Infiniti QX60 (2018) Oil Type: Choosing The Best Oil

Nov 13, 2025 by Alex Braham 53 views

Choosing the right oil for your 2018 Infiniti QX60 is super important to keep its engine running smoothly and efficiently. Motor oil is the lifeblood of your engine, and understanding the specific requirements of your vehicle can significantly impact its performance and longevity. In this article, we'll dive deep into the recommended oil types for the 2018 Infiniti QX60, helping you make an informed decision and ensure your car stays in top-notch condition.

Understanding the Importance of the Right Oil

Hey guys, using the right type of oil is not just a suggestion; it's a necessity. Think of oil as the lubricant that keeps all the moving parts in your engine from grinding against each other. Without proper lubrication, friction increases, leading to overheating, wear, and eventually, engine failure. The right oil does more than just lubricate; it also helps to:

Cool the Engine: Oil absorbs heat and dissipates it, preventing the engine from overheating.
Clean the Engine: It carries away dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts, keeping the engine clean.
Protect Against Corrosion: Oil forms a protective layer on metal surfaces, preventing rust and corrosion.
Improve Fuel Efficiency: Reduced friction means the engine doesn't have to work as hard, which can improve fuel economy.

Using the incorrect oil can lead to a host of problems, including reduced engine performance, increased wear, and potentially costly repairs down the road. That's why it's crucial to know the specific requirements of your 2018 Infiniti QX60.

Recommended Oil Type for the 2018 Infiniti QX60

Okay, let's get down to the specifics. For the 2018 Infiniti QX60, the manufacturer recommends using SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil. This recommendation is based on the engine's design and the need for optimal performance and protection. But what does all that mean?

SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers): This organization sets the standards for oil viscosity. The numbers you see (0W-20) refer to the oil's viscosity at different temperatures.
0W-20: The '0W' indicates the oil's viscosity at low temperatures (the 'W' stands for Winter). An oil with a lower number here will flow more easily in cold weather, providing better protection during start-up. The '20' indicates the oil's viscosity at high temperatures. It means the oil maintains its thickness and lubricating properties when the engine is hot.
Full Synthetic: Synthetic oils are engineered to provide superior performance and protection compared to conventional oils. They are more resistant to breakdown, offer better high and low-temperature performance, and provide enhanced engine cleanliness. Using a full synthetic oil is particularly important for modern engines like the one in your QX60, as it helps to extend engine life and maintain optimal performance.

Why 0W-20? The 0W-20 viscosity grade is recommended because it provides the best balance of engine protection and fuel efficiency for the 2018 Infiniti QX60. It ensures that the oil flows quickly to all engine parts during cold starts, reducing wear and tear. At the same time, it maintains adequate thickness at high temperatures to provide proper lubrication and prevent engine damage.

Understanding Oil Viscosity and Grades

Diving a little deeper, understanding oil viscosity is key to picking the right one. Viscosity refers to the oil's resistance to flow. Think of it like this: honey has a high viscosity (it's thick and flows slowly), while water has a low viscosity (it's thin and flows easily). Engine oil needs to have the right viscosity to properly lubricate the engine components.

The SAE viscosity grade is a system for classifying oils based on their viscosity at different temperatures. As mentioned earlier, the numbers in the grade (e.g., 0W-20) indicate the oil's viscosity at low and high temperatures. Multi-grade oils like 0W-20 are designed to perform well in a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for year-round use in most climates.

Single-Grade Oils: These oils have a single viscosity rating (e.g., SAE 30) and are typically used in older engines or in specific applications where temperature variations are minimal.
Multi-Grade Oils: These oils have two viscosity ratings (e.g., 0W-20) and are designed to provide good performance in both cold and hot temperatures. They are the most common type of oil used in modern vehicles.

Using an oil with the wrong viscosity can lead to serious engine problems. If the oil is too thick, it may not flow properly at low temperatures, leading to increased wear during start-up. If the oil is too thin, it may not provide adequate lubrication at high temperatures, leading to engine damage.

Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: What's the Difference?

When it comes to choosing between synthetic and conventional oil, there are some key differences to keep in mind. Conventional oils are derived directly from crude oil through a refining process. They provide adequate lubrication and protection for many engines, but they have some limitations.

Synthetic oils, on the other hand, are engineered in a laboratory to provide superior performance and protection. They are made from highly refined base oils and contain special additives that enhance their properties. Here are some of the key benefits of synthetic oils:

Better High and Low-Temperature Performance: Synthetic oils maintain their viscosity and lubricating properties over a wider temperature range compared to conventional oils.
Improved Engine Cleanliness: Synthetic oils are more resistant to breakdown and deposit formation, which helps to keep the engine clean.
Enhanced Wear Protection: Synthetic oils provide better protection against wear and tear, which can extend engine life.
Increased Fuel Efficiency: Reduced friction can lead to improved fuel economy.
Longer Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic oils can often be used for longer intervals between oil changes compared to conventional oils.

