2016 Nissan Altima Serpentine Belt: Routing, Replacement, and Part Numbers

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: Varies by engine (see below)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: Varies by engine (see below)
• Aftermarket Cross-references:
  • Gates: K06xxxx (specific part number depends on engine)
  • Dayco: 506xxxx (specific part number depends on engine)
  • Continental Elite: 406xxxx (specific part number depends on engine)
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: Varies by engine (see below)
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Varies by engine (see below)

Belt Routing

Before you begin, always take a clear photograph of the existing belt routing. This will serve as an invaluable reference during reinstallation.

The 2016 Nissan Altima can come with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine or a 3.5L V6 engine. The serpentine belt routing differs significantly between these two configurations.

2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine Routing:

Starting from the crankshaft pulley, the belt typically travels counter-clockwise to the following components:

1. From the crankshaft pulley, the belt goes up and to the right to the A/C compressor pulley.
2. From the A/C compressor, the belt routes upwards to the idler pulley.
3. From the idler pulley, it then moves downwards and to the right, wrapping around the alternator pulley.
4. From the alternator, the belt goes downwards to the power steering pump pulley.
5. After the power steering pump, the belt goes upwards to the water pump pulley.
6. Finally, from the water pump, the belt wraps around the automatic tensioner pulley before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

3.5L V6 Engine Routing:

Starting from the crankshaft pulley, the belt typically travels around the following components:

1. From the crankshaft pulley, the belt goes upwards to the power steering pump pulley.
2. From the power steering pump, the belt continues upwards to the alternator pulley.
3. From the alternator, it routes downwards to the A/C compressor pulley.
4. After the A/C compressor, the belt goes upwards to the water pump pulley.
5. From the water pump, the belt wraps around the automatic tensioner pulley.
6. Finally, it passes over an idler pulley before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2016 Nissan Altima typically requires a serpentine belt tool or a 3/8" breaker bar. The general steps are as follows:

1. Locate the automatic belt tensioner. This will have a square opening, usually 3/8" or 1/2".
2. Insert the serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into the square opening of the tensioner.
3. Rotate the tensioner (usually clockwise, but refer to your vehicle's service manual for exact direction) to relieve tension on the belt.
4. Carefully remove the old belt from the pulleys while holding the tensioner in the loosened position.
5. Inspect all pulleys for any signs of wear, damage, or excessive play. Replace any faulty pulleys, especially the idler and tensioner pulleys, at this time.
6. Route the new belt according to the diagram you photographed earlier (or the descriptions above) and ensure it sits correctly in all pulley grooves.
7. Release the tensioner slowly to allow it to apply proper tension to the new belt.
8. Double-check that the belt is seated properly on all pulleys and has the correct tension.
9. Start the engine and observe the belt for a few moments to ensure it is running smoothly without any squealing or wobbling.

Replacement Interval

Nissan generally recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at every oil change and replacing it if wear is evident. A common replacement interval is between 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or every 4 to 6 years, whichever comes first. However, driving conditions and climate can affect the belt's lifespan. Always refer to your 2016 Nissan Altima owner's manual for the most accurate maintenance schedule.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Promptly addressing a worn serpentine belt or a failing tensioner is crucial to prevent further damage and potential roadside breakdowns. Here are common signs to watch for:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is one of the most common indicators of a worn or misaligned belt, or a failing tensioner/pulley bearing, especially upon cold starts or during acceleration.
• Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing on the Belt: Visually inspect the belt. Deep cracks, frayed edges, missing ribs, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the belt's surface are all signs of wear.
• Loss of Power Steering, A/C, or Alternator: Since the serpentine belt drives these accessories, a broken or severely slipping belt will result in a loss of their function.
• Battery Warning Light: If the alternator isn't being driven properly due to a slipping or broken belt, the battery light on your dashboard may illuminate.
• Engine Overheating: If the water pump is not being driven by the serpentine belt, your engine can quickly overheat.
• Belt Wobbling or Vibrating Excessively: This can indicate a problem with the belt itself, or more commonly, a failing tensioner or idler pulley bearing.
• Automatic Tensioner Not Applying Proper Tension: If the tensioner arm is not providing adequate tension, the belt can become loose and slip. You might notice the tensioner arm bouncing excessively.
• Grinding or Rattling Noises from the Engine Bay: These sounds can point to a failing bearing within the tensioner or an idler pulley.

Note on Part Numbers:

Due to variations between exact models and engine configurations (2.5L 4-cylinder vs. 3.5L V6), it's essential to verify specific part numbers for your vehicle's VIN with a reputable parts supplier or Nissan dealership. Inventing part numbers can lead to incorrect parts and potential issues. For example:

• 2.5L 4-Cylinder:
  • OEM Belt: Typically a 6-rib belt, around 90-95 inches in length.
  • OEM Auto-Tensioner: Look for parts like 11955-3TA0A or similar, but confirm with VIN.
  • OEM Idler Pulley: Look for parts like 11925-3TA0A or similar, but confirm with VIN.
• 3.5L V6:
  • OEM Belt: Typically a 6-rib belt, around 85-90 inches in length.
  • OEM Auto-Tensioner: Look for parts like 11955-JK20A or similar, but confirm with VIN.
  • OEM Idler Pulley: Look for parts like 11925-JA10C or similar, but confirm with VIN.

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