2007 Nissan Altima With Rims

The 2007 Nissan Altima marked the beginning of the fourth generation for this popular mid-size sedan. While it might not be the newest vehicle on the road, its ubiquity means it's still a relevant topic for automotive professionals, particularly those involved in service, repair, and aftermarket customization. This article delves into the technical aspects, performance characteristics, and long-term ownership considerations of the 2007 Altima, especially when equipped with aftermarket rims.

Technical Specifications & Engineering Choices

The 2007 Altima came with two engine options:

2.5-liter QR25DE Inline-4: This engine was the workhorse of the lineup, producing approximately 175 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, four valves per cylinder, and electronic fuel injection. The QR25DE was designed for fuel efficiency and reliability, though it could suffer from issues like excessive oil consumption in later years.
3.5-liter VQ35DE V6: This engine was the performance upgrade, delivering around 270 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Part of Nissan's award-winning VQ engine family, it offered a smoother and more powerful driving experience. Like the inline-4, it used a DOHC configuration and four valves per cylinder.

Transmission choices included a 6-speed manual (available primarily on the 2.5 S and 3.5 SE trims) and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Nissan called Xtronic CVT. The CVT was designed to optimize fuel economy by providing a seamless and continuously variable gear ratio. However, the CVT in the 2007 Altima (and similar year models) has been a source of concern regarding longevity and reliability. Proper maintenance, including frequent fluid changes with the correct Nissan NS-2 fluid, is critical.

The Altima's chassis featured a front-wheel-drive layout, independent MacPherson strut front suspension, and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup aimed to provide a balance of comfort and handling. The power steering system was a speed-sensitive, rack-and-pinion design.

Braking systems consisted of power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drum brakes (on some base models), or four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) on higher trims. Stability control (Vehicle Dynamic Control, VDC) was available as an option.

Aftermarket Rims: Considerations and Impact

Upgrading to aftermarket rims is a common modification for the 2007 Altima. The factory wheel sizes typically ranged from 16 to 17 inches, but owners often opt for larger sizes (18 inches or even 19 inches) for aesthetic reasons. However, it's crucial to consider the following when selecting aftermarket rims:

Wheel Offset and Bolt Pattern: Ensure the new rims have the correct offset and bolt pattern (5x114.3mm for the 2007 Altima) to guarantee proper fitment. Incorrect offset can lead to tire rubbing, suspension damage, and altered handling characteristics.
Tire Size: Choosing the correct tire size is crucial to maintain speedometer accuracy and prevent issues with the ABS and VDC systems. A tire size calculator can be a helpful tool.
Wheel Weight: Lighter wheels can improve acceleration, braking, and handling. However, excessively light wheels might sacrifice durability.
Load Rating: The wheels must have a load rating that meets or exceeds the vehicle's gross axle weight rating (GAWR).

Installing larger rims can negatively impact ride comfort, increase road noise, and potentially decrease fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance. Conversely, it can improve handling and steering response, depending on the specific wheels and tires chosen.

Real-World Performance and Driving Experience

The 2007 Altima offered a competent driving experience. The 2.5-liter engine provided adequate power for daily commuting, while the 3.5-liter V6 delivered a more engaging and spirited performance. The suspension provided a reasonable balance between comfort and handling, although it wasn't as sporty as some competitors like the Mazda 6. The steering was generally responsive, but some drivers found it to be somewhat numb.

Fuel economy was a key consideration for many Altima buyers. The 2.5-liter engine offered decent fuel efficiency, typically in the range of 23-25 mpg combined. The V6 naturally consumed more fuel, with combined figures around 20-22 mpg.

The interior was generally well-designed and comfortable, with ample space for passengers. However, the materials used were not always of the highest quality, and some owners reported issues with premature wear and tear.

Alternatives and Comparisons

The 2007 Altima competed in a crowded mid-size sedan segment. Key alternatives included:

Toyota Camry: Known for its reliability and resale value, the Camry offered a more refined and comfortable ride, but arguably less sporty handling.
Honda Accord: The Accord provided a better driving experience than the Camry, with more responsive handling and a more engaging engine. It also had a strong reputation for reliability.
Mazda 6: The Mazda 6 was the sportiest option in the segment, offering sharp handling and a stylish design. However, it wasn't as spacious or comfortable as some of its competitors.
Ford Fusion: The Fusion offered a good blend of style, comfort, and value. It was also available with all-wheel drive, which was a unique feature in this class.

Pros of the 2007 Altima:

Stylish exterior design (for its time).
Available V6 engine offered strong performance.
Generally comfortable interior.
Competitively priced.

Cons of the 2007 Altima:

CVT transmission reliability concerns.
Some interior materials felt cheap.
2.5-liter engine prone to oil consumption issues.
Not as refined or reliable as some competitors.

Reliability Aspects and Maintenance Tips

The 2007 Altima has a mixed reputation for reliability. The CVT transmission is a known weak point, and proper maintenance is crucial to prolong its lifespan. Frequent fluid changes (every 30,000 miles) with the correct Nissan NS-2 fluid are essential. Using aftermarket fluids is not recommended.

The 2.5-liter engine can suffer from excessive oil consumption, particularly in later years. Regularly checking the oil level and using a high-quality synthetic oil can help mitigate this issue. Other common problems include issues with the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and wheel bearings.

Maintenance Tips:

Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual.
Use genuine Nissan parts or high-quality aftermarket alternatives.
Pay close attention to the CVT transmission and perform fluid changes regularly.
Regularly check the oil level and top it off as needed.
Inspect the brakes and suspension components for wear and tear.

Future Trends and Forward-Looking Note

While the 2007 Altima is now a used vehicle, it's important to consider the broader trends in the automotive industry. Electrification is rapidly transforming the automotive landscape, with electric vehicles (EVs) becoming increasingly popular. Autonomous driving technology is also advancing, promising to revolutionize the way we drive. Furthermore, connected car technologies are becoming more prevalent, enabling vehicles to communicate with each other and with infrastructure.

Looking ahead, the automotive industry is likely to become more focused on sustainability, connectivity, and autonomy. Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will gradually be replaced by EVs, and software will play an increasingly important role in vehicle design and functionality. As technology continues to evolve, automotive professionals will need to adapt and acquire new skills to remain competitive in this dynamic industry. This includes training in electric vehicle repair, software development, and data analytics. The automotive professional of the future will need to be versatile, adaptable, and constantly learning to keep pace with the rapid changes in the industry. The aftermarket and customization segment, like the addition of rims discussed earlier, will likely shift towards components and software geared for EV performance and personalization.