2009 Nissan Altima Wheel Size

The 2009 Nissan Altima, a popular mid-size sedan, offered a blend of comfort, reliability, and a touch of sporty handling. A crucial aspect often overlooked but vital for performance, aesthetics, and safety is the wheel and tire specification. This article dives deep into the wheel sizes, tire specifications, and related considerations for the 2009 Nissan Altima, catering to enthusiasts, owners, and automotive professionals alike.

2009 Nissan Altima Wheel Sizes and Specifications

The 2009 Nissan Altima came with varying wheel sizes depending on the trim level. The most common sizes were:

16-inch wheels: Primarily found on the base models (Altima 2.5).
17-inch wheels: Typically equipped on the higher trim levels, such as the 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, and some 3.5 SE models.
18-inch wheels: Standard on the 3.5 SL and optional on some 3.5 SE trims.

Let's break down the key specifications associated with these wheel sizes:

Wheel Diameter

As mentioned, the diameter options were 16, 17, and 18 inches. This measurement refers to the overall diameter of the wheel.

Wheel Width

Wheel width, measured in inches, determines the tire's bead seat width and significantly impacts handling and tire wear. The typical wheel widths for the 2009 Altima were:

16-inch wheels: Generally 6.5 inches wide.
17-inch wheels: Typically 7.0 inches wide.
18-inch wheels: Commonly 7.5 or 8.0 inches wide.

Bolt Pattern

The bolt pattern, or lug pattern, dictates how the wheel is attached to the vehicle's hub. The 2009 Nissan Altima uses a 5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inch) bolt pattern. This means there are five lug nuts equally spaced on a circle with a diameter of 114.3mm (or 4.5 inches).

It is crucial to use wheels with the correct bolt pattern to ensure proper fitment and safe operation. Using the wrong bolt pattern can lead to wheel detachment and severe accidents.

Offset

Offset is the distance, measured in millimeters (mm), from the wheel's mounting surface to its center line. A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel, while a negative offset means it's closer to the inside. The 2009 Altima typically uses a positive offset, generally ranging from +40mm to +50mm. Using a drastically different offset can affect steering geometry, suspension component clearance, and overall vehicle handling.

Center Bore

The center bore is the diameter of the hole in the center of the wheel that centers it on the vehicle's hub. The 2009 Altima has a center bore of 66.1mm. Using wheels with the correct center bore, or using hub-centric rings to adapt to a larger center bore, is essential for proper wheel centering and reducing vibration.

Tire Specifications for 2009 Nissan Altima

The tire size is intricately linked to the wheel size. Here are the factory-recommended tire sizes for the 2009 Nissan Altima, corresponding to the wheel sizes:

16-inch wheels: 215/60R16
17-inch wheels: 215/55R17
18-inch wheels: 235/45R18

Let's decipher what these numbers mean:

215/235: Tire width in millimeters.
60/55/45: Aspect ratio (tire sidewall height as a percentage of the tire width).
R: Radial tire construction.
16/17/18: Wheel diameter in inches (matching the wheel size).

Beyond size, other important tire specifications include:

Load Index and Speed Rating

The load index indicates the maximum weight a tire can carry when properly inflated. The speed rating denotes the maximum speed at which the tire can be driven for a sustained period. These ratings are critical for safety and performance. Always choose tires with a load index and speed rating that meet or exceed the original equipment specifications.

For the 2009 Altima, expect load indexes around 94-98 and speed ratings of H or V, depending on the tire type.

Tire Pressure

Maintaining proper tire pressure is vital for optimal fuel efficiency, tire wear, and handling. The recommended tire pressure for the 2009 Altima is typically found on a sticker located on the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual. This pressure usually falls within the range of 32-35 PSI, but always refer to the specific recommendations for your vehicle.

Considerations for Aftermarket Wheels and Tires

Many owners choose to upgrade their wheels and tires for aesthetic or performance reasons. Here are some crucial factors to consider when selecting aftermarket options for your 2009 Nissan Altima:

Fitment: Ensure the wheels have the correct bolt pattern (5x114.3mm), center bore (66.1mm), and offset (+40mm to +50mm).
Tire Size: Sticking close to the original tire diameter is generally recommended to avoid speedometer inaccuracies and potential clearance issues. However, slightly wider tires can often be accommodated for improved grip.
Load Rating and Speed Rating: As mentioned earlier, always choose tires with appropriate load and speed ratings.
Wheel Weight: Lighter wheels can improve acceleration, braking, and handling. Rotational mass plays a significant role in performance.
Aesthetics: Wheel design is a personal preference, but consider how the wheels will complement the overall look of your Altima.
Quality: Opt for reputable wheel brands to ensure durability and safety. Cheaper, low-quality wheels can be prone to cracking or bending.

Example Scenarios

Scenario 1: An owner of a base model 2009 Altima 2.5 with 16-inch steel wheels wants to upgrade to alloy wheels for aesthetic reasons. They could choose a set of 17-inch alloy wheels with a 5x114.3mm bolt pattern, a 66.1mm center bore, and an offset of +45mm, paired with 215/55R17 tires.
Scenario 2: An enthusiast wants to improve the handling of their 2009 Altima 3.5 SE. They could opt for a set of lightweight 18-inch wheels (7.5 or 8.0 inches wide) with a 5x114.3mm bolt pattern, a 66.1mm center bore, and an offset within the +40mm to +50mm range, combined with high-performance 235/45R18 tires.

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues related to wheels and tires on the 2009 Nissan Altima and how to address them:

Vibration: Vibration can be caused by unbalanced tires, bent wheels, or loose lug nuts. Balancing the tires and inspecting the wheels for damage are the first steps. Ensure the lug nuts are tightened to the proper torque specification (typically around 80 ft-lbs).
Uneven Tire Wear: Uneven tire wear can indicate alignment issues, worn suspension components, or improper tire inflation. A wheel alignment and inspection of the suspension system are recommended. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure.
Tire Noise: Excessive tire noise can be caused by worn tires, aggressive tire treads, or wheel bearing problems. Inspect the tires for wear and damage. If the noise persists after replacing the tires, a wheel bearing inspection may be necessary.
Rubbing: Rubbing can occur if the wheel and tire combination is too large or the offset is incorrect. Ensure that the chosen wheel and tire size are compatible with the vehicle and that the offset is within the recommended range.

Tools and Resources

For those undertaking wheel and tire work themselves, consider these essential tools:

Torque Wrench: Essential for tightening lug nuts to the correct specification.
Jack and Jack Stands: For safely lifting and supporting the vehicle.
Lug Wrench: For removing and installing lug nuts.
Tire Pressure Gauge: For accurately measuring tire pressure.
Wheel Alignment Tools (for more advanced work): Bubble levels, camber gauges, etc.

Consult reliable online resources, such as tire and wheel size calculators, forums dedicated to Nissan vehicles, and reputable automotive parts retailers, for accurate information and guidance.

Conclusion

Understanding the wheel and tire specifications for your 2009 Nissan Altima is crucial for maintaining its performance, safety, and appearance. By adhering to the recommended sizes, bolt patterns, offsets, and tire specifications, and by addressing potential issues promptly, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Whether you are a seasoned mechanic, an avid automotive enthusiast, or simply a responsible car owner, this comprehensive guide provides the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your 2009 Altima's wheels and tires. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with qualified professionals when in doubt.