2017 Nissan Altima Headlights: Types, Maintenance, Upgrades, and Common Issues

If you own or are considering a 2017 Nissan Altima, understanding its headlights is critical for safety, performance, and long-term ownership. The 2017 Altima, a midsize sedan known for its balance of comfort and efficiency, comes equipped with headlights that vary by trim level but generally include halogen and LED options. Over time, owners may face issues like dimming, discoloration, or malfunctions, while others might want to upgrade for better visibility. This guide covers everything you need to know: original headlight specifications, daily maintenance tips, common problems and fixes, upgrade options, and how to ensure compliance with safety standards. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to keep your Altima’s headlights functioning optimally or make informed decisions about improvements.

1. Original Headlight Specifications in the 2017 Nissan Altima

Nissan designed the 2017 Altima’s headlights to balance style and functionality, with configurations varying by trim. Here’s a breakdown of the factory setups:

Base and Mid-Trim Models (S, SV): Halogen Headlights

Most entry-level 2017 Altimas (S and SV trims) come standard with halogen headlights. These use a tungsten filament encased in a halogen gas-filled bulb, producing light by heating the filament to high temperatures. Key details:

• Bulb Type: Typically H11 for low beams and 9005 (HB3) for high beams.
• Lumens Output: Around 1,000–1,200 lumens per low beam (halogens average 1,000–1,500 lumens; LEDs and HIDs are brighter).
• Design: Curved, aerodynamic lenses with a silver housing, integrated into the front bumper and grille for a sleek look.
• Features: Automatic on/off via a light sensor (mounted on the top of the dashboard or A-pillar) and daytime running lights (DRLs), which are often the low beams dimmed or separate LEDs.

Higher Trims (SL, Platinum): LED Headlights

Top-tier SL and Platinum trims upgrade to LED headlights, a significant improvement in both aesthetics and performance. LED (Light-Emitting Diode) technology uses semiconductors to emit light when current passes through, offering:

• Brightness: Approximately 2,000–2,500 lumens per low beam (nearly double halogen output).
• Efficiency: Lower power consumption (LEDs use 20–30% less energy than halogens) and longer lifespan (50,000–100,000 hours vs. 500–1,000 hours for halogens).
• Design: Sharper, more angular lens styling with a blue accent ring (a common LED identifier), enhancing the Altima’s premium appearance.
• Features: Same automatic on/off and DRLs as halogen models, but with faster warm-up times (LEDs reach full brightness instantly, unlike halogens which need 30–60 seconds).

2. Why Headlights Matter for Your 2017 Altima

Headlights are a critical safety feature, affecting your ability to see the road at night, in rain, or during fog. For the 2017 Altima, proper headlight function impacts:

• Visibility: Dim or misaligned headlights reduce your sightline, increasing crash risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that improved headlights can lower nighttime crash rates by up to 30%.
• Resale Value: Well-maintained headlights (no yellowing, cracks, or misalignment) keep your Altima’s exterior looking newer, boosting resale value.
• Legal Compliance: In most U.S. states, headlights must emit white or amber light, be free of obstructions, and illuminate the road 200–300 feet ahead. Failing to meet these can result in tickets or failed inspections.

3. Daily Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your 2017 Altima’s Headlights

Proper care prevents premature failure and keeps headlights performing at their best. Here’s how to maintain them:

Cleaning Regularly

Road grime, bugs, and UV exposure cause buildup that dims light output. Wash headlights weekly with:

• Mild Soap and Water: Avoid abrasive cleaners (e.g., scouring pads) that scratch the lens.
• Bug and Tar Remover: For stuck-on debris, spray a dedicated product and wipe gently.
• Microfiber Towels: Prevent lint from clinging to the lens.

Inspect for Damage

Check monthly for:

• Cracks or Scratches: Even small damage lets in moisture, leading to fogging or corrosion. Use clear headlight sealant (available at auto parts stores) to temporarily repair minor cracks, but replace severely damaged units.
• Yellowing or Hazing: Caused by UV oxidation. If left untreated, it reduces light output by up to 50%.

Check Bulb Connections and Fuses

Flickering or non-working headlights may stem from loose bulbs or blown fuses.

• Bulbs: Turn off the ignition, let the bulbs cool, then twist the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove. Inspect for corrosion on the contacts; clean with electrical contact cleaner if needed.
• Fuses: Locate the fuse box (under the hood or in the cabin, per your owner’s manual) and check the headlight fuses (labeled “HEAD” or similar). Replace with a fuse of the same amperage if blown.

Align Headlights Properly

Misaligned headlights can blind oncoming drivers or leave your road ahead dark. Most 2017 Altimas have adjustable screws on the headlight assembly. To align:

1. Park on a flat surface 25 feet from a wall.
2. Turn on low beams; note where the light beams hit the wall.
3. Adjust the vertical and horizontal screws until the main beam is centered and the cutoff line (the dark line at the top of the beam) aligns with the center of the wall.

4. Common Headlight Problems in the 2017 Altima (and How to Fix Them)

Even with maintenance, 2017 Altima headlights may develop issues. Here are the most frequent problems and solutions:

Problem 1: Dim or Flickering Headlights

Causes:

• Aging halogen bulbs (lifespan ~1,000 hours; if you drive 15,000 miles/year at night, bulbs may need replacing every 2–3 years).
• Corroded bulb sockets or loose wiring.
• Faulty headlight relay or control module.

