Rear bumper Nissan Almera Classic (body B10, 2006–2013) is a part that has to be removed when repairing after an accident, replacing headlights, installing parking sensors or treating hidden cavities from corrosion. Despite its apparent simplicity, the procedure has a number of pitfalls: from fragile plastic clips to hidden bolts under the trunk trim. In this article - step-by-step algorithm with photos, a list of necessary tools and unique techniques that save time and nerves (for example, how to remove the bumper without removing the lights).
Many owners Almera Classic are faced with a problem: the bumper is “stuck” to the body due to oxidation of the fasteners or is deformed after an impact. We will tell you how to deal with this without damaging the paintwork. And if you plan to install the bumper back, at the end of the article there is pre-installation checklist.
Preparation: tools and working conditions
Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have everything you need. The absence of even one tool can turn a 30-minute procedure into hours of torture. Here minimum set:
- 🔧 10 mm socket wrench (preferably with an extension) - for bolts securing the bumper to the side members.
- 🔨 Flat head screwdriver (preferably with a magnetic tip) - for prying off plastic clips.
- 🗝️ Sprocket key T20 or T25 — for self-tapping screws in wheel arches (size depends on year of manufacture).
- 🧲 Magnet on telescopic handle — so as not to lose fallen bolts in the trunk.
- 🧴 WD-40 or similar - for processing rusted fasteners.
- 📦 Plastic container — for sorting fasteners (clips, bolts, nuts).
It is more convenient to work on lift or inspection hole, but in their absence, a jack with stops will do. Important: before you start disconnect the negative terminal of the battery, if you plan to work with electricians (for example, disconnecting the rear light connectors). Also prepare soft bedding under the bumper - this will protect it from scratches when removing it.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use metal levers (such as a pry bar) to detach the clips! Bumper plastic Almera Classic fragile, and excessive force may cause cracks. It’s better to spend 10 minutes carefully prying it off with a screwdriver than to glue a broken part later.
- At the service station
- In a garage with a pit
- On the street (jack)
- Another option
Hidden fasteners: where to look for bolts and clips
The main difficulty when removing the bumper is non-obvious attachment points. On Nissan Almera Classic them 12–14 pieces, and missing even one will result in the bumper not budging. Let's consider all zones:
- Trunk: 2 bolts under the casing (to the right and left of the lock).
- Wheel arches: 2 screws on each side (under the plastic fender liners).
- Bottom: 4-6 clips around the perimeter (often hidden by dirt).
- Side joints: 1 bolt each near the rear lights (access after removing the headlight).
The most problematic areas - wheel arches. Here the screws often rust, and the plastic fender liners make it difficult to get to them. Advice: if the screw does not unscrew, do not apply force - it is better to process it WD-40 and wait 10–15 minutes. In 90% of cases this helps.
| Mounting area | Fastener type | Quantity | Difficulty of access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trunk (under trim) | Bolt M6 | 2 | Medium (you need to remove part of the trim) |
| Wheel arches | Self-tapping screw T20/T25 | 4 | High (requires removal of fender liners) |
| Lower perimeter | Plastic clip | 6 | Low (but often sticks) |
| Side joints (near the lights) | Bolt M5 | 2 | High (need to remove headlights) |
If the clip breaks during removal, do not try to screw in a self-tapping screw in its place - this will lead to vibrations of the bumper while driving. Buy a repair kit of clips for Nissan (article 77214-4M000 for the front bumper, but also suitable for the rear).
Step-by-step instructions: remove the bumper without damage
Now let's move on to practice. Follow this algorithm, and the bumper will be removed in 20–40 minutes (depending on the condition of the fastenings). Let's start with preparation:
Open the trunk and remove everything unnecessary|Treat visible fasteners with WD-40|Put a soft cloth under the bumper|Prepare a container for fasteners-->
Step 1. Removing the trunk trim.
Pry up the plastic trunk trim (from the lock side) with a flat-head screwdriver. Underneath you will find 2 bolts - Unscrew them with a socket wrench. Do not pull the casing too hard - it is attached with clips that are easy to break.
Step 2. Removing the fender liners.
Remove the plastic fender liners in the wheel arches (they are attached with 3-4 screws and 2-3 clips). This is where the star key comes in handy. After removing the fender liners you will have access to self-tapping screws for fastening the bumper to the arches.
Step 3. Unscrewing the lower clips.
Move under the car. Along the lower perimeter of the bumper you will see 6 plastic clips. Carefully pry them off with a screwdriver, starting from the corners. If the clip does not budge, do not break it - try turning it counterclockwise.
Step 4. Side fastenings.
If the bumper still won't budge, check the side joints near the lights. There may be hidden here bolts under decorative plugs. To unscrew them, sometimes you have to remove the taillights (disconnect the power connector!).
Step 5. Final check.
