Removing the front bumper on a Nissan Almera N16: instructions with photos and tips

Removing the front bumper Nissan Almera N16 - a task that every owner of this car faces sooner or later. The reasons may be different: from a banal replacement of headlights or foglights to repairs after an accident or installation of tuning elements. However, without knowing the key nuances, the process can turn into torture: clips will break, fasteners will bend, and the bumper itself risks cracks.

In this article we will look at step by step instructions taking into account all the pitfalls of the model N16. You will learn what tools you will need, how to properly disconnect the electrics (if any), and where the hidden fasteners are located, which even experienced craftsmen often forget about. And also - unique tips for preserving clips and preventing paint damage, which you will not find in standard manuals.

Preparing for dismantling: tools and safety precautions

Before you begin removing the bumper, make sure you have everything you need. Missing even one tool can slow down the process or lead to damage. Here minimum setwhich will be required:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (preferably with a magnetic tip so as not to lose the bolts)
• 🔧 10 mm socket wrench (for bolts in wheel arches)
• 🔧 Plastic puller or flathead screwdriver (for clips, but not metal - it scratches the plastic!)
• 🔧 Jack and stops (if you need to remove the wheel to access the arches)
• 🔧 Duct tape or marker (for marking wires and fasteners)

Pay special attention clips. On Almera N16 they often break when dismantled carelessly. If you plan to remove the bumper for the first time, buy a set of spare clips in advance (part number 90467-01016 for upper and 90467-01017 for the lower ones). Also prepare clean workspace — it is better to place the bumper on a soft surface so as not to scratch it.

⚠️ Attention! If your Almera N16 equipped fog lights or parking sensors, do not forget to disconnect the battery before starting work. The contacts in the connectors may close if accidentally closed, which will lead to the burning of the fuse or control unit.

Step-by-step instructions: remove the front bumper

The process of removing the bumper Nissan Almera N16 can be roughly divided into 3 stages: detaching fasteners in wheel arches, removing clips around the perimeter And electrical shutdown (if it is connected). Let's start with the most time-consuming part - arches.

Step 1: Removing the wheel arch fasteners

The first step is to provide access to the bolts hidden behind the front wheels. To do this:

1. Raise the car on a jack and remove front wheel (you can limit yourself to loosening the bolts and moving the wheels to the side, but this is less convenient).
2. In the wheel arch you will see 3 bolts 10 mm (two at the top and one at the bottom). Unscrew them with a socket wrench.
3. Carefully bend the fender liner (plastic arch protection) - another bolt or clip may be hidden under it.

Repeat the procedure for second arch. After this, the bumper will be held only by clips and central fasteners.

Step 2: Removing Clips and Side Fasteners

Now let's move on to clips, which hold the bumper on the sides and bottom. On Almera N16 There are usually 8–10 of them: 3–4 on each side and 2–3 at the bottom. To avoid breaking them, do this:

• 🔍 Start with side clips (next to the headlights). Pry them off with a plastic puller, slightly pulling the bumper towards you.
• 🔍 The lower clips often stick to the body. If they don't budge, spray them WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
• 🔍 The center clips (under the license plate) are usually the most fragile. It's better to take them out last.

If the clip is broken, do not try to pull it out with pliers - this will damage the plastic of the bumper. Instead, carefully drill a hole nearby and push out the remains.

⚠️ Attention! On some versions Almera N16 (especially restyled ones) under the bumper there may be additional metal brackets, bolted to the body. If the bumper does not come off after all the manipulations, check their presence!

Step 3: Turn off the electrical (if equipped)

If your car is equipped fog lights, parking sensors or rain sensors, before completely removing the bumper, you must disconnect the connectors. This is done like this:

1. Locate the wiring harness that runs from the bumper to the body (usually located on the right or left side).
2. Gently press the connector lock and disconnect it. Do not pull on the wires - this can tear off the contacts!
3. If the connector is stuck, do not force it. Spray it on contact cleaner and wait.

After turning off the electrics, the bumper should be freely removable. If it still sticks, check to see if there are any missing clips or bolts.

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Before completely removing the bumper, take a photo of the location of all the clips and bolts with your phone. This will make reassembly much easier!

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing the bumper on Nissan Almera N16. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Using a metal screwdriver for clips	Scratches on plastic, broken clips	Use only a plastic puller or a screwdriver wrapped in electrical tape.
Neglecting to disconnect the battery	Short circuit, blown fuse	Always remove the terminal before working on electricity
Strong pulling force when clips are stuck	Cracks on the bumper, broken fasteners	Pre-treat the clips with WD-40 and carefully loosen them
Loss of bolts or clips during dismantling	Problems during reassembly, bumper play	Place all parts in a separate box or bag

Another typical problem is skewed bumper after installation. This happens if the clips or bolts are not tightened evenly. To avoid this, when reassembling, follow the diagram:

1. First tighten all the clips and bolts without full tightening.
2. Make sure the bumper is level and not distorted.
3. Only then tighten the fasteners completely.

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On Almera N16 after 2003, bumpers with additional fastenings under the radiator grille are often found. It's easy to miss them if you don't know about this feature!

Reinstalling the bumper: nuances and tips

Replacing a bumper often seems easier than removing it, but there are pitfalls here too. The main rule is don't rush. Start by checking all the clips and fasteners: if any are broken, replace them with new ones. Old, even slightly deformed clips will not provide reliable fixation.

