability.

  Do not mix this fluid with other types.

  Using non-approved fluids may result in transmission damage, poor shifting performance, and reduced lifespan.

  Any damage caused by improper fluid selection is not covered under the NISSAN New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Transfer case oil

• Genuine NISSAN Transfer Fluid LV or an equivalent approved fluid for Nissan Armada transfer systems
• Using non-approved fluids may lead to transfer case damage, which is not covered under warranty

Front differential gear oil

• Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or equivalent conventional oil (non-synthetic) suitable for the Nissan Armada drivetrain

Rear differential gear oil

• Genuine NISSAN HYPOID FLUID·S1 GL-5 75W-80 or equivalent recommended fluid for Nissan Armada rear differential systems

Brake fluid

• Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*2 or equivalent DOT 3 fluid for consistent braking performance in your Nissan Armada
  *2: Available in mainland U.S.A. through authorized NISSAN dealers.
• Always refill to the correct level following the instructions in the "Do-it-yourself" section to ensure proper braking system operation.

Multi-purpose grease

• NLGI No. 2 grease (Lithium soap base) suitable for various Nissan Armada lubrication points

Air conditioning system refrigerant

• HFO-1234yf (R-1234yf) refrigerant, specifically required for the Nissan Armada climate control system
• Refer to the "Vehicle identification" section for exact air conditioning specifications and labels

Air conditioning system oil

• NISSAN A/C System Oil ND-OIL12 (PAG) or equivalent oil compatible with Nissan Armada A/C components

Window washer fluid

• Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreeze or an equivalent high-quality solution for clear visibility in all conditions

Fuel information

VR35DDTT engine (except for NISMO)

NISSAN recommends using unleaded premium gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91 AKI (Research Octane Number 96) to achieve maximum performance, efficiency, and drivability in your Nissan Armada, especially under demanding conditions such as towing, high temperatures, steep terrain, or heavy acceleration.

If premium fuel is not available, unleaded regular gasoline with a minimum of 87 AKI (Research Octane Number 91) can be used in your Nissan Armada. However, slight reductions in performance, responsiveness, and fuel efficiency may be noticeable.

VR35DDTT engine (for NISMO)

For the Nissan Armada equipped with the high-performance NISMO-tuned VR35DDTT engine, it is essential to use unleaded premium gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) (Research Octane Number 96) to ensure proper engine operation and durability.

To achieve the highest level of performance, responsiveness, and drivability from your Nissan Armada, NISSAN strongly recommends using premium gasoline with an octane rating of 93 AKI (Research Octane Number 98), especially under demanding conditions such as towing, high ambient temperatures, or aggressive acceleration.

If premium fuel is temporarily unavailable, unleaded regular gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87 AKI (Research Octane Number 91) may be used in your Nissan Armada, but only under the following precautions to avoid engine stress or performance degradation:

• Fill the fuel tank only partially with regular gasoline and switch back to premium fuel as soon as it becomes available.
• Avoid full-throttle operation and sudden or aggressive acceleration while using lower-octane fuel.

Always use unleaded premium gasoline to ensure maximum performance and efficiency of your Nissan Armada.

CAUTION

• Using fuel that does not meet the specified requirements may negatively affect the emission control system of your Nissan Armada and could potentially void warranty coverage.
• Never use leaded gasoline, as it will permanently damage the three-way catalytic converter.
• Do not use fuel containing more than 15% ethanol.

  The Nissan Armada is not designed to operate with high-ethanol fuels. Using fuel with ethanol content exceeding 15% may damage fuel system components and emission control systems. Such damage is not covered under the NISSAN New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

• Avoid fuels containing the octane booster methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT), as it may negatively impact vehicle performance and emissions.

  Because not all fuel pumps clearly indicate MMT content, consult your fuel provider if you are unsure.

  Federal and California regulations prohibit the use of MMT in reformulated gasoline.

• Fuel pumps dispensing ethanol blends are typically labeled with an orange and black sticker indicating ethanol content or abbreviation, as required by U.S. regulations.

