2017 Nissan Altima Interior Accessories

The 2017 Nissan Altima represents a mature point in the model's lifespan, balancing reliability with a comfortable and functional interior. Understanding the available accessories and their underlying technology offers insight into Nissan's design choices and how they catered to drivers' needs. This guide explores several key interior accessories, dissecting their functionality and, where possible, the engineering principles at play.

Infotainment and Connectivity

At the heart of the 2017 Altima's interior lies the infotainment system. Available screen sizes varied based on trim level, typically ranging from 5-inch to 7-inch displays. This system controlled audio, navigation (if equipped), and climate settings. Let's delve into some key features:

NissanConnect

NissanConnect was Nissan's telematics service, providing access to apps like Pandora, iHeartRadio, and Facebook. It also offered remote vehicle access, allowing users to lock/unlock doors and start the engine (on certain models) through a smartphone app. The technological underpinnings involve a cellular data connection built into the vehicle, communicating with Nissan's servers. Security protocols, including encryption, were crucial to prevent unauthorized access. The user interface (UI) was a significant factor in usability; Nissan aimed for a simplified, intuitive design.

The effectiveness of NissanConnect heavily depended on the reliability of the cellular network in the user's area. Gaps in coverage could lead to frustrating connectivity issues.

Navigation System

The optional navigation system relied on GPS (Global Positioning System) technology. GPS uses a network of satellites orbiting Earth to pinpoint the vehicle's location. The system triangulates signals from multiple satellites to determine latitude, longitude, and altitude. This data is then combined with map data stored on an SD card or integrated memory to provide turn-by-turn directions. Sophisticated algorithms optimize routes, considering factors like distance, traffic conditions (if real-time traffic data was available), and road closures. The accuracy of the navigation system depended on the quality and currency of the map data, as well as the strength of the GPS signal. Regular map updates were essential to ensure accurate routing.

Audio System

The Altima's audio system typically included AM/FM radio, CD player (on some models), and Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth allowed for wireless audio streaming from smartphones and hands-free calling. Bluetooth uses radio waves to transmit data over short distances. A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) is the Bluetooth profile used for audio streaming, while HFP (Hands-Free Profile) handles voice communication. The quality of the audio output depended on several factors, including the amplifier's power, the quality of the speakers, and the audio codecs used for compression and decompression. Higher-end trim levels often featured upgraded Bose audio systems, incorporating premium speakers and a more powerful amplifier for improved sound clarity and bass response.

Comfort and Convenience Accessories

Beyond infotainment, the 2017 Altima offered several accessories designed to enhance driver and passenger comfort.

Heated Seats

Heated seats used resistive heating elements embedded within the seat cushions and backrests. When activated, an electric current flows through these elements, generating heat. A thermostat monitors the temperature and regulates the current to prevent overheating. The control system typically offered multiple heat settings, allowing occupants to adjust the warmth to their preference. The heating elements are typically made of a high-resistance alloy, such as nichrome, which efficiently converts electrical energy into heat. Safety features, like thermal fuses, were crucial to prevent fires in case of a malfunction.

Automatic Climate Control

Automatic climate control maintained a consistent cabin temperature by automatically adjusting the air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems. It used sensors to monitor the interior temperature and outside temperature. A control module then compared these readings to the desired temperature set by the driver. Based on this comparison, the module adjusted the compressor output, blower fan speed, and air distribution flaps to achieve and maintain the target temperature. This system involved a complex interplay of sensors, actuators, and a control algorithm to provide optimal thermal comfort. Some systems also incorporated a solar sensor to compensate for the sun's radiant heat.

Remote Start System

As mentioned earlier, NissanConnect allowed for remote engine starting. However, some models also offered a dedicated remote start system via the key fob. This system used a radio frequency (RF) transmitter in the key fob to send a signal to a receiver in the vehicle. Upon receiving the signal, the vehicle's computer would initiate the engine starting sequence, provided certain safety conditions were met (e.g., transmission in Park, parking brake engaged). Security measures, such as rolling codes, were employed to prevent unauthorized access and vehicle theft. The system typically ran a series of diagnostic checks before starting the engine to ensure all systems were functioning properly.

Safety and Security Accessories

Safety was a paramount concern, and the 2017 Altima offered several accessories aimed at enhancing driver awareness and protection.

Blind Spot Warning (BSW)

Blind Spot Warning (BSW) used radar sensors mounted in the rear bumper to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots. When a vehicle was detected, a warning light illuminated in the corresponding side mirror, alerting the driver. Some systems also included an audible alert if the driver activated the turn signal in the direction of the detected vehicle. The radar sensors emitted radio waves and analyzed the reflected signals to determine the distance, speed, and position of nearby objects. Sophisticated algorithms filtered out irrelevant data, such as guardrails, to minimize false alarms. The effectiveness of BSW depended on the accurate calibration of the radar sensors and the proper functioning of the warning indicators.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) worked in conjunction with BSW to detect vehicles approaching from the sides when the vehicle was backing up. This was particularly useful when backing out of parking spaces with limited visibility. Similar to BSW, RCTA used radar sensors in the rear bumper to monitor the surrounding area. If a vehicle was detected approaching from either side, the system would provide an audible and visual warning to the driver. RCTA enhanced safety by alerting drivers to potential hazards they might not otherwise see.

Rearview Camera

A rearview camera provided a live video feed of the area behind the vehicle, displayed on the infotainment screen. This helped drivers to see obstacles and pedestrians when backing up. The camera typically had a wide-angle lens to provide a broader field of view. The video signal was transmitted wirelessly or via a wired connection to the infotainment system. Some systems also included guidelines on the screen to help drivers judge distances. The quality of the camera image depended on the resolution of the sensor and the clarity of the lens. Low-light performance was also a key consideration, as the camera needed to function effectively in dimly lit environments.

In conclusion, the 2017 Nissan Altima's interior accessories showcase a blend of convenience, comfort, and safety technologies. Understanding the underlying principles behind these accessories provides a greater appreciation for the engineering efforts involved in creating a modern and user-friendly driving experience. From the sophisticated algorithms of the navigation system to the radar technology of the blind spot warning, each accessory contributes to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.