The fuel filter on Nissan Altima models is an important component of the fuel system that helps remove contaminants from the fuel before it reaches the engine. Knowing where it is located and how to access it for replacement is useful information for Altima owners.
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Fuel Filter Location
The fuel filter on most Nissan Altima models from 2002 to 2022 is located under the vehicle, along the frame rail on the passenger side. More specifically, it is mounted behind the rear passenger side wheel well, attached to the underside of the car.
On the 2.5L 4-cylinder engines, the fuel filter is positioned near the rear of the vehicle, close to the fuel tank. On V6 equipped models, the filter is located more towards the middle of the frame rail.
Some key things to note about the Altima fuel filter location:
- It is on the passenger side of the vehicle
- Installed along the frame rail underneath
- Behind the rear passenger side wheel well
- The exact position varies slightly depending on engine
This consistent location under the right side of the car makes it readily accessible for servicing and replacement when required. The fuel filter is not mounted on or inside the engine bay, but rather securely fastened under the chassis.
Accessing the Fuel Filter
Since the Nissan Altima fuel filter is installed underneath the vehicle, accessing it requires getting the car properly lifted up. There are a few different options for safely raising and supporting the Altima to work underneath.
- Drive-on ramps – Allow the front wheels to ride up the ramps to elevate the front of the car
- Floor jack – Lift the vehicle using the factory specified jacking points and support it on jack stands
- Vehicle lift – Raise the entire car up in the air for full access underneath
Crawling under the elevated vehicle, the fuel filter can then be located visually along the passenger side frame rail. Depending on the specific Altima model and engine, it will be positioned near the middle or rear of the frame.
With sufficient access and lighting, the filter is now able to be serviced or replaced. The fuel lines will need to be disconnected using properly sized line wrenches. Expect some fuel leakage when loosening the fittings. The filter housing is secured with several 10mm headed bolts that can be removed with a ratchet or wrench.
Here is a quick summary of accessing the Nissan Altima fuel filter:
- Safely raise vehicle – use ramps, jacks, or lift
- Locate filter along frame rail – passenger side middle or rear
- Disconnect fuel line fittings – use line wrench, expect some fuel leakage
- Remove filter housing bolts – 10mm headed bolts
Replacing the Fuel Filter
Once accessible, replacing the Nissan Altima fuel filter involves disconnecting the old unit, swapping in the new filter, and reconnecting the fuel lines.
The process generally involves these key steps:
- Relieve fuel system pressure through Schrader valve on fuel rail
- Disconnect the fuel lines from the filter housing using a line wrench
- Remove the 10mm bolts securing the filter housing
- Carefully lower the housing and remove the old filter
- Check and clean the housing, re-lubricate the filter gasket o-ring if reusing
- Install new filter in housing and confirm proper alignment
- Reinstall housing and bolts, torque to proper specs
- Reconnect fuel lines, use new clamps or washers if showing wear
- Pressurize the system and check for leaks
When installing the new fuel filter, take note of the direction of flow through the filter to ensure it is oriented properly. Consult the service manual for the exact specifications on fuel line torque and housing bolt torque.
Be sure to clean up any spilled fuel and dispose of the old filter properly. Start the engine and check for leaks at the fuel lines and filter housing. The fuel filter replacement is now complete.
Fuel Filter Replacement Intervals
Nissan generally recommends inspecting the fuel filter every 30,000 miles and replacing it as needed or every 60,000 miles. However, the interval can vary depending on driving conditions and types of operation.
Here are some general guidelines for Nissan Altima fuel filter service intervals:
- Inspect every 30,000 miles or 2 years
- Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years in normal driving
- Replace every 45,000 miles or 3 years in severe service (frequent short trips, dusty conditions, etc)
- Replace sooner if contaminated or clogged
Keep in mind these intervals are general recommendations only. Always consult your owner’s manual or Nissan service department for the intervals specific to your Altima model and engine.
Symptoms of a clogged fuel filter like reduced power, poor acceleration, or engine stumbling or hesitation are indicators to replace the filter sooner. Extremely dirty fuel can quickly plug up a filter.
Fuel Filter Selection
There are a few OEM and aftermarket fuel filter options available for the various Nissan Altima engines:
| Engine | Filter Part Number |
|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-cyl | 16546-8J00A (Nissan OEM) |
| 3.5L V6 | 16546-9E000 (Nissan OEM) |
| 2.5L or 3.5L | FP-10660 (WIX aftermarket) |
The OEM Nissan fuel filters are high quality original equipment parts. The WIX FP10660 provides a more affordable aftermarket option.
Check for the correct part number for your Altima engine and year model when selecting a replacement. Using the wrong filter can negatively affect fuel pressure, volume, and contaminant filtering capability.
Conclusion
On Nissan Altima models, the fuel filter is conveniently located along the passenger side frame rail underneath the car. Accessing it requires safely lifting the vehicle. Replacement at the specified service intervals is important for engine performance and longevity. Selecting the correct replacement filter for the specific Altima engine is also critical. With the filter’s accessible location and simple replacement procedure, Nissan Altima owners can easily take care of this important maintenance task.
In summary:
- Altima fuel filter located under passenger side of car
- Lift vehicle and locate along frame rail
- Disconnect lines, remove bolts, lower housing
- Replace filter, reinstall, reconnect lines
- Inspect every 30k miles, replace at 60k mile intervals
- Use OEM or quality aftermarket replacement filter
Properly replacing the fuel filter keeps contaminants out of the fuel system and allows for optimum engine performance.