2021 Nissan Altima Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick Reference: 2021 Nissan Altima Alignment Specs

These specifications are for the 2021 Nissan Altima and should be used as a guideline. Always refer to the specific recommendations for your vehicle's trim level and tire/wheel package. All values are in degrees.

Adjustability

Understanding which alignment angles are adjustable from the factory is crucial for a proper alignment service. On the 2021 Nissan Altima, adjustability is fairly standard for a modern front-wheel-drive sedan.

• Front Axle: The primary adjustable angle on the front axle is Toe. This is adjusted by threading the inner tie rods in or out. Camber and Caster are not factory adjustable. These angles are fixed by the position of the strut, knuckle, and lower control arm. If your Caster or Camber angles are out of specification, it often indicates that a component has been bent or damaged. However, in many cases, minor deviations can be corrected with aftermarket parts without replacing major suspension components.

• Rear Axle: The 2021 Altima features an independent multi-link rear suspension, which allows for adjustment of both Rear Camber and Rear Toe. These adjustments are typically made using eccentric bolts located on the lower control arms. When the technician turns these bolts, the eccentric washer shifts the position of the control arm, altering the angle of the wheel hub.

Thrust Angle is a calculated value, not a directly adjustable one. It represents the direction the rear wheels are pointing in relation to the vehicle's centerline. A perfect thrust angle is zero. By adjusting the individual rear toe settings correctly, the technician will bring the thrust angle into its proper specification.

Recommended Adjustment Hardware

If your 2021 Altima has front Camber or Caster readings that are out of spec but no components are obviously damaged, aftermarket kits can be installed to provide the necessary adjustability. The most common solution is an eccentric cam bolt kit, often called a "crash bolt" or "camber bolt."

For the front of the Altima, a company like SPC (Specialty Products Company) makes camber/caster bolt kits (e.g., part number 81260) that replace the factory upper strut-to-knuckle bolt. This bolt has a cam lobe on it that allows for several degrees of adjustment, which is usually more than enough to bring slightly off measurements back into the correct range.

Symptoms of Bad Alignment

A misaligned vehicle will exhibit several clear symptoms, many of which create unsafe driving conditions and accelerate tire wear.

• Pulling or Drifting: The most common symptom is the vehicle pulling to the left or right when you are trying to drive straight. This is often caused by unequal Camber or Caster from side to side.
• Off-Center Steering Wheel: Your steering wheel is not centered or level when the car is driving straight.
• Tire Squeal: A squealing noise from the tires, especially during turns, can indicate that the toe setting is incorrect, causing the tires to "scrub" against the pavement.
• Uneven Tire Wear: This is a tell-tale sign of a chronic alignment issue. Inspect your tires for these patterns:
  • Inner/Outer Edge Wear: The inside or outside shoulder of the tire is wearing down much faster than the rest of the tread. This is a classic sign of incorrect Camber. Wear on the inside edge means too much negative camber; wear on the outside edge indicates too much positive camber.
  • Feathered Wear: If you run your hand across the tread blocks, they will feel sharp in one direction and smooth in the other. This "feathering" pattern across the face of the tire is caused by an incorrect Toe setting.

When to Get a Wheel Alignment

Proper alignment is a critical part of vehicle maintenance. You should have your alignment checked:

• After installing new tires: This ensures you get the maximum lifespan out of your investment.
• After any suspension or steering service: Any time a component that affects geometry is replaced (e.g., struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods), an alignment is necessary.
• After an impact: If you hit a curb, a large pothole, or are involved in a minor collision, the impact can easily knock your alignment out of specification.
• When you notice symptoms: As soon as you detect uneven tire wear, a pull, or an off-center steering wheel.

Typical Alignment Cost

The cost of a four-wheel alignment for a 2021 Nissan Altima typically ranges from $90 to $200. The price depends on your geographic location, the type of shop (dealer vs. independent), and the technology of the alignment machine being used. This price covers the measurement of all angles and the adjustment of the factory-adjustable angles (front toe, rear camber, and rear toe).

If your vehicle requires the installation of an aftermarket kit to correct front camber or caster, you should expect additional costs for both the parts and the labor to install them.

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