Tires

2003 Nissan Altima Repair, Service & Tires


2003 Nissan Altima Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

2003 Nissan Altima Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 2003 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
2003 Nissan Altima SL T 29 PSI/29 PSI P205/65R16
2003 Nissan Altima Base T 29 PSI/29 PSI P205/65R16
2003 Nissan Altima S T 29 PSI/29 PSI P205/65R16
2003 Nissan Altima SE* V 33 PSI/30 PSI P215/55R17
2003 Nissan Altima SE* H 33 PSI/30 PSI P215/55R17

2003 Nissan Altima SL

P205/65R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2003 Nissan Altima Base

P205/65R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2003 Nissan Altima S

P205/65R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2003 Nissan Altima SE*

P215/55R17

Speed Rating: V

Inflation F/R: 33 PSI/30 PSI

2003 Nissan Altima SE*

P215/55R17

Speed Rating: H

Inflation F/R: 33 PSI/30 PSI

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

Recommended Tires for Your 2003 Nissan Altima

What tires are best for a 2003 Nissan Altima? Check out the following tire brands and types.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
Blizzak WS90

  • No warranty
  • Winter
  • Winter
Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus
Ecopia EP422 Plus

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

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

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Bridgestone Turanza T005
Turanza T005

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

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Bridgestone WEATHERPEAK
WEATHERPEAK

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

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Performance
Bridgestone Turanza T005A
Turanza T005A

  • No warranty
  • Summer
  • 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 2003 Nissan Altima Tires

Apart from finding the right tire size, you also want to think about a couple of other things when getting new Nissan Altima tires like which tire brands you like most and where you drive. Think about where you live (countryside vs. city vs. mountains) and the kind of unexpected weather you're likely to experience when evaluating your driving conditions. Many drivers who live in states that experience all four seasons choose to purchase two sets of tires: one set for winter, one set for summer. Other drivers buy one set of all-season tires instead. That way they don't have to return to the tire shop and their vehicle is always ready for sun, rain, and light snow!

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. Visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you, or get started by browsing tires that fit your Nissan Altima.

Nissan Altima Installation and More

Firestone Complete Auto Care installs more tires on more cars than most other companies. We're a tire store that also offers professional tire installation, maintenance, and rotation, along with complete auto care. We make it easy to buy new 2003 Nissan Altima tires online and book an installation appointment at the same time.

2003 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 numbers on my Nissan Altima tires mean? 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!
  • How do I check the tread depth on my Nissan tires? 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.

2003 Nissan Altima Repair Information

No driver looks forward to car repairs. We’re here to change that, though. At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we want to make car repair painless and hassle-free. When you come to us for 2003 Nissan Altima repair services, rest easy knowing that your Altima is in capable hands. We'll work to evaluate the scope of repairs needed and explain your options. We value your trust, so we recommend only the repairs we think are necessary for your safety on the road.

What Will Nissan Altima Repairs Cost?

Several factors can affect the cost to repair your 2003 Nissan Altima, including what kind of repair you need, costs of replacement parts or repair supplies, the amount of labor necessary to get the job done, and the state you live in. But no matter your location, you may be able to save money with one of our many auto repair coupons or offers.

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 2003 Nissan Altima, like

2003 Nissan Altima Auto Repair Q&A

  • Can scheduled maintenance help me avoid repairs? Don’t neglect scheduled maintenance. Sure, you could skip out on a few recommended maintenance services, but you may pay the price later. Bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care at recommended service intervals to address minor issues before they get out of hand and keep your car running newer, longer.
  • Should I bring my Nissan in even if I can't pinpoint the problem? 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? We won’t recommend a service or repair for your 2003 Nissan Altima unless we think it’s necessary to keep you safe. Want to know more about a specific recommended repair? Ask! We’re here to help.

2003 Nissan Altima Brake Repair

You might have a strong and reliable engine in your Nissan  Altima. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. If you’re experiencing squeaky brakes or a loss of braking power, don’t wait! Safe driving and responsive brakes go hand in hand. Plus, waiting can lead to more expensive parts wearing out and requiring replacement. Go to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for 2003 Nissan Altima brake repairs. Our brake repair services include brake pad/shoe replacement, brake rotor/drum resurfacing, brake fluid exchange, and brake caliper and wheel cylinder service.

