Removing the door trim Nissan Almera - a task that owners face when replacing speakers, repairing power windows, or eliminating squeaks. It seems that the process is simple: pry the panel and remove it. But in practice, careless actions lead to broken clips, torn wires or scratches on the plastic. This article will help you avoid mistakes and get the job done quickly and safely.
We will look at the features of trim removal for different generations Almera (including N16, G15 And Tino), we will list the necessary tools and show you how to deal with the pitfalls - hidden latches, fragile pistons and wiring of steering column switches. And if you’ve never done anything like this, don’t worry: step-by-step photos and video examples will make the process clear even for a beginner.
What tools are needed to remove the trim?
Before you begin, prepare a set of tools. Without them, you risk damaging the plastic or losing small parts. Here minimum setwhich will be required:
- 🔧 Plastic mounting blades (2–3 pcs.) - for carefully prying off the clips. Metal screwdrivers must not be used!
- 🔨 Phillips screwdriver (size PH2) - for unscrewing screws in the handle and armrest.
- 📎 Clip cutter or pliers — will help pull out stubborn caps without breaking them.
- 🧲 Magnetic holder — so as not to lose screws and staples in the cabin.
- 📦 Container for small parts - a box or bag for sorting clips and bolts.
If you have Almera Classic (N16) or Almera Tino, additionally may be needed Torx T20 for mounting speakers. For Almera G15 (2013–2019) a Phillips screwdriver and spatulas will suffice. Don't skimp on tools: cheap plastic spatulas often break, leaving nicks on the panel.
⚠️ Attention: If your model has electric windows, before removing the casing disconnect the battery. Otherwise, you risk shorting the wires during dismantling or the door will lock.
- N16 (1995–2006)
- G15 (2013–2019)
- Tino (2000–2006)
- Other model
Step-by-step instructions: remove the front door trim
The dismantling process is the same for the driver's and passenger's doors, but there are nuances with the location of the fasteners. Let's start with preparation:
- Roll down the window all the way - this will give access to the bolts at the bottom of the panel.
- Remove the decorative trim on the door opening handle (pry it off from the side with a spatula).
- Unscrew the screws:
- 1 screw under the handle cover;
- 1-2 screws in the armrest (you will have to remove the cover);
- 1 screw in the bottom corner of the panel (next to the speaker).
Now let's move on to the clips. On Almera G15 there are usually 8–10 of them, per N16 - up to 12. Start prying the panel off bottom corner (from the speaker side) and gradually move up. The clips hold tightly, but if you apply too much force they will break. If the panel does not budge, check that all screws are unscrewed.
Battery disconnected (for models with power accessories)|
Window all the way down|
All visible screws have been removed (handle, armrest, speaker)|
Spatulas and container for clips are prepared -->
When the panel comes away, carefully lift it up so that disconnect the wires from the power window and speaker buttons. Do not pull the wires - it is better to first disconnect the connectors and then remove the casing completely. On Almera Classic You may need to unclip the latch on the wire block (it is white).
Features of removing the rear door trim
Rear doors on Nissan Almera Structurally simpler than the front ones, but there are some difficulties. The main one is access to clips. There is no armrest, but there is a decorative trim on the handle, which is attached with latches. To remove it:
- Pry up the cover with a spatula right side (if you look at the door from the passenger compartment).
- Gently pull it towards you - it should come out of the grooves.
- Under the trim you will find 1-2 screws (depending on the year of manufacture).
The clips on the back door are smaller and more fragile than those on the front. There are usually 6–8 of them. On models 2005–2012 One of the clips is hidden behind the trim in the top corner - it's easy to miss if you don't know. After removing the panel, be sure to disconnect the wiring from the lock button (if equipped) and the speaker.
| Model Almera | Number of clips (front door) | Number of clips (rear door) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| N16 (1995–2006) | 10–12 | 6–8 | Self-tapping screws under the speaker and in the armrest. The clips are hard and often break. |
| G15 (2013–2019) | 8–10 | 5–6 | The plastic is thinner, the clips are softer. Screws under the decorative trim of the handle. |
| Tino (2000–2006) | 12–14 | 7–8 | Additional clips at the top of the panel. Requires T20 Torx. |
⚠️ Attention: On Almera G15 after 2016 installed in the rear doors disposable caps. When removing the casing they break - buy new ones in advance (article: Nissan 80510-9M000).
What to do if the clip breaks or the panel cannot be removed
Even with careful dismantling, the clips sometimes break. If this happens:
- 🔍 Inspect the back of the panel — sometimes part of the clip remains in the door. It can be pulled out with pliers.
- 🛒 Buy a repair kit. For Almera fit clips from Renault (For example,
Renault 7703072467). - 🔧 Use an alternative mount - some craftsmen fix the panel with self-tapping screws (but this is a temporary solution).
