Spare Tire For Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima, a popular mid-size sedan, offers reliability and practicality. However, like any vehicle, maintaining its components, including the spare tire, is crucial. Neglecting the spare can leave you stranded during an emergency. This article covers essential aspects of your Altima's spare tire, from maintenance and troubleshooting to common issues and practical solutions.

Understanding Your Altima's Spare Tire

Most Nissan Altimas come equipped with either a full-size spare or a temporary spare tire (also known as a "donut"). Identifying which type you have is vital for proper usage. A full-size spare is the same size as your regular tires, allowing you to drive without restrictions after installation. A temporary spare, on the other hand, is smaller and lighter, intended for limited use until you can repair or replace the flat tire.

The location of the spare tire also varies. Typically, it resides in the trunk, beneath a floor panel. In some older models, it might be mounted externally under the vehicle. Consult your owner's manual to locate your spare tire and understand the jacking points for your specific Altima model (e.g., 2015 Altima, 2018 Altima, or 2020 Altima).

Spare Tire Maintenance: Prevention is Key

Regular maintenance ensures your spare tire is ready when needed. Follow these steps:

Checking Tire Pressure

This is the most crucial maintenance task. Spare tires, especially temporary ones, often require higher inflation pressures than regular tires (typically 60 PSI). Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check the pressure monthly. A deflated spare is useless. Always inflate the spare to the recommended pressure listed on the tire sidewall or in your owner's manual.

Problem: Low spare tire pressure.
Cause: Natural air loss over time, slow leaks.
Solution: Inflate the tire to the correct pressure. If it consistently loses pressure, inspect it for leaks (using soapy water). If a leak is present, the tire needs repair or replacement.

Visual Inspection

Regularly inspect the spare for signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, sidewall cracks, or embedded objects. Any of these issues compromise the tire's integrity. Also, check the tire's age. Even if it looks good, tires deteriorate over time due to UV exposure and ozone. A tire older than 6-10 years should be replaced, regardless of tread depth.

Problem: Cracks or bulges on the spare tire sidewall.
Cause: Dry rot (aging), impact damage.
Solution: Replace the spare tire immediately. Driving on a damaged tire is extremely dangerous.

Cleaning and Storage

Keep the spare tire clean and dry to prevent rust and corrosion, especially if stored in the trunk. Ensure the storage area is free of moisture. If your Altima has an externally mounted spare, protect it with a tire cover to shield it from the elements. Also, inspect the jack and lug wrench for rust or damage. Lubricate the jack mechanism periodically to ensure smooth operation.

Problem: Rusted or seized jack and lug wrench.
Cause: Exposure to moisture and lack of lubrication.
Solution: Clean the jack and lug wrench with a wire brush. Apply penetrating oil to loosen any seized parts. Lubricate the jack mechanism with grease. If severely damaged, replace the jack and lug wrench.

Troubleshooting Common Spare Tire Issues

Even with regular maintenance, issues can arise when you need to use the spare. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Missing or Damaged Spare Tire Tools

A missing jack, lug wrench, or wheel chock renders the spare tire useless. Before you need it, ensure all tools are present and in good working order. Many Altima owners report missing or incomplete tool kits, especially in used vehicles.

Problem: Missing jack, lug wrench, or wheel chock.
Cause: Loss or theft.
Solution: Purchase replacement tools from a Nissan dealership, auto parts store, or online retailer. Ensure the replacement jack is rated for the weight of your Altima. A scissor jack is the most common type.

Stuck Spare Tire

The spare tire can become stuck in its storage compartment due to rust, corrosion, or debris. This is particularly common in Altimas with externally mounted spares.

Problem: Spare tire stuck in the storage compartment.
Cause: Rust, corrosion, or debris buildup.
Solution: Apply penetrating oil to the retaining mechanism. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the tire to loosen it. If necessary, use a pry bar (carefully!) to dislodge the tire. Clean the storage area thoroughly before reinstalling the spare.

Incorrect Lug Nut Size

Sometimes, the lug nuts for the spare tire are different from the regular wheels, especially if aftermarket wheels have been installed. Make sure the lug wrench fits the spare tire's lug nuts before you need to use it. Keep a separate set of lug nuts and the correct wrench if necessary.

Problem: Lug wrench doesn't fit the spare tire's lug nuts.
Cause: Aftermarket wheels with different lug nut sizes.
Solution: Keep a separate set of lug nuts and the correct wrench for the spare tire in the trunk. Clearly label them to avoid confusion.

Damaged Jacking Points

Incorrect jacking can damage the vehicle's jacking points, making it difficult or impossible to safely lift the car. Always use the designated jacking points as specified in your owner's manual. For example, on many Altimas, the jacking points are located along the reinforced pinch welds behind the front wheels and in front of the rear wheels.

Problem: Damaged jacking points.
Cause: Incorrect jack placement, using the wrong type of jack.
Solution: Avoid further damage by using the correct jacking points. If the jacking points are severely damaged, have them repaired by a professional before attempting to change the tire. Use a piece of wood between the jack and the pinch weld to prevent further damage.

Real-World Scenarios and Solutions

Let's consider some practical scenarios:

Scenario 1: Flat tire on the highway. You pull over safely, but discover the spare tire is flat. Solution: Call roadside assistance or a towing company. Prevention: Regular tire pressure checks are vital.

Scenario 2: Stripped lug nut. You can't remove the lug nut to change the tire. Solution: Use a lug nut removal tool (available at auto parts stores) or call roadside assistance. Consider carrying a lug nut removal tool in your Altima.

Scenario 3: Unable to loosen lug nuts. They are too tight. Solution: Use a breaker bar for extra leverage. If you still can't loosen them, try using your foot to apply pressure to the lug wrench (be careful not to slip). As a last resort, call roadside assistance.

Scenario 4: Using a temporary spare. Remember the limitations! Drive slowly (usually under 50 mph) and only for a short distance to the nearest repair shop. Temporary spares have significantly reduced traction and handling.

Maintaining Your Nissan Altima for Longevity

Beyond spare tire maintenance, regular car care is essential for your Altima's reliability:

Regular oil changes: Follow Nissan's recommended oil change intervals.
Tire rotations: Rotate your tires every 6,000-8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
Brake inspections: Check brake pads and rotors regularly and replace them when necessary.
Fluid checks: Monitor and top off all fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
Scheduled maintenance: Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. This includes replacing spark plugs, air filters, and other components at specified intervals.

By proactively addressing potential issues and maintaining your Altima properly, you can minimize the chances of roadside emergencies and ensure your vehicle remains a reliable mode of transportation for years to come. Don't neglect your spare tire; it's a vital component that can save you time, money, and frustration in a pinch.