2018 Nissan Altima Lug Nut Torque Specifications
Why Lug Nut Torque Matters
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your 2018 Nissan Altima is crucial for the safety and performance of your vehicle. The lug nuts secure the wheels to the car’s hub, ensuring that they stay in place while driving. If the lug nuts are not tightened to the correct torque specification, it can lead to a variety of issues, including wheel vibrations, uneven tire wear, and even the possibility of the wheels coming loose while on the road.
Recommended Torque Specifications
To ensure the lug nuts on your 2018 Nissan Altima are properly tightened, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. The following table provides the torque values in both lb-ft (pound-feet) and Nm (Newton meters) for the different wheel sizes available on the Altima:
| Wheel Size | Torque Specification (lb-ft) | Torque Specification (Nm) |
|---|---|---|
| 16-inch | 80-100 lb-ft | 108-135 Nm |
| 17-inch | 80-100 lb-ft | 108-135 Nm |
| 18-inch | 80-100 lb-ft | 108-135 Nm |
| 19-inch | 80-100 lb-ft | 108-135 Nm |
Steps to Properly Torque Lug Nuts
To ensure that the lug nuts on your 2018 Nissan Altima are torqued correctly, follow these steps:
- Start by parking your vehicle on a flat and level surface.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you are working on using a lug wrench or a socket wrench.
- Use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground, ensuring that it is secure and stable.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
- Clean the wheel hub and the mounting surface to ensure a proper fit.
- Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the recommended torque specification.
- Double-check the torque on each lug nut to ensure they are all properly tightened.
- Lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack.
- Finally, recheck the lug nut torque after driving a short distance to ensure they have not loosened.
Final Thoughts
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your 2018 Nissan Altima is essential for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. By following the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications and using the correct tools, you can ensure that your wheels are securely fastened. Regularly checking the lug nut torque and addressing any issues promptly will help maintain the performance and reliability of your Altima.