What Size Tire Does a Nissan Altima Use

Choosing the correct tire size for your Nissan Altima is essential for safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. This guide breaks down every model year, trim level, and tire specification so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

This is a comprehensive guide about What Size Tire Does A Nissan Altima Use.

Key Takeaways

• Multiple tire sizes exist: The Nissan Altima uses different tire sizes depending on the model year, trim, and wheel size—ranging from 16 to 19 inches in diameter.
• Check your door jamb or owner’s manual: The most reliable way to find your exact tire size is by checking the sticker on the driver’s side door jamb or consulting your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
• Common sizes include 215/60R16 and 235/45R18: These are among the most frequently used sizes across various Altima generations and trims.
• Plus-sizing is possible but requires caution: You can upgrade to larger wheels and tires, but you must maintain the overall diameter to avoid speedometer errors and drivetrain stress.
• Tire pressure matters: Always follow Nissan’s recommended tire pressure (usually 32–35 PSI) for optimal performance and longevity.
• Seasonal and performance tires are available: Choose all-season, summer, or winter tires based on your climate and driving needs.
• Professional installation is recommended: Proper mounting, balancing, and alignment ensure safety and extend tire life.

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What Size Tire Does a Nissan Altima Use?

If you’re a proud owner of a Nissan Altima—or thinking about becoming one—you’ve probably asked yourself: *What size tire does a Nissan Altima use?* It’s a great question, and one that’s more important than it might seem at first glance. Tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, so getting the right size isn’t just about looks—it’s about safety, performance, fuel economy, and even how your car feels when you drive it.

The Nissan Altima has been a popular midsize sedan for decades, known for its reliability, comfort, and smooth ride. But with so many model years, trim levels, and wheel options, the tire size can vary quite a bit. Whether you’re replacing worn-out tires, upgrading for better performance, or just curious about your vehicle’s specs, understanding your tire size is the first step.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about tire sizes for the Nissan Altima. From decoding tire markings to exploring common sizes by year and trim, we’ll make it simple and stress-free. You’ll learn how to find your exact tire size, what to consider when choosing new tires, and how to maintain them for the best performance. So grab a notebook, and let’s dive in.

Why Tire Size Matters for Your Nissan Altima

You might think all tires are basically the same—round, black, and full of air. But in reality, tire size plays a huge role in how your Altima handles, accelerates, brakes, and even how much gas it uses. Using the wrong size can throw off your speedometer, reduce fuel efficiency, cause premature wear, and even damage your suspension or drivetrain.

Let’s break it down. Tire size affects several key aspects of your driving experience:

First, handling and stability. Wider tires generally offer better grip and cornering ability, which is great for sporty driving. But they can also increase road noise and reduce ride comfort. Narrower tires, on the other hand, may improve fuel economy and provide a smoother ride, but they might not perform as well in wet or slippery conditions.

Second, speedometer accuracy. Your car’s speedometer is calibrated based on the original tire size. If you install tires with a different overall diameter, your speedometer will read incorrectly. For example, if you go too large, your car might think it’s going slower than it actually is—leading to speeding tickets or unsafe driving.

Third, fuel efficiency. Tires with lower rolling resistance can help your Altima go farther on a gallon of gas. But if the size is off, even the most efficient tire won’t perform as intended.

Finally, safety. The right tire size ensures proper contact with the road, optimal braking distance, and stability during emergency maneuvers. The wrong size can compromise all of these.

So, while it might seem like a small detail, tire size is anything but trivial. It’s a critical component of your vehicle’s overall performance and safety.

How to Find Your Nissan Altima’s Tire Size

Now that you know why tire size matters, let’s talk about how to find the right one for your Altima. There are several reliable ways to do this, and we’ll go through each one step by step.

Check the Driver’s Side Door Jamb

The easiest and most accurate way to find your tire size is to look at the sticker on the driver’s side door jamb. When you open the driver’s door, you’ll see a white or yellow label stuck to the frame. This label contains important information about your vehicle, including the recommended tire size, load index, speed rating, and tire pressure.