Here step-by-step algorithm reverse assembly:

• 🔧 Start with top clips (under the hood). They are the most visible and easiest to align.
• 🔧 Attach the bumper to side clips, lightly pressing it against the body.
• 🔧 Install and tighten bolts in wheel arches (not all the way so you can adjust the position of the bumper).
• 🔧 Connect the electrics (if they were disconnected) and check the operation of all sensors.
• 🔧 Finally tighten all fasteners, starting from the center and moving towards the edges.

After installation, be sure to check:

• 🔍 Gaps between the bumper and the body - they must be the same on both sides.
• 🔍 Operation of fog lights and parking sensors (if they exist).
• 🔍 No squeaks when pressing on the bumper, this is a sign of poorly secured clips.

⚠️ Attention! If after installation the bumper “walks” or makes strange sounds when moving, most likely you forgot to tighten one of the bolts in the wheel arch. This is dangerous, as during sudden braking the bumper can move and damage the radiator!

When is the best time to turn to professionals?

Although removing the bumper Nissan Almera N16 - a task that is feasible for most car owners; there are situations when it is better to trust the experts. Here are signs that DIY repairs may lead to problems:

• 🚗 The bumper is damaged as a result serious accident (cracks, deformation of fastenings).
• 🚗 You discovered corrosion on metal brackets - they will have to be cut off and new ones cooked.
• 🚗 Installed on the car non-standard optics or tuned bumper (fastenings may vary).
• 🚗You have never worked with auto electrics, and there are parking sensors or a camera on the bumper.

The cost of professional removal/installation of a bumper Almera N16 in the service is usually 1,500–3,000 rubles (depending on the region). This is not so much, considering that mistakes when working independently can be more expensive. For example, a broken clip will cost 50–200 rubles, and a damaged parking sensor is in 2,000–5,000 rubles.

If you still decide to act on your own, but feel unsure, try to find video instructions just for your modification Almera N16. Channels like Nissan Club Russia or DIY car repair They often publish detailed analyzes taking into account the nuances of specific years of production.

What to do if the bumper squeaks after installation?

The squeak usually occurs due to loose clips or dirt getting between the bumper and the body. To fix it, remove the bumper, clean all mounting points from dust and apply silicone grease to the clips. Also check if the metal brackets are bent - they can be straightened with pliers.

Tuning and modernization: what can be done with the bumper

Removing the front bumper is an excellent reason to upgrade it at the same time. Here are some popular modifications for Nissan Almera N16that you can do yourself:

• 🔥 Installation LED fog light (For example, Hella Micro DE or Osram LEDriving FOG). They produce brighter light and consume less energy.
• 🔥 Installation parking sensors (sets Parkmaster or Sho-Me suitable for self-installation).
• 🔥 Replacing the standard grille with sports (for example, from Nismo or universal models from AliExpress).
• 🔥 Bumper wrap protective film (vinyl) to prevent chipping.
• 🔥 Installation splitter or skirts to improve aerodynamics (models from Evo Race).

If you plan to paint the bumper or install additional elements on it (for example, kenguryatnik), please note that this may require drilling new holes. In this case, it is better to remove the bumper in advance and carry out all the work on the table, rather than hanging it.

To paint your bumper yourself you will need:

• 🎨 Putty And primer (For example, Body 999 or Novol).
• 🎨 Auto enamel in body color (color code Almera N16 can be found on the plate under the hood).
• 🎨 Varnish (two-component for durability).
• 🎨 Sandpaper 400–2000 grit for sanding.

Remember that quality painting requires kiln drying or at least in a warm, dust-proof room. If there are no such conditions, it is better to contact a car service.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the bumper on Nissan Almera N16

How many fastening clips are there on the front bumper of Almera N16?

On most versions Nissan Almera N16 used 8–10 clips: 3-4 on each side and 2-3 at the bottom. The exact quantity depends on the year of manufacture and configuration. For example, on cars with fog lights there may be 1-2 more clips due to additional fastenings for wiring.

Is it possible to remove the bumper without removing the wheels?

Technically yes, but it is extremely inconvenient. Without removing the wheels, you will not be able to properly unscrew the bolts in the arches, especially the lower ones. If you still want to do without a jack, at least turn the wheels to their extreme position (left or right) for better access.

What glue should I use to repair cracks on my bumper?

To repair a plastic bumper Almera N16 will do two-component epoxy adhesive (For example, 3M Scotch-Weld DP8005) or specialized glue for bumpers (Permatex Plastic Weld). Before gluing it is necessary clean and degrease surface, and after applying the glue, reinforce the seam with fiberglass.

What should I do if after installation the bumper does not match the gaps?

If the gaps are uneven, check:

1. Are all clips and bolts in place and tightened evenly?
2. Are the metal brackets bent (they can be straightened with a hammer or replaced).
3. Is the bumper itself deformed (for example, after an impact). In this case it may be necessary warming up with a hairdryer to return the form.

If the problem persists, try loosening all fasteners, aligning the bumper by hand, and retightening them.

Where to buy spare clips for the Almera N16 bumper?

Clips can be found:

• B official Nissan dealerships (original, but more expensive).
• B online stores (For example, Exist.ru, Autodoc, AliExpress). Articles of original clips: 90467-01016 (top) and 90467-01017 (lower).
• B auto parts stores (For example, IXORA or AutoSpetsCenter) - they often sell universal clips suitable for Almera.

The cost of one clip is from 30 to 150 rubles, depending on the type and manufacturer.