Trunk cable <em>Nissan Almera Classic</em>: how to replace it yourself without mistakes

Nissan Almera Classic (N16) is one of the most popular sedans on the aftermarket, but as it ages, it often develops problems with the trunk release mechanism. The main culprit is lock drive cable, which tears, stretches or jams. If the trunk of your Almera has stopped opening with a button or key, do not rush to go to a service center: you can replace the cable yourself in 1–2 hours.

In this article we will analyze all the details of the repair: from fault diagnosis to selection of spare parts and step-by-step instructions with photos. We will also tell you how to avoid common mistakes that lead to repeated cable breakage, and give tips on prevention. If you have never done such work, don’t worry: detailed instructions are suitable even for beginners.

Signs of a faulty trunk cable

The first symptoms of a cable problem are often ignored until the trunk stops opening altogether. Pay attention to the following signals:

• 🔊 Crunching or squeaking when you press the opening button (in the passenger compartment or on the key). This indicates friction between the cable sheath and the guides.
• 🚪 The trunk does not open the first time - you have to press the button several times or apply force.
• 🔄 The lock operates jerkily, and not smoothly as before. This is a sign of a stretched or twisted cable.
• 🔧 The opening button fails without resistance is a sure sign of a cable break.

If you ignore these symptoms, the cable may break at the most inopportune moment (for example, in the cold or rain), leaving you without access to the trunk. On Almera Classic 2006–2012, the cable more often breaks at the point of attachment to the lock - there it rubs against the metal body.

⚠️ Attention: If the trunk does not open either with the button or with the key, do not try to forcefully pull the lid - you can break the hinges or damage the seal. Check the cable first!

What tools are needed for replacement?

You don’t need a professional tool for the job—a basic set that most car owners have is enough:

Also prepare new cable — its article number for Nissan Almera Classic (N16) with body B10: 72601-4M000 (original) or analogues from Febi (22310) and TRW (JTC1443). The average price is from 800 to 1,500 rubles.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cable

The process of replacing the cable Almera Classic can be divided into 3 stages: removing trunk trim, dismantling the old cable And installation of new. Let's look at each step in detail.

1. Removing the trunk trim

Start by preparing your workspace:

1. Open the trunk (if possible) or open the lid as much as possible by prying it with a screwdriver at the junction with the body.
2. Remove the plastic plugs covering the trim mounting bolts (they are located around the perimeter of the trunk).
3. Unscrew the bolts with a Phillips screwdriver and carefully remove the trim, starting from the top. Be careful - it is attached with plastic clips!

If the trunk does not open at all, you will have to work “blindly” through the access hole behind the rear seat. To do this:

1. Fold the rear seat down (pull the hinges in the trunk or press the lever under the seat).
2. Remove the plastic trim above the trunk lock (it is secured with 2-3 clips).
3. Through the hole you will see the lock mechanism - this is where the cable is located.

Disconnect the battery (to avoid short circuit)|Take a photo of the location of the clips and bolts|Prepare a container for small parts (screws, clips)|Empty the trunk of things-->

2. Dismantling the old cable

When the trim is removed, you will see a cable that runs from the trunk lock to the release button in the passenger compartment. It is attached:

• 🔗 To the trunk lock (plastic or metal fastener).
• 🔄 To the guide rollers (usually 1-2 pieces).
• 🚗 To the opening button in the passenger compartment (under the trim near the driver's seat).

Withdrawal algorithm:

1. Disconnect the cable from the lock by squeezing the lock with pliers and pulling the cable towards you.
2. Remove the cable from the guide rollers (they can be bolted to the body with 10 mm bolts).
3. In the cabin, remove the plastic trim under the steering wheel (the trunk opening button is located there) and disconnect the cable from the button mechanism.
4. Carefully pull the cable through the interior - it runs along the door threshold.

⚠️ Attention: Do not pull the cable by force if it is jammed in the sheath! This may damage the guides. Better to lubricate it with WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.

3. Installing a new cable

Before installing a new cable be sure to lubricate its guides (you can use silicone grease). Installation is carried out in reverse order:

1. Pass the cable through the interior to the opening button and secure it in the mechanism.
2. Lay the cable along the threshold, avoiding kinks. Secure the guide rollers.
3. Connect the cable to the trunk lock and lock the latch.
4. Check the cable movement - it should move smoothly, without jamming.

After installation open and close the trunk several timesso that the cable gets used to it. If it is tight, lubricate it again.

How to choose a quality cable: original vs analogues

There are three types of cables on the market for Nissan Almera Classic:

• 🔹 Original (article 72601-4M000) - the most reliable, but also the most expensive (RUB 1,200–1,500). Made from stainless steel with Teflon coating.
• 🔹 Premium analogues (Febi, TRW, Hella) - 20–30% cheaper than the original, but almost as good in quality. Articles: Febi 22310, TRW JTC1443.
• 🔹 Budget analogues (Chinese or Turkish brands) - cost 300–500 rubles, but often break after 6–12 months due to low-quality metal.

If you plan to use the car for a long time, it is better to overpay for the original or Febi. Budget cables are only suitable as a temporary solution.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a cable, check its length - it should be not less than 180 cm. Short cables (150–160 cm) are not suitable for Almera Classic, because they won’t reach the button in the cabin.

Typical replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even with the apparent simplicity of the work, many car owners make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns. Here are the most common of them:

• 🔧 Kink in cable when laying. If the cable does not follow the guides, but “lies” in a wave, it will jam and quickly fray.
• 🛠️ Lack of lubrication. Without treatment with silicone or WD-40, the cable will begin to creak within a month.
• 🔩 Incorrect fixation on lock. If the latch is not latched all the way, the cable may jump out the first time it is opened.
• 🚗 Ignoring verification. After installation, you need to open/close the trunk 10–15 times to ensure smooth operation.

Another common problem is moisture entering the cable sheath. This happens if the cable entry points into the passenger compartment are not sealed during installation. Over time, water leads to corrosion and the cable breaks. To avoid this, use sealant or tape for sealing holes.

Prevention: how to extend the life of the trunk cable

To make the cable last longer, just follow simple recommendations:

1. Lubricate the cable 2 times a year (spring and autumn). Use silicone lubricant or WD-40 - they do not thicken in the cold.
2. Don't slam the trunk — abrupt closing creates a shock load on the cable.
3. Check the fastenings once every six months. If the clamps are loose, the cable may rub against the body.
4. Avoid overloading the trunk. Excess weight deforms the lid, which increases the load on the lock.

If you frequently transport heavy loads, install gas struts (article 72602-4M000 for Almera Classic). They will reduce the load on the cable and lock when opening.

Cost of replacing a cable at a service center vs self-repair

If you are not confident in your abilities, you can contact the service. However, the price of the work often exceeds the cost of the cable itself:

As you can see, DIY repairs save 1,000–2,000 rubles. The main thing is not to rush and follow the instructions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)