2017 Nissan Altima Tire Size Guide

Hey guys, are you looking to find the perfect tire size for your 2017 Nissan Altima? You've come to the right place! Getting the right tires is super important, not just for how your car looks, but also for its performance, safety, and even fuel efficiency. Sticking with the factory-recommended tire size ensures your Altima handles the way it was designed to, giving you that smooth and comfortable ride Nissan is known for. Plus, it prevents any wonky speedometer readings or issues with your ABS and traction control systems. So, let's dive deep and figure out exactly what you need to know about the 2017 Altima's tire specs. We'll cover everything from the standard sizes across different trims to what those numbers and letters on the tire actually mean. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, and once you get the hang of it, you'll be a tire-size pro!

Understanding Your 2017 Nissan Altima's Tire Size

Alright, let's break down how to find the correct tire size for your 2017 Nissan Altima. The most reliable place to check is your car's driver's side doorjamb. Seriously, open that door and look for a sticker – it’s usually right there on the frame. This sticker is your golden ticket; it lists the original equipment (OE) tire size, the recommended tire pressure, and sometimes even the VIN. If you can't find the sticker or it's faded, no worries! Your owner's manual is another fantastic resource. It'll have a dedicated section detailing all the tire specifications for your specific Altima model and trim. These are the definitive sources, so trust them above all else.

Now, what about those cryptic numbers like P215/60R16? Let's decode them because understanding this is key to choosing the right replacement tires.

P: This 'P' at the beginning stands for 'P-metric' tire, which is used for passenger vehicles. Some tires might have an 'LT' for 'Light Truck', but for the Altima, you'll almost always see the 'P'.
215: This is the tire's width in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. So, 215mm means your tire is 215 millimeters wide.
60: This number is the aspect ratio, also known as the tire's profile. It represents the tire's sidewall height as a percentage of its width. In this case, 60 means the sidewall height is 60% of the 215mm width.
R: This 'R' simply means the tire has a radial construction. This is the standard for almost all modern car tires.
16: This final number is the wheel diameter in inches. This tells you the size of the rim your tire is designed to fit. So, a '16' means it fits a 16-inch wheel.

So, putting it all together, a P215/60R16 tire is a radial tire for passenger cars, with a width of 215mm, an aspect ratio of 60%, and designed for a 16-inch wheel. Easy peasy, right?

Common Tire Sizes for the 2017 Nissan Altima by Trim Level

Okay, let's get specific, guys. The 2017 Nissan Altima tire size can vary slightly depending on which trim level you have. Nissan often equips different trims with different wheel sizes, which naturally means different tire sizes too. Knowing your trim is crucial for nailing down the exact specs. Here are the most common setups you'll find:

Nissan Altima S (and sometimes SV)

For the base model, the Nissan Altima S, and often the SV trim, you'll typically find wheels sized at 16 inches. The corresponding tire size you'll be looking for is P215/60R16. This is a very common size and provides a great balance of comfort and handling for daily driving. The 215mm width offers decent grip, and the 60 aspect ratio gives you a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections nicely. These tires are usually quite affordable too, which is a nice bonus for budget-conscious owners.

Nissan Altima SR and SL (and sometimes SV)

Moving up the ladder, the sportier Nissan Altima SR trim, and the more luxurious SL trim, often come equipped with larger 17-inch wheels. This upgrade usually means a tire size of P215/55R17. You'll notice the aspect ratio has decreased slightly from 60 to 55. This means the sidewall is a bit shorter relative to the tire's width. What does this translate to? You'll likely experience a slightly firmer ride and sharper handling. The lower profile tire provides better road feel and can improve cornering performance. The wider stance that 17-inch wheels often imply also contributes to better traction.

Nissan Altima 2.5 SL and 3.5 SL (Potential for 18-inch Wheels)

Now, for those Altima models that pack a bit more punch or have premium packages, you might even find 18-inch wheels. This is most commonly seen on the higher-end trims like the Altima 2.5 SL and the powerful 3.5 SL. The tire size associated with these larger wheels is typically P245/45R18. Notice the significant changes here: the width has increased to 245mm, and the aspect ratio has dropped to 45. This combination offers the most aggressive stance and the best potential for grip and performance. However, it also means the ride will be the firmest, and the tires might be more susceptible to damage from potholes. Also, expect these tires to be a bit pricier.

