Replacing rear shock absorbers on a Nissan Almera: instructions with photos and expert advice

Rear shock absorbers Nissan Almera - a critical element of the suspension, on which not only comfort, but also control safety depends. Over time, they wear out: knocking noises appear, handling on uneven surfaces deteriorates, and the braking distance increases by 10–15%. If you notice oil stains on the shock absorber body or the car “sags” under load, it’s time to think about replacement.

In this article we will look in detail at how to change the rear shock absorbers to Almera N16 (2000–2006), G15 (2012–2018) and Tino, including the selection of spare parts, the necessary tools and a step-by-step process with photos. You will also learn what mistakes beginners most often make and how to avoid them. For clarity, we will provide a comparative table of original shock absorbers and analogues, and at the end we will answer frequently asked questions on the topic.

Signs of faulty rear shock absorbers

The first symptoms of shock absorber wear are often attributed to suspension fatigue or bad roads. However, ignoring them is dangerous: faulty dampers increase the risk of aquaplaning and lengthen the braking distance. Look out for the following signs:

• 🔴 Knocking or squeaking in the rear of the car when driving over bumps (even small ones). The sound may become louder in cold weather.
• 💧 Oil stains on the shock absorber body - evidence of depressurization and loss of working fluid.
• 🚗 "Sagging" of the body when loading the trunk or passengers. Normally, the back should smoothly return to its original position.
• 🌀 Body rocking after hitting a bump (more than 2-3 vibrations). Serviceable shock absorbers dampen vibrations in 1–1.5 cycles.
• 🛑 Deterioration in braking: The car “nods” or pulls to the side when you press the pedal sharply.

On Nissan Almera G15 (since 2012) faulty shock absorbers can also provoke false activation of the ESP system, since the sensors interpret body sway as a loss of control. If the icon lights up on the dashboard ESP OFF for no apparent reason - check the condition of the rear suspension.

⚠️ Attention: On models with air suspension (for example, Almera Tino) wear of shock absorbers can lead to incorrect compressor operation and premature failure of air cylinders. In this case, it is better to entrust the replacement to specialists with diagnostic equipment.

Choice of rear shock absorbers: original vs analogues

Original shock absorbers for Nissan Almera are produced by the company Kayaba (or KYB) and are supplied under the manufacturer's article numbers. However, their price is often too high, and the quality does not always live up to expectations. An alternative is proven analogues from Monroe, Boge, Sachs or Febi Bilstein.

When choosing shock absorbers, consider suspension type yours Almera:

• 🔧 For N16 And G15 suitable with classic spring suspension oil or gas-oil shock absorbers. The latter are more expensive, but provide better handling at high speeds.
• 💨 For Almera Tino with air suspension required specialized damperscompatible with the ground clearance control system.

A critical nuance for the Almera G15: shock absorbers with article number 54320-BM40A are supplied assembled with springs, but are often sold separately. Check with the seller for the complete set so as not to buy only a “naked” damper without support cups.

Necessary tools and consumables

To replace rear shock absorbers with Nissan Almera you will need a standard set of tools, but there are also specific devices. Here's the full list:

• 🔧 Keys and heads: spanners 17, 19, 21 mm; socket heads with extension (for upper nuts).
• 🔩 Special pullers:
  • Spring remover (required for Almera N16 And Tino).
  • Ball joint remover (if you need to disconnect the arm).
• 🛠️ Additional equipment: jack, wheel chocks, spring ties, torque wrench (preferably).
• 🧴 Consumables:
  • New shock absorbers (pair).
  • Support bearings and boots (if worn).
  • Fastening nuts and bolts (often stick, it is better to replace).
  • WD-40 or similar solution for loosening rusty joints.

Place the car on a level surface and secure the front wheels with stops |

Disconnect the negative battery terminal (for models with ESP)|

Treat all threaded connections with WD-40 1-2 hours before work|

Prepare new nuts and bolts (do not use old ones!)|

Check the presence of spring ties (mandatory for N16 and Tino)-->

On Almera G15 The upper nuts of the shock absorbers often “stick” to the body. To unscrew them you will need extension with universal joint and the help of a second person to fix the rod. If the nut does not budge, do not use excessive force: there is a risk of breaking the threads in the body!

⚠️ Attention: When replacing shock absorbers with Almera Tino with air suspension be sure to turn off the compressor (removing the fuse F30 in the block under the hood). Otherwise, the system may turn on during dismantling, which will lead to injury!

Step-by-step replacement instructions (using Almera N16 as an example)

The process of replacing rear shock absorbers with Nissan Almera N16 And G15 similar, but there are nuances. Below are universal instructions taking into account the features of the models. For clarity, we will divide the work into stages:

1. Removing the old shock absorber

Raise the rear of the car with a jack and remove the wheel. Next:

1. Unscrew lower mounting bolt shock absorber to the lever (19 mm wrench). On Almera G15 it may be hidden by a plastic protection - you can remove it by prying it off with a screwdriver.
2. In the cabin, bend the trunk trim and unscrew upper rod nut (21 mm head). On N16 This will require an extension cord.
3. Remove the shock absorber along with the spring. If it gets stuck, gently tap it with a hammer through the wooden spacer.

2. Disassembly and installation of a new shock absorber

At this point you will need spring ties. Never remove a spring without ties! Pressure can cause serious injury.