Gasoline specifications

NISSAN recommends selecting gasoline that complies with World-Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) standards whenever available, as these fuels are specifically formulated to enhance emission system efficiency and overall performance of the Nissan Armada.

These specifications were developed collaboratively by global automobile manufacturers to ensure consistent fuel quality and optimal engine operation.

If you are uncertain whether a fuel meets WWFC standards, consult your service station provider before refueling your Nissan Armada.

Reformulated gasoline

Reformulated gasoline is designed to reduce harmful emissions and improve environmental impact. NISSAN supports the use of such fuels and recommends their use in the Nissan Armada whenever available.

Gasoline containing oxygenates

Some fuels contain oxygenates such as ethanol, MTBE, or methanol, which may or may not be clearly labeled. NISSAN does not recommend using fuels where the oxygenate content or compatibility with the Nissan Armada cannot be confidently verified.

If there is any uncertainty, consult your fuel supplier before using such gasoline in your Nissan Armada.

When using oxygenate-blended fuels, observe the following precautions to prevent performance issues or damage to the fuel system:

• The gasoline must be unleaded and meet the minimum octane rating specified for your Nissan Armada.
• If using oxygenates other than methanol, the content should not exceed 10% (MTBE may be used up to 15%).
• If using methanol blends, the content must not exceed 5%, and the fuel must include appropriate cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors. Improperly formulated methanol blends may cause serious fuel system damage and reduced performance.

If you experience any drivability issues with your Nissan Armada—such as engine stalling, hesitation, or difficulty starting when the engine is warm—after using oxygenate-blended fuels, it is strongly recommended to immediately switch to a non-oxygenated fuel or a fuel containing a lower percentage of MTBE to restore normal engine performance.

Always exercise caution when refueling your Nissan Armada. Avoid spilling gasoline, as fuels containing oxygenates can damage painted surfaces and exterior finishes.

E-15 fuel

E-15 fuel consists of approximately 15% ethanol and 85% unleaded gasoline.

This type of fuel should only be used in vehicles specifically engineered for E-15 compatibility. The Nissan Armada is not designed for E-15 usage unless explicitly stated. Fuel pumps dispensing ethanol blends are required by U.S. regulations to display a clearly visible orange and black label indicating ethanol content.

E-85 fuel

E-85 fuel contains about 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline.

E-85 is intended exclusively for Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFV). The Nissan Armada is not an FFV, therefore E-85 must not be used. Using E-85 fuel in your Nissan Armada can result in severe fuel system damage and degraded engine performance. Ethanol pump labeling requirements also apply to E-85 dispensers.

Fuel containing MMT

MMT (methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl) is an octane-enhancing additive that is not recommended for use in the Nissan Armada.

Fuel containing MMT may negatively impact engine efficiency, emissions systems, and overall vehicle performance. Since not all fuel pumps clearly indicate MMT content, it is advisable to confirm with your fuel supplier before refueling your Nissan Armada.

Aftermarket fuel additives

NISSAN does not recommend the use of aftermarket fuel additives in the Nissan Armada, including fuel injector cleaners, octane boosters, or intake deposit removers.

Many of these products contain aggressive chemical compounds that may damage fuel system components, seals, or engine parts. To maintain reliability and warranty coverage, always use high-quality fuel rather than relying on additives.

Octane rating tips

Using gasoline with an octane rating below the recommended level may cause persistent engine knocking, also known as spark knock, which produces a metallic rattling sound.

If severe or prolonged, this condition can lead to engine damage in your Nissan Armada. If knocking occurs even when using the recommended fuel grade, or if it persists while driving at a constant speed, the vehicle should be inspected by a certified NISSAN dealer.

Failure to address such issues may be considered improper vehicle operation, for which NISSAN assumes no responsibility.

Incorrect ignition timing can also lead to knocking, engine run-on, or overheating. These conditions may increase fuel consumption and potentially damage engine components. If any of these symptoms occur, immediate inspection of your Nissan Armada is advised.

Occasionally, light spark knock may occur briefly during acceleration or while climbing hills. This is normal and indicates efficient engine operation under load, and is not a cause for concern.

