How to properly remove the glove compartment on a Nissan Almera Classic: instructions with nuances

glove box in Nissan Almera Classic (body B10, 2006–2012) is a seemingly simple part, but dismantling it can turn into a real puzzle if you don’t know the subtleties. Owners are often faced with the need to remove it to replace a backlight bulb, repair a lock, clean air ducts, or install additional equipment (for example, a subwoofer or USB hub). Unlike many modern cars, where the glove compartment is secured with latches, this one uses screws and hidden fasteners that are easy to break if handled carelessly.

This article doesn't just list the steps - it reveals unique features of glove compartment mounting on Almera Classic, which are not described in standard manuals. For example, why the lower right screw often “sticks” to the plastic, how not to damage the backlight wiring harness, and why you can’t pull the glove compartment down if the travel stop is not disconnected. We will also look at common mistakes that cause latches to break or plastic to crack, and give advice on choosing tools to avoid visiting a service station.

Preparation: Tools and Safety Precautions

Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have everything you need. The absence of even one tool can lead to improvisations, and they can lead to breakdowns. For example, trying to unscrew Phillips-head screws with a flat-head screwdriver almost always ends in the slot breaking off.

Here minimal set of toolswhich will be required:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver PH2 (necessarily with a magnetic tip - the screws are small and easily lost)
• 🔧 Flat screwdriver with a thin blade (for prying up plastic latches)
• 🔧 Plastic puller or mediator (so as not to scratch the panels)
• 🔦 Flashlight or headlamp (lighting in the glove compartment is usually low)
• 🧲 Magnet on telescopic handle (for removing fallen screws)
• 📦 Container for small parts (so as not to mix up the screws during assembly)

Also prepare your workspace by opening the passenger door all the way to allow access to the glove compartment from different angles. If you're working in a garage, use a mat or cardboard to prevent dropped tools from scratching your car's sills.

⚠️ Attention: Before starting work Be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. The backlight wiring harness runs through the glove compartment, and an accidental short circuit can damage the fuse. F10 (10A) in the cabin block. This applies even if you don’t plan to touch electrics - it’s better to be safe.

Step 1: Removing the lower glove compartment panel

Let's start with the easiest part - removing the lower plastic panel that covers the space under the glove compartment. This panel is attached to two screws And three plastic latches. The screws are located on the sides, but their heads are often hidden under decorative plugs.

Instructions:

1. Carefully pry out the screw caps with a flathead screwdriver or plastic puller. They are shallow, but applying too much force can break them.
2. Unscrew both screws (left and right) with a Phillips screwdriver. If the screws are stuck, do not try to force them off - spray them WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
3. Pull the panel towards you, starting from the right edge. The latches are located in the center and on the left, so the panel will be removed with a characteristic click.

After removing the panel, you will see the wiring harness for the glove compartment light (if your package has one). Do not pull the wires - they are connected to a connector that can be easily damaged. It is better to immediately disconnect the connector by pressing the latch on the side.

Step 2: Unscrewing the glove compartment screws

Now we move on to the main stage - dismantling the glove compartment itself. It is attached to four screws:

• Two screws at the top (under the decorative trim)
• One screw at bottom left
• One screw at the bottom right (the most problematic!)

The upper screws are hidden under a decorative trim, which is glued with double-sided tape. To remove it, heat the surface with a hairdryer (or simply pull it gently with a flat-head screwdriver). Under the cover you will find two screws - you need to unscrew them.

The lower screws are more insidious. The left one usually unscrews without problems, but the right one often “sticks” to the plastic due to moisture ingress (condensation from air ducts). If the screw does not budge:

• 🔧 Try to turn it counterclockwise with effort, but without fanaticism.
• 🔧 If it doesn’t work, spray it WD-40 and wait 10 minutes.
• 🔧 As a last resort, use an impact screwdriver or heat the screw with a construction hairdryer (but do not overheat the plastic!).

After unscrewing all the screws, do not rush to pull the glove compartment towards you. First, check to see if there are any hidden fasteners left (sometimes there is an additional screw in the middle on models with air conditioning).

What to do if the screw breaks?

If the slot on the screw is “slipped” or breaks off, don’t panic. First, try unscrewing it with pliers or pliers. If that doesn’t work, drill out the screw with a drill with a diameter of 3–4 mm, and then cut a new thread with an M5 tap. As a last resort, you can use a metal screw, but this is a temporary solution.

Step 3: Removing the glove box from its hinges and restrictor

When all the screws are removed, the glove box still hangs on two loops (left) and travel limiter (right). This is where many people make a mistake: they start pulling the glove compartment down without disconnecting the limiter. This leads to deformation of the plastic or broken hinges.

Correct procedure:

1. Carefully lift the glove compartment up to remove it from its hinges. The hinges are plastic, so don't use too much force.
2. On the right side find white plastic stopper (it looks like a small hook). It needs to be moved to the left to free the glove compartment.
3. Only after this, pull the glove compartment towards you, slightly rocking it from side to side.

If the glove compartment is stuck, do not force it open. You probably missed a screw or didn't completely remove the stopper. Check all fastenings again.

