Headlights on Nissan Almera N16 restyling (2003–2006) is one of the key elements that affects not only the appearance of the car, but also driving safety. Over time, optical devices become dull, cloudy, or fail, requiring replacement or upgrading. In this article we will look at everything that owners of a restyled car need to know. Almera N16: from original articles and analogues to step-by-step replacement of lamps and full optics, as well as tuning options - from polishing to installing LEDs.

A feature of the restyled version (after 2003) is the modified shape of the headlights with a more aggressive design and improved light and shade. However, even original headlights often suffer from poor sealing, which leads to fogging and oxidation of contacts. We analyzed the spare parts market, owner reviews and technical nuances to help you make an informed choice - be it a budget replacement or a premium upgrade.

Original headlights and their articles for Almera N16 restyling

Official headlights for the restyled Nissan Almera N16 (2003–2006) are produced under articles for the Japanese and European markets. The main differences are in the markings and equipment (for example, the presence of a corrector or washer). Below is a list of original parts:

  • 🔦 Left headlight (with corrector): 26010-4M010 or 26010-4M011 (Europe)
  • 🔦 Right headlight (with corrector): 26020-4M010 or 26020-4M011
  • 🔦 Left headlight without corrector: 26010-4M000
  • 🔦 Right headlight without corrector: 26020-4M000

Important: headlights for pre-styling Almera N16 (1998–2003) are not suitable! The differences are in the shape of the diffuser and fastenings. Also pay attention to the markings: European versions have the sign E1 (EU approval), and Japanese - HL or HCR.

The cost of original headlights on the secondary market varies from 8,000 to 15,000 rubles per pair (depending on condition). New originals are difficult to find - they were replaced by analogues from Depo, TYC and other brands.

📊 What headlights are on your Almera N16?
  • Original (Nissan)
  • Analogues (Depo, TYC)
  • Tuned (LED/xenon)
  • I don't know

Analogs and non-original headlights: what to choose?

If original headlights are too expensive or unavailable, there are several worthy analogues on the market. The main thing is to check compatibility with the restyled version and build quality. Best replacement brands:

Brand Article (left/right) Price per pair, ₽ Features
Depo 335-1105L / 335-1105R 5 500–7 000 Good glass quality, but may have problems with sealing
TYC 20-6202-00-1 / 20-6203-00-1 6 000–8 500 Durable, but there are chrome plating defects
Hella 1AL 008 141-031 / 1AL 008 142-031 12 000–15 000 Premium quality, full compatibility with the original
Bosch 1 987 302 745 / 1 987 302 746 9 000–11 000 Improved chiaroscuro, but rarely available for sale

When choosing analogues, pay attention to:

  • 🔍 Tightness: check the rubber seals and the joints of the glass with the body.
  • 💡 Diffuser quality: on cheap headlights it often becomes cloudy after 1-2 years.
  • 🔌 Connector compatibility: some Chinese analogues have contacts that do not fit the standard wiring.
⚠️ Attention: Headlights from Renault Megane II (the same platform) are similar in appearance, but have a different fastening and do not fit without modifications!

Replacing headlight bulbs Almera N16: step by step instructions

Replacing lamps in restyled headlights Almera N16 does not require special skills, but there are nuances. For example, to access the low beam lamp you will have to remove the headlight or work “by touch”. The following types of lamps are used:

  • 💡 Low/high beam: H4 (60/55 W)
  • 💡 Dimensions: W5W (5 W)
  • 💡 Turn signals: PY21W (orange, 21 W)

Tools: flat screwdriver, 10mm wrench, gloves (so as not to leave greasy marks on the lamp glass).

Remove the negative terminal from the battery|Clean the headlight from dirt|Prepare a new lamp (do not touch the glass bulb)|Check the O-ring for wear-->

Step by step process (using the H4 lamp as an example):

  1. Open the hood and remove the protective rubber boot from the back of the headlight.
  2. Disconnect the power connector by pressing the latch.
  3. Press the spring clip of the lamp and carefully remove it.
  4. Install a new lamp H4without touching the glass (use gloves or a cloth).
  5. Secure the clamp, connect the connector and check the operation of the light.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the lamp H4 does not light, check the fuse F35 (10A) in the block under the steering wheel - it is responsible for the low beam!
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Before installing a new lamp H4 wipe its glass with alcohol - this will remove the factory grease and extend its service life.

Complete replacement of headlights: removal and installation

If the entire headlight needs to be replaced (due to cracks or persistent fogging, for example), the process is more complicated than replacing bulbs. You will need to remove the bumper or partially dismantle it. On the restyled Almera N16, the headlights are mounted on three bolts: two from above (under the hood) and one from below (from the bumper side).

Procedure:

  1. Remove the negative terminal from the battery.
  2. Unscrew the two upper headlight mounting bolts (10mm wrench).
  3. Remove the front bumper or bend its edge (to access the lower bolt).
  4. Disconnect all connectors (low beam, headlights, turn signal).
  5. Carefully remove the headlight without damaging the seal.

