Quick answer: Oil Change & Maintenance Light Reset on a 2014–2024 Infiniti Q50 is rated Easy and takes about 1 hour. You'll need 8 tools for this job, and parts cost about $42. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Engine Oil (0W-20 or 5W-30, by engine) |
— |
$30.00 |
|
| Oil Filter |
— |
$10.00 |
|
| Drain Plug Washer |
— |
$2.00 |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Identify Your Engine (3.0T vs 3.7L!)
The 2014–2024 Infiniti Q50 oil change has a CRITICAL trap: the oil type depends on your engine. The 3.0L VR30DDTT twin-turbo (2016+) takes 0W-20, but the 3.7L VQ37VHR (2014-2015) takes 5W-30. Using the wrong oil is the Q50's #1 mistake. You'll need: correct oil for YOUR engine (see below), new spin-on filter, drain pan, funnel. Capacities: 3.0T RWD 5.1 qt / AWD 5.7 qt; 3.7L 5.2 qt. Park on level ground. Identify your engine BEFORE buying oil — check the badge (3.0t vs 3.7) or VIN. The twin-turbo VR30 is sensitive to oil quality — use API-certified oil.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I identify the Q50 engine — 3.0T or 3.7L — and I pour the old oil back into the new oil's jug. I drop it at the parts store; most take it free, and I have no excuse for the storm drain.
2
Remove Undercover, Drain Oil
Remove the underbody engine cover for access (standard Infiniti/Nissan — the cover must come off to reach the drain plug and filter). Position the drain pan under the drain plug (M12x1.25 thread). Remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain.
3
Replace the Spin-On Filter
Install the new filter — hand-tighten plus a quarter turn. The 3.0T twin-turbo's filter works hard — use a quality filter (the turbos need clean oil). Don't over-tighten — hand-tight plus a quarter turn is enough.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
Scrape every bit of old gasket off — new gasket on old crud leaks within a month. I use a plastic scraper on aluminum surfaces.
4
Reinstall Drain Plug (new washer)
Torque to spec — the exact Q50 torque wasn't verified, so tighten snugly with a new washer (don't over-tighten the aluminum pan). Don't strip the threads — the Q50's oil pan is aluminum. Snug is enough with a new washer.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I reinstall the Q50 drain plug with a new washer — one hand on the ratchet for this one. I have overtightened a drain plug with two hands before, and my elbow is a liar about what snug means.
5
Add Correct Oil for Your Engine
Add the correct oil for YOUR engine: 3.0L VR30 twin-turbo: 0W-20 API-certified, 5.1 qt (RWD) or 5.7 qt (AWD). 3.7L VQ37: 5W-30, 5.2 qt. (2.0T M274: 0W-30 or 0W-20, 6.3-6.6L — verify.) Pour through the filler cap. The AWD takes MORE than RWD on the 3.0T — don't underfill an AWD. Check the dipstick. The twin-turbo VR30 needs the full fill for the turbos' oil supply.
6
Check Leaks, Reset Maintenance Light
Start the engine — check for leaks. Recheck the oil level after 30 seconds (the filter absorbs oil). Top up if needed. RESET THE MAINTENANCE LIGHT: use the instrument cluster or infotainment maintenance menu (the title includes this — don't skip it). The Q50's maintenance reminder needs manual reset. Infiniti interval: 5,000 miles / 6 months (severe schedule). The 3.0T twin-turbo is hard on oil — don't extend the interval. The engine-specific oil (0W-20 for 3.0T, 5W-30 for 3.7L) is the Q50's defining detail — get it right.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Not allowing the engine to cool before draining oil, leading to burns or inaccurate oil levels.
- • Over-tightening the drain plug or oil filter, causing damage or making future removal difficult.
- • Failing to properly dispose of used oil, which is harmful to the environment.
