Bluetooth, once a little-known technology, has now become a part of the daily life of many. From wireless speakers to headphones and even kitchen appliances, the ways you can connect your phone have become varied. For many, Bluetooth connection during the daily commute has changed from an extra perk to a much-needed feature. You may be wondering if your Nissan Altima has Bluetooth. We have thoroughly researched this question and have some answers!
The Nissan Altima does have Bluetooth capability. To connect your Bluetooth device to a Nissan Altima that has a navigation system, do the following:
- Press the phone button on the audio controls
- Select "connect" then "connect" again
- Select "new device"
- On your device, under Bluetooth settings, select "My-Car"
- Accept the pairing request if the pin is the same
Bluetooth capabilities ensure a safe and connected ride. We'll discuss what years and models you can expect to find Bluetooth in a Nissan Altima. Keep reading as we break down the different ways you can connect your phone to your vehicle and what's available on the newest Nissan infotainment system.
How Do I know If My Nissan Has Bluetooth?
There are a couple of indicators that your vehicle has Bluetooth. Look for a Bluetooth or phone icon. If your car has one, then it will connect via Bluetooth. You can also turn on your vehicle. If "My-Car" shows up on your device list under Bluetooth settings in your phone or tablet, then you know that your Nissan has Bluetooth!
Finally, if you are unable to find a Bluetooth setting in the menu or your vehicle is not showing in your device settings, check the owner's manual to confirm whether you should have Bluetooth or not.
What Nissan Models Have Bluetooth?
As of 2018, with the rollout of Nissan Connect, all models and trim levels come with Bluetooth at least as an option. The same year, Nissan discontinued the basic trim level on the Altima. Since the lowest trim level is now the Altima 2.5s, Bluetooth is now available on all trim levels of the Altima as well.
What Year Did Nissan Altima Get Bluetooth?
Nissan was among the first brands to have Bluetooth available on select models and trim. As of 2008, Bluetooth was at least an option on the Altima 2.5s and up. Since 2008, Bluetooth has been standard on the highest level Altima 3.5 SL.
How Do You Connect Your Phone To Nissan Altima
Every year vehicle manufacturers and app developers unveil more ways to make your phone and apps available during the daily commute. The current ways you can get connected in a Nissan Altima include the following:
- Standard Bluetooth Only Connection
- Nissan Connect
- Apple Carplay
- Android Auto
If you have an older pre-navigation post-2008 model, start a Bluetooth connection by pressing the enter/setting button on your car's audio menu. Select Bluetooth and add phone. Select "My-Car" in the list under settings in your phone or another Bluetooth-compatible device.
Models that are not fitted with navigation will not show song information, and the use of the phone will be limited to making and receiving calls. The app information does not show on the dashboard. To get near-complete access to your phone or tablet in drive, you'll need to have a Nissan Altima that is outfitted with Nissan Connect.
What Do You Get With Nissan Connect?
Nissan Connect is the infotainment navigation service offered by Nissan. Through the Nissan connect system, you'll be able to get access to a variety of free standard features as well as paid premium features available via subscription.
Voice Control
Nissan connect offers complete voice control with built-in integrations for Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. Conduct voice searches and open apps. Connect with your car remotely through your phone on some models. Later years have even introduced voice-activated remote controls like lock and unlock.
Maps And Navigation
The maps and navigation have free options through apps and paid premium services through the Nissan Connect subscriptions. Get door-to-door navigation through the dashboard or utilize the Concierge service available on select models to get recommendations on local restaurants or even theater showtimes.
App Integration
Nissan Connect allows for better integration and access to your phone apps than ever before. Get access to searches, assistants, and more through your dashboard.
Wifi Hotspot
Turn your ride into a Wifi hotspot! Available over the AT&T network, this is a separate subscription with plans starting at $10 a month for current AT&T customers or $15.99 a month for those that do not currently subscribe to an AT&T Data Plan.
What Apps Work With Nissan Connect?
Many apps are now compatible with Nissan Connect. App compatibility grows every year. The most popular apps that work with Nissan Connect currently are:
- Apple Carplay
- Android Auto
- Siri Eyes Free
- Google search
- Trip Advisor
Is Nissan Connect Service Free?
Many of the apps are available through the infotainment center at no extra cost. There is a suite of premium services available on a subscription starting at $8.00 a month. These include remote features like remote starting and locking as well as access to premium navigation and concierge services.
Does Nissan Altima Have Apple Carplay?
As of 2019, Apple Carplay compatibility was rolled out to Nissan Altima. Apple Carplay allows apps to be displayed intuitively so that your attention can remain on the road. Apps displayed through Carplay will have larger icons and limited buttons visible to make app navigation simple.
To use Apple Carplay, pair your phone with your Altima. A pop-up will appear asking if you would like to use Apple Carplay wirelessly. Select yes. Using other features over Wifi on your phone can interrupt app function.
For more on Apple Carplay on a Nissan, read our article "Does the Nissan Titan have Apple CarPlay?"
If your phone utilizes Wi-Fi through the car's hotspot, plug your phone into the available USB port. Apple Carplay will launch automatically. The USB option is also available to Nissan Connect systems that do not have wireless Apple Carplay compatibility. To get the best connection, make sure to use an Apple Approved Lightning to USB cable.
Click here to see an Apple-certified Lightning to USB cable.
Using Android Auto In A Nissan Altima
When using a device running android software earlier than later than 9.0 and earlier than 10.0, you'll need to download the app first. Android devices 10.0 and later already have the built-in feature standard on the newest devices.
To connect the plugin with a USB cable to the USB port on the entertainment system. Tap the Android auto-icon. Organize and customize the screen through on-screen prompts or in the app settings.
How To Fix Bluetooth Connection Issues In A Nissan
Though your Nissan Altima has Bluetooth, you may encounter issues with connecting. If your Bluetooth connection seems shaky or refuses to connect, here are some troubleshooting steps to try.
How To Unpair Your Device
Resetting your Bluetooth connection is the most common way to fix Bluetooth issues. Go to the settings menu and select phone and Bluetooth from the option. Select your device and then choose to delete it. Once deleted, follow the steps for connecting and pairing your device.
Check For Interference
Another common cause of a bad Bluetooth connection is interference. Turn off Bluetooth on other devices. If a rider has had their device previously paired to your vehicle, try removing their device from the Nissan Connect system if turning off Bluetooth on their device is not an option. Disable Wifi on your device while connecting over Bluetooth for the strongest possible connection.
Can You Add Bluetooth To A Nissan Altima
If you have an Altima that does not have Bluetooth compatibility already installed, you may be able to invest in an aftermarket system.
Click here to see a touchscreen system that fits Nissan Altima 2017 on Amazon.
Stay Safe, Stay Connected Go Hands-Free!
Now that you know that your Nissan Altima has Bluetooth and how you can get connected, use your connection to stay safe and connected on the road! Keep organized, arrive on time, and listen to your favorite music all while keeping your eyes on the road. Keep up to date and look for more apps and features as they become available to get the most out of your Bluetooth connection.
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