The 2013 Nissan Altima arrived in a period when midsize sedans were expected to balance efficiency, comfort, and a sharper, more modern feel than their predecessors. In this generation, the Altima leaned toward a sleeker design and more responsive road manners, which makes correct tire selection especially important for preserving the way the car sits and drives. Tire fitment for the 2013 Nissan Altima varies by sub-model, with radial sizes ranging from 215/60R16 to 235/45R18 on 16-, 17-, and 18-inch rims. That means the real choice starts with identifying the exact trim and wheel setup, then comparing available tire series and specifications that match how the car is used.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2013 Nissan Altima
The 2013 Nissan Altima uses three primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. All three fitments are radial, but they are tied to different 16-, 17-, or 18-inch rim setups. Before choosing a tire, confirm the Altima's specific trim and verify the actual wheel size on the car, especially if wheels have been changed at some point.
215/60R16 is a metric radial size that identifies a 215-millimeter section width, a 60-series aspect ratio, radial construction, and a 16-inch rim diameter. On the 2013 Nissan Altima, this size is part of the standard radial fitment range and is used on certain sedan configurations. It is a familiar modern passenger-car sizing format, so replacement choices are centered on matching the correct dimensions and wheel diameter rather than interpreting an older bias-ply code. This size should be chosen only when it matches the Altima's actual sub-model and wheel setup.
215/55R17 is a metric radial size with a 215-millimeter section width, a 55-series profile, and a 17-inch rim diameter. For the 2013 Nissan Altima, it applies to specific trims and keeps a similar overall tire height while moving to a lower-profile sidewall than the 16-inch fitment. Available choices in this size include BFGoodrich options in the g-Force Comp 2 AS and g-Force Phenom T/A series, both in blackwall form. This size makes the most sense when the car is equipped with the correct 17-inch wheels and the goal is to stay within the intended trim-level fitment.
235/45R18 is a metric radial size that uses a wider 235-millimeter section width, a 45-series profile, and an 18-inch rim diameter. On the 2013 Nissan Altima, this size belongs to certain higher-trim configurations and carries a noticeably sportier sizing character than the smaller wheel fitments. Product choices include BFGoodrich offerings in g-Force Comp 2 AS, g-Force Sport Comp 2, and g-Force Phenom T/A, all with blackwall styling. This is the right size to evaluate only after confirming that the car has the proper 18-inch wheel package and adequate clearance for that setup.
Tire fitment for the 2013 Nissan Altima varies by sub-model, so trim identification matters before anything else. Several versions share the same size, but the Altima range spans 16-, 17-, and 18-inch wheel setups, which changes the correct tire selection immediately.
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2013 Nissan Altima Base
The 2013 Nissan Altima Base uses the 215/60R16 radial size. That makes wheel-diameter confirmation the first step, followed by selecting a replacement that preserves the proper 16-inch fitment for everyday road use.
The 2013 Nissan Altima S 2.5 Coupe uses 215/55R17 radial tires. Tire shopping here is centered on matching the 17-inch wheel setup and comparing the available blackwall performance-oriented options within that size.
The 2013 Nissan Altima S 2.5 Sedan uses the 215/60R16 radial size. That keeps selection straightforward as long as the car still has its correct 16-inch wheel package and has not been changed to a different rim diameter.
The 2013 Nissan Altima S 3.5 Sedan uses 235/45R18 radial tires. Because this fitment moves to an 18-inch wheel with a lower-profile tire, the buyer should confirm the wheel size carefully before comparing available series.
The 2013 Nissan Altima SL 2.5 uses the 215/55R17 radial size. Tire selection here comes down to staying with the proper 17-inch fitment and comparing the available BFGoodrich series that match the car's setup.
The 2013 Nissan Altima SL 3.5 uses 235/45R18 radial tires. This sub-model calls for the 18-inch fitment, so replacement choices should be evaluated with wheel width, tire series, and clearance kept in mind.
The 2013 Nissan Altima SV 2.5 uses the 215/55R17 radial size. That means the practical decision is not the overall fitment category, but which available 17-inch tire best matches the car's present wheel and driving needs.
The 2013 Nissan Altima SV 3.5 uses 235/45R18 radial tires. Buyers should start by confirming that the car still carries the correct 18-inch wheels, then compare the available blackwall tire series within that size.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 2013 Nissan Altima Tires for Sale
Available product choices center on 215/55R17 and 235/45R18 radial fitments, both from BFGoodrich. The current assortment is blackwall only, with g-Force Comp 2 AS, g-Force Sport Comp 2, and g-Force Phenom T/A series depending on size.
Common 2013 Nissan Altima tire questions usually come down to trim-specific size, wheel diameter, available 17- and 18-inch product choices, and the checks that matter before putting a recently serviced or modified car back on the road.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2013 Nissan Altima?
The 2013 Nissan Altima uses three primary tire sizes: 215/60R16, 215/55R17, and 235/45R18. The correct size depends on the exact sub-model, because different trims were equipped with different wheel diameters and tire profiles.
The most important step is matching the tire to the car's actual trim and wheel size, not just the model name on the trunk. A Base or S 2.5 Sedan can use a different tire than an SL 3.5 or SV 3.5, and a wheel change at some point in the car's life can alter what belongs on it now.
What size rim does a 2013 Nissan Altima use?
