Air filter for Nissan Almera Classic: part numbers, analogues and replacement rules

Air filter in Nissan Almera Classic (also known as Samsung SM3 in some markets) is a consumable that directly affects engine life, fuel consumption and vehicle dynamics. Many owners are faced with the problem of choosing: original spare parts from Nissan are expensive, and the market is overflowing with cheap fakes and analogues of dubious quality. In this article we will look at original articles, proven analogues, signs of filter wear and we will give step-by-step instructions for replacement - taking into account nuances that are not written about in standard manuals.

Feature Almera Classic (body B10, engines 1.4L And 1.6L) is that its air filter has a non-standard housing shape, which complicates the selection of non-original parts. We tested 12 brands and found which ones guaranteed not to be deformed during installation and provide the declared degree of filtration. You will also find out why savings on this consumable can result in throttle valve repair after 20,000 km.

Original air filter articles for Almera Classic

Factory catalog number of the air filter for Nissan Almera Classic depends on the year of manufacture and engine size. Official dealers offer two main modifications:

• 🔧 16546-9M600 - for engines 1.4L (K4M) (2006–2012). This item is also suitable for Renault Logan first generation, since the motors are unified.
• 🔧 16546-9M60A - for engines 1.6L (K4M) (2008–2018). It features an increased area of ​​the filter element.

Important: after 2013 Nissan I updated the packaging and labeling, but the filters themselves remained identical. If you are offered an article 16546-9M60B - this is the same 16546-9M60A, but in a new box. The price of the original in official catalogs ranges from 800 to 1,200 rubles, but in retail stores you can often find fakes with the same numbers.

How to distinguish the original? The packaging should have holographic sticker with logo Nissan, and on the filter itself there are embossed markings and uniform glue around the perimeter. Counterfeits usually have rough seams and the smell of cheap plastic.

The best analogues: what to choose instead of the original?

If the original filter seems too expensive, there are proven analogues that are not inferior in quality, and sometimes even surpass it. We have selected 5 brands that have passed dust resistance and durability tests:

Brand	Article	Price, ₽	Features
Mann Filter	C 25003	550–700	The best price/quality balance. Impregnated cellulose filter element.
Bosch	1 987 429 636	600–800	Increased resource (up to 30,000 km). Suitable for severe operating conditions.
Framm	CA 8669	450–600	Budget option with good dust holding capacity. The soft seal does not damage the housing.
SCT	SA 1019	300–450	The cheapest, but the filtration quality is 20% lower than the original. Suitable for temporary replacement.
NIPparts	N 1330320	400–550	A good alternative to the original, but there are fakes with rough cardboard.

⚠️ Attention: Filters SCT And NIPparts often counterfeited. Check the presence of a security hologram and barcode on the packaging. If the price is below 300 rubles, it is a guaranteed fake with a low degree of filtration.

For regions with high dust levels (for example, steppe zones or megacities with poor ecology) we recommend Bosch 1 987 429 636. Its filter element has an additional layer of padding polyester, which traps the smallest dust particles.

Signs of wear: when is it time to change the filter?

The manufacturer recommends replacing the air filter every 15,000 km or once a year. However, in real conditions this interval can be reduced to 10,000 km, especially if:

• 🌳 You often drive on dirt roads or in very dusty conditions.
• 🏙️ You are operating a car in a metropolis with a high level of smog.
• 🚗 We noticed an increase in fuel consumption by 10–15% for no apparent reason.
• 🔊 The engine began to run louder, and a whistle appeared when the speed increased.

How to check the condition of the filter without dismantling? Start the engine and place your hand near the air intake (it is located next to the radiator). If you feel a weak air flow or hear a “squelching” sound, the filter is clogged. Also indicates critical wear black carbon deposits on spark plugs and error P0171 (lean fuel mixture) that may appear on the instrument panel.

⚠️ Attention: If you ignore filter replacement, dust will enter the throttle body and cylinders. This leads to scoring on the engine walls and increased oil consumption. In advanced cases, major repairs will be required.

What happens if you drive with a dirty filter?

When the filter is heavily contaminated, the engine begins to “choke,” which leads to increased load on the fuel system. As a result:

- Power decreases (car accelerates worse).

- Fuel consumption increases by 1–2 liters per 100 km.

- Increased risk of detonation due to incorrect air/fuel ratio.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the filter

Replacing the air filter with Almera Classic takes no more than 10 minutes and does not require special tools. You will need:

• 🔧 New filter (check the article before purchasing!).
• 🧹 A rag or vacuum cleaner to clean the case.
• 🔩 Screwdriver with a Phillips bit (for some modifications).

Algorithm of actions:

1. Open the hood and locate the air filter housing (the black plastic box to the right of the engine).
2. Snap off the 4 plastic clips around the perimeter of the lid. Some versions may have screws instead of clamps - they need to be unscrewed with a screwdriver.
3. Remove the cover and remove the old filter. Pay attention to its condition: if there are oil stains on it, this is a sign of problems with crankcase ventilation.
4. Clean the housing from dust and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth (but do not wash the case with water!).
5. Install the new filter, aligning it with the guides inside the housing. Make sure the rubber seal fits snugly around the edges.
6. Close the lid and snap the clamps (or tighten the screws).