Engine oil and oil filter recommendation

1. API certification mark
2. API service symbol

Selecting the correct oil

Choosing the appropriate engine oil for your Nissan Armada is critical for ensuring long engine life, optimal performance, and efficient operation.

Always refer to the "Capacities and recommended fluids/lubricants" section when selecting oil specifications for your Nissan Armada.

NISSAN recommends using energy-conserving engine oils to help improve fuel efficiency while maintaining engine protection.

Only use engine oils that meet American Petroleum Institute (API) certification or International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) standards, along with the correct SAE viscosity rating.

Approved engine oils will display the official API certification mark on the front label, ensuring compatibility with your Nissan Armada engine and long-term reliability.

Engine oils that do not meet the specified quality standards must not be used in your Nissan Armada, as they may lead to accelerated engine wear, reduced efficiency, and potentially serious internal damage.

Oil additives

NISSAN does not recommend the use of any aftermarket oil additives in the Nissan Armada engine.

When the correct engine oil type is used and maintenance intervals are properly followed, additional additives provide no benefit and may even negatively affect engine components or lubrication properties.

Always avoid using oil that has been contaminated, contains foreign particles, or has been previously used, as this can compromise the performance and longevity of your Nissan Armada engine.

Oil viscosity

Engine oil viscosity, or thickness, changes depending on temperature conditions.

For this reason, selecting the correct oil viscosity for your Nissan Armada is critical and should be based on the expected operating temperatures until the next oil change interval.

Using oil with an incorrect viscosity rating may result in insufficient lubrication, overheating, or severe engine damage.

Selecting the correct oil filter

Your Nissan Armada is equipped with a high-quality Genuine NISSAN oil filter designed to meet strict performance standards.

When replacing the oil filter, always use a genuine NISSAN filter or a certified equivalent to ensure proper filtration, oil flow, and engine protection.

Change intervals

The recommended oil and oil filter change intervals for your Nissan Armada are based on the use of approved oils and filters that meet manufacturer specifications.

Using lower-quality oil or filters, or extending service intervals beyond recommendations, can significantly reduce engine life and performance.

Damage resulting from improper maintenance practices or the use of incorrect oil or filter specifications is not covered under the NISSAN New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Your Nissan Armada engine is filled with high-quality oil at the factory, and there is no need to replace it before the first scheduled service interval.

Future oil and filter replacement intervals should always be determined based on actual driving conditions and usage patterns.

Under certain operating conditions, more frequent oil and filter changes may be required for your Nissan Armada:

A - Driving in dusty or sandy environments
B - Frequent short-distance driving without full engine warm-up
C - Towing trailers or heavy loads
D - Extended engine idling
E - Operation in extremely hot or cold climates
F - Driving in areas with high humidity levels
G - Driving on rough, muddy, or off-road terrain
H - Frequent braking or driving in mountainous regions

Air conditioning system refrigerant and oil recommendations

The air conditioning system in your Nissan Armada must be filled exclusively with refrigerant HFO-1234yf (R-1234yf) and NISSAN A/C System Oil ND-OIL12 (PAG), or exact approved equivalents.

CAUTION

Using any refrigerant or oil other than the specified types can cause severe damage to the air conditioning system of your Nissan Armada and may require complete replacement of system components.

The refrigerant HFO-1234yf (R-1234yf) used in your Nissan Armada is environmentally friendly and does not contribute to ozone layer depletion.

However, due to environmental regulations, all refrigerant must be properly recovered and recycled during service procedures.

Air conditioning system servicing should only be performed by qualified and certified technicians (SAE J2845 standard) to ensure safety and proper functionality.

Authorized NISSAN dealers have the specialized equipment and trained personnel required to service and recycle refrigerant in your Nissan Armada.

Only new evaporator units that meet SAE J2842 certification standards should be used as replacement components in the Nissan Armada air conditioning system.

A leaking or damaged evaporator must never be repaired or replaced with used or salvaged parts, as this may compromise system integrity and performance.

For safe and reliable servicing of your Nissan Armada air conditioning system, it is strongly recommended to visit an authorized NISSAN dealer.