Nissan Altima Brakes Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why does my Altima shake when I brake? Faulty brake calipers, worn brake pads or rotors, loose or worn suspension parts, and warped rotors can cause your Altima to shake during braking. If you’re experiencing odd brake behavior, schedule a free brake inspection at a nearby Firestone Complete Auto Care.
  • What is the average lifespan of Altima brake pads? 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.
  • Is it bad if my Altima is leaking brake fluid when off? Your Altima has a closed hydraulic brake system, meaning you should not have a brake fluid leak under normal conditions. However, parts of your brake system can wear out over time or become damaged, which can lead to a brake fluid leak.

2003 Nissan Altima Drivetrain Repairs

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are not all the same. You don't want to go to any random shop for drivetrain repair. You want to go to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can help repair all of your 2003 Nissan Altima drivetrain components Your Nissan Altima may need driveshaft attention if you feel clunks when shifting, vibration as your vehicle accelerates, resistance when turning, or heavy vibrations in your floorboards.

2003 Nissan Altima Drivetrain Q&A

  • What are signs my Nissan drivetrain is damaged? Noises toward the back of your Nissan Altima, leaking fluid, trouble turning — these could all be signs of drivetrain damage you want to address. Take action before something more severe happens.
  • Why is the malfunction indicator light (MIL) on in my Altima?  The malfunction indicator light — also known as the check engine light — on your Altima can illuminate for a variety of reasons, including engine issues, electrical problems, damaged sensors, transmission problems, misfires, and faulty connections.
  • How worried should I be about a drivetrain malfunction in my Altima? Don't ignore a drivetrain malfunction in your Altima. As soon as you notice a problem, have it checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose the issue and carry out any necessary repairs. Driving with a faulty drivetrain is risky and may further damage your Altima.

Wheel Alignment for 2003 Nissan Altima

An alignment involves making adjustments to your Nissan Altima's suspension system, which serves to attach your wheels to your vehicle. In an alignment service, the individual angles of your tires are adjusted so that they come into contact with the road in just the right way — the way Nissan intended them to. Bring your 2003 Nissan Altima in for a wheel alignment and we'll start with an alignment check. Then, we’ll adjust the angles as needed until they match recommended measurements from Nissan.

Answers to Nissan Altima Alignment Questions

  • Are there road conditions that can hurt my Nissan Altima 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? Generally, it’s wise to have your alignment looked at around every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever happens first. You should check your Altima owner’s manual to verify Nissan’s suggested interval.
  • Do you need to get your Altima wheels aligned when you get new tires?  It’s not mandatory to get an alignment after installing new tires on your Altima, but it can be a smart decision! Proper alignment from the jump can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

2003 Nissan Altima Engine Repair

If your 2003 Altima engine needs repairs, our technicians will make sure you understand what’s going on before they start working on your engine. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. If a repair isn’t urgent right now, we’ll let you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We want to provide you with the information you need to make an informed engine repair decision. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Nissan Altima engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Nissan-approved parts and fluids — serpentine belt, motor oil seal, fuses, or other parts.

2003 Nissan Altima Engine Q&A

  • Why does the check engine light in my Altima turn on when I start my car? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your Altima testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
  • Are Nissan Altima engine noises bad?  Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Nissan Altima engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
  • Are you unknowingly damaging your Nissan Altima engine?  Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Tire Repair for Your 2003 Nissan Altima

If your 2003 Nissan Altima is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. There’s a chance your tire could be plugged and patched (rather than replaced). Our technicians can inspect your tire and let you know if it is safe to repair. We’ll begin by taking a look at where the damage is, the type and extent of the tire damage, and how all of your tires are wearing.

If a repair on your 2003 Nissan Altima tire is feasible and safe, we’ll get to work on the steps to fix it: (1) Remove the tire from the wheel for inspection and repair, (2) fill in the area that’s been punctured to prevent damage from moisture, and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

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.
  • Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to fix my Nissan's flat tire? A temporary sealant may be able to help you get to a repair location safely. But temporary or emergency sealants could possibly damage TPMS sensors, and in some cases may even void the warranty on your Bridgestone or Firestone tires. If your tire needs extensive repair, sealant can add time and labor costs to the process.
  • Why do the tires on my Altima keep losing air?  If your Altima tires are always losing air, you may have a puncture, damaged wheel, or leaking valve stem.

