2016 Nissan Altima: Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

The 2016 Nissan Altima was exclusively equipped with Nissan's Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Unlike traditional geared automatics or manuals, CVTs do not have fixed "gears" in the conventional sense. Instead, they operate with a continuously changing ratio to optimize power delivery and fuel economy. For the purpose of providing a comparable understanding, Nissan provides "simulated" or "effective" gear ratios for the CVT, typically representing the lowest (start-up) and highest (cruising) ratios, as well as a reverse ratio.

Xtronic CVT (all models)

Available axle ratios

The 2016 Nissan Altima utilized a final drive ratio, which acts similar to an axle ratio in front-wheel-drive vehicles. This ratio is critical in determining the overall mechanical advantage and influences both acceleration and fuel efficiency. Nissan offered a couple of main final drive ratios depending on the engine and trim level.

How to identify your axle ratio

For a 2016 Nissan Altima, identifying the "axle ratio" (which is actually the final drive ratio) isn't as straightforward as finding an RPO code on a door jamb sticker like on some trucks or SUVs. Nissan typically doesn't print a specific axle code on a readily accessible sticker for passenger cars.

The most reliable way to determine your Altima's final drive ratio is to use your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). A Nissan dealership parts department can look up your VIN and provide the exact specifications, including the final drive ratio, that your car was built with. Several online VIN decoders can also provide this information, though their accuracy can vary. The final drive ratio is intrinsically linked to the engine and transmission combination. Therefore, knowing if you have the 2.5L 4-cylinder or the 3.5L V6 engine will generally tell you which final drive ratio your Altima is equipped with.

Towing vs MPG impact

While the 2016 Nissan Altima is not designed or rated for significant towing, understanding the impact of gear ratios is still relevant for overall performance and efficiency. This principle applies to the final drive ratio:

• Numerically Lower Ratio (e.g., 4.960:1): A numerically lower final drive ratio means the engine spins fewer times for each rotation of the wheels. This generally results in better fuel economy at cruising speeds because the engine is operating at a lower RPM. Acceleration might feel slightly less aggressive from a standstill.

• Numerically Higher Ratio (e.g., 5.860:1): A numerically higher final drive ratio means the engine spins more times for each rotation of the wheels. This provides a greater mechanical advantage, leading to stronger acceleration from a stop and during spirited driving. However, the engine will be at a higher RPM at any given road speed, which typically reduces fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds. For a vehicle with towing capacity, a higher ratio would generally improve towing capability by providing more torque to the wheels, though, again, the Altima is not a towing vehicle.

Common issues

The primary "driveline" component in the 2016 Nissan Altima that could experience issues related to its operation and ratios is the Xtronic CVT itself, rather than a traditional separate axle assembly that would have issues like ring and pinion whine or carrier bearing failures.

Common issues sometimes associated with Nissan CVTs of this era include:

• CVT Hesitation or Shuddering: Drivers might experience a feeling of hesitation, jerking, or shuddering during acceleration or at certain speeds. This can sometimes be attributed to fluid degradation or internal wear.
• Loss of Power / Limp Mode: In more severe cases, the CVT might enter a "limp mode," limiting power and speed to prevent further damage, often accompanied by warning lights.
• Whining or Whirring Noises: While not a "ring and pinion whine" in the traditional sense, unusual whining or whirring noises coming from the transmission area can indicate internal wear or fluid problems within the CVT.

Regular transmission fluid maintenance (specific to Nissan CVTs) is crucial for prolonging the life of these transmissions.

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