ABS sensor <em>Nissan Almera Classic</em>: symptoms of malfunction, diagnosis and replacement

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) on Nissan Almera Classic (N16) is a key safety element that prevents the wheels from locking during emergency braking. A central role in her work is played by ABS sensors, which read the rotation speed of each wheel and transmit data to the control unit. However, over time, these sensors fail, which leads to system malfunctions, warning lights on the dashboard, and even increased braking distances.

In this article we will look at how determine the malfunction of the ABS sensor on Almera Classic by characteristic symptoms, check its performance with a multimeter, and also replace it yourself, taking into account the nuances of the car’s design. We will pay special attention to the article numbers of original and analog sensors, typical diagnostic errors and methods for resetting ABS errors without visiting a service center.

Signs of a malfunctioning ABS sensor on Almera Classic

The first and most obvious signal about problems with sensors is ABS light on on the dashboard. However, this indicator may light up for other reasons (for example, due to a broken wiring or a malfunction of the control unit). To accurately identify a sensor problem, look for the following symptoms:

• 🔴 ABS light comes on when moving (especially on rough roads) and goes out after stopping.
• ⚠️ When braking you feel pedal pulsation or increased braking distance (the system operates in emergency mode).
• 📊 An error appears on the on-board computer (if installed) C1130 (front wheel sensor malfunction) or C1135 (rear).
• 🔧 After replacing the wheel bearing or brake disc, the ABS lamp does not go out (a common problem due to damage to the sensor during repairs).

It is important to distinguish a sensor malfunction from problems with ring gear on the hub. If the crown is damaged or dirty, the system will also generate an error, but in this case, replacing the sensor will not help. Check the crown visually - there should be no chips, rust or traces of mechanical stress on it.

⚠️ Attention: If the ABS light comes on at the same time as the indicator ESP (if it is included), the problem may lie in the control unit or wiring. In this case, a comprehensive diagnosis is required.

Articles and prices of ABS sensors for Almera Classic (N16)

On Nissan Almera Classic Two types of ABS sensors were installed: induction (on early models) and active (on restyled versions after 2006). Original spare parts are produced by the company Hitachi or Bosch, but there are high-quality analogues on the market from Febi, TRW And ATE.

Position	Article (original)	Analogues	Average price, ₽
Front sensor (right/left)	40520-4M000	Febi 27320, TRW GSB340	1 800–3 200
Rear sensor (right/left)	40520-4M001	ATE 24.2201-0121.2, Bosch 0 265 009 008	2 100–3 500
Wiring kit (front)	40540-4M000	Febi 27321	1 200–2 000

When purchasing a sensor, pay attention to connector polarity — Almera Classic uses sensors with 2-pin connector (front) and 1-pin (rear). Also check the length of the wire: on the rear sensors it should be no shorter 60 cm, otherwise there will be connection problems during installation.

How to check the ABS sensor with a multimeter: step-by-step instructions

Diagnostics of the ABS sensor on Almera Classic does not require special equipment - a digital multimeter with resistance measurement mode is enough (200 Ohm–2 kOhm). Before checking it is necessary disconnect the battery and remove the sensor from the car (or disconnect the connector).

Procedure:

1. Set the multimeter to ohmmeter mode.
2. Connect the probes to the sensor contacts (for 2-pin terminals - to both terminals, for 1-pin terminals - to the signal terminal and ground).
3. Measure resistance:
   • 🔹 Standard for front sensor: 800–1400 Ohm.
   • 🔹 Standard for rear sensor: 1000–1600 Ohm.

Check the insulation: one probe on the sensor contact, the second on the body. Resistance must strive for ∞ (no short circuit).

If the sensor resistance 0 ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break), it is faulty. Also a sign of failure is unstable resistance when the wire sways (indicates an internal break).

⚠️ Attention: On some Almera Classics after 2008, sensors with built-in signal amplifier. Their resistance may be lower (400–800 Ohm), but they are always marked with the letter "A" in the article (for example, 40520-4M000A).

Replacing the ABS sensor with Almera Classic: step by step process

Replacing an ABS sensor on an Almera Classic does not require special skills, but there are nuances depending on which wheel is being repaired. Front sensors They are easier to change - they are attached with one bolt to the steering knuckle. Rear more difficult: they have to be removed through a hole in the beam, after first removing the brake drum (on versions with drum brakes).

