Tires

2002 Nissan Altima Tires, Repair & Service


2002 Nissan Altima Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

2002 Nissan Altima Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 2002 Nissan Altima tire size? Use the following chart to find information on tire size, speed rating, and inflation.

Trim Level Speed Rating Inflation in PSI F/R Tire Size
2002 Nissan Altima Base T 29 PSI/29 PSI P205/65R16
2002 Nissan Altima SL T 29 PSI/29 PSI P205/65R16
2002 Nissan Altima SE* V 33 PSI/30 PSI P215/55R17
2002 Nissan Altima SE* H 33 PSI/30 PSI P215/55R17
2002 Nissan Altima S T 29 PSI/29 PSI P205/65R16

2002 Nissan Altima Base

P205/65R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2002 Nissan Altima SL

P205/65R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2002 Nissan Altima SE*

P215/55R17

Speed Rating: V

Inflation F/R: 33 PSI/30 PSI

2002 Nissan Altima SE*

P215/55R17

Speed Rating: H

Inflation F/R: 33 PSI/30 PSI

2002 Nissan Altima S

P205/65R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

* Note: these models have different tire sizes depending on vehicle options.

Recommended Tires for Your 2002 Nissan Altima

What tires are best for a 2002 Nissan Altima? Check out the following tire brands and types.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
Blizzak WS90

  • No warranty
  • Winter
  • Winter
Bridgestone WEATHERPEAK
WEATHERPEAK

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Bridgestone Turanza LS100
Turanza LS100

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus
DriveGuard Plus

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus
Ecopia EP422 Plus

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Bridgestone Turanza QUIETTRACK
Turanza QUIETTRACK

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Bridgestone Turanza T005A
Turanza T005A

  • No warranty
  • Summer
  • Performance
Bridgestone Turanza T005
Turanza T005

  • No warranty
  • Summer
  • Performance
Bridgestone Potenza Sport AS
Potenza Sport AS

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Firestone Affinity Touring S4 FF
Affinity Touring S4 FF

  • Gold Pledge Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Firestone ALL SEASON
ALL SEASON

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Firestone FT140
FT140

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Firestone WEATHERGRIP
WEATHERGRIP

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Firestone Firehawk AS V2
Firehawk AS V2

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Firestone Firehawk Indy 500
Firehawk Indy 500

  • Gold Pledge Limited Warranty
  • Summer
  • Performance
Firestone Winterforce 2
Winterforce 2

  • No warranty
  • Winter
  • Winter
SUREDRIVE ALL-Season
ALL-Season

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
SUREDRIVE Touring A/S
Touring A/S

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Toyo Extensa A/S II
Extensa A/S II

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires

About 2002 Nissan Altima Tires

Apart from finding the right tire size, there are a couple of other factors to consider when buying Nissan Altima tires like how and where you drive, and how much you want to spend. When thinking about your driving conditions, consider where you live (mountains vs. city vs. countryside) and the kind of weather can catch you off-guard. (Watch out Tornado Alley!) It's not uncommon for drivers in states that experience all four seasons to buy more than one set of tires. one set for winter, one set for summer. Other drivers prefer to purchase one all-season set to limit trips to the tire shop and make sure their vehicle is prepared in the rain, sleet, snow, or sun!

Your personal driving style is the next factor to consider. If you're a diehard off-roader, you have very different tire needs than a highway commuter who doesn't leave the paved path. Browse Nissan Altima tires online or come to your nearby Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you.

2002 Nissan Altima Tire Installation & Rotation

We sell tires, but we also service them and care for all the around-the-wheel components. We're your one-stop shop for tire installation, rotation, and ongoing maintenance! Buy 2002 Nissan Altima tires online and schedule your installation when it's convenient for you.

