1996–1997 Nissan Altima Bolt Sizes & Torque Specs

Lug nut torque is not verified for this summary. Review the cited evidence and exact hardware application before installation.

This page distinguishes source-backed fields, unresolved conflicts and unverified legacy records for the 1997 Nissan Altima. Match the exact hardware and manual conditions before maintenance. A source for one field does not verify the other specifications.

These specifications also apply to the 1996 model years — identical specs on file for each year.

Nissan and Infiniti often use fine-pitch wheel studs on passenger models, but the exact thread, socket and torque are still vehicle-specific. Confirm the recorded row and never cross-thread lug nuts borrowed from a neighboring make.

Common fastener categories on the 1997 Nissan Altima

• Wheel / lug nut torque and thread spec (covered above)
• Brake caliper bracket, mounting, and slide/guide-pin bolts are different fasteners. Confirm the exact axle, application and service-manual specification before reassembly.
• Engine oil drain plug torque and tool size when this vehicle has a verified drain-plug record
• Transmission pan, valve cover, and intake manifold bolts where the database has exact records
• Suspension control arm, sway bar, tie rod end and ball joint torque
• Spark plug torque only when a vehicle-specific spark-plug row is available
• Differential cover bolts (RWD/4WD only) and transfer case fasteners

Repair guidance for this model year

Heads up for 1997 Nissan Altima owners: Vehicles this age frequently have seized fasteners due to thread corrosion. Apply penetrating oil (PB Blaster, Kroil) 24 hours before any wrenching, and have a thread chaser on hand. Lug studs are particularly prone to thread damage at this age; if a nut spins on without engaging, the stud is stretched and must be replaced before the wheel goes back on.

Tools you will need

• Metric and SAE socket set (8mm-22mm plus 1/4"-7/8"), 6-point impact-rated
• Calibrated torque wrench (10-150 ft-lbs covers most automotive jobs; add a 0-250 ft-lbs wrench for truck lug nuts)
• Breaker bar (24" minimum) for initial loosening
• Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or Kroil) for any fastener over 5 years old
• Replacement washers, threadlocker, anti-seize, or dry-thread preparation only when the exact service procedure specifies them

Frequently asked questions

Other Nissan Altima years

Same model, different model year — fastener spec may change. Always confirm against the year for your VIN.

• 2009 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2008 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2007 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2006 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2005 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2004 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2003 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2002 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2001 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 2000 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 1999 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 1998 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 1996 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 1995 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 1994 Nissan Altima lug nut torque
• 1993 Nissan Altima lug nut torque

→ 1997 Nissan Altima oil drain plug torque & size

→ 1997 Nissan Altima suspension & steering torque specs (control arm, ball joint, tie rod)

→ 1997 Nissan Altima brake job torque specs (caliper, bracket & slide pins)

New to torquing wheels? Read our How lug nut torque works — the complete guide for star-pattern sequence, re-torque intervals, and how to read a lug spec — then compare any source-backed fields on this page with the actual hardware and service manual.

Loading the interactive 1997 Nissan Altima fastener lookup with per-bolt filtering, part links, and torque tools…