A 2013 Nissan Altima can use 16-inch, 17-inch, or 18-inch rims depending on sub-model. The 215/60R16 size uses a 16-inch rim, 215/55R17 uses a 17-inch rim, and 235/45R18 uses an 18-inch rim.
Rim diameter should be confirmed before ordering tires because the Altima did not use one universal wheel size across the range. Checking the tire sidewall and measuring the actual wheel setup on the car is especially worthwhile if the vehicle has had replacement wheels, trim swaps, or previous owner modifications.
Why does the 2013 Nissan Altima have more than one tire size?
The 2013 Nissan Altima has more than one tire size because its sub-models were built with different wheel packages. Some trims use 16-inch wheels with 215/60R16 tires, others move to 17-inch wheels with 215/55R17, and the 3.5-liter upper trims use 18-inch wheels with 235/45R18.
Those fitment changes affect more than just appearance, since the wheel diameter and tire profile are tied to the car's original trim-level setup. The right choice starts with identifying the exact sub-model and confirming what is currently on the car, rather than assuming every 2013 Altima shares the same tire.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2013 Nissan Altima?
Start with the correct size for the exact 2013 Nissan Altima sub-model, then confirm the wheel diameter on the car itself. From there, compare the tire's construction, rim-width compatibility, weight, and any load figures that apply to the size you need.
The best comparison process is trim-specific. A 17-inch Altima and an 18-inch Altima may both be radial cars, but they do not use the same tire dimensions or the same wheel-width range. Matching the tire to the actual wheel and intended road use helps avoid clearance issues, handling changes, and ordering the wrong size.
What sidewall styles are available for 2013 Nissan Altima tires?
The currently available product selection for the 2013 Nissan Altima uses blackwall sidewalls. That applies to the BFGoodrich options offered in the 215/55R17 and 235/45R18 sizes, including the g-Force series and Phenom T/A line.
For this Altima, sidewall choice is not really a whitewall-versus-blackwall decision. The more meaningful comparison is between the available tire series within the correct size and wheel setup. Once the trim and rim diameter are confirmed, sidewall appearance becomes straightforward because the current selection stays consistent in blackwall form.
What tire series are available for the 2013 Nissan Altima?
Available tire series for the 2013 Nissan Altima include BFGoodrich g-Force Comp 2 AS, g-Force Sport Comp 2, and g-Force Phenom T/A, depending on size. The 215/55R17 fitment includes g-Force Comp 2 AS and g-Force Phenom T/A, while 235/45R18 adds g-Force Sport Comp 2 as another option.
Series choice matters after the size is settled, not before. A 17-inch Altima owner should compare only the series built in 215/55R17, while an 18-inch Altima owner should stay within 235/45R18 offerings. Looking at the available series this way keeps the focus on correct fitment first and product character second.
Restoration & Appearance
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2013 Nissan Altima restoration?
Correct tire fitment still matters on a 2013 Nissan Altima even though it is a newer vehicle than most traditional restoration subjects. Keeping the proper 16-, 17-, or 18-inch fitment for the exact sub-model helps preserve the car's intended stance, wheel-to-tire relationship, and overall presentation.
Appearance and fitment usually go together on a modern car like this. An Altima restored with the wrong tire size can look slightly off even before any driving issues show up. Owners aiming for an accurate finish should verify the exact sub-model and wheel package first, then choose a tire that matches that setup cleanly.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 2013 Nissan Altima?
Tire construction is straightforward on the 2013 Nissan Altima because the primary fitments are radial across the model range. That means appearance changes are driven more by using the correct size and wheel diameter than by choosing between bias-ply and radial construction.
A restored Altima will usually look most natural when the tire profile matches the trim's intended wheel package. A 16-inch setup, a 17-inch setup, and an 18-inch setup each create a different visual balance. Staying with the proper radial size for the specific sub-model is the key step in preserving that original look.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2013 Nissan Altima?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2013 Nissan Altima. Aftermarket wheels, lowered suspension, altered offset, or body changes can change how a 215/60R16, 215/55R17, or 235/45R18 tire sits in the wheel opening and how much clearance it has during steering and suspension travel.
A car that left the factory with one wheel package may now carry something different, so the sidewall marking alone should not be the only check. Confirm wheel diameter and width, then inspect clearance at full steering lock and under load. That is especially important when replacing tires on a used Altima with an unknown modification history.
What should I inspect before driving a 2013 Nissan Altima on new tires?
Before driving a 2013 Nissan Altima on new tires, inspect air pressure, wheel fastener torque, tread and sidewall condition, and the seating of each tire on the rim. It is also smart to look for any signs of rubbing, uneven suspension height, or previous damage around the wheel wells.
A short, careful road test helps confirm that the car tracks properly and that there is no contact during turns or over bumps. Recheck pressure after the tires have settled in, and keep an eye on vibration or pull that might point to alignment, wheel, or suspension issues rather than a problem with the tire itself.
How often should tires on a 2013 Nissan Altima be inspected?
Tires on a 2013 Nissan Altima should be inspected regularly, not just when they look low or worn. Frequent checks for pressure loss, irregular tread wear, cuts, bulges, cracking, and embedded debris help catch problems early, especially on a car that sees mixed commuting and highway use.
Inspection matters even more if the Altima is driven infrequently or stored for long periods, since age and underinflation can become issues before tread is used up. Looking over the tires monthly and before longer trips is a practical routine. That habit also helps confirm that the current tire size still matches the car's wheel setup.