Tools:

• 🔧 Head on 10 mm (for front sensor).
• 🔧 Socket wrench on 14 mm (for the rear).
• 🔧 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing the connector lock).
• 🔧 WD-40 (for treating stuck bolts).

Sequence of work (using the example of the front sensor):

1. Jack up the car and remove the wheel.
2. Disconnect the sensor connector (press the lock and pull up).
3. Unscrew the bolt securing the sensor to the steering knuckle (a head extension may be required).
4. Carefully remove the sensor from the hole without damaging the wiring.
5. Install the new sensor in reverse order. Important: Do not confuse the front and rear sensors - they are not interchangeable!

After replacement be sure to reset the ABS error. To do this:

1. Disconnect the battery at 10–15 minutes.
2. Plug it back in and start the engine.
3. Drive 5–10 km at a speed higher 40 km/h — the system should automatically recalibrate.

Typical mistakes when diagnosing and replacing ABS sensors

Even experienced car owners make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns or false diagnoses. Here are the most common ones:

• 🔧 Ignoring wiring condition. Often the problem lies not in the sensor, but in a chafed or oxidized wire. Always check the integrity of the insulation, especially in kinked areas (near the wheel arches).
• 🔄 Mixing up the sensors. The front and rear sensors have different resistances and wire lengths. Installing the rear sensor in front (and vice versa) will lead to incorrect operation of the ABS.
• 🛠️ Damage to the ring gear during repair. When replacing the wheel bearing or brake disc, it is easy to damage the wheel ring, which will cause an ABS error. Always check its integrity after such work.
• 🔋 Failure to clear errors after replacement. If you do not reset the error programmatically (via a scanner or by disconnecting the battery), the ABS lamp may come on even with a working sensor.

Another common mistake is use of non-original sensors without testing. Cheap analogues (especially without a brand) may have inappropriate resistance or poor insulation, which will lead to repeated failure. Before purchasing, check reviews for a specific sensor model on forums (for example, Drive2 or Almera-Club).

What should I do if the ESP lights up after replacing the ABS sensor?

If your Almera Classic is equipped with a stability control system (ESP), its block can block the operation of the ABS if the signals from the sensors are incorrect. In this case it is required flashing the ESP unit or resetting adaptations via a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431). It is difficult to do this on your own - contact the service.

How to extend the life of ABS sensors Almera Classic

Average service life of ABS sensors on Almera Classic - 80–120 thousand km, but with proper use they can be “stretched” to 150–180 thousand km. Here are some practical recommendations:

• 🚿 Wash your wheel arches in winter. Salt and reagents corrode the insulation of sensor wires. After driving on treated roads, wash the arches with water.
• 🔧 Lubricate the sensor mounting bolts. When replacing hubs or brake discs, treat the sensor bolts copper grease - this will prevent them from sticking.
• 🛠️ Check clearances after suspension repairs. If you changed levers, silent blocks or springs, make sure that the gap between the sensor and the ring has not changed.
• 🔋 Monitor the voltage of the on-board network. Voltage surges (due to a faulty generator or battery) can damage the electronic components of the sensors.

Pay special attention rear sensors - they often fail due to dirt getting through the hole in the brake shield. Clean this hole regularly with compressed air (for example, when replacing pads).

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to drive with a faulty ABS sensor?

Technically yes, but braking distance will increase, and during emergency braking the wheels may lock. In addition, on some versions of Almera Classic, a faulty ABS sensor disables the brake force distribution system (EBD), which further worsens braking.

How to reset an ABS error without a scanner?

Disconnect the battery at 15 minutes, then start the engine and drive 5–10 km at a speed higher 40 km/h. If the error does not clear, try repeating the procedure 2-3 times. If that doesn't help, you need a diagnostic scanner.

What is the difference between ABS sensors on Almera Classic before and after 2006?

On models before 2006, they were installed passive (induction) resistance sensors 800–1400 Ohm. After restyling they began to use active sensors (with signal amplifier) with resistance 400–800 Ohm. They are not interchangeable!

Can the ABS sensor be repaired?

In most cases, no. The sensor is a hermetically sealed structure, and if the winding is broken or the housing is damaged, repair is impossible. Exception - wiring damage, which can be restored by soldering (but only if the break is not near the sensor body itself).

What ABS errors are most common on Almera Classic?

The most common codes:

• C1130 — malfunction of the front right wheel sensor;
• C1135 — malfunction of the rear left wheel sensor;
• C1140 — open circuit of the sensor;
• U1000 — loss of communication with the ABS unit (problem with the wiring or unit).