Removing the rear light on a Nissan Almera G15: instructions with photos and life hacks

Why might it be necessary to remove the rear light?

Tail light on Nissan Almera G15 - a unit that rarely fails, but sometimes requires intervention. The most common reasons: a burnt-out brake light or parking light bulb, a crack in the housing after an accident, replacement with an LED analogue or complete replacement of the unit due to corrosion of the contacts. Unlike European models, where the lights are often attached with latches, Almera G15 (especially restyled versions 2015+) a combined system is used: some of the fastenings are hidden under the trunk trim, and some are hidden under the bumper.

Many owners are afraid to remove the light themselves for fear of breaking the plastic clips or breaking the wiring. In practice, the procedure takes no more than 20 minutes, if you know three key nuances: the correct order for disconnecting the connectors, the location of hidden bolts and the method of removing the sealing rubber without damaging it. This article contains a step-by-step algorithm with photos, a list of tools and unique advice for removing the headlamp on models with a rear view camera (optional for top trim levels).

What tools will you need?

You don't need any specialized equipment to work—a basic set is enough. The main rule: do not use screwdrivers with a magnetic tip (they can damage the contacts in the connector) and do not apply excessive force to the plastic clips.

• 🔧 10 mm socket wrench (or a head with a ratchet) - for bolts securing the light to the body.
• 🔨 Flat head screwdriver with a thin tip (for prying up plastic clips).
• 🧰 Plastic puller or a mediator - so as not to scratch the paintwork when removing the trim.
• 💡 Flashlight — lighting will simplify access to the bolts under the bumper.
• 🧴 WD-40 or silicone grease — if the bolts are soured (relevant for cars older than 5 years).

For models with rear view camera additionally required sprocket key T20 — it is needed to unscrew the camera mount to the flashlight bracket. If you are planning to replace lamps with LEDs, stock up voltage tester (to check polarity before installing new lamps).

Preparing the car: 5 steps before dismantling

Improper preparation may result in short circuit or damage to the wiring. Start by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery - this will eliminate the risk of a short circuit when working with the flashlight contacts. Next:

1. Open the trunk and remove the carpet from the side of the lamp being dismantled (fastening bolts are hidden under it).
2. If the car is after rain, dry the work area construction hairdryer or napkins - moisture may get into the connectors.
3. Treat the bolts WD-40 10–15 minutes before starting work (especially if the car is operated in regions with salt on the roads).
4. Place it under the lantern soft cloth - this will protect it from falling when the last fastening is disconnected.
5. Take a photo of the location of the wires and connectors with your phone - this will help you avoid mixing them up during reassembly.

On models with parking sensors in the rear bumper, be careful: the sensors are attached to the same bracket as the light. When dismantling, do not pull the lamp towards you - first disconnect the parking sensor connector (it is orange).

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove a tail light

The algorithm is the same for the left and right lights, but on the right side (driver's side) you may need to remove decorative overlay above the spare wheel. Follow the instructions strictly in order:

Unscrew the bolts securing the light to the body (2 pcs.)|Remove the plastic clips from the inside of the trunk|Disconnect the electrical connector|Carefully remove the light from the groove, do not pull the wires|For models with a camera, unscrew the camera mount (bolt T20)-->

Step 1: Removing the mounting bolts

Lantern on Almera G15 secured with two socket head bolts 10 mm:

- The first bolt is located under the trunk trim (carpet needs to be pulled back).

- The second bolt is hidden under the bumper — it can be seen if you look from below the car from the side of the lamp.

On restyled models (2015–2019), a third bolt was added - it is located behind a plastic plug on the inside of the trunk (next to the lid hinge). To remove it, pry off the plug with a flat-head screwdriver.

Step 2: Removing the plastic clips

After unscrewing the bolts, the lamp still holds on three plastic clips:

- Two clips are located on the sides of the flashlight (they need to be carefully snapped off with a flat screwdriver).

- The third clip is at the top - it is the most fragile, so pry it up plastic puller.

If the clip breaks, don't worry - it can be replaced with a similar one from Nissan Note (article 90411-4M000). The main thing is not to pull the flashlight by force until all the latches are released.