Guide to 2003 Nissan Altima Scheduled Maintenance

Instead of waiting for an issue to arise with your Altima, you can stay ahead of problems before they even begin. Rely on the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been created just for your 2003 Nissan Altima! Nissan knows your vehicle inside and out (they made it, after all!), so they’ve designed this schedule with your car’s unique needs in mind. Driving conditions, climate variations, and other variables can affect which scheduled maintenance services you’ll need; in most cases, though, recommended maintenance will consist of services like tire rotations, vital fluid checks/exchanges, filter changes, brake pad replacement, and oil changes. Scheduling routine service appointments is one of the best ways to help extend your Altima's life, keep you safer on the road, and help you avoid expensive repairs caused by 2003 Nissan Altima problems later.

Learn About Vital Maintenance Needs for Your Nissan Altima

Head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care in your 2003 Nissan Altima for factory-recommended routine maintenance and an expert technician will begin by performing a Courtesy Check. This Courtesy Check can establish a baseline of what may need to be addressed during your service appointment. Every Courtesy Check will include a visual inspection of your Altima. We’ll check your head and tail lights, fluid levels, filters, tires (and their alignment!), and windshield wiper blades. We’ll also perform a free battery check to determine your battery’s charge level.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is your one-stop shop for 2003 Nissan Altima maintenance and repairs. We can help you keep your vehicle (and your life!) running smoothly. Many of our locations have weekend and evening hours for your convenience.

Questions About 2003 Nissan Altima Maintenance

  • When should I have Nissan Altima alignment checked? Watch out for pothole damage. If your 2003 Altima is pulling to one side or the other, your tires or suspension system could be calling out for help.
  • When should I use high mileage oil in my Nissan Altima?  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?  Don't ignore dashboard warning lights! Bring your Nissan Altima in for a diagnostic code scan as soon as a dashboard warning light flashes on, whether it's your check engine or battery light. Dashboard lights alert you to trouble under the hood.

2003 Nissan Altima Battery Replacement & Size

Researching battery replacements for your Nissan Altima?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
26R-3 L4/2.5L Replacement 24 months Performance months 575
35-2 L4/2.5L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
24F-RP L4/2.5L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750
24F-3 V6/3.5L Replacement 24 months Performance months 650
35-2 V6/3.5L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
24F-RP V6/3.5L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750

2003 Nissan Altima Batteries

Generally, car batteries last from three to five years. You want to replace your 2003 Nissan Altima battery before it fails and leaves you stranded. Look out for symptoms of a faulty car battery. A sluggish engine start, an illuminated battery or check engine light, swollen battery case, corroded battery terminals, or weak lights can all signal that your battery needs attention.

Plus, at Firestone Complete Auto Care, we’ll test your battery for free. Drop in for a free battery check and, if necessary, a battery replacement to help keep your 2003 Nissan Altima running! Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are well-acquainted with Nissan’s service specs for Altima battery cold cranking amps and reserve capacity. Get help figuring out the battery size that fits your car perfectly, and schedule an appointment today for a quick car battery replacement.

Answers to Your Nissan Altima Car Battery Questions

  • Why won’t my Nissan Altima battery hold a charge? A battery is in its final hour when it will no longer hold a charge. The battery may be too old. Or, you may have been leaving your car doors ajar and the cabin light at night. Stop by for a complimentary battery check at your favorite Firestone Complete Auto Care and get a handle on your car battery’s health.
  • How long do car batteries last?  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, flaky stuff around 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.

2003 Nissan Altima Oil Change Service

Nissan recommends having your 2003 Nissan Altima’s motor oil changed at regular intervals. No matter the mileage, your Altima may need its oil changed ASAP if your check engine light is on, you hear knocking sounds coming from the engine, smell oil inside the car, or notice excess vehicle exhaust. You might need an oil change more frequently than what’s recommended by Nissan if you regularly haul heavy loads, frequent dusty roads, enjoy off-roading, or drive at low speeds for long distances.

Whether you need high mileage oil, synthetic oil, or conventional oil, you'll find the right 2003 Nissan Altima motor oil at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Talk with a teammate and consult your owner's manual before picking a motor oil. At Firestone Complete Auto Care, you can choose from the following oils: Quaker State® Advanced Durability™ conventional oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil with PurePlus™ Technology, and 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 oil 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.

