Outer CV joint for Nissan Almera G15: part numbers, diagnostics and replacement

Outdoor CV joint (constant velocity joint) - one of the key elements of the drive mechanism Nissan Almera G15, responsible for transmitting torque to the wheels at an angle. Wear of this unit is manifested by a characteristic crunch when turning, vibrations and deterioration in controllability. It is important for model owners to know not only original articles of outer CV joint (39300-4M000 or 39300-4M00A), but also high-quality analogues from GKN, SKF or Febito avoid purchasing counterfeit parts.

In this article we will look at how to choose the right CV joint for Almera G15 (including restyled versions 2015–2019), what signs indicate its malfunction, and how to replace it yourself. We will pay special attention to the nuances of choice: why cheap Chinese analogues often fail after 10–15 thousand km, and which brands offer the best price-quality ratio. You will also find step-by-step instructions with photos and videos, a table of article compatibility and answers to frequently asked questions.

Original articles of outer CV joint for Nissan Almera G15

For Nissan Almera G15 (2012–2019), the manufacturer offers two main articles of outer CV joint, which depend on the year of manufacture and modification:

• 🔧 39300-4M000 — for models before restyling (2012–2015) with engines HR16DE (1.6 l).
• 🔧 39300-4M00A — for restyled versions (2015–2019), including configurations with automatic transmission.

Both options are interchangeable provided the number of splines on the inner race matches (24 splines). However, original parts from Nissan often counterfeited, so when purchasing, check:

• 📦 Packaging — there must be a branded box with a hologram and a printed article.
• 🔍 Marking on parts - the original has an engraving Nissan and batch number.
• 🛠️ Processing quality — fakes often show burrs or uneven welding seams.

⚠️ Attention: There are CV joints on the market with the article number 39300-4M010, positioned as "universal" for Almera G15. This part is designed for Nissan Note E12 and does not fit the geometry - its installation will lead to play and rapid wear.

Article	Applicability	Cost (original), ₽	Analogues
39300-4M000	Almera G15 (2012–2015), HR16DE	8 500–11 000	GKN 506083, SKF VKJA 7603
39300-4M00A	Almera G15 (2015–2019), restyling	9 200–12 500	Febi 39300, SNR CV007
39300-4M005	For versions with automatic transmission (right-hand drive)	10 000–13 000	Loebro 310010, Metelli 23-39300

Signs of a faulty outer CV joint

Outer CV joint in Nissan Almera G15 fails gradually, and the first symptoms are often ignored until critical breakdowns occur. Main features:

• 🔊 Crunch when turning - especially noticeable at low speeds (for example, when parking) and when the steering wheel is turned.
• 🌀 Vibration on the steering wheel - occurs due to play in the hinge, intensifies during acceleration.
• 🚗 Jerks when starting off - associated with jamming of balls in the cage due to lack of lubrication.
• 💨 Extraneous sounds when driving over uneven surfaces — creaks or knocks indicate destruction of the boot.

To diagnose the problem, perform the following test:

1. Raise the car on a lift or hang the front wheel.
2. Engage first gear and slowly rotate the wheel while turning the steering wheel left and right.
3. Crunching or clicking noises when turning the wheel more than 30° confirm wear on the CV joint.

⚠️ Attention: The crunching noise may disappear when driving in a straight line - this does not mean that the problem has been resolved. A worn-out CV joint collapses like an avalanche: after the first signs, 500–1,000 km remain until complete failure.

What happens if you drive with a faulty CV joint?

Ignoring the crunch will lead to destruction of the race and blocking of the drive shaft. In a critical situation (for example, when overtaking), this can cause loss of control. In addition, metal shavings from a damaged CV joint will end up in the transmission, requiring expensive transmission repairs.

How to choose a high-quality analogue: review of brands

Original CV joints for Almera G15 They have a high resource (100–150 thousand km), but their cost often forces owners to look for alternatives. Among the high-quality analogues, the following stand out:

• 🏆 GKN (Loebro) - market leader, conveyor supplier Nissan. Article 506083 completely interchangeable with the original, service life - 80-120 thousand km.
• 🔧 SKF - a Swedish brand with an optimal price-quality ratio. Model VKJA 7603 has reinforced anthers and improved lubrication.
• 💰 Febi - a budget option (from 4,500 ₽), but with a 2-year guarantee. Suitable for a relaxed riding style.
• ⚠️ SAAZ (Russia) - a cheap alternative (from 2,800 ₽), but the resource rarely exceeds 30–40 thousand km.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• 📏 Number of splines - must match the original (24 slots for Almera G15).
• 🛡️ Boot material - high-quality analogues use heat-resistant silicone (for example, GKN).
• 🧴 Lubricant type - used in the original Molykote BR2 Plus, in cheap fakes - ordinary lithol.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the outer CV joint

Replacing the outer CV joint with Nissan Almera G15 does not require specialized equipment, but will require skill and compliance with safety precautions. Average operating time is 2–3 hours for one drive. You will need:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and keys (10, 12, 14, 17 mm).
• 🔨 Hammer and pry bar.
• 🛠️ Puller for retaining rings (optional).
• 🧴 Lubrication Molykote BR2 Plus or similar.

