2017 Nissan Altima: Tire Size, Pressure, & Wheel Specs

Quick Answer

• OEM Tire Size:
  • S, SV, SR: 215/60R16 or 215/55R17
  • SL: 215/55R17
  • SR V6, SL V6: 235/45R18
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Door Placard): 33 PSI (all tires)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm
• Wheel Size:
  • S, SV: 16x7.0J or 17x7.5J
  • SR: 17x7.5J or 18x8.0J
  • SL: 17x7.5J
  • SR V6, SL V6: 18x8.0J
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies by tire size, typically 94V for 215/60R16, 94V for 215/55R17, 94V for 235/45R18
• Spare Tire Size: T125/70D16 (temporary spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire Sizes by Trim

Recommended Replacement Tires

When it's time to replace the tires on your 2017 Nissan Altima, you have a wide array of excellent options that balance performance, longevity, and price. Here are a few popular choices:

• Michelin Defender T+H (Premium): A top-tier all-season tire known for its exceptional tread life, quiet ride, and excellent wet and dry traction. These are a great investment for drivers who prioritize comfort and long-term value. Expect to pay around $150-$200 per tire.

• Continental PureContact LS (Mid-Range): This is another fantastic all-season option, offering a refined ride, strong all-weather grip, and good fuel efficiency. It's a reliable choice for daily driving in various conditions. These typically run in the $120-$170 per tire range.

• General AltiMAX RT43 (Value): For drivers looking for a solid all-season tire that delivers good performance without breaking the bank, the General AltiMAX RT43 is a strong contender. It offers a comfortable ride, decent handling, and a competitive treadwear warranty. Prices usually fall between $90-$140 per tire.

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI (Not Applicable to this Vehicle)

The "max load PSI" mentioned on the tire sidewall is the maximum air pressure a tire can hold to support its maximum load capacity. It's important to note that for passenger vehicles like the 2017 Nissan Altima, you should never inflate your tires to this maximum pressure for regular driving conditions. Doing so can lead to a harsh ride, premature tire wear (especially in the center of the tread), reduced traction, and potentially dangerous handling characteristics.

Always refer to the tire pressure placard located on your driver's side door jamb for the recommended cold tire inflation pressure for your specific Altima model. This pressure is carefully determined by Nissan to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort, handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.

Lug Nut Torque & Pattern

The correct lug nut torque is crucial for safely securing your wheels and preventing issues like wheels coming loose or damaged studs. For the 2017 Nissan Altima, the recommended lug nut torque is 80-87 lb-ft (108-118 Nm). Always use a torque wrench to ensure accurate tightening.

The bolt pattern for the 2017 Nissan Altima is 5x114.3mm. This means there are 5 lug nuts, and they are arranged in a circle with a diameter of 114.3 millimeters. When tightening the lug nuts, follow a star or criss-cross pattern. This ensures even pressure on the wheel hub and prevents rotor warp or uneven seating of the wheel. Tighten the lug nuts in several stages, gradually increasing the torque until the final specification is reached.

Common Tire Issues for This Vehicle

While the 2017 Nissan Altima is generally a reliable vehicle, some common tire-related issues owners might encounter include:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This can manifest as wear on the inner or outer edges of the tires, or cupping/scalloping patterns. Often, uneven wear is a symptom of improper tire inflation, an out-of-spec wheel alignment, or worn suspension components. Regular tire rotations (every 5,000-7,500 miles) and alignments are key to preventing this issue.

• Road Noise: Some Altima owners might notice an increase in road noise, which can sometimes be attributed to the tires. This can be exacerbated by uneven wear patterns or the specific tread design of certain tires. If you notice excessive road noise, have your tires inspected for wear and consider tires known for a quieter ride when it's time for replacement.

• TPMS Light Illumination: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light can illuminate for several reasons. Most commonly, it indicates low tire pressure in one or more tires. However, it can also be triggered by a faulty TPMS sensor (which might need replacement, especially after 7-10 years), or an issue with the TPMS system itself. If your TPMS light comes on, it's important to check your tire pressures immediately.

Addressing these issues promptly can help extend the life of your tires, maintain optimal vehicle performance, and ensure your safety on the road.

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