Important Note: While these are the most common tire sizes, there can be variations. Always, always double-check the sticker on your driver's side doorjamb or your owner's manual to confirm the exact size for your specific vehicle. Don't rely solely on what others have; your car knows best!

Why Sticking to the Correct Tire Size Matters

So, why all the fuss about the correct 2017 Nissan Altima tire size? Why not just slap on whatever fits? Well, guys, it's more than just aesthetics. Using the wrong size tires can actually mess with your car in several significant ways. Think of your car's systems as being finely tuned, and the tires are a critical part of that tune.

Speedometer and Odometer Accuracy: This is a big one. Your car's computer uses the tire's rotation speed to calculate how fast you're going and how far you've traveled. If you put on tires that are a different diameter (either taller or shorter) than the OE size, your speedometer and odometer will be inaccurate. If the tires are larger, your speedometer will read lower than your actual speed, and your odometer will rack up fewer miles than you've actually driven. Conversely, smaller tires will make your speedometer read higher and your odometer will over-report mileage. This can lead to speeding tickets, incorrect fuel consumption calculations, and issues when servicing your car based on mileage.
Performance and Handling: The engineers at Nissan spent a ton of time figuring out the perfect tire size to make your Altima handle just right. The width, aspect ratio, and overall diameter all affect how the car grips the road, how it corners, and how stable it feels. Using significantly wider tires might offer more grip in dry conditions, but could also increase rolling resistance and reduce performance in wet or snowy weather. Significantly smaller tires might feel less stable at higher speeds. The correct size ensures optimal balance for safety and comfort.
Safety Systems: Modern cars like your 2017 Altima have sophisticated safety systems like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control. These systems rely on sensors that monitor the rotational speed of each wheel. If your tires have a different rolling circumference than what the system expects, these sensors can get confused. This can lead to ABS not working correctly during hard braking or traction control cutting power at the wrong times, potentially compromising your safety.
Fuel Economy: Believe it or not, the tire size can impact your gas mileage. Tires with lower rolling resistance are generally preferred for better fuel economy. While changing to a slightly different size might not drastically alter MPG, sticking to the OE size is usually the safest bet for maintaining your Altima's rated fuel efficiency. Wider tires, for example, often have higher rolling resistance.
Suspension and Drivetrain Stress: Larger or heavier tires can put extra strain on your car's suspension components and even the drivetrain. This can lead to premature wear and tear on parts like shocks, struts, and bearings. While mild upgrades might be fine, drastically oversized tires can cause more harm than good.
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So, you see, sticking to the manufacturer's recommended tire size is pretty darn important for keeping your 2017 Altima running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. It's not just about looks; it's about the overall health and performance of your vehicle.

When Can You Deviate from the OE Tire Size?

Alright, let's talk about when it might be okay to stray a little from the original 2017 Nissan Altima tire size. While sticking to the factory specs is generally the best advice, there are situations where slight modifications can be acceptable, and even beneficial, if done correctly. The key here is minor adjustments and understanding the implications.

Performance Tires: If you're looking to enhance your Altima's handling, you might consider performance-oriented tires. Sometimes, going up one size in wheel diameter (e.g., from 16-inch to 17-inch, or 17-inch to 18-inch) while maintaining a similar overall tire diameter is a popular upgrade. For example, if your car came with P215/60R16, you might consider P215/55R17 or even P245/45R18. The goal is usually to achieve a lower aspect ratio (shorter sidewall) for better responsiveness and a wider tire for improved grip. However, you must ensure the overall diameter of the new tire setup remains very close to the original. A difference of more than 1-3% can throw off your speedometer, odometer, and safety systems. Use an online tire size calculator to compare different sizes and their overall diameters.
Comfort-Focused Tires: Conversely, if your priority is maximizing ride comfort, especially if you have a trim with larger, firmer tires (like 17 or 18-inch wheels), you might consider going up one aspect ratio size (e.g., from P215/55R17 to P215/60R17, if such a size exists and fits). This increases the sidewall height, providing more cushioning. However, this might slightly reduce handling precision. Again, check the overall diameter and ensure it’s close to the original.
Winter Tires: For those living in areas with harsh winters, investing in a set of dedicated winter tires is a smart move. You might choose a slightly narrower tire with a higher aspect ratio for better traction in snow and ice. For example, if your standard size is P215/55R17, you might opt for a P205/60R17 or P205/55R17 winter tire. Narrower tires tend to cut through snow better and provide more focused pressure on the road surface. Just make sure the overall diameter stays within that acceptable range.
Slightly Larger Wheels for Aesthetics: Some folks just love the look of bigger wheels. Going from, say, a 16-inch wheel to a 17-inch wheel can be done, but it requires matching the tire size appropriately so the overall diameter stays the same. For instance, switching from P215/60R16 to P215/55R17 maintains a very similar overall diameter. This is a common cosmetic upgrade. Be aware that larger wheels and lower-profile tires are often heavier, which can slightly impact acceleration and fuel economy, and make the ride harsher.