Look for a line that says something like “Tire Size” or “Tire Pressure.” It will list the size in a format like “P215/60R16 95H” or “235/45R18 94V.” This is your tire size. We’ll explain how to read this code in the next section.

Consult Your Owner’s Manual

If you can’t find the door jamb sticker or it’s faded, your owner’s manual is the next best place to look. Nissan includes detailed specifications for each model and trim in the manual. Flip to the “Tires and Wheels” section, and you’ll find the recommended tire size, plus information about spare tires, tire rotation, and maintenance tips.

This is especially helpful if you’ve upgraded your wheels or are considering a change. The manual will tell you what sizes are approved by Nissan for your specific model.

Look at Your Current Tires

Another simple method is to look at the sidewall of your current tires. The tire size is printed in large, raised letters. For example, you might see “215/60R16” or “235/45R18.” This tells you exactly what size you’re currently running.

Just be careful—if you’ve already changed your tires or wheels, this might not reflect the original factory size. But if you’re replacing the same tires, this is a quick and easy way to confirm the size.

Use Nissan’s Online Tools or Visit a Dealer

Nissan offers online tools and resources to help you find the right parts for your vehicle. You can enter your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on Nissan’s official website to get a detailed breakdown of your car’s original equipment, including tire size.

Alternatively, you can visit a Nissan dealership or service center. They can look up your vehicle’s specs using your VIN and provide you with accurate information.

Check Online Tire Retailers

Many online tire retailers—like Tire Rack, Discount Tire, or SimpleTire—have vehicle lookup tools. Just enter your Altima’s year, make, model, and trim, and they’ll show you the exact tire sizes available for your car. These sites also let you compare prices, read reviews, and even schedule installation.

This is a great option if you’re shopping for new tires and want to see all your choices in one place.

Understanding Tire Size Notation

Now that you know where to find your tire size, let’s decode what it actually means. Tire sizes are written in a standardized format that looks confusing at first, but once you understand it, it’s easy to read.

Let’s take a common Altima tire size: 215/60R16 95H.

Here’s what each part means:

– 215: This is the tire’s width in millimeters. It’s the distance from one sidewall to the other. A wider tire (like 235) will have more grip but may reduce fuel efficiency.

– 60: This is the aspect ratio. It’s the height of the tire’s sidewall expressed as a percentage of the width. So, a 60 means the sidewall is 60% as tall as the tire is wide. A lower number means a shorter sidewall, which usually means better handling but a firmer ride.

– R: This stands for “Radial,” which is the type of construction. Almost all modern tires are radial, meaning the internal layers run radially across the tire.

– 16: This is the wheel diameter in inches. It tells you what size wheel the tire fits. Common sizes for the Altima range from 16 to 19 inches.

– 95: This is the load index. It indicates how much weight the tire can support. The higher the number, the greater the load capacity. For example, a 95 can carry up to 1,521 pounds per tire.

– H: This is the speed rating. It tells you the maximum speed the tire can safely handle. An “H” rating means the tire is rated for speeds up to 130 mph. Other common ratings include “V” (149 mph) and “W” (168 mph).

So, putting it all together: a 215/60R16 95H tire is 215 mm wide, has a sidewall that’s 60% of that width, fits a 16-inch wheel, can carry up to 1,521 pounds, and is safe up to 130 mph.

Understanding this notation helps you compare tires and make informed decisions. For example, if you’re considering upgrading to larger wheels, you’ll need to adjust the width and aspect ratio to keep the overall diameter the same.

Nissan Altima Tire Sizes by Model Year and Trim

One of the most common questions we get is: “What size tire does my Nissan Altima use?” The answer depends on the year, trim level, and wheel size. Let’s go through the most common tire sizes by generation.

2007–2012 Nissan Altima

This generation came in several trims, including the base, S, SL, and SE. Most models used 16- or 17-inch wheels.

– Base and S trims: Typically used 215/60R16 tires.
– SL and SE trims: Often came with 225/50R17 tires for a sportier look and better handling.

