Nissan Almera Classic is one of the most popular sedans in the budget segment, but even it is not immune to wear and tear on the chassis. One of the most vulnerable elements is CV boot (constant velocity joint), which protects the mechanism from dirt, moisture and premature failure. If damage to the boot is not noticed in time, the consequences will be many times more expensive: from crunching when turning to complete replacement grenades.
In this article we will look at how to determine whether the boot is faulty Almera Classic (including restyled versions 2010–2018), which parts to choose (original vs analogues), and how to replace it yourself - taking into account the design nuances of the front-wheel drive platform Nissan B0. We will also provide a table of boot compatibility for different years of manufacture and give advice on extending the service life of the CV joint.
Signs of damage to the CV joint boot on a Nissan Almera Classic
The first symptoms of a boot problem often go unnoticed until crunch when turning - this is already a signal of damage to the CV joint itself. To avoid a critical breakdown, pay attention to:
- 🔍 Cracks or tears on the boot rubber (visible upon visual inspection, especially after washing or rain).
- 💨 Lubricant on the inside of the wheel — if the boot is torn, it splashes when moving.
- 🔊 Extraneous sounds when turning the steering wheel (creaking, crackling) - a sign of dirt getting into the joint.
- 🚗 Vibration on the steering wheel when accelerating or driving at low speeds (may indicate play in the CV joint).
On Almera Classic suffers more often outer boot (from the wheel side), since it is more susceptible to mechanical damage. The internal boot (from the gearbox side) wears out less frequently, but its diagnosis is more difficult - removal of the axle shaft is required.
⚠️ Attention: If microcracks appear on the boot, but it is not yet torn, this is not a reason to postpone replacement. Rubber loses its elasticity over time, and even a small crack under load can turn into a rupture. On Almera Classic With a mileage of 100 thousand km or more, a preventive inspection of the anthers every 20 thousand km is recommended.
- Every 10 thousand km
- Only when a crunch appears
- Never checked
- I trust service station diagnostics
Which CV joint boot to choose for Nissan Almera Classic: original or analogue?
When choosing anther, it is important to consider year of manufacture And engine capacity yours Almera Classic, since depending on the configuration, the diameters of the axle shafts and the fastening of the clamps may differ. Original parts from Nissan guarantee a perfect fit, but are often overpriced. Let's look at proven options:
| Part type | Article | Manufacturer | Notes | Average price, ₽ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original (outer) | 39300-4M000 |
Nissan | For models 2006–2012, 1.6 l | 2 200–2 500 |
| Original (internal) | 39300-4M001 |
Nissan | Compatible with automatic and manual transmission | 2 400–2 700 |
| Analog (outdoor) | JC300101 |
GKN (Lobro) | High quality rubber, suitable for restyling | 1 100–1 300 |
| Analogue (set) | NK-3012 |
NK (Japan) | Includes clamps and lubricant | 1 800–2 000 |
| Budget option | CTR-CV301 |
CTR | Suitable for temporary replacement | 600–800 |
When purchasing analogues, pay attention to:
- 📏 Diameter of seats - must match the original (for Almera Classic the outer boot usually has a diameter of 90–95 mm).
- 🔄 Clamps included — cheap sets are often sold without them.
- 🧪 Rubber quality — a good boot should be elastic and not harden in the cold.
If you buy a boot separately from the CV joint, be sure to buy a new one CV joint lubricant (For example, Molykote BR2 Plus). Once the joint is disassembled, old lubricant loses its properties and can accelerate wear of parts.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the CV joint boot on a Nissan Almera Classic
Replacing the boot is a labor-intensive process, but if you have the tools and patience, you can do it yourself. Main rule: do not disassemble the CV joint without prior preparation, otherwise you risk damaging the hinge. Below is a step-by-step algorithm for the outer boot (the inner one changes in the same way, but requires removing the axle shaft).
Jack up the car and remove the wheel|Unscrew the hub nut (you will need a 30 or 32 socket)|Remove the brake caliper and disc (tie the caliper with wire to avoid damaging the hose)|Disconnect the tie rod and ball joint (if they are in the way)|Press the axle shaft out of the hub (use a puller or a hammer with a wooden spacer)-->
After dismantling the axle shaft:
- Remove the old clamps (usually they are cut off with side cutters).
- Carefully slide the boot along the shaft, clean the CV joint from old grease (use kerosene or a special cleaner).
- Check status separator and balls — if there is play or chips, the CV joint must be replaced.
- Apply new grease (about 80–100 g) and install a new boot, securing it with clamps.
When assembling, make sure that:
- 🔧 The boot was not twisted or pinched with clamps.
- 🛠️ The hub nut was torqued
200–220 Nm(use a torque wrench!). - 🔄 After installing the axle shaft, check that there is no play in the CV joint by shaking the shaft by hand.
