Using the incorrect oil in your 1996 Nissan Pathfinder reduces fuel efficiency and will eventually cause your engine to malfunction. You should know the specifications for the oil and oil filter to ensure you are properly maintaining your Nissan. Nissan does not recommend the use of oil additives, because if you use the proper oil, additives are not necessary.
Nissan recommends using SAE 5W-30 oil. Nissan also suggests that you purchase energy conserving oil, which improves fuel efficiency. If you do not see the quality label (API service SG/SH Energy conserving) Nissan recommends that you do not use that particular brand.
According to the 1996 Nissan Pathfinder manual, Nissan suggests that when refilling your oil you to use 3 7/8 quart or 3.7 liters of oil with the oil filter. If you are adding oil and not changing the oil filter, than 3 5/8 quarts or 3.4 liters of oil is recommended.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and activate your parking brake. Run the engine at a temperature suitable for driving. Turn the engine off and wait around 10 minutes so the oil can drain back into its reservoir. Remove the dipstick and wipe it. Reinsert the dipstick to check the oil level, which should be between the "H" and the "L" on the dipstick. If the oil is below the "L," then add more oil but do not overfill.