2003 Nissan Altima Oil Change Q&A

  • Why is the oil light on in my Nissan Altima?  Your Nissan Altima oil change reminder light may come on if you're overdue for an oil change. The oil pressure light will typically come on if the oil level in the engine is too low, the oil pump is failing, you have a clogged oil filter, or there's a faulty oil pressure sensor.
  • Can I change my Nissan oil on my own?  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?  There could be an oil leak and your engine is burning oil. Time to have a qualified technician check things out. The leak could be caused by several issues like leaking valve seals, damaged piston rings, or worn cylinder walls.

Engine Tune-Up Service for Your 2003 Nissan Altima

Routine engine tune-ups can bring power back to your Altima. The Firestone Complete Auto Care location in your community offers several Nissan Altima engine tune-up services. The first 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. Our third service is a thorough cleaning of the fuel system. During this type of tune-up, we use a three-step process to get rid of harmful varnish, dirt, and carbon deposit buildup in your Altima’s fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate. The result? Restored fuel system performance. Here’s something to remember when choosing services: the mileage and service history of your Altima can determine what kind of service it needs. Ask one of our technicians what your vehicle needs, based on your driving habits and your car’s current condition.

*Ask a Firestone Complete Auto Care teammate about full terms and conditions for warranties.

Common Engine Tune-Up Q&A for 2003 Nissan Altima

  • 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 should I do if I see leaks under my Altima? Puddles could indicate that your vehicle is leaking coolant, oil, or brake fluid. Ignoring these leaks can lead to permanent engine damage, so address these symptoms ASAP with a tune-up service.
  • How frequently do the fuel injectors in my Nissan Altima need to be cleaned? There is no hard and fast rule on how often fuel injectors should be cleaned, and it can vary based on driving habits and fuel type. Some manufacturers may suggest including a fuel system cleaning in your regular maintenance schedule. Or you may need to clean your fuel injectors as needed if you notice signs of a fuel system problem.

Suspension Service & Repair for 2003 Nissan Altima

During the first few years you had your 2003 Nissan Altima, the ride was probably so smooth that you didn’t even think about it! Lately, though, your ride’s been feeling a little bumpy. Maybe your Altima jolts, sways to one side, or makes an unusual noise when going over a speed bump. The first sign of problems is a good time to bring your 2003 Nissan Altima in for steering and suspension repairs. We’ll get to the root of the issue and, if steering and suspension service is needed, we'll explain all of your options and the potential cost.

2003 Altima Steering & Suspension Q&A

  • Why is my Nissan Altima bouncing so much?  Excessive bouncing in your Nissan Altima might be due to damaged struts or shocks that are unable to absorb road bumps effectively, causing your vehicle to feel more like a pogo stick than a smooth ride.
  • Why does my Altima tilt forward when I hit the brakes?  The forward momentum and weight transfer to the front wheels during braking can cause your Altima's front end to dip forward. A damaged or faulty suspension system may fail to distribute the weight and force effectively, causing the front end to dip even more.
  • What role do tire pressure and tread depth play in my Nissan's suspension?  Proper tire care can reduce strain on the suspension system, and also alert you to the need for new tires. Uneven tire wear is one sign of steering and suspension system problems, but it can also contribute to more.

2003 Nissan Altima A/C Service Near You

Technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care are ready to help you address your 2003 Nissan Altima A/C problems. In this A/C performance inspection, we’ll check out the current condition of your 2003 Nissan Altima A/C system to see if repair work is required. We’ll test overall system performance, check for any leaks, and measure the system pressure.

While your 2003 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. Then, they’ll perform an evacuation (also known as a discharge) on the entire system per Nissan guidelines. The A/C system is recharged with new refrigerant.

Questions About 2003 Nissan Altima A/C Systems

  • 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.
  • What causes A/C system leaks?  Over the years, the rubber seals and gaskets in your Altima’s A/C system naturally degrade. Moisture can get into the system and cause a malfunction, or parts can simply wear out so that your system no longer seals properly.
  • Why won’t my Altima’s A/C cool the vehicle when the car is stopped? There could be issues with one or more components in the air conditioning or electrical system. Your Altima may have a faulty cooling fan or low refrigerant.

