2016 Nissan Altima Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick Reference

Adjustability

On the 2016 Nissan Altima, front toe is the primary factory-adjustable angle. This is typically adjusted via tie rod ends. Front camber and caster are generally non-adjustable from the factory. If these angles are out of specification, it often indicates worn or damaged suspension components, or bent chassis parts. In some cases, aftermarket camber bolts or eccentric bushings can be installed to provide a limited range of adjustment for front camber, but this is not an OEM solution.

For the rear axle, toe is also typically adjustable, primarily through eccentric bolts on the lower control arms. Rear camber is usually non-adjustable from the factory on the 2016 Altima. Similar to the front, persistent out-of-spec rear camber usually points to worn components or damage. Aftermarket solutions do exist for rear camber adjustment, but again, these are not factory-installed.

Recommended Adjustment Hardware

For most 2016 Nissan Altima alignment concerns, factory components are sufficient for toe adjustments. If front or rear camber is consistently out of specification due to minor tolerances or a desire for a custom alignment setting, aftermarket camber adjustment kits, such as those from SPC Performance or Ingalls Engineering, can be considered. These typically involve replacing factory bolts with eccentric cam bolts to allow for a small degree of camber correction. Always ensure any aftermarket parts are installed by a qualified technician.

Symptoms of Bad Alignment

Misalignment can manifest in several ways, often impacting tire wear, handling, and fuel economy:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common and noticeable symptom. Different alignment issues lead to distinct wear patterns:
  • Feathering: Sawtooth-like wear across the tread, often indicating excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: One edge of the tire wears down faster than the other, typically a sign of incorrect camber.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Pothole-like dips or irregular wear spots around the tire circumference, often linked to worn shocks, unbalanced tires, or sometimes severe toe issues.
• Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel is not straight when driving in a straight line, your alignment is likely off.
• Vehicle Pulling: The car consistently drifts or pulls to one side, requiring constant steering correction.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The vehicle feels unstable and difficult to keep in a straight line.
• Noisy Tires: Abnormal tire noise can sometimes be a byproduct of uneven tire wear caused by misalignment.

When to Align

It's crucial to have your 2016 Nissan Altima's alignment checked in the following situations:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any work involving tie rods, control arms, ball joints, struts, or steering racks necessitates an alignment.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure maximum tire life and even wear, a fresh set of tires should always be followed by an alignment.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Significant impacts can easily knock your alignment out of spec.
• Every 15,000 Miles or Annually: Regular checks help catch minor issues before they become major problems.
• When You Notice Any Symptoms of Bad Alignment: Don't wait; address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving.

Typical Alignment Cost

The cost of an alignment for a 2016 Nissan Altima can vary depending on your geographic location, the type of shop (dealership vs. independent), and whether any additional parts or labor are required (e.g., seized fasteners, aftermarket adjustment kits). Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $150 for a standard four-wheel alignment. Many shops also offer alignment packages or lifetime alignment plans that can be cost-effective in the long run.

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