Nissan Altima Lug Nut Torque Specs
Introduction
When it comes to maintaining your Nissan Altima, one crucial aspect is ensuring that the lug nuts are properly tightened. Lug nuts secure the wheels to the vehicle’s hub and play a vital role in maintaining the safety and stability of your car. In this article, we will discuss the recommended lug nut torque specifications for the Nissan Altima.
Lug Nut Torque Specs
To ensure the lug nuts are tightened to the appropriate level, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. The torque specification is typically measured in pound-feet (lb. ft) or Newton meters (Nm). Below is a table outlining the lug nut torque specs for various Nissan Altima models:
| Model Year | Torque Specs (lb. ft/Nm) |
|---|---|
| 2002-2006 | 80-100 lb. ft / 108-135 Nm |
| 2007-2012 | 80-100 lb. ft / 108-135 Nm |
| 2013-2018 | 80-100 lb. ft / 108-135 Nm |
| 2019-Present | 80-100 lb. ft / 108-135 Nm |
Steps to Properly Torque Lug Nuts
To ensure the lug nuts are tightened correctly, follow these steps:
- Start by parking your Nissan Altima on a flat, level surface and engaging the parking brake.
- Using a lug wrench or a torque wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you intend to work on. Loosen them in a diagonal pattern to prevent any damage to the wheel or studs.
- Once the lug nuts are loosened, use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground, ensuring it is secure and stable.
- Remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the wheel.
- Clean the wheel hub and the mounting surface to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening.
- Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque value according to your Nissan Altima’s model year (refer to the table above).
- After tightening, double-check the lug nuts to ensure they are properly secured.
- Repeat the process for each wheel, following the same steps.
- Finally, lower the vehicle back to the ground and use the torque wrench to recheck the lug nuts’ tightness.
Conclusion
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your Nissan Altima is crucial for the safety and performance of your vehicle. By following the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications and using the correct tightening procedure, you can ensure that your wheels are securely fastened. Regularly checking and maintaining the lug nut torque will help prevent accidents and ensure a smooth driving experience.
