Choosing oil for Nissan Qashqai - a task that requires attention to detail. Improper lubrication can reduce engine life by 20-30%, and in worst cases, lead to major renovation already after 80-100 thousand km. The manufacturer strictly regulates the parameters of oils for different generations of crossovers (J10, J11, J12), but even among the “original” products there are nuances: from counterfeits to non-compliance with climatic conditions.
In this article we will analyze the only Nissan officially approved compound for Qashqai with HR16DE, MR20DD and R9M engines — KE900-90132, as well as alternatives from Mobil 1, Idemitsu And Liqui Moly. We'll show you how to distinguish an original from a fake based on 5 key features, and reveal the secret of saving for replacement without loss of quality. If you have already encountered increased oil consumption or knocking of hydraulic compensators, you will find a solution here.
Why is original oil for Nissan Qashqai not always the best choice?
The word "original" on the canister does not guarantee perfect compatibility. The point is that Nissan does not produce oil himself - he orders it from third-party companies (for example, Idemitsu or Eneos) under your own brand. This means you can buy the same foundation for less, but in a different package.
Key problems of the "original":
- 💰 Price: Canister KE900-90132 (4 l) costs 30-40% more than analogues with identical specifications.
- 🌡️ Climate restrictions: Oil
5W-30, recommended for Qashqai, is not optimal for regions with frosts below -30°C. - 🔍 Fakes: Up to 40% of “original” oil on the market is counterfeit (data NIIAT for 2023).
- ⚙️ Engine mismatch: For turbocharged R9M (1.5 dCi) requires oil with approval
RN0720, which is not in the standard canister for gasoline engines.
At the same time, the original oil also has advantages: it undergoes additional tests for compatibility with systems Nissan, including timing chains And phase shifters. If your Qashqai is under warranty, the dealer may insist on it.
- Original KE900-90132
- Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30
- Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30
- Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200
- Other
Official Nissan Recommendations: Specifications Breakdown
In the manual for Qashqai There are two key oil specifications:
API SNorSP(for gasoline engines HR16DE/MR20DD).ACEA C2/C3(for diesels R9M/K9K).
But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Actual requirements depend on the year of manufacture and engine type:
| Generation Qashqai | Engine | Recommended viscosity | Nissan approval | Oil volume (l) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| J10 (2006–2013) | HR16DE (1.6) | 5W-30 or 0W-20 |
— | 4.3 |
| J11 (2013–2021) | MR20DD (2.0) | 5W-30 |
KE900-90132 |
4.4 |
| J11 (2013–2021) | R9M (1.5 dCi) | 5W-30 (Low SAPS) |
RN0720 |
4.6 |
| J12 (2021–present) | HR16DE (1.3 DIG-T) | 0W-20 |
KE900-90135 |
4.2 |
Important: for Qashqai J12 with turbo engine 1.3 DIG-T Nissan recommends for the first time 0W-20 - this is due to stricter environmental standards Euro 6d and the need to reduce friction during cold starts. Usage 5W-30 in this engine will increase fuel consumption by 2-3%.
If you live in a region with frosts below -25°C, for Qashqai J10/J11 better to choose oil 0W-20 instead of recommended 5W-30. This will reduce engine wear during cold starts by 15-20%.
KE900-90132 vs alternatives: comparison based on 7 criteria
Let's look at what the original oil is KE900-90132 differs from popular analogues, and where you can save money without risk to the engine.
For the test we took 5 oils with approval API SN/ACEA C2 and analyzed them according to key parameters:
| Parameter | Nissan KE900-90132 | Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 | Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30 | Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Semi-synthetics (hydrocracking) | Semi-synthetic (VHVI) | Semi-synthetics (hydrocracking + esters) | Polysynthetics (PAO) |
| HTHS (mPa s) | 3.2 | 3.1 | 3.0 | 3.2 |
| Pour point (°C) | -39 | -42 | -45 | -48 |
| SAPS Contents | Mid SAPS | Low SAPS | Mid SAPS | Low SAPS |
| Price for 4 l (rub.) | 3 200 | 2 800 | 2 500 | 3 500 |
Conclusions:
- 🔥 Best choice for turbo diesel R9M: Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (corresponds to
RN0720and has low SAPS content). - ❄️ For cold climates: Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 - lowest pour point (-48°C).
- 💰 The most budget option: Idemitsu Zepro Touring - cheaper than the original by 700 rubles, but with better low-temperature properties.
- ⚠️ Beware: Original oil KE900-90132 not suitable for Qashqai J12 with motor 1.3 DIG-T - required there
0W-20(KE900-90135).
For engines HR16DE And MR20DD (J10/J11) any oil from the table is suitable, but for R9M (diesel) and 1.3 DIG-T (J12) specialized compounds with tolerances are needed RN0720 And KE900-90135 accordingly.
How to distinguish original Nissan oil from a fake: 5 proven methods
Counterfeit oils KE900-90132 found even in official dealerships. Here's how to recognize them:
- Canister lid: On the original she aluminum with engraving
NissanAndKE900-90132. Counterfeits often have a plastic cover or writing that wears off when rubbed. - Label: On the back of the original there is
QR code, which leads to the site Nissan with information about the party. For fakes, the QR code is either missing or leads to third-party resources. - Oil color: The original has golden amber hue. Counterfeits are often darker or cloudier.