⚠️ Attention: If, when disassembling the CV joint, you find metal shavings in the lubricant or visible scoring on the balls, it is useless to change the boot - the entire hinge needs to be replaced. On Almera Classic with a mileage of over 150 thousand km this is a serious problem.
What to do if you can’t press out the axle shaft?
If the axle shaft does not come out of the hub, try the following methods:
1. Apply a penetrating lubricant (eg WD-40) onto the spline connection and wait 10–15 minutes.
2. Use a CV joint puller or a pry bar with a lever (place a wooden block so as not to damage the boot).
3. As a last resort, carefully tap with a hammer through the soft spacer on the end of the shaft (not on the CV joint!).
How much does it cost to replace a CV joint boot at a service station?
The price of work depends on the region and level of service. On average in Russia per replacement one anther (excluding the cost of parts) they ask:
- 🔧 Outer boot: 1,500–2,500 ₽ (removal of wheel and caliper required).
- 🔄 Inner boot: 2,500–3,500 ₽ (you need to remove the axle shaft and sometimes the gearbox).
- 🛠️ Set (both boots): 3 500–5 000 ₽.
If the CV joint itself needs to be replaced, the cost will increase by 3,000–8,000 rubles (depending on the originality of the part). On Almera Classic With an automatic transmission, work is more expensive due to the difficulty of accessing the internal joint.
You can save money by purchasing the parts yourself and providing them to a specialist. For example, a set of anthers NK with clamps will cost 1,800 ₽, and the work to install them will cost 3,000 ₽. Total: 4,800 ₽ instead of 6,000–7,000 ₽ if paid in full at the service station.
Replacing the boot yourself is justified if you have experience working with the chassis. Otherwise, the risk of damaging the CV joint or gearbox seals outweighs the savings.
Common mistakes when replacing a CV joint boot and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to repeated repairs. Here are the most common mistakes on Nissan Almera Classic:
- 🔨 Using unsuitable clamps - factory clamps are disposable, and cheap metal bands weaken over time. It's better to take worm clamps with plastic clip.
- 🧴 Saving on lubrication - some do
Litol-24orSolid oil, but they are not designed for high CV joint loads. Use only specialized compounds. - 🔧 Improper torque of the hub nut — weak tightening leads to play, and excessive tightening leads to bearing damage. Always use a torque wrench!
- 🚗 Ignoring check of the gearbox seal - if the oil seal leaks, the lubricant will be squeezed out of the CV joint, and the new boot will quickly fail.
Another common mistake is reusing old grease. Even if it looks clean, after disassembling the CV joint, microparticles of metal remain in it, which accelerate wear. Always use new lubricant!
How to extend the service life of CV joint boots?
Average boot life per Almera Classic - 80–120 thousand km, but with proper operation this period can be increased to 150–180 thousand km. Care Tips:
- 🚿 Avoid high pressure washing — a stream of water can penetrate under the boot and wash out the lubricant.
- 🛣️ Avoid deep holes — sharp impacts on the suspension increase the load on the CV joint and boot.
- ❄️ Check the anthers after winter - rubber loses its elasticity in the cold, and cracks appear on it.
- 🔧 Lubricate the clamps with silicone grease - this will prevent them from corrosion and weakening.
If you frequently drive off-road or in dusty conditions, consider installing polyurethane anthers. They are more expensive than rubber ones (from RUB 3,000 per set), but they last 2–3 times longer and are resistant to aggressive environments.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about CV joint boots on Nissan Almera Classic
Is it possible to drive with a torn boot if the CV joint is not crunching yet?
No, even a small rupture allows dirt and moisture to enter the CV joint. After 500–1000 km of driving, the hinge will begin to deteriorate, and it will have to be replaced entirely. The cost of a new CV joint (from 5,000 ₽) is several times higher than the price of a boot (from 600 ₽).
What tool is needed to replace the boot?
Minimum set:
- Jack and supports (or lift).
- Heads for 17, 19, 30 (or 32 for the hub nut).
- CV joint puller or mount.
- Side cutters for clamps.
- Torque wrench (to tighten the hub nut).
Also useful: kerosene for cleaning, new lubricant, and a marker for marks during disassembly.
What is the difference between boots for Almera Classic with automatic and manual transmission?
On Almera Classic with Automatic transmission the axle shafts are shorter, so the internal boots are shorter (article no. 39300-4M001). For Manual transmission fits article number 39300-4M000 (external) and 39300-4M002 (internal). Check compatibility by VIN code!
How much lubrication does a CV joint need?
For outer CV joint Almera Classic required 80–100 g lubricant, for internal - 100–120 g. Don't skimp: lack of lubrication leads to overheating and accelerated wear. Popular brands: Molykote BR2 Plus, LIQUI MOLY LM47, Castrol LMX.
Is it possible to repair a torn boot with sealant?
This is a temporary solution! Sealant (eg ABRO or Loctite) can close a small crack for 1–2 thousand km, but will not protect against moisture under pressure. Use only for an emergency trip to a service station.