For the 2018 Infiniti QX60, using a full synthetic oil is highly recommended due to its superior performance and protection benefits. While synthetic oil may be more expensive than conventional oil, the added benefits can more than make up for the cost in the long run.

Choosing the Right Oil Filter

Don't forget about the oil filter! Changing your oil filter at every oil change is just as crucial as using the right oil. The oil filter removes dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the oil, preventing them from circulating through the engine and causing wear. Using a high-quality oil filter ensures that your oil stays clean and effective for longer.

When choosing an oil filter for your 2018 Infiniti QX60, look for one that meets or exceeds the manufacturer's specifications. Many reputable brands offer oil filters specifically designed for your vehicle. Consider these factors:

Filtration Efficiency: The filter's ability to remove contaminants of a certain size.
Flow Rate: The filter's ability to allow oil to flow through it without restriction.
Durability: The filter's resistance to damage from pressure and heat.

Using a cheap or low-quality oil filter can compromise its effectiveness, allowing contaminants to bypass the filter and circulate through the engine. This can lead to increased wear and potentially damage the engine over time.

Oil Change Frequency for the 2018 Infiniti QX60

So, how often should you change the oil in your 2018 Infiniti QX60? The recommended oil change interval is typically around 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. However, this can vary depending on your driving conditions and habits. If you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, or dusty environments, you may need to change your oil more frequently.

Here are some signs that it may be time to change your oil:

The Oil Life Monitoring System: Your QX60 is equipped with an oil life monitoring system that calculates when an oil change is needed based on your driving conditions.
The Oil Appears Dirty or Gritty: Check the oil level regularly using the dipstick. If the oil appears dark, dirty, or gritty, it's time for an oil change.
The Engine is Noisy: If you notice unusual engine noises, such as knocking or ticking, it could be a sign that the oil is not providing adequate lubrication.
The Oil Pressure Light Comes On: This indicates that the oil pressure is low, which could be due to low oil level or degraded oil.

Sticking to a regular oil change schedule is one of the best things you can do to keep your 2018 Infiniti QX60 running smoothly and reliably for years to come.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil

If you're the DIY type, changing your own oil can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. Here's a basic step-by-step guide:

Gather Your Supplies: You'll need the correct type and amount of oil (SAE 0W-20 full synthetic), a new oil filter, a wrench to remove the oil filter, a socket wrench to remove the drain plug, an oil drain pan, a funnel, and some rags or paper towels.
Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. This will help it flow more easily.
Locate the Oil Drain Plug: The drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan. Place the oil drain pan under the drain plug.
Remove the Drain Plug: Use the socket wrench to remove the drain plug. Be careful, as the oil may be hot. Allow the oil to drain completely.
Remove the Old Oil Filter: Use the oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill.
Install the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. Screw the new filter onto the engine by hand until it's snug. Then, tighten it another half to three-quarters of a turn.
Reinstall the Drain Plug: Clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer. Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Add New Oil: Use the funnel to add the correct amount of new oil to the engine. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact amount.
Check the Oil Level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if necessary.
Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
Reset the Oil Life Monitoring System: Follow the instructions in your owner's manual to reset the oil life monitoring system.

Important Safety Tip: Always dispose of used oil and oil filters properly. Many auto parts stores and recycling centers accept used oil for recycling.

Top Oil Brands for Your Infiniti QX60

Choosing a reputable oil brand can give you peace of mind knowing that you're using a high-quality product. Here are some of the top oil brands that offer SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil:

Mobil 1: Known for its advanced synthetic technology and superior engine protection.
Castrol: A trusted brand with a long history of producing high-quality lubricants.
Pennzoil: Offers a range of synthetic oils designed to provide excellent engine cleanliness and protection.
Valvoline: A reliable brand with a focus on providing affordable and effective lubricants.
Amsoil: Specializes in synthetic lubricants and offers extended drain intervals.

Do some research and choose a brand that you trust and that meets your specific needs and budget.

Conclusion

Selecting the right oil for your 2018 Infiniti QX60 is a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance. By using the recommended SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil and following a regular oil change schedule, you can help ensure that your engine runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably for years to come. Remember to choose a high-quality oil filter and dispose of used oil properly. With a little bit of knowledge and effort, you can keep your QX60 in top-notch condition and enjoy many miles of worry-free driving. Safe travels, guys!