These sizes provided a good balance of comfort and performance, with the 17-inch option offering improved cornering.

2013–2018 Nissan Altima

The 2013 redesign brought a more modern look and updated suspension. Tire sizes varied by trim:

– Base and S trims: Usually equipped with 215/60R16 tires.
– SV and SL trims: Often featured 225/50R17 tires.
– SR (Sport) trim: Came with 235/45R18 tires for enhanced grip and a more aggressive stance.

The SR trim was especially popular among drivers who wanted a sportier feel without sacrificing comfort.

2019–2023 Nissan Altima

The current generation continues the trend of offering multiple tire sizes based on trim and wheel options:

– S and SV trims: Typically use 215/60R16 or 225/50R17 tires.
– SR and Platinum trims: Often come with 235/45R18 tires.
– Platinum with 19-inch wheels: Some high-end models feature 235/40R19 tires for a premium look and improved handling.

These larger wheels and lower-profile tires give the Altima a more athletic appearance and sharper response, though they may reduce ride comfort on rough roads.

2024 Nissan Altima

The latest model continues with similar sizing, though Nissan has emphasized fuel efficiency and comfort. Most trims still use 16- to 18-inch wheels, with the 215/60R16 and 235/45R18 being the most common.

It’s important to note that even within the same model year, tire size can vary based on optional packages. For example, a sunroof or premium audio package might include larger wheels, which require different tires.

Can You Change Tire Size on a Nissan Altima?

Yes, you can change the tire size on your Altima—but it’s not as simple as just picking a bigger or smaller tire. Any change must be done carefully to avoid problems.

What Is “Plus-Sizing”?

“Plus-sizing” means upgrading to larger wheels and tires while keeping the overall diameter the same. For example, you might go from a 16-inch wheel with 215/60R16 tires to an 18-inch wheel with 235/45R18 tires. The key is to maintain the same overall height so your speedometer stays accurate and your suspension isn’t stressed.

To do this, you’ll need to adjust the width and aspect ratio. A wider tire with a lower aspect ratio can fit a larger wheel without changing the total diameter.

Benefits of Plus-Sizing

– Better handling: Larger wheels and lower-profile tires improve cornering and responsiveness.
– Improved aesthetics: Bigger wheels can make your Altima look more aggressive and modern.
– Enhanced braking: Some larger wheels allow for bigger brake rotors, improving stopping power.

Risks and Considerations

– Ride comfort: Lower-profile tires have less cushion, so bumps and potholes feel harsher.
– Increased cost: Larger wheels and tires are more expensive to buy and replace.
– Potential damage: If the size is off, you risk rubbing against the wheel well or damaging suspension components.
– Speedometer error: Even a small change in diameter can throw off your speedometer.

How to Calculate the Right Size

To ensure a safe upgrade, use a tire size calculator (available online) or consult a professional. These tools let you compare different sizes and see how they affect overall diameter, speedometer accuracy, and clearance.

As a general rule, stay within 3% of the original tire’s overall diameter. For example, if your original tire is 26 inches tall, your new tire should be between 25.2 and 26.8 inches.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Altima

Once you know your tire size, the next step is choosing the right type of tire. Not all tires are created equal, and the best choice depends on your driving habits, climate, and priorities.

All-Season Tires

These are the most common type and are designed to perform well in a variety of conditions—dry, wet, and light snow. They offer a good balance of comfort, longevity, and performance.

Popular all-season tires for the Altima include:
– Michelin Defender T+H
– Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack
– Goodyear Assurance MaxLife

These tires are ideal for most drivers and provide reliable performance year-round.

Performance Tires

If you enjoy spirited driving or want better handling, performance tires are a great option. They offer improved grip, shorter braking distances, and sharper cornering—but they may wear out faster and cost more.

Examples include:
– Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+
– Continental ExtremeContact DWS06

These are often used on SR or Platinum trims with larger wheels.

Winter Tires

If you live in a cold climate with snow and ice, winter tires are a must. They’re made with softer rubber compounds that stay flexible in freezing temperatures, providing better traction.

