Keeping your 2023 Infiniti QX60 in peak condition requires more than just following a standard maintenance schedule; it demands the use of the highest quality lubricants available. The VQ35DD engine in your crossover SUV is a precision machine that benefits significantly from the superior thermal stability and film strength of 100% synthetic oils. By selecting the right fluids, you can ensure optimal protection against wear, maintain fuel efficiency, and extend the service life of critical components like the transmission and transfer case. This guide outlines the specific AMSOIL products designed to meet the demands of your vehicle’s engineering specifications.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The ultimate choice for maximum engine protection, offering 75% more defense against horsepower loss and wear with a guaranteed 25,000-mile interval.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended service intervals up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly for longer.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A factory-style synthetic option that effectively fights sludge and deposits while offering protection comparable to original equipment manufacturer oils.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents and additives to reduce sludge and improve performance.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter EA15K12 – Engineered for 99% efficiency at 20 microns to capture small contaminants and extend service life for maximum engine protection.
- WIX Oil Filter 51358 – A premium aftermarket filter option that offers improvements over standard OEM-branded filters with high-quality media.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A phosphate-free, 50/50 pre-mixed formulation that protects against corrosion for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated, eco-friendly option that requires mixing but offers extended protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing, high temperatures, and challenging terrain while maintaining fluidity in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the transfer case and rear differential, providing advanced wear protection and thermal stability for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
Why Synthetic Motor Oil Matters for the VQ35DD Engine
The 2023 Infiniti QX60 is powered by the VQ35DD 3.5L V6 engine. This direct-injection powerplant operates under high pressures and temperatures that can degrade conventional motor oil quickly. AMSOIL motor oils are formulated to exceed the requirements of API SP and other industry standards, providing a protective film that resists thermal breakdown better than standard oils. This ensures that your engine stays cooler and runs more efficiently, even during stop-and-go traffic or long highway commutes.
For the 2023 QX60, the required oil viscosity is 0W-20. The oil capacity, when including the filter, is 5.1 quarts. Proper viscosity is critical for the variable valve timing system and turbocharger protection found in many modern engines. Using the correct synthetic oil ensures that the oil pump can circulate lubricant rapidly at startup, reducing wear on critical components like bearings and camshafts. The AMSOIL Signature Series offers the highest level of protection, capable of lasting up to 25,000 miles or one year under normal service conditions, though owners of the QX60 typically follow the vehicle’s standard maintenance schedule for oil changes. If your vehicle has accumulated more than 75,000 miles, the High-Mileage formula is specifically designed to condition seals and restore engine performance.
Filter selection is equally important. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K12) is designed to match the high standards of the oil it accompanies. It offers 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns, capturing small wear-causing contaminants that can damage engine surfaces. The filter also features a stronger anti-drain back valve to prevent oil starvation during startup. Alternatively, the WIX Oil Filter (51358) is a premium aftermarket option that exceeds the performance of standard OEM filters, offering excellent media quality and construction.
Transmission and Drivetrain Protection
While the engine receives the most attention, the transmission and transfer case require equal care to ensure longevity. The 2023 Infiniti QX60 uses an automatic transmission with a specific fluid requirement. For optimal performance, AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is the top recommendation. This fluid is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, elevated operating temperatures, and challenging terrain. It remains fluid even in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring smooth shifting and reducing wear on internal components.
The transfer case, designated for the AWD system, requires a synthetic gear lube. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is highly effective for this application. It provides advanced protection against wear and controls thermal runaway, which can degrade lubricant properties under stress. This gear lube is suitable for limited-slip applications and helps reduce operating temperatures while extending the life of seals and equipment. The rear differential also benefits from the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90, as it is designed to protect against rust and corrosion in all temperatures.
For those seeking an alternative viscosity or specific application needs, AMSOIL also offers AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-110 and 80W-90 synthetic gear lubes. These products share the same robust formulation that controls thermal runaway and protects against rust, providing long oil and equipment life. The specific capacity for the transfer case is approximately 0.6 pints, while the rear differential holds about 1.1 pints. Always install new gaskets on the drain and fill plugs and adhere to the specified torque values of 26 ft/lbs for the plugs to ensure a proper seal.
Coolant and Brake Fluid Specifications
Maintaining the cooling system is vital for the longevity of the 3.5L VQ35DD engine. The 2023 Infiniti QX60 requires a specific antifreeze and coolant mixture. For vehicles with a tow package, the capacity is 12.6 quarts, while vehicles without the tow package require 12.3 quarts. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a 50/50 pre-mix formulation that is phosphate, nitrate, and silicate-free, making it safe for all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It offers protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years. For those who prefer to mix their own, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant is a concentrated option that meets or exceeds OEM requirements and offers extended protection intervals.
Brake system safety cannot be overlooked. The 2023 QX60 utilizes a DOT 3 hydraulic brake system. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is designed to provide excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction-control systems. Its stable viscosity ensures consistent braking performance in both hot and cold conditions, reducing the risk of brake fade during demanding driving scenarios. Replacing brake fluid at regular intervals helps remove moisture and contaminants that can lead to corrosion and system failure.
About the Vehicle
The 2023 Infiniti QX60 represents the latest iteration of Infiniti’s premium midsize luxury crossover. Built on a sophisticated platform, it is designed to offer a blend of comfort, technology, and utility that appeals to families and professionals alike. The QX60 features a distinctive front fascia with signature Infiniti cues and a refined interior that emphasizes premium materials and advanced safety features. Under the hood, the vehicle is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, a legacy powerplant known for its smooth power delivery and reliability.
This crossover is particularly well-regarded for its spacious three-row seating arrangement, making it a popular choice for those needing additional passenger and cargo capacity without the bulk of a traditional truck-based SUV. The interior is typically equipped with modern conveniences such as a panoramic moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The QX60 also includes a suite of advanced safety technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure intervention, and blind-spot warning systems, all standard or widely available depending on the trim level.
The all-wheel-drive system in the QX60 provides confident handling in various weather conditions, further enhancing its appeal as a versatile daily driver. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on a cross-country road trip, the QX60 delivers a smooth and quiet ride. Its reputation for reliability and luxury has made it a standout in the competitive luxury crossover segment. Proper maintenance, including the use of high-performance synthetic lubricants, ensures that the QX60 continues to perform at its best, offering years of dependable service and comfort for its owners.