1. Secure the spring in the ties and compress it until the support cup is released.
2. Transfer all parts (boot, bump stop, support bearing) from the old shock absorber to the new one. On Almera G15 The support bearing often comes with the shock absorber.
3. Reassemble the assembly in reverse order, making sure spring position: its ends must fit exactly into the grooves of the cup.

What to do if the top nut does not unscrew?

If the shock absorber rod nut does not budge even after treating with WD-40, try the following methods:

1. Heat the nut with a hair dryer (do not overheat the plastic parts!).

2. Use an impact wrench with a 21mm socket.

3. As a last resort, cut off the nut with a grinder, but be careful not to damage the threads on the rod.

After dismantling, check the condition of the thread and, if necessary, restore it with a tap.

3. Installation and testing

Install the new shock absorber into place by tightening the top nut first, then the bottom bolt. Do not over-tighten the fastenersuntil the car is lowered onto its wheels! After assembly:

• Check no backlash at fastening points.
• Bleed the shock absorbers by pressing the rear of the vehicle 3-4 times.
• Drive 10–15 km and recheck the tightness of the nuts.

💡

On the Almera G15, after replacing the shock absorbers, it may be necessary to reset the ESP system adaptations. To do this, disconnect the battery for 10 minutes or use a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when replacing shock absorbers. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

• 🔧 Incorrect tightening of nuts. Fastenings need to be tightened only on loaded suspension (when the car is on wheels). Tightening torque:
  • Upper stem nut: 40–50 Nm.
  • Bottom bolt: 80–100 Nm.
• 🌀 Confused springs. On Almera N16 The left and right springs may differ in the number of turns. Always label them when dismantling.
• 🛑 Ignoring support bearings. If the bearing is worn out (play or creaking), it necessarily needs to be replaced along with the shock absorber.
• 💧 No bleeding of new shock absorbers. Before installation gas-oil The shock absorbers need to be pumped 3–5 times (compress and hold for 2–3 seconds).

⚠️ Attention: On Almera Tino required after replacing shock absorbers air suspension system calibration using diagnostic equipment. Without this, the clearance may not be adjusted correctly, and the compressor will operate in emergency mode.

1. Correct installation of the springs (their ends must coincide with the marks on the cups).

2. Condition of the brake mechanisms (the pads or brake cylinders may need to be replaced).

3. Tire pressure (even a difference of 0.2 bar can affect handling).-->

Cost of work in the service vs independent replacement

Cost of replacing rear shock absorbers Nissan Almera in services varies depending on the region and type of service station. On average:

• 🔧 Cost of work: from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles per side (total 3,000–6,000 rubles for both sides).
• 💰 Cost of spare parts: from 3,500 to 9,000 rubles per pair (depending on the brand).
• ⏱️ Opening hours: 1.5–2.5 hours on both sides.

When you replace it yourself, you save on work, but keep in mind:

• Will be required special tool (spring ties, pullers), which will cost 1,000–2,000 rubles (if you buy a new one).
• Risk of errors that could lead to re-dismantling or damage to parts.
• No guarantee for work (as opposed to service).

If you have no experience working with suspension, but want to save money, the best option is buy spare parts yourself (saving 20-30% compared to prices in the service) and pay only for the work.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing shock absorbers

Is it possible to replace only one shock absorber if the second one is still working?

Not recommended. Shock absorbers wear out evenly, and even if the second one “seems” to be working, its characteristics are already different from the new one. This will lead to uneven load distribution and deterioration in controllability. An exception is if the second shock absorber was replaced very recently (less than 10,000 km ago).

How often do you need to change rear shock absorbers on Almera?

The service life of shock absorbers depends on operating conditions:

• In city mode: 80,000–120,000 km.
• When driving on dirt roads: 50,000–80,000 km.
• For aggressive driving style: 40,000–60,000 km.

Check the condition of the shock absorbers every 20,000 km or when signs of malfunction appear.

What is the difference between oil and gas-oil shock absorbers for Almera?

Main differences:

Parameter	Oily	Gas-oil
Cost	20–30% cheaper	More expensive
Hardness	Softer, more comfortable on uneven surfaces	Stiffer, better handling
Service life	Less (60–80 thousand km)	More (100–120 thousand km)
Recommendations	City riding	Sports style, loaded car

For Almera G15 Gas-oil shock absorbers are often chosen due to better stability at speed.

Is it necessary to do a wheel alignment after replacing shock absorbers?

On Nissan Almera replacing rear shock absorbers no effect on the wheel alignment angles, since they are not related to the camber/toe adjustment. However, if you notice uneven tire wear or the vehicle pulls to the side, check:

• Condition silent blocks of levers.
• Wheel balance (may require balancing).
• Tire pressure.

Wheel alignment of the rear axle on Almera it is adjusted extremely rarely (only after an accident or replacement of levers).

Is it possible to drive with faulty rear shock absorbers?

Technically yes, but it is extremely dangerous:

• Increases braking distance by 10–20 m at a speed of 80 km/h.
• Risk aquaplaning on a wet road it increases 2–3 times.
• Wear accelerates wheel bearings And tires.
• On Almera G15 may work false ESP warning.

If the shock absorber is leaking but still holds pressure, it is allowed careful driving to service (no more than 500 km).