2017 Nissan Altima: Serpentine Belt Routing & Replacement

Quick Answer

• Belt Length & Rib Count: 1180mm (46.5") / 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: 11720-3TA0A
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References: Gates K060465, Dayco 5060465, Continental 4060465
• Automatic Tensioner Part Number: 11955-3TA2A
• Idler Pulley Part Number: 11927-31U0C

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old serpentine belt, always take a clear photograph of the belt's path for reference. The 2017 Nissan Altima with the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine follows a specific routing path. Starting from the crankshaft pulley at the bottom center of the engine, the belt travels:

1. Up and around the crankshaft pulley (the large, main pulley).
2. Over to the A/C compressor pulley.
3. Up to the smooth idler pulley.
4. Around the alternator pulley.
5. Down to the power steering pump pulley.
6. Across to the water pump pulley.
7. Finally, down and around the automatic tensioner pulley, which maintains the belt's tension.

Following this specific path is critical for the proper operation of your engine's accessories.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2017 Altima is a manageable task for a DIYer with the right tools. The key is releasing the tension from the automatic tensioner.

Tools Required:

• Serpentine belt tool (recommended)
• OR a long-handled 3/8" drive breaker bar or ratchet

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is cool and the vehicle is in park with the emergency brake engaged.
2. Locate the Tensioner: The automatic tensioner is a spring-loaded pulley designed to keep the belt tight. It has a 3/8" square hole in its body.
3. Release Tension: Insert the 3/8" square drive of your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into the hole on the tensioner body. Rotate the tensioner (typically clockwise) to release the pressure on the belt. The tensioner arm will move, creating slack in the belt.
4. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner in the released position, carefully slip the old belt off one of the smooth, non-lipped pulleys like the water pump or idler pulley.
5. Install New Belt: Using your reference photo and the routing description above, carefully thread the new belt around all the pulleys, saving a smooth, easily accessible pulley for last. Double-check that the ribs of the belt are correctly seated in the grooves of each ribbed pulley.
6. Apply Tension: Slowly release the tensioner, allowing it to apply pressure to the new belt. Watch to ensure the belt remains properly seated on all pulleys as tension is applied.
7. Final Inspection: Give the belt a final visual check to ensure it is correctly aligned and seated in every pulley groove.

Replacement Interval

Nissan does not specify a strict mileage-based replacement interval for the serpentine belt on the 2017 Altima. Instead, the belt should be inspected during regular maintenance (every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or during oil changes) for signs of wear. As a general guideline, consider replacing the belt every 60,000 to 90,000 miles as a preventative measure.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

A failing serpentine belt or tensioner will give you several warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to a breakdown if the belt snaps.

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common symptom, often worse on cold starts or in wet weather. The noise comes from the belt slipping.
• Visible Wear: Inspect the belt for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny, smooth appearance), or missing ribs.
• "Check Battery" Light: If the belt slips or breaks, it can't spin the alternator properly, leading to a loss of electrical power and triggering the battery warning light.
• Overheating Engine: The serpentine belt drives the water pump. If the belt fails, the coolant will stop circulating, causing the engine to overheat quickly.
• Loss of Power Steering: A failed belt means the power steering pump stops working, making the steering wheel very difficult to turn.
• Rattling or Grinding from Tensioner: A bad tensioner pulley bearing can make a grinding or rattling noise. You may also see the tensioner pulley vibrating erratically while the engine is running.

If you notice any of these signs, it's time to inspect the serpentine belt and tensioner. Addressing the issue early can prevent you from being stranded.

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