How to Replace Serpentine Belt Tensioner 06-12 Nissan Altima
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 75 min · Nissan Altima
Replace the serpentine belt tensioner on a 2006–2012 Nissan Altima, remove the wheel-well shield for access, and inspect belt routing before starting the engine.
Tools you will need
- 21mm Socket
- 13mm Socket
- Torque Wrench
- 14mm Socket
- Serpentine Belt Tensioner Tool
- Ratchet
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
Parts and supplies
- Serpentine belt tensioner
- Serpentine belt, if worn
Steps
Remove the wheel and splash shield
Loosen the wheel nuts, raise and support the vehicle, then remove the wheel. Release the inner fender shield retainers and move the shield to expose the belt drive.
Release and remove the serpentine belt
Record the belt route before using the tensioner tool to rotate the tensioner and create slack. Slip the belt off and slowly release the tensioner.
Remove the old tensioner
Remove the tensioner mounting bolts and lift the assembly away. Check the replacement against the original for correct mounting orientation and pulley alignment.
Install the replacement tensioner
Align the new tensioner with its mounting holes and start both bolts by hand. Tighten the fasteners to the vehicle's specification without cross-threading them.
Route and tension the belt
Follow the routing diagram to loop the belt around each accessory. Rotate the tensioner, fit the final belt span, release it slowly, and verify every rib is seated.
Refit the shield and wheel
Reinstall the wheel-well shield and retainers, then refit the wheel. Lower the vehicle, tighten lug nuts to specification, and run the engine briefly to check belt tracking.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.