- Packaging: The bottom of the canister should be concave (for stability). On fakes it is flat.
- Price: If the oil is sold cheaper 2,800 rub. for 4 l - this is 100% fake.
Check also production date at the bottom of the canister. If the oil was produced more than 2 years ago, it is better not to buy it, even if it is original (shelf life is limited).
What happens if you fill with fake oil?
Fake oil often has the wrong viscosity, resulting in:
- Increased fuel consumption by 5-10% (due to increased friction).
- Rapid wear of the turbine (for diesel R9M).
- Formation of deposits on valves and piston rings.
- Loss of warranty (dealers check the oil during diagnostics).
Step-by-step instructions for changing the oil in a Nissan Qashqai
Changing the oil in Qashqai - a procedure that can be performed independently in 40-60 minutes. The main thing is to be consistent and use the right tools.
- New oil (4-4.6 l depending on engine)
- Oil filter (original - 15208-9F600 for HR16DE)
- Drain plug key (14 mm)
- Oil filter puller
- Funnel and waste container (minimum 5 l)
- Gloves and rags
- Torque wrench (optional, for tightening the plug with a torque of 34 Nm)-->
Step 1. Preparation
Start the engine and let it run for 3-5 minutes - this will warm the oil and make draining easier. Then turn off the engine and raise the car on a lift or jack (by placing stops under the rear wheels).
Step 2. Drain waste
Place a container under the drain plug (it is located on the oil pan). Unscrew the plug with a 14 mm wrench and wait until the oil drains completely (10-15 minutes). Don't lose the plug's O-ring - it needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Step 3: Replace the filter
The oil filter is located to the right of the engine (when viewed in the direction of travel). Use a puller to unscrew it. Before installing a new filter 15208-9F600 Apply a little oil to the O-ring and tighten it by hand (do not use the tool!).
Step 4. Filling with new oil
Install the drain plug (tightening torque: 34 Nm) and fill in new oil through the neck on the valve cover. For HR16DE 4.3 l will be required for MR20DD — 4.4 l. After filling, check the level with a dipstick: it should be between the marks MIN And MAX.
Step 5. Check
Start the engine and let it run for 1-2 minutes. Make sure the oil pressure light on the dashboard is not on. 5 minutes after stopping the engine, check the level again and add if necessary.
1. Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine).
2. Press the gas pedal all the way and hold for 10 seconds.
3. Release the pedal and turn off the ignition.
Reset completed!-->
Top 5 mistakes when changing oil in a Qashqai (and how to avoid them)
Even experienced car owners make mistakes that reduce engine life. Here are the most common:
- Overfilling or underfilling oil
⚠️ Attention: Excess oil (above
MAXon the dipstick) leads to foaming and loss of pressure. Underfilling (belowMIN) - to oil starvation. Optimal level: 2-3 mm below MAX. - Using the wrong filter
Filter
15208-9F600suitable for HR16DE, but for MR20DD needed15208-4M50A. A mismatch causes the oil to bypass the filter. - Failure to comply with replacement intervals
For Qashqai with gasoline engines interval - 15,000 km or 1 year, for diesel engines - 10,000 km. When driving in the city or frequent cold starts, reduce the interval by 20-30%.
- Ignoring flushing
If you are switching from one type of oil to another (for example, from
5W-30on0W-20), be sure to flush the engine 5 minute rinse (For example, Liqui Moly Oil-Schlamm-Spulung). - Tightening the filter with a tool
The filter must be screwed on only by hand. When using a puller, you risk stripping the threads or deforming the housing.
If after changing the oil you notice white smoke from the exhaust pipe or emulsion on the dipstick - This is a sign of antifreeze getting into the oil. Contact service immediately!
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to mix the original KE900-90132 oil with analogues?
Yes, but only in emergency cases (for example, if you need to top up on the road). Add oil same viscosity class (For example, 5W-30) and with compatible tolerances (API SN or ACEA C2). After this, a complete oil change with flushing is recommended.
Why is 0W-20 oil recommended in Qashqai J12 and not 5W-30?
This is due to stricter environmental regulations Euro 6d and the need to reduce friction in the engine to save fuel. Oil 0W-20 has a lower viscosity during cold start, which reduces wear of parts and reduces fuel consumption by 1-2%. However, for hot climates (above +35°C) it is less preferable due to the risk of carbon monoxide.
How often should you check the oil level in your Qashqai?
Minimum once a monthand also before long trips. For diesel versions (R9M/K9K) check is required every 1,000 km — these engines are prone to oil waste. The level is checked for cold engine 5-10 minutes after stopping.
What to do if after changing the oil there is a knocking sound from the hydraulic compensators?
Knocking of hydraulic compensators after an oil change usually means:
- 🔹 Poor quality or fake oil (insufficient lubricity).
- 🔹 Clogged oil channels (if flushing has not been done).
- 🔹 Insufficient oil level (check the dipstick).
Solution: drain the oil, wash the engine and fill with a high-quality analogue (for example, Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200). If the knocking does not go away, diagnostics of the hydraulic compensators is required.
What kind of oil should I put in Qashqai with LPG?
For vehicles with gas equipment (HBO) an oil with increased resistance to high temperatures is required. Recommended options:
- 🔥 Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (resistant to oxidation).
- 🔥 Motul Specific DEXOS2 5W-30 (especially for engines with LPG).
- 🔥 Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 (extended replacement interval).