2003 Nissan Altima Transmission Service & Repairs

The transmission delivers power from the engine to the wheels so that you can drive on your terms. Because of the transmission’s responsibility to translate the right dose of power into the right amount of speed, a tiny transmission issue can take a major toll on your car’s performance. Nissan Altima transmission problems can present themselves as shifting delays, grinding when accelerating, the car shaking at any speed, or a burning smell or whistling sounds coming from under the hood. Let Nissan Altima transmission problems linger and you could see your fuel economy decrease or find that your Altima isn’t working at all. Our technicians know how to service your 2003 Altima up to Nissan-recommended standards. 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 keep your engine running at peak performance.

2003 Nissan Altima Transmission Questions & Answers

  • When should I have my Altima's transmission fluid checked or exchanged?  Regularly checking and exchanging your 2003 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.
  • Can transmission fluid leak from my Nissan Altima?  Yes. Nissan Altima transmission fluid can leak over time and potentially cause transmission issues. Worn or damaged seals, a loose or damaged transmission pan, a cracked transmission housing, faulty transmission cooler lines, or an overfilled transmission could cause transmission fluid leaks.
  • Can I drive my Nissan Altima with a transmission fluid leak?  You should avoid driving with a transmission fluid leak. Your transmission system relies on transmission fluid to operate properly, and a leak may decrease performance, cause your Altima to overheat, or even lead to transmission failure.

Vehicle Inspection for 2003 Nissan Altima

Every service performed at Firestone Complete Auto Care includes a multi-point Courtesy Check. First, a technician will pop the hood on your Nissan Altima and test the battery to see how much charge it has left – and determine if it may fail in the near future. We’ll follow the battery inspection with a visual check of your Nissan Altima’s filters, lights, wiper blades, 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 we also offer an in-depth Complete Vehicle Inspection for your 2003 Nissan Altima. A Complete Vehicle Inspection includes everything in a Courtesy Check, plus an examination (by hand!) of your exhaust system, steering and suspension, and brakes. The goal of this type of inspection is to unearth significant issues that might require preventative maintenance.

Depending on your location, you may be able to take care of your state inspection or safety test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Inspections are performed on a state-by-state basis and requirements vary.

FAQs for 2003 Nissan Altima Vehicle Inspections

  • How do I know if my Nissan Altima needs a check-up? It needs a check-up if something feels 'off' to you, the driver. Your Nissan Altima could benefit from a Courtesy Check if it has any illuminated dashboard lights, you hear weird noises coming from any part, the engine doesn't start sometimes, or your vehicle pulls to one side.
  • Can you fix my 2003 Nissan Altima so it will pass a state inspection test? There's a good chance we can. Stop by for a full system inspection and we'll get to the root of the issue.
  • When’s the best time to have a complete vehicle inspection performed on my Nissan Altima?  You should bring your Nissan Altima in for a full vehicle inspection if something weird happens and you can’t find the problem. A new dashboard light might come on, you may hear strange sounds under the hood, or your steering might feel off. A complete inspection is also a great idea before a road trip for added peace of mind.

Radiator Service & Repair for 2003 Nissan Altima

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 2003 Nissan Altima is crucial to keep your engine in the best possible shape for years to come. To keep your radiator functioning, Nissan recommends replacing your antifreeze or coolant at scheduled intervals but you can also take note of any signs your radiator is going bad. You could be on the verge of a radiator-induced engine breakdown if you see coolant leaks under your car, high engine temperatures, or a dashboard light that indicates low coolant.

If you bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start with a comprehensive inspection of your Nissan Altima’s 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 radiator cap to the heater core, we’ll take excellent care of your 2003 Nissan Altima at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Questions About Nissan Altima Radiators

  • What does the coolant light on my Nissan dashboard mean?  Your engine might be about to overheat. If your low coolant light is on, pull over in a safe area and wait for your engine temperature to go down. Once it’s safe to do so, bring your car to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care to have the coolant system inspected.
  • What is causing my Altima to overheat?  Low coolant, a damaged cooling fan, a faulty water pump, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a clogged radiator could all cause your Nissan Altima engine to overheat.
  • Why does the radiator in my Altima sound like it’s rumbling or boiling? 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!).