Parts for your 2013 Nissan Serena-Oil cap

2013 Nissan Serena Oil Cap — What It Does and How to Look After It

Yes, an oil cap is absolutely used on the 2013 Nissan Serena (C26). Technical documentation confirms this: the Nissan Serena C26 Series Service Manual (Lubrication System – LU) identifies the engine oil filler cap on the cam/rocker cover, the 2013 Serena Owner’s Manual describes removing and refitting the oil filler cap during oil checks and changes, and the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue for the C26 lists the oil filler cap as a service part. So, the oil cap is relevant and fitted to 2013 Serena petrol variants such as the MR20-series engines.

On this model, the oil cap is the simple, screw-in lid that seals the engine’s oil filler neck. It keeps dust, moisture, and road grime out of the crankcase, helps maintain proper crankcase ventilation, and prevents oil mist from escaping under the bonnet. Many caps are marked with the recommended viscosity, often SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 depending on market guidance, which is handy when topping up.

For everyday servicing, the oil cap deserves a quick once-over. If the cap’s plastic body is cracked, the seal (O-ring) is flattened or brittle, or the threads feel rough or cross‑threaded, it’s time to replace it. A poor seal can lead to oil odours, light misting around the valve cover, or unstable idle from unmetered air. After an oil change or top-up, the cap should be snugged hand-tight only—no need to lean on it—so the seal beds evenly and the next removal is drama-free.

Replacement is straightforward: choose an OE or high-quality equivalent that matches the Serena’s thread, profile, and sealing face. A light wipe of clean engine oil on the O‑ring helps the new cap seat smoothly. If the Serena has a plastic engine cover, ensure the cap clears it properly and locks down without fouling.

• Check the cap and seal at each service (around every 10,000 km or 12 months in AU/NZ conditions).
• Clean the filler neck lip before refitting to avoid grit compromising the seal.
• If the cap sticks, let the engine cool a touch and use a cloth for grip—avoid tools that can crack the cap.
• If the cap is missing or won’t tighten, don’t drive—the engine can lose oil and ingest contaminants.

Look after the oil cap and it quietly does its job, helping the Serena’s MR20-series engine stay clean, sealed, and happy between services.

Popular questions about 2013 Nissan Serena oil caps

Where is the oil cap on a 2013 Nissan Serena?
It sits on top of the engine’s valve cover under the bonnet, usually labelled “Engine Oil.” Some trims have a plastic engine cover—lift or unclip it and the cap is right there on the rocker cover.

What oil grade is shown on the cap?
Many C26 Serena petrol models have caps marked with a viscosity such as SAE 0W‑20 (and in some markets 5W‑30). Always follow the owner’s manual for climate-appropriate oil in Australia and New Zealand.

Is it safe to drive if the oil cap is broken or missing?
No. Without a proper seal, oil can splash out and contaminants can be drawn in. Park the vehicle and fit a correct replacement cap before driving to protect the engine.