Fixes:

• Replace halogen bulbs with new H11 or 9005 units (use OEM or high-quality aftermarket brands like Sylvania or Philips).
• Clean socket contacts with a wire brush and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
• Test the relay (swap with a similar relay in the fuse box) or have a mechanic check the control module.

Problem 2: Headlights Won’t Turn On

Causes:

• Blown fuse (most common).
• Failed headlight switch (located on the steering column or dashboard).
• Damaged wiring harness (due to rodent chew or corrosion).

Fixes:

• Replace the fuse (check the owner’s manual for the correct amperage).
• Test the switch with a multimeter; replace if it doesn’t send power to the bulbs.
• Inspect wiring for breaks; repair or replace sections as needed.

Problem 3: LED Headlights Flicker or Buzz

Causes:

• Incompatible aftermarket LED bulbs (some use different power requirements than halogens, causing voltage fluctuations).
• Poor-quality LED drivers (the component that converts AC to DC power; cheap drivers overheat or fail).

Fixes:

• Install LED bulbs with built-in anti-flicker capacitors (e.g., Morimoto or Diode Dynamics brands).
• Ensure the LED kit includes a compatible driver matched to your Altima’s electrical system.

Problem 4: Headlight Lens Yellowing or Clouding

Causes:

• UV radiation breaking down the polycarbonate lens material over time.
• Exposure to road chemicals (salt, oil) that degrade the lens coating.

Fixes:

• DIY Restoration: Use a headlight restoration kit (e.g., 3M or Meguiar’s). These typically involve sanding the lens with fine grit paper (1,000–2,000 grit), polishing with a compound, and applying a UV-protective sealant. Cost: $20–$50.
• Professional Restoration: Auto detailers charge $100–$200 but ensure a longer-lasting finish.
• Replacement: If restoration fails, replace the headlight assembly ($150–$400 per side, depending on trim and source).

5. Upgrading Your 2017 Altima’s Headlights: LED vs. HID vs. Halogen

If your Altima has halogen headlights and you want better performance, upgrading is an option. Here’s how to choose between LED, HID (High-Intensity Discharge), and sticking with halogen:

LED Upgrades

Pros:

• Instant full brightness (no warm-up time).
• Energy-efficient (draws less power from the battery).
• Long lifespan (10+ years with normal use).
• Wide range of aftermarket styles (projector, reflector, or OEM-style LED pods).

Cons:

• Can be pricier upfront ($100–$300 per bulb or $500–$1,000 for complete assemblies).
• Requires compatible wiring/driver to avoid flickering.

Best For: Owners prioritizing brightness, style, and low maintenance.

HID Upgrades

Pros:

• Even brighter than LEDs (3,000–3,500 lumens per bulb).
• Unique blue-white light output (though some find it harsher than LED).

Cons:

• Slower warm-up (2–5 minutes to reach full brightness).
• Requires ballasts (extra components that can fail).
• May not fit all 2017 Altima headlight housings (projector lenses are better for HID focus).

Best For: Enthusiasts wanting maximum brightness, though LED is often a better long-term choice.

Sticking with Halogen

Pros:

• Lowest cost (bulbs are $10–$20 each).
• Simple installation (no extra components).

Cons:

• Dimmer output and shorter lifespan.

Best For: Budget-conscious owners who don’t drive much at night.

6. Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Headlights

When replacing or upgrading, you’ll need to decide between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket options:

OEM Headlights

• Pros: Guaranteed fit, quality, and compatibility. Backed by Nissan’s warranty (typically 12–24 months).
• Cons: More expensive ($300–$800 per assembly).

Ideal For: Owners prioritizing reliability and resale value.

Aftermarket Headlights

• Pros: Cheaper ($150–$500 per assembly). Some brands (e.g., Morimoto, Diode Dynamics) offer superior performance to OEM.
• Cons: Fit and quality vary; avoid no-name brands with poor reviews.

Ideal For: Budget-minded owners or those seeking upgraded features (e.g., higher lumens, custom styling).

7. Legal Considerations for 2017 Altima Headlights

Modifying your headlights must comply with local laws. Key rules to follow:

• Color: Only white or amber light is legal for low/high beams. Blue-tinted LEDs/HIDs may be illegal in some states (e.g., California, Texas).
• Brightness: Low beams must not exceed 3,000 lumens (some HIDs/LEDs go higher; check local limits).
• Alignment: Beams must not glare into oncoming traffic (use the wall test mentioned earlier).
• Coverage: No cracks or obstructions (mud, tape) that block light output.

8. Final Tips for 2017 Altima Headlight Ownership

• Inspect Annually: Have a mechanic check headlights during routine service to catch issues early.
• Replace Bulbs in Pairs: If one bulb burns out, replace both to ensure even brightness.
• Consider Professional Installation: For complex upgrades (e.g., HID kits or LED conversions), a mechanic can avoid wiring mistakes that cause flickering or damage.

The 2017 Nissan Altima’s headlights are a blend of practicality and modern tech, but their performance depends on care and smart choices. Whether you’re maintaining factory halogens, troubleshooting issues, or upgrading to LEDs, following this guide ensures your Altima stays safe, compliant, and road-ready. By prioritizing regular maintenance and understanding your options, you’ll maximize the life and functionality of your headlights for years to come.