Diagnostics and replacement of the starting device is one of the most common procedures in car maintenance. Nissan Almera. Over time, the solenoid relay or bushings wear out, resulting in clicking noises, lack of response when turning the key, or cranking the engine for a long time. Many owners mistakenly believe that such an operation requires a mandatory service visit, although access to the unit often allows you to do the work yourself.
The process of removing the starter on the model Almera G15 with engines 1.6 or 1.5 dCi has its own characteristics, depending on the type of body and the layout of the engine compartment. The main thing is to follow the sequence of actions so as not to damage fragile plastic elements or electrical wiring. In this article we will analyze all stages of dismantling, starting from preparing tools and ending with the final check after installing a new unit.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
Before you begin any physical impact on the car, it is necessary to ensure safe working conditions. Starter on Nissan Almera located at the bottom of the engine, which often requires lifting the machine or using a reliable hydraulic jack with stands. Working under a machine without insurance is strictly prohibited due to the risk of serious injury.
For successful dismantling, you will need a standard mechanic's kit, supplemented with specific heads. Extensions and universal joints are most often used, since access to the mounting bolts is extremely limited. Pay special attention to the quality of the tool so as not to tear off the edges on the fastening bolts, which may be very soured.
- 🔧 Set of sockets and ratchets (10, 12, 14, 17, 21 mm)
- 🔨 Hammer and pry bar for easy removal of stuck knots
- 💡 A portable lamp or headlamp for illuminating hard-to-reach areas
- 🧼 WD-40 or penetrating thread lubricant
It is also extremely important to disconnect the battery before starting any electrical work. Removing the negative terminal eliminates a short circuit that may occur if the key accidentally touches the body or engine block while unscrewing the power wires.
⚠️ Attention! Before starting work, be sure to remember or photograph the location of the wires on the solenoid relay. An error when connecting new terminals can lead to blown fuses or failure of the engine control unit.
Access to the starter and disconnecting electrical circuits
On most modifications Nissan Almera The starter is located on the right side of the engine (when viewed in the direction of travel), near the gearbox. You can get to it either from below the car by removing the crankcase protection, or from above, if you free up space by removing the air filter or battery. The choice of path depends on the specific configuration and year of manufacture.
First you need to disconnect the main power cable running from the battery to the solenoid relay. This wire has thick insulation and is secured with a 12 or 14 mm socket head bolt. It must be removed carefully so as not to damage the insulation, since a bare live wire (if the battery is connected) poses a serious danger.
Next, the control wire coming from the ignition switch is disconnected. It is usually thinner and has a locking connector. To release it, you need to press the plastic latch tab and gently pull the connector towards you. Do not use excessive force to avoid breaking the connector plastic.
- 🔌 Disconnect the negative battery terminal
- 🔩 Remove the power wire from the main relay bolt
- 🔘 Disconnect the control connector from the solenoid relay
- 🛡️ If necessary, remove the engine crankcase protection
If access from above is difficult, you may need to remove the air filter assembly. This will free up space and allow you to see the starter mount from above. However, on many versions this still does not provide a complete overview, so working from below remains the main method.
⚠️ Attention! Be extremely careful when working with power cord. Even after disconnecting the battery, the capacitors in the system can retain a residual charge, and accidental contact of the wire with ground will cause a powerful electric arc.
- 1.6 petrol (G15)
- 1.5 diesel (K9K)
- 1.8 petrol (K4M)
- Other
The process of unscrewing the mounting bolts
Starter on Nissan Almera is fixed with two or three bolts, depending on the engine modification. The main mounting bolt is often in the most inconvenient position, resting against the subframe or exhaust system elements. To unscrew it, you will need a long extension and, possibly, a universal joint to change the angle of application of force.
Before you start turning the bolts, treat them generously with penetrating lubricant. The threads in the engine compartment are exposed to high temperatures and moisture, which leads to corrosion and sticking. Give the product time to work (at least 10-15 minutes) before using physical force.
If the bolt does not budge, use the heat and cool method or gently tap the head with a hammer to break up the rust layer. It is important not to apply excessive force to the extension, as it may break and the bolt will remain in the engine. In this case, special extractors will be required, which will complicate the task.
☑️ Dismantling fasteners
The order of unscrewing is not strictly important, but it is more convenient to first loosen the accessible bolt and then move on to the difficult one. Once all the bolts are removed, the starter will still be held in place due to the weight and the fit of the flange to the transmission housing.
⚠️ Attention! Do not remove the bolts completely until you are ready to remove the starter. A starter weighing 4-5 kg falling under the car can damage suspension elements or the gearbox housing, as well as injure your hands.
