The 2017 Nissan Altima SR boasts a sporty design, and its headlights are a key part of that aesthetic. Understanding your Altima's headlights—their functionality, potential issues, and replacement options—is crucial for both safety and maintaining your vehicle's appearance. This guide delves into everything you need to know about the 2017 Nissan Altima SR headlights.
Understanding Your 2017 Nissan Altima SR Headlights
The 2017 Altima SR typically features halogen projector headlights. These headlights project a focused beam of light, offering better visibility than older reflector-style headlights. However, their lifespan is limited, and they can be susceptible to damage. Key features to note include:
- Halogen Bulbs: These are standard in the SR trim. They are relatively inexpensive to replace but don't offer the same brightness or longevity as more advanced technologies like HID or LED.
- Projector Design: The projector housing focuses the light beam for improved visibility and a cleaner cutoff line, minimizing glare for oncoming drivers.
- Potential Issues: Common problems include bulb burnouts (relatively easy to fix), cloudy or yellowed lenses (requiring cleaning or replacement), and damage from impacts (potentially requiring a whole headlight assembly replacement).
Replacing Your 2017 Nissan Altima SR Headlight Bulbs
Replacing a burnt-out headlight bulb is a relatively straightforward process, even for those without extensive automotive experience. However, always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. Generally, the process involves:
- Accessing the Headlight Assembly: This typically involves opening the hood and locating the access panel behind the headlight.
- Disconnecting the Electrical Connector: Carefully disconnect the electrical connector from the back of the old bulb.
- Removing the Old Bulb: Depending on the design, you might need to twist or carefully pull the old bulb out.
- Installing the New Bulb: Insert the new bulb, ensuring it's properly seated and aligned.
- Reconnecting the Electrical Connector: Carefully reconnect the electrical connector.
- Testing the New Bulb: Turn on the headlights to ensure the new bulb is working correctly.
Choosing Replacement Bulbs
When replacing your bulbs, it's crucial to use the correct type. Using the wrong bulb can lead to improper lighting and potentially damage other components. Always refer to your owner's manual or a reputable auto parts store for the correct bulb type for your 2017 Nissan Altima SR.
Addressing Cloudy or Damaged Headlights
Over time, your Altima's headlights can become cloudy or yellowed due to UV exposure and environmental factors. This reduces the effectiveness of the headlights and diminishes the vehicle's appearance. Several options exist:
- Cleaning: A thorough cleaning with a dedicated headlight restoration kit can often improve clarity. However, this is only effective for minor clouding.
- Headlight Restoration: Professional headlight restoration services use more aggressive techniques to remove deeper scratches and yellowing.
- Headlight Replacement: If the damage is significant, replacing the entire headlight assembly is the best option.
Upgrading Your 2017 Nissan Altima SR Headlights
While the standard halogen headlights are functional, some owners opt for upgrades:
- Aftermarket Halogen Bulbs: These bulbs offer increased brightness compared to the stock bulbs but may not be as durable.
- HID (High-Intensity Discharge) Conversion Kits: These kits replace the halogen bulbs with HID bulbs, providing significantly brighter and whiter light. However, proper installation is essential to avoid legal issues and potential damage. Note: Check your local laws regarding HID conversions.
- LED Headlight Conversions: LED bulbs offer even greater brightness, longer lifespan, and improved energy efficiency compared to halogen or HID. Similar to HID conversions, proper installation and legal compliance are crucial.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. Improper headlight maintenance or modifications can lead to safety hazards. If you are unsure about any aspect of headlight maintenance or replacement, consult a qualified mechanic.