The Golden Rule: When considering deviating from the OE size, always perform these checks:

Overall Diameter: Use a tire size calculator to ensure the new size's overall diameter is within +/- 3% of the original size. This is crucial for speedometer and ABS accuracy.
Width Clearance: Make sure the new tire width doesn't rub against the fenders, suspension components, or brakes. This is especially important if you're going wider.
Load Index and Speed Rating: Ensure the new tires have a load index and speed rating that are equal to or greater than the original tires specified by Nissan. These ratings are vital for safety and performance under load and at speed.
Check Your Owner's Manual: Nissan might provide guidance or alternative approved sizes in the owner's manual.

If you're unsure, it's always best to consult with a reputable tire professional. They can help you select compatible sizes that meet your needs without compromising your Altima's safety and performance.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your 2017 Altima

Beyond just the size, picking the right type of tire for your 2017 Nissan Altima is essential for getting the most out of your ride. Think about where you drive, what the weather is like, and what you value most – comfort, performance, or longevity. Here’s a quick rundown of the main categories you’ll encounter:

All-Season Tires: These are the most common type fitted as standard equipment, and for good reason. All-season tires are designed to provide a decent performance across a wide range of conditions – dry, wet, and light snow. They offer a good balance of tread life, ride comfort, and traction. If you live in an area with moderate weather and don't encounter heavy snow or extreme temperatures, a good set of all-seasons will likely serve you well year-round. Brands like Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, and Cooper all offer excellent all-season options for the Altima.
Performance Tires: If you enjoy a more spirited driving experience or want sharper handling, consider performance tires. These tires typically have a lower aspect ratio (shorter sidewall) and a wider tread for better grip and cornering ability. They often provide a sportier feel and improved braking performance. However, they usually come at the cost of reduced tread life and a firmer ride. They may also not perform as well in cold or wet conditions compared to all-seasons. Performance tires are often found on the SR trims or as an upgrade.
Touring Tires: For those who prioritize a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride, touring tires are an excellent choice. These tires are engineered to minimize road noise and absorb bumps effectively. They generally offer a long tread life and good fuel efficiency. While they might not offer the sharpest handling, they excel at providing a serene driving experience, perfect for long commutes or relaxed cruising. Many premium all-season tires often fall into the touring category.
Winter Tires (Snow Tires): If you live in an area that gets significant snow and ice, winter tires are a must-have safety investment. They are specifically designed with special rubber compounds that stay flexible in cold temperatures and tread patterns that provide superior grip on snow, ice, and slush. All-season tires simply can't match their performance in true winter conditions. Remember, winter tires are best used during the colder months and should be swapped out for your regular tires when temperatures consistently rise above 45°F (7°C).

When you're shopping, pay attention to the Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature ratings (the UTQG system). Higher treadwear numbers mean longer life. 'AA' traction is the highest, and 'A' temperature is the highest. Also, check reviews from other drivers and professional testers to see how specific tires perform in real-world conditions.

Final Thoughts on Your 2017 Altima Tires

So there you have it, folks! We've covered the essential 2017 Nissan Altima tire size information, from decoding those numbers to understanding the differences across trims and why sticking to the right size is so critical. Remember, your car’s doorjamb sticker or owner’s manual are your best friends when it comes to confirming the exact specifications for your vehicle. Whether you're looking for standard all-seasons for daily commuting or performance tires for a bit more fun, choosing the correct size and type will ensure your Altima rides safely, handles beautifully, and performs at its best. Don't skimp on your tires – they're arguably the most important part connecting your car to the road. Drive safe!