2002 Nissan Altima Tire Q&A

  • Why does Nissan tire inflation matter? The right tire pressure can make all the difference. Proper tire inflation helps increase fuel economy, improve braking time, and boost tire lifespan! Even a small change in tire pressure can impact your driving.
  • What do the tire sidewall numbers mean for my Nissan Altima? The numbers on your tire sidewall give you information about tire speed rating, traction, treadwear, tire size, and load carrying capacity. Chat with a tire technician to learn how to read the numbers on your Nissan tires!
  • Is there an easy way to check Nissan tire tread depth? Stay on top of your tire tread depth to help avoid a dangerous drive. You can check tread depth with a penny. Hold the penny so that Abraham Lincoln is facing you, then place your penny into a tread groove upside down. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Nissan Altima tires. Grab a penny. Hold the so that Abe Lincon's head is facing you and his hair is pointing toward the ground. Then, place the penny into a tread groove. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Nissan Altima tires.

Get Repairs for Your 2002 Nissan Altima

No driver looks forward to car repairs. But at Firestone Complete Auto Care, we strive to give you the excellent repair experience you deserve. Bring your 2002 Nissan Altima in for repair services and rest easy knowing that your Altima is in capable hands. Before we begin any repair work, we’ll diagnose any issues and answer your questions about potential repair options. If a repair isn't necessary, we won't recommend it.

What Will Nissan Altima Repairs Cost?

Several factors can affect the cost to repair your 2002 Nissan Altima, including the type of repair, prices of appropriate replacement parts, the amount of labor necessary to get the job done, and your locale. They're updated regularly!

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 2002 Nissan Altima, like

2002 Nissan Altima Auto Repair Q&A

  • Do I need to follow Nissan's maintenance schedule? The cheapest 2002 Nissan Altima repair is the one that isn’t necessary in the first place! Staying up-to-date with your car’s scheduled maintenance services is a great way to keep future repair costs low.
  • What does it mean to be 'in tune' with your car? No, we’re not talking about finding the best jams on the radio! You know your car best, and you’re the first person who will notice if something doesn’t feel right (like new smells, sights, or sounds coming from your car). If you sense that something is 'off,' stop in for a Courtesy Check to have these symptoms checked out ASAP. Early action could help you prevent Nissan Altima repairs.
  • Are the repairs you recommend for my Nissan actually needed? Talk to your technician. We'll never recommend a service or repair for your 2002 Nissan Altima that we don't think is necessary for your safety.

Brake Repair for Your 2002 Nissan Altima

You might have a strong and reliable engine in your Nissan  Altima. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. Don't wait if you're experiencing brake squeaks or a loss of braking power. Safe driving is difficult when your brakes are anything but their best. Plus, waiting can lead to more expensive parts wearing out and requiring replacement. Visit Firestone Complete Auto Care for the right brake repair for your 2002 Nissan Altima. Our brake repair services include brake pad/shoe replacement, brake rotor/drum resurfacing, brake fluid exchange/bleeding, and wheel cylinder and brake caliper installation.

Questions About Your Nissan Altima Brakes

  • What is causing my Altima to shake when I brake? If your Altima shakes when you brake, you could be dealing with warped rotors, faulty brake calipers, worn brake pads or rotors, or loose or worn suspension parts. Schedule a free brake inspection at Firestone Complete Auto Care for help diagnosing your brake issue.
  • How long should my Altima brake pads last? Brake pads typically last about 30,000 to 40,000 miles. However, driving conditions can affect this range. Sticking to highway driving and braking smoothly can help extend the life of your brake pads, while towing heavy loads or frequently riding your brakes can shorten it.
  • Does brake fluid leak when the car is off? Your Altima brake system is a closed hydraulic system, so a brake fluid leak likely means you have an issue in your brake system. Over time, brake components can wear out or get damaged, causing a brake fluid leak.

When to Get Nissan Altima Drivetrain Repairs

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are quite different, so you don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. You want to visit Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can help repair all of your 2002 Nissan Altima drivetrain components Your Nissan could be crying out for driveshaft repair if you notice resistance when turning, heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates.

