Getting the 2014 Nissan Altima tyre size right is more important than you think. The wrong size can affect everything from fuel economy to handling and even your car’s computer systems. Whether replacing worn tyres or considering an upgrade, this guide will help you make the right choice for your Nissan Altima.
The 2014 Nissan Altima came with different tyre sizes depending on the trim level, and understanding these differences is key to maintaining your car’s performance and safety. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from reading tyre sidewalls to choosing the best replacement options available in the UK market.
Table of Contents
Design and Exterior Styling
The 2014 Nissan Altima featured a sleek, aerodynamic design that differed quite from its predecessors. This fourth-generation model introduced flowing lines and a more sophisticated appearance that required specific wheel and tyre combinations to maintain its intended aesthetic balance.
The car’s design philosophy extended to its wheel wells, which were carefully sculpted to accommodate the standard tyre sizes whilst maintaining optimal aerodynamics. The lower trim levels featured smaller wheels with higher-profile tyres, whilst the sportier variants came with larger alloy wheels and lower-profile tyres.
This design consideration wasn’t just about looks—the engineers at Nissan carefully calculated the wheel and tyre combinations to work with the car’s suspension geometry. The result is a vehicle that looks proportional and maintains proper stance, which can be affected if you choose incorrect replacement tyres.
The 2014 model year also marked improvements in the car’s overall proportions, with a slightly longer wheelbase allowing for better tyre placement and improved ride quality. These design elements explain why maintaining the correct tyre specifications is essential.
Interior Features and Technology
Inside the 2014 Nissan Altima, you’ll find a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) directly affected by your tyre choice. This system monitors individual tyre pressures and alerts you when they drop below safe levels. The wrong tyre size can interfere with these readings and trigger warning lights.
The instrument cluster includes a digital display that shows tyre pressure information, making it easy to monitor tyre health. This system has sensors mounted in each wheel, so any tyre replacement should consider sensor compatibility.
Higher trim levels of the 2014 Nissan Altima also featured advanced traction control and stability systems that rely on precise wheel speed calculations. These systems expect specific tyre rolling circumferences, and deviating too far from factory specifications can cause performance issues or warning lights.
The Nissan Altima’s comfort-focused interior design significantly impacts cabin noise levels. The original equipment tyres were selected for performance and their noise characteristics to maintain the quiet cabin environment Nissan intended.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2014 Nissan Altima has two engine options, and your tyre choice can significantly impact how either performs. The base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produces 182 horsepower, whilst the optional 3.5-litre V6 delivers 270 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Standard Tyre Specifications by Trim Level
The 2014 Nissan Altima is equipped with different tyre sizes depending on the selected trim level. Base models feature smaller wheels, while higher-performance trims feature larger diameter wheels with lower-profile tyres. Understanding your specific trim’s tyre specifications ensures proper replacement selection and optimal vehicle performance.
Base S Trim
- Tyre Size: 215/60R16
- Wheel Size: 16 x 6.5 inches
- Load Index: 95
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
SV and SL Trims
- Tyre Size: 215/55R17
- Wheel Size: 17 x 7 inches
- Load Index: 94
- Speed Rating: V (149 mph)
Sport Trim (3.5 V6)
- Tyre Size: 225/45R18
- Wheel Size: 18 x 8 inches
- Load Index: 91
- Speed Rating: V (149 mph)
The different tyre sizes serve specific purposes. The 16-inch setup on the base model prioritises comfort and fuel efficiency, with the higher sidewall providing better ride quality over Britain’s often challenging road surfaces. The 17-inch option balances performance and comfort, whilst the 18-inch sport setup focuses on handling precision.
Understanding Tyre Size Numbers
Let’s break down what these numbers mean using the 215/60R16 size as an example:
- 215: Tyre width in millimetres
- 60: Aspect ratio (sidewall height as percentage of width)
- R: Radial construction
- 16: Wheel diameter in inches
This sizing system is standardised globally, making it easier to find replacements whether you’re shopping in the UK or elsewhere in Europe.
Performance Impact of Different Sizes
The 16-inch tyres provide the most comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections better due to their taller sidewalls. They also typically offer better fuel economy due to lower rolling resistance and reduced weight.
The 17-inch setup strikes a balance between comfort and performance. The slightly shorter sidewall provides better steering response while maintaining reasonable ride comfort for daily driving.
The 18-inch performance tyres offer the sharpest handling and steering response, but can feel harsh over rough surfaces. They are also more expensive to replace and may wear faster in stop-and-go driving conditions.
Safety Features
Tyre choice directly impacts many of the 2014 Nissan Altima’s safety systems. The standard safety equipment includes Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), all of which rely on consistent tyre performance characteristics.
TPMS Compatibility
The 2014 Nissan Altima’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System uses sensor-based monitoring rather than indirect systems. This means each wheel has a sensor that must be maintained when changing tyres. Most tyre shops can handle this, but it’s worth confirming before having work done.
Load Ratings and Safety
Each tyre size has a specific load rating that must be maintained for safety. The load index numbers (91, 94, 95) correspond to maximum weight capacities:
- Load Index 91: 615 kg per tyre
- Load Index 94: 670 kg per tyre
- Load Index 95: 690 kg per tyre
Never fit tyres with a lower load rating than specified, as this can be dangerous when fully loaded.
