2015 Nissan Altima Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

The 2015 Nissan Altima offers limited factory adjustment for wheel alignment.

Front Axle:

• Toe: Front individual toe is adjustable via the tie rod ends. This is the most common and usually the only adjustment needed during a routine alignment.
• Camber: Front camber on the 2015 Nissan Altima is generally not factory-adjustable. If camber is outside the specified range, it often indicates worn or bent suspension components. Aftermarket camber bolts or adjustable control arms can be installed to allow for camber adjustment.
• Caster: Similar to camber, front caster is typically not factory-adjustable on the 2015 Nissan Altima. Significant deviations in caster usually point to damaged suspension parts. Aftermarket solutions like adjustable control arms or eccentric bushings may be used to correct caster.

Rear Axle:

• Toe: Rear individual toe is adjustable on the 2015 Nissan Altima, usually through eccentric cams on the lower control arms.
• Camber: Rear camber is not factory-adjustable. If out of specification, it often suggests worn bushings, bent control arms, or other damaged suspension components. Aftermarket camber kits (e.g., adjustable control arms or eccentric bushings) can be installed to provide adjustment.

Thrust Angle: Thrust angle is determined by the relationship of the rear wheels to the vehicle's centerline. Correcting rear toe will typically bring the thrust angle back into specification.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For correcting non-adjustable angles on your 2015 Nissan Altima, consider the following:

• Front Camber/Caster: SPC Performance or similar aftermarket camber/caster kits (e.g., adjustable strut mounts or control arms) can provide the necessary adjustment. These typically replace original equipment components with adjustable versions.
• Rear Camber: Aftermarket adjustable rear control arms or eccentric rear camber bolts are available from manufacturers like SPC Performance to allow for camber correction.

Always consult with a qualified alignment technician to determine the best solution for your specific vehicle's needs.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Recognizing the signs of a bad alignment can save you from premature tire wear and other issues:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common indicator.
  • Feathering: If the tire tread blocks are worn smooth on one side and sharp on the other across the tread, it often points to excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Outer Edge Wear: Excessive positive camber or too much toe-out can cause the outer edges of the tires to wear more quickly.
  • Inner Edge Wear: Excessive negative camber or too much toe-in can lead to accelerated wear on the inner edges of the tires.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: These uneven dips in the tread can indicate worn shocks or struts, but can also be exacerbated by alignment issues.
• Steering Wheel Not Centered: If your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, it's a strong sign that your alignment is off, even if the car drives straight.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: The car consistently drifting or pulling to the left or right can be caused by incorrect camber, caster, or toe settings on one side.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: If the vehicle feels less stable or requires constant correction to stay in a straight line, it could be an alignment problem.
• Squealing Tires: While often a sign of aggressive driving, tires squealing during normal turns can sometimes indicate an alignment issue.

When to align

To maintain optimal vehicle performance and tire longevity, consider a wheel alignment in the following situations:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time components like tie rod ends, control arms, ball joints, struts, or shock absorbers are replaced, an alignment is necessary.
• After Installing New Tires: While new tires don't directly affect alignment angles, ensuring correct alignment will maximize their lifespan and performance.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Impact with road hazards can knock alignment angles out of specification.
• If You Notice Alignment Symptoms: As soon as you observe any of the symptoms listed above (uneven tire wear, pulling, off-center steering wheel).
• Periodically (e.g., Every 1-2 Years or 15,000-30,000 Miles): Even without noticeable symptoms, alignment angles can gradually shift over time due to normal wear and tear.

Typical alignment cost

The typical cost for a wheel alignment on a 2015 Nissan Altima can range from $80 to $150, with some specialized shops or dealerships potentially charging more. This cost usually covers a four-wheel alignment, which is recommended for the Altima given its adjustable rear toe. Prices can vary based on your geographic location, the specific shop, and whether any seized components require extra labor to adjust or replace.

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