Questions About 2002 Nissan Altima

  • What are the symptoms of a damaged Nissan drivetrain system? Your Nissan Altima drivetrain might be damaged if you notice strange noises from the rear of your vehicle, see fluid leaking, or have issues turning.
  • Why is my Altima malfunction indicator light (MIL) on? A multitude of problems can activate your Altima’s malfunction indicator light (better known as the check engine light), including issues with the engine, transmission, sensors, electrical system, or connectors.
  • How concerning is a drivetrain malfunction in my Altima? If your Altima has a drivetrain malfunction, don't wait. Get it checked out by a professional mechanic. Identifying the underlying cause and performing the appropriate repairs right away can help prevent further damage and avoid unsafe driving conditions.

Wheel Alignment for 2002 Nissan Altima

With an alignment service, adjustments are made to your Nissan Altima’s suspension system, the connection between the vehicle and the wheels. During the service, your tire angles are adjusted according to measurements recommended by Nissan. Why? So that your tires can make contact with the road at the best possible angle. When you bring in your 2002 Nissan Altima, we’ll perform an alignment check first. Then, we’ll adjust the angles as needed until they match recommended measurements from Nissan.

Nissan Altima Alignment Questions

  • How can I avoid knocking my Nissan Altima out of alignment? Potholes and uneven roads can knock your car out of alignment, so stay aware of the road ahead and adjust your speed (or avoid these obstacles whenever it’s safely possible).
  • How frequently should you get a wheel alignment for your Altima? It’s usually suggested you check your alignment about every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever occurs first). Still, you should reference your Altima owner’s manual for Nissan's recommended interval.
  • Do you need to get your Altima wheels aligned when you get new tires? It’s likely not a requirement to get an alignment when you install new tires on your Altima, but it's a smart idea to do so anyway. An alignment can help ensure even tire wear, smooth handling, and better fuel efficiency.

2002 Nissan Altima Engine Repair

When your Nissan Altima engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Nissan Altima engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Nissan-approved parts and fluids — timing belt, motor oil seal, ignition coil, or a different component.

2002 Nissan Altima Engine Q&A

  • Why does my Altima’s check engine light come on when I start it? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your Altima firing up its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.
  • Why does my Nissan engine sound different? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Nissan Altima engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
  • What could damage a Nissan engine? Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Tire Repair for Your 2002 Nissan Altima

If the road has been rough on your 2002 Nissan Altima tires, Firestone Complete Auto Care can help. In some cases, a tire doesn’t have to be replaced – it can be plugged and patched with a simple repair. Depending on the damage, though, a repair might not be the right move. Our technicians can determine which option is best for your situation. To start, we’ll consider the location of tire damage, the type of issue, the size and scope of the damage, and the amount of wear on your tires.

If a repair on your 2002 Nissan Altima tire is feasible and safe, we'll follow three basic steps to repair it: (1) Remove the tire from the wheel for inspection and repair, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) seal the inner liner with a repair unit to prevent air loss.

Your Questions About Nissan Altima Tire Repair, Answered

  • What happens if I drive my Nissan on a flat tire? Driving on a flat or underinflated tire can put extra stress on your wheels and alignment. While it’s sometimes necessary to drive a short distance on a flat tire to get to a safe place, don’t take any other trips in your Altima until you can have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
  • Is temporary sealant bad for my Nissan's tires? Temporary sealants will solve your problem… for a little bit. If you’ve seen temporary or emergency tire sealant before (it usually comes in a can), it can be tempting to turn to this as a solution for your flat tire. Keep in mind that these fixes could buy you some time to get to Firestone Complete Auto Care for a proper repair, but they could also cause some harm in the process (for example, damage to your TPMS). Plus, using a product like this could void your tire warranty.
  • What can cause Altima tires to keep losing air? Possible reasons for your Altima tires continuously losing air include a leaking valve steam, wheel damage, and a puncture or hole in the rubber.