Step 3: Disconnecting the Power Connector

The flashlight connector has latch (white or black). To disconnect it:

1. Push the latch up (or down - depending on the year of manufacture).

2. Pull the connector towards you smooth movement.

If the connector does not budge, do not use force - check whether it is caught on the parking sensor wires. On models with rear view camera The connector has an additional harness (yellow) - it must be disconnected separately.

What to do if the connector is stuck?

If the connector does not disconnect due to oxidation, treat it contact lubricant CRC 2-26 and gently swing it left and right. Do not use WD-40 - it is non-conductive and may cause poor contact after assembly.

Step 4: Removing the Lantern and Sealing Rubber

After disconnecting the connector, the flashlight should easily come out of the groove. If it is stuck, check:

- Did you forget to unscrew the bolt under the bumper?

- Does the sealing rubber cling to the edge of the body?

Sealing rubber is better don't take off from the lantern - it often breaks when reinstalled. If the rubber band is damaged, replace it with a new one (part no. 90540-4M000).

Features for models with rear view camera

On versions Almera G15 in complete sets TEKNA And ACENTA PLUS A factory rear view camera was installed. Its mount is integrated into the flashlight body, so when dismantling you need to:

• 🔧 Unscrew the camera mounting bolt (wrench T20).
• 📷 Carefully remove the camera from the groove, do not pull on the wire (it is fragile!).
• 🔌 Disconnect the camera connector (it is black with a red mark).

When reassembling do not over-tighten the camera bolt - this may shift the viewing angle. Optimal tightening torque: 0.8–1.0 Nm.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when removing the headlamp. Here are the most common:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Unscrewing bolts in the wrong order	Lantern skewed, clips broken	First the lower bolt under the bumper, then the upper ones
Using a metal screwdriver for clips	Scratches on the paintwork, broken fasteners	Use a plastic puller or pick
Sudden pulling out of the connector	Broken wires, short circuit	Pre-press the connector lock
Forgot to disconnect the battery	Alarm activation, errors in BC	Always remove the negative terminal before work

Another common problem is moisture entering the connector after assembly. To avoid this, apply rubber to the sealing rubber before installing the lamp. silicone grease (For example, Liqui Moly Silicon-Fett). This will improve the seal and extend the life of the contacts.

Reassembly: nuances and verification

Installing the light is in reverse order, but there are a few key points:

1. Before installation check the status of the contacts in the connector - if they are oxidized, clean them with fine sandpaper (grit 1000).

2. Make sure that the rubber seal lies flat and without twists.

3. Tighten the mounting bolts criss-crossto avoid skewing the lamp.

After assembly, be sure to check:

- Work all lamps (dimensions, brake light, turn signal, reverse).

- Quality camera images (if there is one).

- Tightness - water the lantern with water from a bottle and see if moisture seeps into the trunk.

⚠️ Attention: If after installing the light an error appears on the dashboard "Check Rear Lights", reset it through the diagnostic connector or disconnect the battery for 10 minutes. On Almera G15 this error resets automatically after 3–5 ignition cycles.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the rear light

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

Yes, but it's more complicated. The bolt under the bumper can be unscrewed, jacking up the car and removing the wheel from the side of the lamp. An alternative is to use extension for key and unscrew the bolt “by touch”.

What sealant should I use for the rubber seal?

Best fit silicone sealant for car glass (For example, Dow Corning 7091). Do not use universal sealant - it may damage the plastic of the flashlight.

Why do new ones burn out quickly after replacing lamps?

Reason - bad contact in the connector or increased voltage in the on-board network. Check the voltage at the battery terminals with the engine running - it should be within the range 13.8–14.4 V. If higher, the problem is in the generator.

Is it possible to install LED lamps instead of halogen ones?

Yes, but there are two things to consider:

1. Polarity - on Almera G15 “+” and “–” in the connector may be confused.

2. Resistance - if the control unit detects too low resistance, it will generate an error. In this case you need resistor-load (For example, 6 Ohm, 50 W).

What to do if the plastic retainer is broken?

The latch can be replaced with a similar one from Nissan Micra K13 (article 90411-J0000) or use metal bracket with rubber gaskets. The main thing is not to fix the light only with bolts, otherwise it will rattle on bumps.