2017 Nissan Altima Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2017 Nissan Altima, front toe is adjustable from the factory. This is achieved by adjusting the tie rod ends. Front camber and caster, however, are non-adjustable from the factory. If these angles are out of specification, it typically indicates worn or damaged suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, ball joints, strut mounts), or a bent component. Aftermarket camber bolts or adjustable control arms can be installed to provide adjustment for front camber and, in some cases, caster. These modifications allow for fine-tuning that isn't possible with the stock setup.

For the rear axle, total toe is adjustable on the 2017 Altima by adjusting the eccentric bolts on the trailing arms. Rear camber is non-adjustable from the factory. Similar to the front, if rear camber is out of spec, it usually points to worn or damaged components. Aftermarket adjustable control arms or camber kits would be required to modify rear camber.

Thrust angle is a measurement of how well the rear wheels are aligned with the front wheels. It is derived from the individual rear toe readings and indicates if the rear axle is pointing straight ahead. While not a direct adjustment, correcting individual rear toe will resolve any thrust angle issues.

Recommended adjustment hardware

Since front camber and caster, as well as rear camber, are not factory adjustable on the 2017 Nissan Altima, if alignment readings for these angles are out of specification and no worn or damaged components are found, aftermarket solutions are available. For front camber, SPC Performance or Ingalls Engineering offer camber bolts that can provide a limited range of adjustment. For more significant adjustments or to address caster issues, adjustable front upper control arms from brands like SPC or Godspeed might be necessary. For rear camber, aftermarket adjustable rear lower control arms or camber kits (e.g., from SPC, Eibach, or Megan Racing) are common solutions.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Several symptoms can indicate that your 2017 Nissan Altima needs an alignment. The most common and often first noticeable sign is uneven or premature tire wear. Specific wear patterns can even hint at which angle is out of spec:

• Feathering: This occurs when the tread blocks are worn smooth on one side and sharp on the other, resembling the edge of a feather. This is often a sign of incorrect toe settings (either too much toe-in or toe-out).
• Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: If only the inner or outer edge of the tire is wearing down rapidly, it typically points to an issue with camber. Negative camber will cause inner shoulder wear, while positive camber will cause outer shoulder wear.
• Cupping or Scalloping: This appears as a series of dips or scalloped patterns around the tire's circumference. While it can sometimes be related to alignment, it's more frequently an indicator of worn suspension components like shocks, struts, or ball joints.
• Vehicle Pulling: If your Altima consistently drifts or pulls to one side when driving on a level road, it's a strong indicator of an alignment issue, often related to camber or caster differences between the front wheels.
• Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel is not straight when you are driving straight down the road, it's a classic sign that your toe settings are out of alignment, even if the car isn't pulling.
• Loose or Sloppy Steering: While less common than other symptoms, severely misaligned toe settings can sometimes lead to a feeling of loose or imprecise steering.

When to align

It's recommended to get a wheel alignment for your 2017 Nissan Altima in several situations:

• After suspension or steering component replacement: Any time components like tie rods, ball joints, control arms, struts, or springs are replaced, the alignment will be affected and should be checked.
• After purchasing new tires: While not strichly necessary, getting an alignment with new tires ensures they wear evenly and last longer, maximizing your investment.
• After hitting a pothole, curb, or other road hazard: A significant impact can knock your alignment out of spec, even if no visible damage is present.
• If you notice any of the symptoms of bad alignment: Don't wait for extreme tire wear or handling issues; addressing the problem early can save you money.
• Regularly, as part of routine maintenance: Many manufacturers recommend an alignment check every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or at least once a year, as part of preventative maintenance.

Typical alignment cost

The typical cost for a wheel alignment on a 2017 Nissan Altima can vary depending on your location, the type of shop (dealership vs. independent), and whether any additional adjustments or parts are needed. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $150 for a standard four-wheel alignment. If specialized adjustments are required, such as installing aftermarket camber bolts or addressing bent components, the cost will increase.

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