Removing a Node and Checking the Status
After unscrewing the fasteners, carefully pull the starter towards you. It may get stuck due to sticking of the flange or snagging of wires. In this case, you can carefully pry it off with a pry bar, relying on the strong elements of the subframe, but not on fragile tubes or sensors. Remove the assembly smoothly, controlling the position of the solenoid relay and wires.
Once the starter is released, perform a visual inspection. Pay attention to the condition of the bendix (overrunning clutch) - it should only rotate in one direction. Check the housing for cracks or signs of melting, which may indicate a short circuit within the windings. Also inspect the teeth of the gear driving the flywheel crown.
- 🔍 Inspect the case for cracks and deformations
- ⚙️ Check the rotation of the bendix (should only spin in one direction)
- ⚡ Assess the condition of the solenoid relay and contacts
- 🦠 Check for traces of oil or dirt on the housing
If you are planning not a replacement, but a repair, then remove the solenoid relay by unscrewing the two bolts. Inside it are a traction spring and a contact disk, which are often the cause of failure. Also check the brushes and commutator for excessive wear or carbon deposits.
How to check the starter without installing it on the car?
To check, connect two wires from the battery: one to the body (minus), the second to the relay bolt (plus). The Bendix should extend and the gear should turn. If this does not happen, the solenoid relay or winding is faulty.
It is especially important to check the condition of the flywheel to which the bendix is attached. If the flywheel teeth are worn or broken, the new starter will quickly fail because the gear will not be able to engage the ring gear. In this case, the flywheel or its gear will need to be replaced.
Before installing a new starter, be sure to clean the flange contact area from dirt and rust with a wire brush. This will ensure reliable electrical contact and prevent vibration when the engine is running.
Size and compatibility table
When choosing a new starter or a remanufactured analogue, it is important to focus on the correct parameters. On Nissan Almera Starters of different types are installed depending on engine size and transmission type. Using an incorrect model may result in mechanical damage or inability to start.
| Engine model | Starter type | Power (kW) | Number of gear teeth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 (HR16DE) | Geared | 0.9 - 1.0 | 9 |
| 1.5 (K9K) | Geared | 1.4 - 1.5 | 9 |
| 1.8 (K4M) | Geared | 1.2 - 1.4 | 10 |
| 1.6 (G15 - new model) | Geared | 1.4 | 9 |
Please note that for diesel versions 1.5 dCi higher power starters are required since the diesel engine has a higher compression ratio. Installing a gasoline starter on a diesel engine will result in it simply not cranking the crankshaft, which can lead to overheating and burnout of the windings.
Installation of a new node and final check
Installing a new or repaired starter is done in the reverse order. First, carefully insert the assembly into the seat, lining up the bolt holes. Do not tighten the fasteners all the way at once - first tighten all the bolts by hand to make sure they are in the correct position.
Then tighten the mounting bolts sequentially to the required torque. Avoid overtightening as the aluminum threaded inserts in the transmission housing may break off. After securing the case, connect the control connector and power cable, making sure they are securely latched.
- 🔩 Screw in and tighten the starter mounting bolts
- 🔌 Connect the control connector and power wire
- 🔋 Connect the negative terminal of the battery
- 🔍 Check the starter at idle speed
Before starting the engine, make sure that there are no tools or foreign objects left in the engine compartment. Sit in the passenger compartment, turn on the ignition and check the operation of the starter. The engine should start quickly and confidently, without any extraneous sounds of grinding or vibration.
Correct installation of the starter ensures not only easy starting, but also the safety of the flywheel crown. A loose flange can lead to rapid gear wear and costly transmission repairs.
If after installation there are extraneous noises or the engine does not start, immediately turn off the engine and check that the wires are connected correctly. Often the problem lies in a poorly tightened power wire, which causes a voltage drop across the solenoid relay.
How to check that the starter has been removed correctly?
A correctly removed starter should not be distorted, and all connectors should be completely disconnected. If you see tension in the wires or deformation of the housing, something is snagged. Check to see if there are any crankcase guards or other parts remaining that would prevent easy removal.
Is it possible to remove the starter without lifting the car?
Theoretically this is possible on some versions Nissan Almera, if you remove the battery and air filter. However, in practice, access to the lower bolts is extremely limited, and working from below through an inspection hole or a lift is much more convenient and safer.
What to do if the fastening bolt is stuck?
Use a penetrating lubricant, heat the bolt with a hair dryer or blowtorch, and use an impact tool. If the bolt breaks, it will require drilling and tapping a new thread or using an extractor. Do not try to break the bolt with too much force.
Do I need to change the gasket when installing a new starter?
Typically, the gasket between the starter and the transmission is not a separate consumable item, since a metal flange is used. However, if there are traces of oil leakage from the gearbox housing into the contact area, it is recommended to replace the oil seal or O-ring.