⚠️ Attention: On models with air conditioning The evaporator tube runs under the glove compartment. It is fragile and can crack if moved incorrectly. If you feel resistance when removing the glove compartment, stop and check that you are not pushing against this tube.

Step 4: Electrical Disconnect and Final Removal

If your Nissan Almera Classic equipped with a glove compartment light; before complete removal, you must disconnect the power connector. It is located behind the glove compartment and is secured with a plastic clip. To detach it:

1. Press the connector lock (usually black or gray).
2. Pull the connector towards you without pulling the wires.
3. If the connector does not budge, check whether it is caught on the plastic ribs of the glove compartment.

After disconnecting the electrics, the glove compartment is completely free. Carefully remove it from the interior and place it on a soft surface (such as a towel) to avoid scratching it.

Now you can:

• 💡 Replace the backlight bulb (usually T10 or W5W).
• 🔧 Repair or lubricate the hinges (use silicone lubricant).
• 🧹 Clean the air ducts from dust and leaves (especially important if the deflectors are blowing weakly).
• 🎵 Install speakers or a subwoofer (check first if there is enough space and if there will be vibrations).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing the glove compartment. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Using the wrong screwdriver	The screw slot is broken, it is impossible to unscrew it	Use a screwdriver PH2 with magnetic tip
Pressing hard on the plastic latches	Cracks or chips in the panel	Use a plastic puller to pry up the latches, not a screwdriver.
Neglecting to disconnect the backlight connector	Broken wires or short circuit	Always disconnect the battery and check the connectors
Pulling the glove compartment without removing it from its hinges	Broken plastic hinges or stopper	First remove from the hinges, then disconnect the stopper
Screws lost or mixed up during assembly	Creaks, looseness, or inability to secure the glove box	Use a parts container and label the screws

Another typical problem is glove compartment squeak after installation. It occurs if:

• The screws are not fully tightened (check all four fasteners).
• The hinges are not lubricated (use silicone grease, but not lithol!).
• There is debris between the glove compartment and the panel (wipe the contact surfaces).

Assembling the glove compartment: reverse order and nuances

Installing the glove box is done in reverse order, but there are several key pointsthat are often missed:

1. Before installation, check if there are any forgotten tools or debris left inside the glove compartment.
2. Make sure that the backlight connector is connected correctly (the latch should click).
3. When installing on hinges, hook the left side first, then the right, and only then insert the stopper.
4. Tighten the screws crosswise (top first, then bottom) to avoid distortion.
5. After assembly, check the operation of the lock and the backlight (if equipped).

If after assembly the glove compartment closes tightly or does not lock in the closed position, you most likely have overtightened the screws or installed the restrictor incorrectly. Loosen the screws half a turn and check the glove compartment movement.

⚠️ Attention: After connecting the battery, check the operation of the glove compartment light. If the light does not light, check the fuse F10 (10A) in the cabin block. Also make sure the connector is plugged in all the way—sometimes it may appear plugged in, but there is no contact.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the glove compartment on a Nissan Almera Classic

Is it possible to remove the glove compartment without disconnecting the battery?

Technically yes, but it's risky. The backlight wiring harness runs in the glove compartment, and if handled carelessly, the contacts can be shorted. If you don't touch electrical parts (for example, just cleaning the air ducts), you can get by without turning it off, but it's better to be on the safe side. The main thing is not to touch exposed wires with metal tools.

What size screws are used to secure the glove box?

B Nissan Almera Classic Phillips-head screws are used to secure the glove compartment. PH2 and carving M5. Screw length:

• Upper: ~16 mm
• Lower: ~20 mm

If you need to buy replacements, look for flat head screws (not countersunk!).

What should I do if the backlight does not work after removing the glove compartment?

There may be several reasons:

1. The connector is not connected (check that it is inserted all the way).
2. The light bulb is burnt out (replace with T10 or W5W).
3. Fuse burned out F10 (10A) in the cabin block.
4. The contacts in the connector have oxidized (clean them with alcohol or WD-40).

Start by checking the fuse and connector.

Can I install a speaker or subwoofer in the glove compartment?

Yes, but with reservations. Space under the glove compartment Almera Classic limited, therefore:

• The maximum depth of the speaker is no more than 8–10 cm.
• The subwoofer power should not exceed 100–150 W (otherwise there will be vibration on the panel).
• The wires must be laid so that they do not interfere with the operation of the gas pedal.
• It is advisable to use sound insulation to avoid rattling.

Before purchasing, measure the space with a tape measure.

How to clean the air ducts behind the glove compartment?

To clean your air ducts you will need:

• Vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle.
• A brush with soft bristles (for example, for cleaning computer fans).
• A can of compressed air (optional).

Algorithm:

1. Remove the glove compartment (as described above).
2. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove large debris (leaves, dust).
3. Clean the air duct grilles with a brush.
4. Blow out the air ducts with compressed air (if you have a can).
5. Wipe the interior surfaces with a damp cloth.

Do not use water or harsh detergents - they can damage the plastic or get into the ventilation system.