2020 Nissan Altima Interior Accessories

The 2020 Nissan Altima offers a comfortable and surprisingly tech-forward interior, but there's always room for improvement, personalization, and enhanced functionality. This guide delves into a range of interior accessories, catering to intermediate car owners, modders, and DIY mechanics who want to upgrade their Altima's cabin. We'll cover everything from practical additions to aesthetic enhancements, providing technical insights and installation tips where applicable.

Seat Covers: Protection and Style

One of the first interior upgrades many consider is seat covers. Beyond aesthetics, seat covers protect your original upholstery from wear and tear, spills, and UV damage. When choosing seat covers for your 2020 Altima, consider the following:

Material: Options range from neoprene (water-resistant and durable), leatherette (simulated leather for a premium look), cloth (breathable and comfortable), to ballistic nylon (ultra-durable for heavy-duty use). Consider the climate you live in and your typical use case.
Fit: "Universal fit" covers are cheaper but often lack a snug, professional look. "Custom fit" covers are designed specifically for the 2020 Altima's seats, ensuring a perfect contour and allowing full access to seat controls and airbags. These are generally more expensive but offer superior aesthetics and safety.
Airbag Compatibility: This is crucial. Ensure the seat covers are explicitly marked as airbag compatible. Look for covers with designated weak seams that will tear open upon airbag deployment. Installing non-compatible covers can obstruct the airbag, leading to serious injury.

Installation Tip: For a clean installation, remove the headrests and bottom seat cushion (if possible, consult your Altima's service manual for instructions). Tuck the seat cover edges securely between the seat and the plastic trim. Use hog rings and hog ring pliers for securing the bottom of the cover for a truly professional, non-shifting fit.

Floor Mats: Protecting Your Carpets

Floor mats are another essential accessory. They shield your Altima's carpet from dirt, mud, snow, and spills. There are two primary types:

Carpet Floor Mats: Provide a soft, comfortable feel and are available in various colors and designs. They are best suited for lighter use and require regular cleaning.
All-Weather Floor Mats (Rubber or Thermoplastic Elastomer - TPE): More durable and water-resistant than carpet mats. They typically have raised edges to contain spills and are easier to clean. TPE offers better cold-weather flexibility than traditional rubber.

Fit and Retention: Just like seat covers, custom-fit floor mats are superior. They'll contour to your Altima's floor pan perfectly. Look for mats with factory retention clips or anchor points that secure them to the floor, preventing them from sliding around and potentially interfering with the pedals. Aftermarket floor mats can also include "nib backing" or a "grip zone" to help further increase retention. The Coefficient of Friction between the mat and the carpet plays a large role in preventing slippage.

Dashboard Accessories: Organization and Functionality

The dashboard is a prime location for adding accessories that enhance organization and functionality:

Dashboard Organizers: These include trays, cubbies, and non-slip mats that help keep small items like phones, keys, and sunglasses from sliding around. Look for organizers made from materials that won't melt or warp in high heat.
Phone Mounts: A secure phone mount is essential for hands-free navigation and communication. Options include:
- Suction Cup Mounts: Attach to the windshield or dashboard using a suction cup. Ensure the suction cup is strong and the mounting arm is stable.
- Air Vent Mounts: Clip onto the air vents. These are generally less stable than suction cup mounts but are more discreet.
- Magnetic Mounts: Use a magnet to hold the phone. Require attaching a thin metal plate to the back of the phone or phone case. Be aware of potential interference with wireless charging.
- CD Slot Mounts: Insert into the CD player slot. Offers a stable and convenient position, but sacrifices CD player functionality.
Dashboard Cameras (Dash Cams): Record video footage of your driving, providing evidence in case of an accident. Features to consider include:
- Resolution: At least 1080p for clear video.
- Field of View: Wide angle lens (140-170 degrees) to capture more of the road.
- Loop Recording: Automatically overwrites old footage.
- G-Sensor: Detects impacts and automatically saves the footage.
- Parking Mode: Records when the car is parked (requires a constant power source).

Wiring Considerations (for Dash Cams): For a clean and professional installation of a dash cam, consider using a hardwire kit. This connects the dash cam directly to the car's electrical system, providing a constant power source and eliminating the need for a cigarette lighter adapter. A fuse tap will allow you to draw power from an existing circuit without cutting wires. Consult your Altima's wiring diagram to identify a suitable circuit (e.g., the dome light or radio). Always use a multimeter to verify the voltage and polarity before connecting the dash cam.

Lighting Upgrades: Interior Ambiance

Upgrading your Altima's interior lighting can significantly enhance its ambiance:

LED Interior Lights: Replace the standard incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs. LEDs are brighter, more energy-efficient, and last longer. Ensure you select the correct bulb type (e.g., festoon, wedge) for each location.
Ambient Lighting Kits: Add subtle accent lighting to the footwells, dashboard, or door panels. These kits typically use LED strips and can be controlled with a remote or smartphone app, allowing you to customize the color and brightness.

Technical Considerations (LEDs): LEDs are polarity sensitive. If an LED bulb doesn't light up after installation, try rotating it 180 degrees. When installing ambient lighting kits, carefully plan the wiring route to avoid pinching or damaging the wires. Use zip ties to secure the wires and keep them out of the way. Consider using wire loom to protect the wires from abrasion.

Cargo Area Accessories: Organization and Protection

The cargo area can benefit from several accessories:

Cargo Liners: Protect the trunk floor from spills, dirt, and scratches. Similar to floor mats, choose between carpet and all-weather options.
Cargo Organizers: Collapsible containers or dividers that help keep items organized and prevent them from sliding around.
Cargo Nets: Secure loose items, preventing them from shifting during transport.

Steering Wheel Covers

Steering wheel covers can enhance grip, comfort, and style. Choose a cover that fits snugly and doesn't interfere with steering. Leather or microfiber options provide a premium feel. Some covers may require stretching and careful placement for a perfect fit. Be wary of excessively thick covers that can reduce steering feel.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right interior accessories for your 2020 Nissan Altima is a personal decision, depending on your needs, budget, and style preferences. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make informed choices that enhance your driving experience and protect your investment. Remember to prioritize safety and compatibility when selecting and installing accessories, and consult your Altima's service manual for specific instructions and recommendations. And don't forget that a clean interior is the best base for any upgrades - regular vacuuming and detailing will keep your car looking its best.