Guide to 2002 Nissan Altima Scheduled Maintenance

There's no need to guess when it's time to get Altima maintenance, and no need to wait until something goes wrong. Rely on the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been created just for your 2002 Nissan Altima! The recommended maintenance schedule is put together by Nissan, your vehicle manufacturer. Scheduled maintenance services can vary depending on driving conditions, climate, and other factors; however, there’s a good chance that your vehicle’s recommended maintenance services will include oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacement, filter changes, and fluid checks and exchanges. Scheduling routine service appointments is one of the best ways to help extend your Altima's life, keep you safer on the road, and prevent common 2002 Nissan Altima problems.

Overview of Essential Nissan Altima Maintenance Needs

Head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care in your 2002 Nissan Altima for factory-recommended routine maintenance and our technicians will jump right in with a Courtesy Check. The Courtesy Check helps us see what we’re working with under the hood, and allows us to alert you to any potential problems before they worsen. During a Courtesy Check, we’ll always check your battery, then we’ll move on to inspect your Altima’s head and tail lights, tires, fluid levels, alignment, and windshield wipers.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is your spot for 2002 Nissan Altima maintenance. We can help you keep your vehicle (and your life!) running smoothly. Many of our locations have weekend and evening hours for your convenience.

2002 Nissan Altima Maintenance Questions

  • What do I do if I hit a pothole in my Nissan Altima?  You know your Nissan Altima better than anyone else, so you’ll know if something doesn’t feel right while driving. Have your alignment checked (and adjusted if necessary) as soon as you notice a pulling steering wheel to prevent suspension damage or uneven tire wear.
  • When should I switch my Nissan Altima to high mileage oil?  Got 75,000+ miles on the odometer? Consider high mileage motor oil. High mileage oil is formulated to address the specific problems encountered by high mileage vehicles, or those with more than 75,000 miles. It can help reduce oil consumption, smoke, and emissions from older Nissan Altima engines.
  • Can Nissan dashboard warning lights wait? Because there might be a problem under the hood. Those warning lights are there for a reason! As soon as you notice that one’s illuminated, take your Nissan Altima to Firestone Complete Auto Care so you can address any small problems long before they worsen.

2002 Nissan Altima Battery Replacement & Size

Not sure what battery to get for your Nissan Altima?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
26R-3 V6/3.5L Replacement 24 months Performance months 575
35-2 V6/3.5L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
24F-RP V6/3.5L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750
26R-3 L4/2.5L Replacement 24 months Performance months 575
24F-6 L4/2.5L Replacement 36 months Performance months 750
24F-RP L4/2.5L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750

Car Batteries for 2002 Nissan Altima

The average car battery lasts three to five years. You want to replace your 2002 Nissan Altima battery before it fails and leaves you stranded. Pay attention to clues that your battery is on its way out. A sluggish engine start, a blinking battery or check engine light, bloated battery case, corroded battery terminals, or dim headlights can all signal that your battery needs attention.

Plus, at Firestone Complete Auto Care, we’ll test your battery for free. Stop by for a free battery test and, if necessary, a battery replacement to help keep your 2002 Nissan Altima running! Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are well-acquainted with Nissan’s service specs for Altima car batteries’ reserve capacities and cold cranking amps. Get help choosing the battery size that's best for your Altima, and schedule a fast car battery replacement at your earliest convenience.

Top Nissan AltimaCar Battery Questions

  • Why won't my Nissan Altima battery stay charged?  A car battery that needs to be jump-started every time is as good as dead. It may be getting old. Or, you’ve been leaving the doors slightly open and the dome lights on during the night. Stop in for a free battery check at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care and learn more about your battery's charge.
  • What is the average lifespan of a car battery?  A car battery normally lasts three to five years, but this number can vary based on battery type, your driving habits, and battery maintenance.
  • Why is there white, crusty buildup on my Altima’s battery post?  The white, crusty stuff that can accumulate around Altima car battery terminals is called corrosion. It is caused by a chemical reaction between the battery acid and the air, which creates a white, powdery substance that can build up on the terminals over time. Corrosion can interfere with the flow of electricity between the battery post and the car's electrical system, sometimes leading to poor electrical performance, difficulty starting, and even premature battery failure.