Before pulling the bumper towards you, check all fastening areas again. If everything is unscrewed, but the bumper “holds”, most likely there is a loose clip somewhere or a plastic retainer is caught.
What to do if the bumper is stuck?
If the bumper does not come off even after unscrewing all the fasteners, the cause may be corrosion of the metal fasteners or deformation of the plastic. In this case:
1. Treat the joints WD-40 and wait 15–20 minutes.
2. Gently tap the problem areas with a rubber mallet.
3. If the bumper is bent, try to straighten it by pressing on the bends.
4. As a last resort, use a plastic lever (such as a trowel to remove trim), but do not use excessive force.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing the bumper. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
- 🔧 Broken clips. Reason: attempt to pull them out by force. Solution: Pry the clip from the side rather than pulling it up.
- 🔩 Lost bolts. Reason: work without magnetic holder. Solution: Use a magnet or place a cloth under the removal area.
- 💡 Damaged light connectors. Reason: sharp twitching of the bumper with connected wires. Solution: Always unplug the connectors to removing the bumper.
- 🎨 Scratches on the body. Reason: friction of the bumper on the metal when removing. Solution: Cover the edges with masking tape.
Pay special attention plastic clips on the side joints of the bumper. They often break when dismantled carelessly. If the latch is broken, it can be temporarily replaced with a nylon tie, but it is better to buy an original part (item no. 77214-95000 for Almera Classic).
⚠️ Attention: If you are removing the bumper for painting, do not place it on a concrete floor! Plastic absorbs dust, and after painting the defects will be visible. Use a clean cardboard backing or special stands.
Reinstalling the bumper: nuances and verification
Installing a bumper is the reverse process of removing it, but with a number of features. Main rule: start with the top mounts (in the trunk) and gradually move to the lower ones. This will help avoid distortions.
Before installation, check:
- 🔍 Condition of the clips. If they are deformed, replace them with new ones.
- 🧲 No foreign objects in the grooves of fastenings (dust, stones, rust).
- 🔧 Tighten all bolts. Loose fastenings will lead to vibrations at speed.
After installing the bumper be sure to check:
- The gaps between the bumper and the body (must be uniform).
- The operation of the rear lights (if the connectors were disconnected).
- No extraneous sounds when driving over uneven surfaces.
If after installation the bumper “walks” or vibrates at speed, the problem in 90% of cases lies in unreliably fixed clips or loose bolts in the wheel arches.
Modifications and tuning: what can be done with the bumper
Removing the rear bumper is a great reason for an upgrade. Here are some popular modifications for Nissan Almera Classic:
- 🚗 Installation of parking sensors. The bumper has standard places for sensors (on some versions there are plugs).
- 💡 LED backlight. Flexible tape can be attached under the bumper for an original appearance.
- 🛡️ Safety net. Prevents stones from getting into the headlights and radiator.
- 🎨 Paint or vinyl. The bumper can be repainted to match the body color or covered with carbon film.
If you plan to install parking sensors, keep in mind that for Almera Classic suitable for sensors with diameter 18–22 mm. To connect, you will need to pull the wires into the trunk and connect them to the control unit (usually it is mounted under the trunk trim).
For painting bumpers it is better to use plastic primer (For example, APP Plastik Primer) - it improves paint adhesion. If the bumper has deep scratches, they need to be puttied. elastic putty (For example, Novol Plastic).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about bumper removal
Do I need to remove the taillights to remove the bumper?
Not always. On most Almera Classic The bumper can be removed without removing the headlights, but if the bolts near the lights are rusty or stuck, you will have to disconnect the connectors and remove the headlights for access. In this case, proceed carefully - the plastic latches of the headlights are fragile.
Is it possible to remove the bumper alone, without an assistant?
Technically yes, but it's inconvenient. Bumper Almera Classic weighs about 5–7 kg, and it is difficult to hold it with one hand while you unscrew the last fastenings with the other. If there is no helper, use props (for example, a stack of books or special stands).
What to do if the clip breaks?
A broken clip can be temporarily replaced with a plastic clamp or a self-tapping screw with a wide washer, but this is a short-lived solution. It is better to buy original clips (item 77214-4M000 or 77214-95000). They cost a penny, but will protect the bumper from vibrations.
How to remove the bumper if the bolts are rusty?
If the bolts do not come off, proceed as follows:
1. Treat them WD-40 or liquid key and wait 15–20 minutes.
2. Try to unscrew it with an impact screwdriver (tapping it with a hammer).
3. As a last resort, cut off the bolt with a grinder, but be careful not to damage the body.
After removing the bumper, replace the rusty bolts with new ones (preferably galvanized).
Can the bumper be washed after removal?
Yes, but avoid detergents with abrasives — they scratch the plastic. Use car shampoo and a soft sponge. If the bumper is covered with wax or polish, it is not necessary to wash it off. After washing, dry the part before installation to avoid corrosion of the metal fasteners.