2012 Nissan Altima Coupe Accessories

So, you're looking to upgrade or fix something on your 2012 Nissan Altima Coupe? Great choice! These coupes are stylish and reliable, but like any car, they sometimes need a little TLC. As a service advisor for years, I've seen firsthand the common issues and the best solutions, especially when it comes to accessories. Let's dive into some problem areas and how to tackle them.

Problem: Faded or Damaged Floor Mats

One of the first things to show wear and tear in any car is the floor mats. The 2012 Altima Coupe is no exception. Weather, spilled drinks, and just plain foot traffic can leave your mats looking tired and worn. Beyond aesthetics, worn floor mats can be a safety hazard, potentially interfering with the pedals.

Solution: Replacing Your Floor Mats

Thankfully, this is a straightforward fix. You have a few options:

• Option 1: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Mats: These are mats made by Nissan specifically for your car. They'll fit perfectly and maintain the original look and feel. You can usually find them at your local Nissan dealership or online through Nissan parts retailers. The downside? They can be a bit pricier. Expect to pay around $80-$150 for a full set.
• Option 2: Aftermarket Floor Mats: Companies like WeatherTech, Husky Liners, and generic auto parts stores offer a wide range of mats that fit the 2012 Altima Coupe. These can be a great value, especially if you're looking for heavy-duty protection from weather and spills. Prices range from $50-$120 for a full set, depending on the material and features.
• Option 3: Universal Floor Mats: While the cheapest option (around $20-$50), I generally advise against these. The fit is often poor, and they may not stay in place, posing a potential safety risk.

Installation is incredibly simple. Just remove the old mats (if any) and place the new ones in. Make sure they're securely clipped or anchored in place to prevent movement. Most aftermarket mats are laser measured to fit the exact contours of your floor.

Tools Needed: None!

Problem: Dim or Cloudy Headlights

Over time, the plastic headlight lenses on your 2012 Altima Coupe can become oxidized and cloudy. This reduces visibility, especially at night, and makes your car look older than it is. Dim headlights are also a safety concern, potentially making it harder for other drivers to see you.

Solution 1: Headlight Restoration Kit

For mild to moderate cloudiness, a headlight restoration kit can work wonders. These kits typically include sandpaper of varying grits, polishing compound, and sealant. The process involves sanding down the oxidized layer, polishing the lens to restore clarity, and then applying a sealant to protect it from future damage.

This is a DIY project that can save you money. Expect to spend around $20-$40 on a good kit.

Tools Needed: Masking tape, spray bottle with water, headlight restoration kit (containing sandpaper, polishing compound, sealant), microfiber cloths.

Approximate Time: 1-2 hours.

Steps:

1. Clean the headlight lenses thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Mask off the surrounding paint to protect it.
3. Follow the instructions on the headlight restoration kit, typically involving sanding with progressively finer grits of sandpaper.
4. Apply polishing compound and buff the lens until clear.
5. Apply sealant to protect the lens.

Solution 2: Headlight Replacement

If your headlights are severely damaged, cracked, or the cloudiness is too deep for restoration, replacement is the best option. You can replace just the lens (if you can find them separately) or the entire headlight assembly. Replacing the entire assembly is usually easier, especially for DIYers.

• OEM Headlight Assemblies: These ensure a perfect fit and appearance. Expect to pay around $200-$400 per headlight assembly.
• Aftermarket Headlight Assemblies: These can be more affordable, ranging from $100-$300 per assembly. Make sure to choose a reputable brand to ensure quality and proper fitment.

Replacement can be done at home, but requires some mechanical skill. If you're not comfortable working on your car, it's best to have a professional do it.

Tools Needed: Socket set, screwdriver set, pliers (possibly), new headlight assembly.

Approximate Time: 1-2 hours per headlight (depending on your experience).

Estimated Labor Cost (if professionally installed): $100-$200 per headlight.

Problem: Worn or Cracked Weather Stripping

The weather stripping around your doors and windows keeps out rain, wind, and noise. Over time, it can become brittle, cracked, or torn, leading to leaks and increased cabin noise. This is more common in areas with extreme temperatures.

Solution: Replacing the Weather Stripping

Replacing the weather stripping is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair.

• OEM Weather Stripping: Offers the best fit and quality. Expect to pay around $30-$70 per piece.
• Aftermarket Weather Stripping: More affordable, ranging from $15-$50 per piece.

Tools Needed: Flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool, adhesive remover (if necessary), new weather stripping.

Approximate Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour per piece.

Steps:

1. Carefully remove the old weather stripping using a flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool. Be careful not to damage the paint.
2. Clean the surface where the new weather stripping will be installed. Remove any old adhesive residue with adhesive remover.
3. Peel off the backing from the new weather stripping and carefully press it into place, ensuring a tight seal.

Problem: Faulty or Underperforming Car Battery

A weak or failing battery is a common issue, especially as your 2012 Altima Coupe ages. Signs of a failing battery include slow engine cranking, dim headlights, and the dreaded "click-click-click" when you try to start the car.

Solution: Battery Replacement

The good news is that battery replacement is a straightforward process.

Knowing the right battery group size for your Altima is essential. Consult your owner's manual or a parts store to find the correct size.

Tools Needed: Socket set, wrench set, battery terminal cleaner (optional), battery carrier (optional).

Approximate Time: 30 minutes.

Steps:

1. Locate the battery (usually under the hood).
2. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal.
3. Remove the battery hold-down clamp.
4. Carefully lift the old battery out of the tray (using a battery carrier if it's heavy).
5. Clean the battery terminals with a battery terminal cleaner.
6. Place the new battery in the tray.
7. Install the battery hold-down clamp.
8. Connect the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.

Important Safety Tip: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with batteries. Batteries contain acid that can cause burns.

Battery Cost: Expect to pay between $100-$250 for a new battery, depending on the brand and type.

Estimated Labor Cost (if professionally installed): $20-$50.

Problem: Broken or Missing Interior Trim Pieces

Over time, interior trim pieces can break, crack, or come loose. This can be purely cosmetic, but can also be annoying if the piece is something frequently used, like a door handle or a center console latch.

Solution: Replacing the Trim Pieces

Replacement options depend on the specific piece that's broken:

• OEM Trim Pieces: Guaranteed to fit perfectly, but can be more expensive. Available at Nissan dealerships or online parts retailers.
• Aftermarket Trim Pieces: More affordable, but make sure to choose a reputable brand for good fitment.
• Used Trim Pieces: Salvage yards can be a good source for used trim pieces in good condition. This can be a very budget-friendly option.

Tools Needed: Varies depending on the piece being replaced. Common tools include: flathead screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver, trim removal tool, socket set.

Approximate Time: Varies depending on the piece being replaced. Some trim pieces can be replaced in minutes, while others may require more extensive disassembly.

Cost: Varies greatly depending on the piece being replaced and the source (OEM, aftermarket, used).

By addressing these common accessory issues on your 2012 Nissan Altima Coupe, you can keep it looking and running its best for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional mechanic if you're unsure about any repair. Good luck!