2002 Nissan Altima Oil Changes

Nissan recommends changing your 2002 Altima’s oil at regular intervals. Your Altima may need an oil change right away if your check engine/oil change light is on, you hear knocking sounds coming from the engine, smell oil inside the car, or see an excess amount of vehicle exhaust. You might need an oil change more frequently than what’s recommended by Nissan if you regularly haul heavy loads, drive in dusty areas, adventure off-road, or go long distances at low speeds.

Whether it’s synthetic, conventional, or a blend of both — your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has the right oil for your Nissan Altima. Check your owner's manual and talk with a technician to select the right Nissan Altima oil, whether it's Quaker State® Advanced Durability™ conventional oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil with PurePlus™ Technology, or Shell Rotella® heavy-duty engine oil. During an oil change, a technician will change your Altima's oil, replace and recycle your used oil and filter, inspect all of your other filters, top-off important fluids, and perform a courtesy inspection on your entire vehicle. Let the experts take care of your Altima’s engine by making an oil change appointment today.

Oil Change Q&A for Your 2002 Nissan Altima

  • What does it mean if my Nissan Altima oil light comes on?  Your Nissan Altima oil change reminder light might illuminate if it’s been too long since your last oil change. On the other hand, the oil pressure light might illuminate due to a clogged oil filter, a faulty oil pressure sensor, low engine oil levels, or a malfunctioning oil pump.
  • Can I change my Nissan Altima oil at home?  First off, changing your own oil isn’t as easy as you’d think. You’ll have to buy special tools and figure out a way to recycle the old oil properly. Getting a professional oil change reduces the risk of something going wrong during the service, but also helps your car perform down the road.
  • Why is my Nissan Altima spewing blue or gray exhaust smoke?  Your engine could be burning oil due to a leak.  It may be time for a pro to take a look. A leak can be caused by a variety of issues including faulty valve seals, blown piston rings, or damaged cylinder walls.

2002 Nissan Altima Tune-Up & Engine Service

Regular engine tune-ups can optimize your Altima’s power on the road. The Firestone Complete Auto Care location in your community offers several Nissan Altima engine tune-up services. One option is the standard Firestone Tune-Up. It includes a complete visual inspection of engine components, installation of new spark plugs, and a lifetime warranty on parts*. A second service option replaces the air and fuel filter in your Altima. Yet another service is a fuel system cleaning process, which involves removing varnish, dirt, and carbon deposits that have built up inside the fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate in your Altima. This can improve your fuel system’s performance (and therefore, your engine’s performance). Consider this when choosing a tune-up service for your Altima: your vehicle’s maintenance record and mileage can determine which service is best. Talk to a technician about your driving style, mileage, and service history to learn more about your vehicle's specific needs.

*Check with a teammate at Firestone Complete Auto Care for complete terms and conditions regarding warranties.

Questions About 2002 Nissan Altima Engine Tune-Ups

  • What happens if my Nissan Altima spark plugs fail? When it’s time to replace the spark plugs, don’t delay. These small (but vital!) parts provide the electric spark that your car needs in order to start, and old spark plugs can prevent your car from starting at all. Replace spark plugs on time or about every 30,000 miles or so.
  • What does a puddle underneath my Nissan Altima mean? Puddles could indicate an oil leak, coolant leak, or brake fluid leak– all of which can critically hurt your engine. Have your engine inspected as soon as you spot a pool of liquid in your usual parking spot.
  • How often should I clean my Nissan Altima fuel injectors? The frequency at which car fuel injectors should be cleaned can vary depending on several factors, including the type of fuel used and the driving conditions. Some manufacturers generally recommend a fuel system cleaning as part of your general car maintenance, or as needed based on symptoms of poor fuel system performance.