Speed Ratings
The speed ratings (H and V) indicate maximum safe speeds:
- H Rating: Up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
- V Rating: Up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
Whilst these speeds are well above UK legal limits, the ratings indicate the tyre’s ability to handle heat buildup and maintain structural integrity during extended driving.
Seasonal Considerations
Many drivers benefit from seasonal tyre changes in the UK’s climate. Summer tyres perform best above 7°C, whilst winter tyres excel below this temperature. All-season tyres offer a compromise for those who prefer not to change tyres twice yearly.
For winter use, you can typically fit slightly narrower tyres (such as 205/60R16 instead of 215/60R16), improving snow traction whilst maintaining overall diameter.
Price
Tyre prices for the 2014 Nissan Altima vary considerably based on size, brand, and performance characteristics. Here’s what you can expect to pay in the UK market:
16-inch Tyres (215/60R16)
- Budget options: £60-£85 per tyre
- Mid-range brands: £85-£120 per tyre
- Premium brands: £120-£180 per tyre
17-inch Tyres (215/55R17)
- Budget options: £75-£100 per tyre
- Mid-range brands: £100-£140 per tyre
- Premium brands: £140-£200 per tyre
18-inch Tyres (225/45R18)
- Budget options: £95-£130 per tyre
- Mid-range brands: £130-£180 per tyre
- Premium brands: £180-£280 per tyre
Factors Affecting Price
The larger the wheel size, the more expensive the tyres become. This is due to lower production volumes and more complex manufacturing processes for low-profile tyres. Due to advanced rubber compounds and construction techniques, performance-oriented tyres also command premium prices.
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy tyres in sets of four for better deals
- Shop around during seasonal sales periods
- Consider mid-range brands that offer good value
- Check for manufacturer rebates and promotions
- Don’t forget to factor in fitting costs (typically £15-£25 per tyre)
Long-term Costs
Remember that cheaper tyres often wear faster or provide poorer fuel economy, potentially costing more in the long run. Premium tyres typically last longer and can improve fuel efficiency, offsetting their higher initial cost.
Alternative Tyre Size Options
Whilst staying within manufacturer specifications is always recommended, some acceptable alternative sizes maintain the overall diameter whilst offering different performance characteristics.
Plus Zero Sizing
This involves keeping the same wheel diameter but changing the width or aspect ratio:
- 215/60R16 could become 205/65R16 (narrower, taller)
- 215/55R17 could become 225/50R17 (wider, shorter)
Plus One/Plus Two Sizing
This involves moving to larger wheels with correspondingly lower-profile tyres:
- From 16″ to 17″: 215/60R16 to 215/55R17
- From 17″ to 18″: 215/55R17 to 225/45R18
Important Considerations
Any size change should maintain the overall diameter within 3% to avoid affecting speedometer accuracy and vehicle systems. Online tyre calculators can help determine equivalent sizes.
Regional Availability
Some tyre sizes are more readily available in the UK than others. The 215/60R16 and 215/55R17 sizes are prevalent and offer the widest selection of brands and price points.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Proper tyre maintenance extends life and maintains safety regardless of which size you choose for your 2014 Nissan Altima.
Pressure Monitoring
Check tyre pressures at least monthly when tyres are cold. The recommended pressures for the 2014 Nissan Altima are:
- Front tyres: 32 PSI (2.2 bar)
- Rear tyres: 32 PSI (2.2 bar)
These pressures apply to all factory tyre sizes. If you’ve fitted alternative sizes, consult the tyre manufacturer’s recommendations.
Rotation Patterns
Regular rotation helps ensure even wear. For the Nissan Altima’s front-wheel-drive configuration, use a forward cross pattern:
- Front tyres move straight back
- Rear tyres cross to the front
Rotate every 5,000-7,500 miles for best results.
Alignment and Balancing
Have wheel alignment checked annually or if you notice uneven wear patterns. Proper alignment is critical with lower-profile tyres as they’re less forgiving of suspension geometry issues.
Seasonal Storage
If you switch between summer and winter tyres, store the off-season set in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Clean tyres before storage and maintain proper pressure to prevent flat spots.
Conclusion: 2014 Nissan Altima Tyre Size
Choosing the right tyre size for your 2014 Nissan Altima doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick with the factory specifications for your trim level to maintain the balance of performance, comfort, and safety that Nissan engineered into the vehicle.
The 16-inch setup offers the best ride comfort and value, making it ideal for daily commuting and long-distance cruising. The 17-inch option compromises performance and comfort, while the 18-inch sport setup delivers maximum handling precision for those prioritising driving dynamics.
Remember that tyre choice affects more than just how your car drives – it impacts fuel economy, noise levels, and even the proper operation of safety systems. When in doubt, consult a qualified tyre professional to help you make the best choice for your driving needs and budget.
Regular maintenance, proper inflation, and timely replacement will help you get the most from your tyre choice. Your 2014 Nissan Altima was designed to provide years of reliable service, and the right tyres are an essential part of that equation.