Popular winter tires:
– Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
– Michelin X-Ice Snow

Note: Winter tires should only be used in cold weather. Using them in warm conditions will cause them to wear out quickly.

Touring Tires

Designed for comfort and long tread life, touring tires are perfect for highway driving and daily commuting. They’re quiet, smooth, and durable.

Examples:
– Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus
– Yokohama Avid Ascend GT

Eco-Friendly Tires

Some tires are designed to reduce rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. These are great if you’re looking to save on gas.

Examples:
– Michelin Energy Saver A/S
– Goodyear Fuel Max

Maintaining Your Nissan Altima’s Tires

Buying the right tires is only half the battle—proper maintenance is key to getting the most out of them.

Check Tire Pressure Monthly

Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency, cause uneven wear, and increase the risk of blowouts. Overinflated tires reduce traction and make the ride harsher.

Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Use a reliable gauge and inflate to the PSI listed on the door jamb sticker (usually 32–35 PSI).

Rotate Tires Every 5,000–7,500 Miles

Tire rotation ensures even wear. Front tires wear faster than rear tires, especially on front-wheel-drive vehicles like the Altima.

Follow Nissan’s recommended rotation pattern (usually front-to-rear cross) and keep a record of when you rotated them.

Inspect for Damage and Wear

Look for cracks, bulges, punctures, or uneven wear patterns. If you notice any of these, have your tires inspected by a professional.

Also, check the tread depth. The legal minimum is 2/32 of an inch, but many experts recommend replacing tires at 4/32 for better wet traction.

Align and Balance Regularly

Poor alignment causes uneven wear and pulls the car to one side. Have your alignment checked if you notice steering issues or after hitting a pothole.

Balancing ensures smooth rotation and reduces vibration. Have your tires balanced when you install new ones or if you feel shaking at high speeds.

Store Spare Tires Properly

If you have a full-size spare, store it in a cool, dry place and check its pressure regularly. Don’t forget to include it in your rotation schedule.

Conclusion

So, what size tire does a Nissan Altima use? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your model year, trim level, and wheel size. But with the information in this guide, you now have everything you need to find the right tire size, understand what it means, and choose the best tires for your driving needs.

From the common 215/60R16 on base models to the sporty 235/45R18 on SR trims, the Altima offers a range of tire options to match your style and performance goals. Whether you’re replacing worn tires, upgrading for better handling, or just staying informed, knowing your tire size is the first step toward a safer, smoother, and more efficient ride.

Remember: always check your door jamb sticker or owner’s manual for the most accurate info. And when in doubt, consult a professional. Your tires are too important to guess about.

Drive safe, stay informed, and enjoy every mile in your Nissan Altima.

FAQs

What is the most common tire size for a Nissan Altima?

The most common tire sizes for the Nissan Altima are 215/60R16 and 235/45R18. The 215/60R16 is often used on base and mid-level trims, while the 235/45R18 is common on sportier or higher-end models.

Can I put bigger tires on my Nissan Altima?

Yes, you can install larger tires, but you must maintain the same overall diameter to avoid speedometer errors and drivetrain issues. Use a tire size calculator to ensure compatibility.

How do I know if my tires are the right size?

Check the tire size printed on the sidewall, the door jamb sticker, or your owner’s manual. Compare it to Nissan’s recommended specifications for your model and trim.

What happens if I use the wrong tire size?

Using the wrong size can cause inaccurate speedometer readings, poor handling, increased wear, and potential damage to your suspension or ABS system.

Should I replace all four tires at once?

Yes, it’s best to replace all four tires at the same time to ensure even wear, balanced handling, and optimal performance. If you must replace only two, install them on the rear axle.

How often should I replace my Nissan Altima’s tires?

Most tires last 40,000 to 60,000 miles, but this depends on driving habits, climate, and maintenance. Check tread depth regularly and replace tires when they reach 4/32 of an inch for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is What Size Tire Does A Nissan Altima Use?

What Size Tire Does A Nissan Altima Use is an important topic with many practical applications.