⚠️ Attention: Never use compressed air to clean an old filter! This destroys its structure and leads to the entry of dust microparticles into the engine. Also, do not lubricate the sealing rubber - this may cause it to swell and break the seal.

After replacing the filter, we recommend resetting the throttle valve adaptations. To do this:

1. Start the engine and let it idle for 2-3 minutes.
2. Turn off the ignition for 10 seconds.
3. Restart. The ECU automatically recalibrates the air supply.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even something as simple as replacing a filter can turn into problems if mistakes are made. Here's what's most often done wrong:

• 🔄 Installing the filter in reverse. Some filters have an arrow indicating the direction of air flow. If you mix up the sides, the filtration efficiency drops by 30–40%.
• 🧴 Using sealant on the seal. This leads to its softening and loss of tightness. If the rubber band is damaged, replace the filter.
• 🚫 Ignoring case cleaning. Dust and sand remaining in the housing will immediately clog the new filter.
• 🔧 Use of force when closing the lid. If the clamps do not come together easily, the filter is not installed correctly or the housing is deformed.

Another common problem is purchasing a filter not by article number, but by “visual similarity.” For example, a filter from Renault Sandero (article 8200768913) looks similar to the original one for Almera Classic, but has a smaller height. This causes the housing cover to not close tightly, and unfiltered air enters the engine through the cracks.

If after replacing the filter the light comes on Check Engine, check:

• The tightness of the housing cover.
• The integrity of the air duct corrugation (it can crack if dismantled carelessly).
• Connecting the mass air flow sensor (MAF) connector.

How to extend the life of an air filter?

The service life of the filter depends not only on its quality, but also on operating conditions. Here are several ways to increase its resource:

• 🌿 Regular cleaning of the housing. Every 5,000 km, remove the cover and remove accumulated dust with a vacuum cleaner. This will reduce the load on the filter.
• 🚗 Avoid driving through puddles. Moisture that gets on the filter reduces its filtering ability and can cause corrosion of the metal elements of the housing.
• 🛣️ Change the air pipe promptly. Cracks in the corrugation lead to the suction of unfiltered air, which accelerates filter wear.
• 🔥 Monitor the condition of the mass air flow sensor. A faulty sensor can cause excessive air consumption and premature filter contamination.

If you often drive on dusty roads, consider installing zero resistance filter (For example, K&N 33-2074). It lasts up to 50,000 km and can be cleaned with a special composition. However, remember that these filters require more frequent maintenance and are not suitable for areas with high humidity.

⚠️ Attention: Zero resistance filters increase the risk of oil dust entering the engine if not properly maintained. Their installation is advisable only on tuned cars with a modified intake system.

Where to buy a filter for Almera Classic: trusted sellers

When purchasing an air filter, it is important to choose a reliable seller to avoid counterfeits. We recommend the following options:

Store type	Pros	Cons	Recommendations
Official dealer Nissan	Original product guarantee	High price, long wait	Suitable if you need 100% original
Large chain stores (AutoSpetsCenter, existential)	Wide range, promotions	Possible counterfeits in non-branded packaging	Check holograms and barcodes
Online marketplaces (Wildberries, Ozon)	Low prices, fast delivery	High risk of running into counterfeit goods	Read reviews with photos of packaging
Specialized online stores (Autodoc, Exist.ru)	Honest reviews, original articles	Expensive delivery for small orders	The best option for buying analogues

When purchasing online, be sure to check:

• 📦 Photo of packaging (hologram and barcode must be visible).
• 📝 Product Description (the specific part number must be indicated, and not the universal phrase “suitable for Nissan”).
• ⭐ Reviews with photos (especially pay attention to the negative ones - they often write about fakes).

If you are buying a filter for the first time, take the old one with you and compare it with the new one right in the store. Please note:

• The thickness of the filter material (for fakes it is 1–2 mm thinner).
• The quality of the glue on the seams (in the original it is elastic, in the fake it is fragile).
• The presence of a metal mesh (cheap analogues often do not have it).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to drive without an air filter?

No, absolutely not. Without a filter, dust, sand and even small stones will enter the engine, which will lead to scuffing on the cylinders And piston ring wear. Even short-term driving without a filter (for example, if you forgot to install it after cleaning) can result in expensive repairs.

How often should I change the filter if I only drive around the city?

In urban conditions, the filter becomes dirty more slowly than off-road, but it is exposed to smog and fine industrial dust. The optimal replacement interval is every 20,000 km or once every 1.5 years. If you often get stuck in traffic jams, reduce the interval to 15,000 km.

Is the filter from Renault Logan suitable for Almera Classic?

Yes, but only for the engine 1.4L (K4M). Filter Renault 8200768913 completely identical to the original 16546-9M600 and interchangeable. However for 1.6L this item does not fit - needed 16546-9M60A.

Which is better: the original or the analogue from Mann/Bosch?

Based on test results, filters Mann C 25003 And Bosch 1 987 429 636 are not inferior to the original in terms of filtering degree, and sometimes even surpass it (for example, Bosch has an additional layer of moisture protection). If the maximum resource is important to you, take it Bosch. If you are looking for the best price/quality ratio - Mann.

Can the old filter be cleaned and reused?

Technically possible, but not recommended. Even after vacuuming or washing (if the material allows it), the filter loses up to 50% of its effectiveness. An exception is zero resistance filters (K&N), which are intended for reusable use.