<em>Nissan Almera G15</em> rear wheel bearing: symptoms, diagnosis and DIY replacement

Nissan Almera G15 is a popular sedan known for its reliability, but even its key components wear out over time. One of the common problems is rear wheel bearing, which, if it fails, not only creates discomfort when moving, but also threatens safety. Unlike the front wheel bearings, the rear ones are Almera G15 They last longer, but replacing them requires care and knowledge of the nuances.

In this article we will look at how recognize a fault at an early stage, what articles and brands spare parts to choose, and we will also give step-by-step replacement instructions taking into account the design features Almera G15 (including models with ABS). We will pay special attention to typical mistakes that even experienced car owners make.

Signs of a bad rear wheel bearing

The first symptoms of bearing wear are often ignored, attributing them to bad roads or seasonal tires. However, delay is fraught wheel jam running or damaged ABS. Here are the key signals that should alert you:

• 🔊 Hum or howl from the side of the rear wheel, increasing during acceleration (especially at speed 60–90 km/h). The sound may disappear when turning - this is due to load redistribution.
• 🔄 Wheel play when rocking in a vertical plane (checked on a jack). On Almera G15 permissible backlash - no more 0.5 mm.
• 🔥 Hub overheating after the trip (you can check it with your hand - the operating temperature should not burn).
• 🚨 Grinding or crunching noise when braking - a sign of critical wear, when the bearing balls are already destroyed.

On Almera G15 with ABS a faulty bearing can cause false alarm of the anti-lock braking system (lit indicator on the tidy). This is due to the fact that the sensor ABS built into the hub assembly and reacts to runout or play.

⚠️ Attention: If the hum only appears when braking, the problem may be brake pads or disk, not in the bearing. Carry out diagnostics on both nodes.

Diagnostics: how to confirm the problem

Before buying spare parts, make sure it is the bearing that is at fault. On Nissan Almera G15 diagnostics includes several stages:

1. Listening on the go. Accelerate to 60 km/h and listen: there will be a hum from the bearing monotonous, as opposed to tire or transmission noise. Try turning the steering wheel slightly - if the sound changes, the problem is in the front hub.
2. Checking on a jack. Raise the car, spin the wheel by hand and listen: strange sounds or uneven rotation - a sign of wear. Also rock the wheel in the vertical and horizontal planes.
3. Visual inspection. Remove the wheel and inspect the hub for grease leaks (its leakage accelerates wear) or corrosion.

For accurate diagnosis you can use stethoscope (or a long screwdriver with the ear attached to the handle). Apply it to the hub while the wheel rotates - this way you will even hear a slight noise from the bearing.

What to do if there is a hum, but no play?

Sometimes a bearing wears unevenly - for example, only the inner race is destroyed. In this case, there may be no play, but during disassembly you will find metal shavings or burrs. Such a bearing is subject to mandatory replacement, even if outwardly it seems to be working.

Selection of spare parts: articles and brands

On Nissan Almera G15 (2012–2019) rear wheel bearings are installed with built-in ABS sensor (for versions with this system). It is important to choose a part that is compatible with your modification. Original articles:

Modification	Article	Note
C ABS	40520-BM40A	Bearing + sensor assembly
Without ABS	40520-BM400	Bearing only
Repair kit (boot + grease)	40528-BM400	For replacement service

Among the analogues, the following have proven themselves well:

• 🔧 NTN (512236) - high quality, often supplied as OEM.
• 🔧 SKF (VKBA 3643) - reliability, but higher price.
• 🔧 Koyo (DAC40720040) - optimal price/quality ratio.
• 🔧 Febi (22363) is a budget option, but the resource is lower.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing, check if it is included retaining ring (40529-BM400). On some bearings (for example, NTN) it is missing and must be purchased separately.

On Almera G15 with ABS You cannot install a bearing without a sensor - this will lead to an error on the dashboard and failure of the anti-lock braking system.

Tools and preparation for replacement

To replace the rear wheel bearing with Nissan Almera G15 you will need:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and keys (17 mm, 19 mm, 30 mm - for the hub nut).
• 🔧 Wheel bearing puller (for example, Kukko 204-2 or equivalent).
• 🔧 Torque wrench (hub nut tightening torque - 180–200 Nm).
• 🔧 Vise and mandrel for pressing (you can use an old hub).
• 🔧 Lubrication Molykote BR2 Plus or Litol-24 for the clip.

Also prepare:

• 🧰 Jack and stops (be sure to fix the car on a flat surface!).
• 🧰 WD-40 or equivalent for unscrewing stuck bolts.
• 🧰 New retaining rings And hub nut (disposable, article number 40525-BM400).