If the trim cannot be removed despite all efforts, check:
- Is everything screws are unscrewed (especially at the bottom of the door);
- Didn't you stay hidden bolt under the decorative plug;
- Is the panel clinging to wiring (on G15 people often forget to disconnect the speaker connector).
How to remove a broken clip from a door
If part of the piston remains in the metal, take a thin drill (2-3 mm) and carefully drill out the plastic rod. Then clean the hole with alcohol and install a new clip. Do not use force - you may damage the metal of the door.
On Almera N16 sometimes there is a problem with soured bolts at the bottom of the door. If you can't get them out with a Phillips screwdriver, use an impact screwdriver or WD-40. But be careful: if you use too much force, you can tear off the splines.
How to remove the casing while preserving the noise and seals
Under the door panel on Nissan Almera often installed Shumka (soundproofing material) and film seal. They are easily damaged if dismantled carelessly. To avoid this:
- Do not pull the panel sharply - Shumka can stick to the plastic and tear.
- Use a hair dryer - If the seal is glued, heat it slightly to remove it without leaving any residue.
- Take a photo of the location Shumkov before removing it, so that later you can return it to its place.
On Almera G15 The seal is often attached with double-sided tape. If it loses its adhesiveness, replace it with a new one (for example, 3M 4010). The noise can be temporarily fixed with masking tape until you install the casing back.
If the Shumka is torn, do not rush to throw it away. Use the scraps as a template to cut new insulation from bitumen sheets (eg StP Gold).
Installing the casing back: nuances and mistakes
Putting the door back together seems easier than taking it apart, but there are pitfalls here too. Main rule: start by fixing the wiring. Connect all connectors (window regulator, speaker, lock) and make sure that the wires are not twisted or caught under the clips.
Installation procedure:
- Secure the panel to top clips (they are the most reliable).
- Gently press down on the bottom until the remaining pins snap into place.
- Tighten all screws (do not overtighten!).
- Install decorative trims and check the operation of the window regulator.
Typical errors during reassembly:
- ❌ Warped panel — if the clips are not in place, the casing will creak.
- ❌ Forgotten wires - the glass may jam or the speaker may stop working.
- ❌ Over-tightening the bolts - the plastic will crack.
Before final assembly, turn on the ignition and check the operation of all buttons and speakers. If something doesn't work, check the connector connections again.
Common problems after removing the casing and how to avoid them
Even if you did everything correctly, unpleasant surprises may arise after installing the casing:
| Problem | Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Creak when opening/closing door | The clips are not seated completely or the noise has moved | Remove the trim and reinstall, check the seals |
| Window lifter doesn't work | The connector is disconnected or the wire is pinched | Check the connection, inspect the wiring for damage |
| The speaker wheezes or does not work | Poor contact in the connector or damaged cable | Clean the contacts, check the integrity of the wire |
| The casing “walks” or comes off | Broken clips or loose screws | Replace the pistons, tighten the fastenings |
If after assembly the door begins to close more tightly, check whether sealing harness between the panel and the metal. On Almera N16 This problem occurs often due to worn rubber bands.
⚠️ Attention: If after removing the casing they stop working all electrical appliances doors (window lifter, mirrors, locking), check the fuse F30 (10A) in the salon block. It is responsible for the door circuit and can burn out if there is a short circuit.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to remove the trim without special tools?
Theoretically yes, but the risk of damaging the panel or clips is very high. Without plastic spatulas, you'll be prying at the trim with a screwdriver, which almost always results in scratches or chips. If you still decide to do without tools, wrap the screwdriver tip with electrical tape to soften the pressure on the plastic.
How long does it take to remove the trim?
For an experienced master - 20-30 minutes per door. If you are doing this for the first time, reserve 1–1.5 hours, especially if we are talking about a front door with power accessories. Most of the time is spent on carefully detaching the clips and searching for hidden bolts.
What should I do if, after removing the trim, the door begins to close poorly?
Most likely moved lock mechanism or seal. Check to see if a foreign object has fallen into the lock groove. Also inspect door lock (it may loosen when dismantling). On Almera G15 Sometimes it is necessary to adjust the door gap - to do this you need to loosen the hinge bolts.
Where can I buy trim clips if they break?
Original clips can be ordered by catalog numbers:
- Nissan Almera N16:
Nissan 80510-9M000(set of 10 pcs.); - Nissan Almera G15:
Nissan 80510-4M000(soft pistons); - Renault (compatible):
Renault 7703072467.
Universal clips from 3M or Scratch, but they may differ in hardness.
Do I need to remove the trim to change the light bulb in the power window button?
No, in most cases the light bulb can be replaced without completely dismantling it. Enough:
- Carefully pry off the window lift button with a spatula (it is secured with latches).
- Disconnect the backlight connector.
- Remove the old light bulb and install a new one (usually
T5 12V).
But if the light bulb is soldered to the board, you will have to remove the casing to access the control unit.