The Nissan Altima typically uses a single serpentine belt for accessories, and it relies on a timing chain rather than a timing belt.
Belts in the Altima's engine
In modern Altima models, the external belt you can see and feel is the serpentine belt, which drives components such as the alternator, A/C compressor, and power steering pump. The cam timing is controlled by an internal timing chain, not a belt, so there is no separate timing belt to replace.
Engines and belt configuration
Two common engines in recent Altimas are the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo. Both use a timing chain and a single serpentine belt to drive accessory components. Depending on the market and model year, the water pump may be driven by the serpentine belt, but exact belt routing can vary slightly by year. The important point remains: one external belt and no timing belt.
Before listing the key belt facts, here is the essential takeaway for readers:
- The Altima uses 1 serpentine belt to drive accessories (alternator, A/C, power steering, etc.).
- The engine uses a timing chain, not a timing belt, to control valve timing.
- Maintenance intervals for the serpentine belt are specified in the owner's manual and typically fall in the 60,000–100,000 mile range under normal conditions; the timing chain generally does not require routine replacement.
Bottom line: For most current Nissan Altima configurations, there is one belt—the serpentine belt—with no separate timing belt, and timing is provided by an internal chain.
Summary
Answer: One belt. The Altima’s current engines use a single serpentine belt for accessories, while cam timing is managed by a timing chain inside the engine. This setup is standard across recent model years, but always consult your owner's manual for exact maintenance intervals relevant to your vehicle.