Suspension Service & Repair for 2002 Nissan Altima

When you first bought your 2002 Nissan Altima, you and your passengers probably enjoyed a ride that was smooth and balanced. Lately, though, your ride’s been feeling a little bumpy. Maybe your Altima jolts, pulls to one side, or makes an unusual noise when going over a speed bump. As soon as you notice that something’s “off” with your 2002 Nissan Altima, bring it in for suspension and steering service. We’ll get to the root of the issue and, if your Altima suspension system needs repair, we’ll go over the services you need and how much they will cost before we do any work.

2002 Nissan Altima Steering & Suspension Questions

  • Why is my Nissan Altima bouncing so much?  If it feels like you’re on a trampoline every time your Altima goes over a bump or dip, you may have a problem with your struts or shocks. Faulty shocks and struts can’t properly absorb road bumps, leading to a bouncy ride.
  • Why does my Altima's nose dive down when I hit the brakes?  The forward dip in the front end of your Altima when you brake is caused by the weight and momentum transferring to the front wheels. If your suspension system is in bad shape, it can fail to distribute this force, leading your front end to dip further downward.
  • What role do tire pressure and tread depth play in my Nissan's suspension?  Keeping your tires properly inflated can help reduce strain on the suspension, and also help you notice when you need new tires. A tire that doesn't have an adequate amount of tread can't grip the road or function as well as the manufacturer intended.

A/C Service for Your 2002 Nissan Altima

Our trained technicians will do what they can to solve your 2002 Nissan Altima A/C problems. During an A/C performance check, we'll determine the condition of your 2002 Nissan Altima A/C system to evaluate what repairs are necessary (if any). We’ll test overall system performance, check for any leaks, and measure the system pressure.

While your 2002 Nissan Altima’s air conditioner is being serviced, we’ll also do an A/C evacuation and recharge. During this process, a technician will remove the old refrigerant from the A/C system. Next, they will evacuate the system according to Nissan's recommendations. To finish, we’ll add new refrigerant to recharge the A/C system.

2002 Nissan Altima A/C System FAQs

  • Why do I get hot air from my Altima A/C?  An A/C blowing hot air has several possible root causes. There could be an issue with your compressor clutch, a blown fuse, a leak, or a clog in the expansion valve.
  • How does my A/C system get a leak?  A/C system leaks are often due to a combination of age and moisture. Rubber seals and gaskets naturally degrade over time, allowing refrigerant to exit and moisture to enter your Altima's A/C system.
  • Why does my Altima’s A/C only work when the car is moving?  A problem with one or more of your air conditioning or electrical system components could cause the A/C to only work when your Altima is moving. You may be low on refrigerant, or the cooling fan could be faulty.

Transmission Services for 2002 Nissan Altima

The transmission delivers power from the motor to your wheels so that you can drive at your desired speed. Because of the transmission’s responsibility to translate the right dose of power into the right amount of speed, a small transmission issue can put a big dent in your Altima’s performance. 2002 Nissan Altima transmission issues could include shifting delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, a feeling of shakiness, or whistling noises or a burning smell coming from beneath the hood. Let Nissan Altima transmission problems linger and you might notice your fuel economy decrease or discover that your Altima’s not even driveable. Our technicians are trained to service 2002  Nissan Altima transmission systems according to vehicle manufacturer recommendations. As soon as you suspect something’s wrong with your Altima’s transmission, book an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to help diagnose, treat, and prevent major transmission issues.

2002 Nissan Altima Transmission Questions & Answers

  • When should I have my Altima's transmission fluid checked or exchanged?  Regularly checking and exchanging your 2002 Altima’s transmission fluid is one of the best ways to help the transmission system perform. Some technicians would say that between 30,000 and 60,000 miles is a good timeframe for having your Nissan's transmission fluid checked and replaced, but that timeline can vary depending on how your vehicle is used and your manufacturer’s recommendations. The good news is that transmission fluid leaks are affordable to repair and easy to spot.
  • Is it possible for transmission fluid to leak from my Nissan Altima? Yes, your Nissan Altima can develop a transmission fluid leak. As your Altima ages, parts of the transmission system might wear out or break down, leading to a leak and possible transmission issues. Common causes of transmission fluid leaks include worn seals, a damaged transmission housing, a loose or cracked transmission pan, an overfilled transmission, or faulty transmission lines.
  • Should I avoid driving my Nissan Altima if there is a transmission fluid leak?  It’s not advisable to drive your Altima if it’s leaking transmission fluid. Your transmission system needs transmission fluid to function properly, and a leak can lead to significant problems, such as overheating or reduced performance. You might even experience transmission failure.