Sequence of actions:

1. Remove the wheel and remove the hub nut (you will need an extension and a lever).
2. Disconnect the ball joint and steering knuckle from the steering knuckle.
3. Press the drive shaft out of the hub using a pry bar.
4. Remove the boot clamps and snap ring, then knock the CV joint off the shaft with a hammer through a wooden spacer.
5. Install the new CV joint, first applying lubricant to the race and balls.
6. Secure the boot with clamps and reassemble the assembly in reverse order.

⚠️ Attention: When installing a new CV joint, do not use old retaining rings - they are deformed during dismantling and do not provide reliable fixation. This can lead to spontaneous separation of the shaft and CV joint while driving.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when working with CV joints Nissan Almera G15which lead to premature wear or failure of the unit. Let's look at typical mistakes:

• 🔨 Using an impact tool for pressing — a hammer without a spacer deforms the holder. Correct: use a press or carefully press through a mandrel.
• 🧴 Saving on lubrication - litol or grease cannot withstand loads. Only specialized compounds for CV joints (for example, Castrol LMX).
• 🔧 Incorrect boot installation — a twisted or loosely tightened clamp leads to dirt getting in. The boot should be put on without folds, the clamps should be tightened with a force of 3–4 Nm.
• 🌀 Ignoring play in the wheel bearing — if the bearing is worn out, the new CV joint will last no more than 10 thousand km.

To avoid problems, follow two rules:

1. Before installation, check the axial play of the shaft - it should not exceed 0.5 mm.
2. After replacement, test drive the car on sharp turns to make sure there is no squeaking noise.

Cost of work and savings: comparison of service stations and self-replacement

The cost of replacing the outer CV joint is Nissan Almera G15 varies depending on region and service level:

Service type	Cost of work (1 side), ₽	Cost of the part (original), ₽	Total, ₽
Official dealer	4 500–6 000	9 200–12 500	13 700–18 500
Independent service	2 500–3 500	4,500–7,000 (analog)	7 000–10 500
Self-replacement	0	4 500–12 500	4 500–12 500

The savings when replacing yourself are obvious, but consider the hidden costs:

• 🛠️ Purchase of a specialized tool (circlip remover, torque wrench).
• ⏱️ Time - without experience, work can take up to 5-6 hours.
• 🚗 Risk of errors leading to repeated repairs (for example, damage to the boot during installation).

If you decide to contact the service, choose those that provide a guarantee of work for at least 12 months. For example, networks Bosch Service or S-Tech They offer a 2 year warranty on parts and 1 year on labor.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to drive with a crisp CV joint if it does not lock?

No. A crunch indicates the destruction of the balls or clip. Even if the CV joint has not locked up yet, metal shavings will get into the transmission, causing wear on the transmission. The maximum mileage with such symptoms is 500–1,000 km.

Which CV joint is better to choose for aggressive driving?

For a dynamic driving style we recommend GKN 506083 or SKF VKJA 7603 — they have reinforced clips and heat-resistant anthers. Cheap analogues (for example, SAAZ) cannot withstand high loads.

Is it necessary to change the inner CV joint at the same time as the outer one?

Not necessary if the internal one does not produce extraneous sounds. However, with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, we recommend inspecting both CV joints - their service life is approximately the same. Replacing a pair will cost less than repeat repairs after 20–30 thousand km.

Is it possible to restore the CV joint instead of replacing it?

Theoretically, yes - some workshops offer replacement balls and clips. However, the cost of such repairs (3,000–4,000 rubles) is comparable to the price of a new analogue, and the service life of a repaired CV joint rarely exceeds 20 thousand km.

What to do if after replacing the CV joint there is still a crunching noise?

The reasons may be as follows:

1. There is not enough lubrication in the new CV joint.
2. The boot is damaged or the clamps are not tightened properly.
3. The wheel bearing is worn out (needs replacement).
4. Poor quality part (often found in Chinese analogues).

It is necessary to remove the CV joint and check all the elements.