Remove the wheel and brake disc|Disconnect the ABS sensor (if equipped)|Remove the retaining ring with a puller|Check the condition of the axle shaft and boots|Prepare a new bearing and lubricant-->

If this is your first time changing a bearing, practice on the removed hub - pressing requires effort, and the error could damage the new part.

Step-by-step replacement instructions

Replacement process Almera G15 takes 2–3 hours (excluding preparation). Follow the algorithm:

1. Removing the wheel and brake mechanism.

   Jack up the car, remove the wheel, then unscrew 2 bolts brake caliper mounting (wrench 17 mm) and hang it on a wire. Remove the brake disc.

2. Disconnecting the ABS sensor.

   On models with ABS carefully disconnect the sensor connector (it is located on the shock absorber strut) and remove the fixing bolt (10 mm).

3. Removing the hub.

   Unscrew the hub nut (30 mm, tightening torque - 180 Nm). Remove the hub from the axle shaft using a puller or gentle hammer blows through a wooden spacer.

4. Bearing replacement.

   Using a puller, remove the old bearing and clean the seat from dirt. Press in the new bearing evenly, without distortions, using a mandrel (for example, an old clip). Don't forget to install retaining ring!

5. Assembly.

   Place the hub in place, tighten the new nut (torque - 180–200 Nm). Connect the sensor ABS, install the brake disc and caliper.

After replacement be sure to check the ABS operation: drive in a straight line at speed 30–40 km/h and brake sharply - the pedal should not “hit” your foot, and there should be no warning light on the dashboard.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when replacing a bearing with Almera G15. Here are the most common:

• 🔨 Distortion during pressing. If the bearing is installed crookedly, it will last no more than 10,000 km. Always use a mandrel that applies even pressure to outer ring.
• 🔧 Reusing the retaining ring. It deforms when removed and does not provide reliable fixation. Always buy something new (40529-BM400).
• 🔥 Ignoring lubrication. On Almera G15 the bearing comes with factory grease, but during installation you need to add it to seat in the hub (For example, Litol-24).
• 🚗 Incorrect tightening torque. If you tighten the hub nut (> 200 Nm), the bearing will overheat; if you don't reach it (< 180 Nm) - backlash will appear.

⚠️ Attention: On vehicles with ABS after bearing replacement it may be necessary error reset via a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431). If the indicator ABS continues to light, check the integrity of the sensor wiring.

Service life and prevention

Rear wheel bearing life Almera G15 amounts to 100,000–150,000 km, but it depends on several factors:

• 🛣️ Quality of roads. Driving over potholes and bumps accelerates wear and tear. 1.5–2 times.
• 🌡️ Overheating Aggressive braking or driving with faulty brakes increases bearing temperatures, destroying the lubrication.
• 💧 Moisture and dirt. A damaged hub boot allows water and abrasive to enter, which kills the bearing. 20,000–30,000 km.

To extend bearing life:

• 🔧 Regularly (once every 10,000 km) check wheel play and the condition of the anthers.
• 🚿 Wash your hubs without directional pressure (do not use mini-washes close to the bearing).
• 🛑 Avoid long engine braking in high gears - this creates excess load on the rear hubs.

If you frequently drive off-road or transport heavy loads, reduce the inspection interval to 50,000 km — in such conditions the bearing wears out faster.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to drive with a humming bearing?

Short term (up to 1,000–2,000 km) - yes, but the risk of a wheel jam increases with every trip. If the wear is critical, the bearing may collapse while moving, leading to loss of control. It is especially dangerous to drive at high speeds (more than 80 km/h).

How much does it cost to replace a bearing at a service center?

Cost of work in a car service - from 3,000 to 6,000 rubles for one side (depending on the region). With spare parts (NTN or SKF) the total price will be 8,000–12,000 rubles. Replacing it yourself will save up to 50% budget.

Which bearing is better - original or analogue?

Original bearing (40520-BM40A) lasts longer, but costs 1.5–2 times more expensive than analogues. Optimal choice - NTN or SKF, which are often delivered to the conveyor Nissan. Budget brands (Febi, Optimal) are suitable for temporary replacement.

Do I need to change the bearing if there is no play, but there is a hum?

Yes, hum is the first sign of wear, even if the backlash has not yet appeared. At this stage, the bearing is already losing lubrication, and further operation will accelerate its destruction. Replacement early will prevent damage to the hub and axle shaft.

Is it possible to lubricate a bearing without replacing it?

Theoretically it is possible, but in practice it is ineffective. Rear wheel bearing Almera G15 - non-separable, and adding lubricant will not restore worn tracks or balls. This measure can extend the life of the node by 5,000–10,000 km, but no more.