Vehicle Inspection for 2002 Nissan Altima

When you bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care for any service, we’ll automatically do a multi-point Courtesy Check. To start, one of our technicians will check the battery in your Nissan Altima to determine how much charge remains. After we’ve inspected your Nissan Altima’s battery, we’ll visually inspect your lights, windshield wipers, filters, alignment, tires, hoses, belts and fluid levels.

We perform a Courtesy Check any time you bring your car to a local Firestone Complete Auto Care for service, but you can also request a Complete Vehicle Inspection for your 2002 Nissan Altima if you suspect there may be a bigger problem. In addition to a visual check of everything that's included in a Courtesy Check, a Complete Vehicle Inspection also includes a hands-on examination of your exhaust system, steering and suspension, and brakes. With this inspection, we want to help you stay on top of any issues that may need immediate attention in order to prevent further damage.

Depending on where you live, your local Firestone Complete Auto Care may be able to perform state-mandated inspections or safety tests on your vehicle. Inspections are performed on a state-by-state basis and requirements vary.

Common 2002 Nissan Altima Vehicle Inspection Questions

  • How do I know if I should have an inspection on my Nissan Altima? You drive your car, day in and day out, so you know it best. If you notice unusual engine noises or you can’t shake the feeling that something is 'off,' start with a Courtesy Check to stay ahead of potential issues.
  • Can you fix my 2002 Nissan Altima so it will pass a state inspection test? Don’t panic! Come in for a complete inspection today and we’ll find (and repair) the root cause before you have your vehicle retested.
  • When is the best time to get a complete vehicle inspection for my Nissan Altima?  It’s generally a good idea to get a complete vehicle inspection for your Nissan Altima before a road trip and/or when something strange occurs and you are unable to find the cause. Signs something is up include dashboard lights illuminating, odd noises coming from the engine, and your steering feeling loose or tight.

Radiator Service & Repair for 2002 Nissan Altima

Regular, proactive service on the radiator in your 2002 Nissan Altima is essential for long-term engine health. In fact, Nissan recommends replacing coolant/antifreeze at specific intervals, but it’s a good idea to keep your eyes open for any indication that your radiator is failing. You might be driving around (or about to be stranded) with a failing radiator if you notice leaking coolant, overheating, or an illuminated low coolant dashboard light.

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start by performing a thorough inspection of your Nissan Altima cooling system. Then, we’ll move on to a machine-powered coolant exchange. Finally, we’ll refill the flushed sealants, lubricants and chemicals, then do a pressure check to catch any possible leaks. From the heater core to the radiator cap, we’ll take excellent care of your 2002 Nissan Altima at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

2002 Nissan Altima Radiator Q&A

  • What does an illuminated coolant temperature light mean for my Nissan?  Pay attention to the temperature gauge and lights on your dashboard. If a low coolant warning light comes on or your dashboard temperature gauge keeps rising, it’s likely that your engine is about to overheat (and could leave you stranded on the road). Wait for the engine to cool down, then have your coolant system checked immediately at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.
  • Why is my Altima overheating?  Your Nissan Altima engine could overheat due to low coolant, a clogged radiator, a damaged water pump, a malfunctioning cooling fan, or a faulty thermostat.
  • My Altima radiator sounds like it's rumbling or boiling! What's up? There could be air pockets in your Altima’s cooling system. You might also have a clogged radiator or faulty radiator cap (this last one is an easy fix!).