When installing a new headlight:

  • 🔧 Check the completeness (all lamps, seals, fasteners).
  • 🔌 Connect the connectors to final fixation of the headlight - this makes it more convenient to check the functionality.
  • 🔍 Adjust the light using the corrector (if you have one) or the screws on the back of the headlight.
How to remove the bumper to access the headlights?

To remove the bumper, unscrew:

1. Two bolts under the radiator grill (10mm wrench).

2. Two bolts in the wheel arches (a jack or inspection hole will be required).

3. Four clips from the bottom of the bumper (carefully pry them off with a screwdriver).

After this, the bumper can be moved forward and access to the lower headlight mount.

Headlight tuning: from polishing to LEDs

Improving the appearance and functionality of headlights is a popular tuning area. Almera N16. Upgrade options:

1. Polishing and restoration of transparency

Over time, the diffuser becomes cloudy due to micro-scratches and oxidation. To restore use:

  • 🧴 Abrasive pastes (For example, 3M 39046 or Meguiar’s PlastX).
  • 🔴 Protective coatings (varnish 2K Clear Coat after polishing).

The cost of professional polishing is from 1,500 rubles per headlight. You can do this yourself for 300–500 rubles (with the purchase of materials).

2. Installation of LED lamps

LED lamps H4 They give brighter and whiter light, but require proper selection. Best options for Almera N16:

  • 💡 Philips X-tremeUltinon (color temperature 6000K, price ~5,000 ₽)
  • 💡 Osram LEDriving HL (5000K, ~4 500 ₽)
  • 💡 Cree LED (budget option, ~2,500 ₽)
⚠️ Attention: LEDs may cause an error on the dashboard due to low resistance. Solution - installation Canbus (decoys) or resistors.

3. Xenon lenses and bi-xenon

Installation of xenon (D2S or D2R) requires the installation of lenses, since standard reflectors are not designed for gas lamps. Popular kits:

  • 🔥 Morimoto Mini D2S (with lenses, ~12,000 ₽)
  • 🔥 Sho-Me G5 (bi-xenon, ~9,000 ₽)

Important: xenon without lenses blinds oncoming drivers and is prohibited by the traffic police (fine 500 ₽ under Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).

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The best price/quality balance for tuning headlights is polishing + LED lamps H4 with a color temperature of 5000K. They provide good visibility and do not blind oncoming traffic.

Adjusting headlights after replacement or tuning

Incorrectly adjusted headlights blind oncoming drivers and impair visibility of the road. On Almera N16 restyling adjustment is carried out by two screws on the back of the headlight:

  • 🔧 Vertical adjustment (screw on top).
  • 🔧 Horizontal adjustment (screw on the side).

Adjustment instructions:

  1. Place the car on a flat area 5 meters from the wall.
  2. Load the car (driver + 1 passenger or 70 kg in the trunk).
  3. Apply markings on the wall at the centers of the headlights (the distance between them is 1240 mm).
  4. Adjust the light so that the top of the beam is 5 cm below the height of the center of the headlights.

For fine tuning use adjustment screen or contact the service (service cost - from 500 rubles).

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If, after adjustment, one headlight shines higher than the other, check the fastening - the top bolt may be loose or the housing may be deformed.

Frequent problems with headlights Almera N16 and their solutions

Owners of the restyled Almera N16 often encounter typical headlight malfunctions. Let's look at the main ones:

Problem Reason Solution
Headlights fogging Violation of tightness, cracks in glass Polishing + sealant or headlight replacement
Low beam doesn't come on Lamp burned out H4 or fuse F35 Replacing lamp/fuse, checking wiring
Weak headlights Clouding of the diffuser, wear of the reflector Polishing or replacing headlights, installing LEDs
Oxidation of contacts Moisture getting into connectors Contact cleaning, processing WD-40

If your headlights fog up from the inside, try blow drying method:

  1. Remove the lamp and turn on the hair dryer at minimum power.
  2. Direct a stream of warm air into the headlight for 10–15 minutes.
  3. Check the seal for tightness and apply silicone sealant if necessary.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to install headlights from Nissan Primera P12 on Almera N16?

No, the headlights are from Primera P12 do not fit - they have a different fastening and shape. However, turn signals and dimensions from Primera sometimes used for tuning.

What kind of lamps H4 is it better to choose for low beam?

For standard operation the following are optimal:

  • Osram Night Breaker (+110% light, 4500K)
  • Philips RacingVision (+150% light, 3500K)

For the LED version - Philips X-tremeUltinon (6000K).

How to remove condensation from a headlight without removing it?

Can be used silica gel bags (place them inside through the lamp hole) or blow out the headlight with compressed air. If fogging is constant, sealing is required.

Do I need to replace both headlights if one is broken?

Not necessary, but recommended - new headlights, even from the same brand, may differ in color temperature. If your budget is limited, choose an analogue with the closest possible shade of glass.

Is it legal to install xenon Almera N16?

Xenon installation allowed only with lenses, certified for H4. Without lenses is a violation (fine 500 ₽). LED lamps have a gray status - their legality depends on the labeling E or DOT.