Engine starting system Nissan Almera Classic is a reliable mechanism that, with proper care, lasts for many years, but even the highest quality components require attention over time. When the car stops starting, and the starter makes only a characteristic click or is completely silent, the owner has to deal with the causes of the breakdown on his own or take the car to a service center.
Removal starter on this model - a task of medium complexity that does not require special equipment, but requires basic skills in working with a car and understanding the location of components under the hood. Nissan Almera Classic has its own design features that distinguish the dismantling process from similar operations on other Japanese cars, so it is important to know the exact algorithm of actions.
In this article, we will look in detail at how to properly turn off the electrics, which bolts need to be unscrewed, and how to safely remove the assembly so as not to damage the surrounding elements of the engine. The correct dismantling procedure will save you time and money, and will also allow you to accurately determine the cause of the problem - be it worn brushes, a stuck solenoid relay, or problems with the bendix.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
Before you begin any work under the hood, you must make sure that the car is on a level surface and securely supported. For Nissan Almera Classic With a 1.6 liter engine (HR16DE series), access to the starter is somewhat limited, so it is important to organize the space so that your hands can move freely. You will need a hole or overpass, since it is more convenient and safer to climb from below than to try to reach from above.
The set of tools must be complete so as not to interrupt the process of searching for a suitable head or wrench. The standard set includes a set of sockets, extensions, universal joints and a ratchet. Pay special attention to the 10, 12 and 14 mm heads, since they are the ones most often used when dismantling electrical connectors and mounting bolts of the starter itself.
Don't forget about basic protective equipment and auxiliary devices:
- 🔧 Socket and open-end wrenches 8, 10, 12, 14 mm for unscrewing wires and bolts
- 🔦 A powerful flashlight or spotlight, since the engine compartment is often dark
- 🧤 Protective gloves to avoid injury from sharp body edges and hot elements
- 🧼 Carburetor cleaner or WD-40 for treating soured threaded connections
If you plan to carry out diagnostics or repairs immediately after removal, prepare a workbench or clean area where you can carefully lay out the parts. Having a magnetic tray or small container for bolts will save you from losing small fasteners that can fall into hard-to-reach places under the car.
⚠️ Attention! Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. Even if the engine is turned off, accidentally shorting the key to the body while unscrewing the power wires can cause a serious short circuit and damage the electronic engine control unit.
Access to the unit and dismantling of protective elements
On Nissan Almera Classic The starter is located at the bottom of the engine, on the gearbox side, often covered by heat shields and other attachments. The first stage of work is creating free access. Depending on the configuration and year of manufacture, you may need to remove the plastic engine crankcase protection if it interferes with passage from below.
Often, for ease of operation, it is necessary to dismantle the air filter or disconnect the hoses of the crankcase ventilation system, which may block the view or access to the upper mounting bolts. Take your time and carefully inspect each step to avoid breaking the plastic clips or damaging the thin hoses. Carefully move the wires and pipes to the side, securing them with zip ties so that they do not interfere with the dismantling process.
Procedure for clearing access:
- 🛠️ Unscrew the bolts securing the plastic engine protection from the bottom of the car
- 🛠️ If the intake manifold is in the way, loosen the clamps and move the pipes to the side
- 🛠️ Inspect the place where the starter is mounted, assess the accessibility of the bolts from above and below
- 🛠️ If necessary, remove the battery to expand the working space
In some cases, access to the upper mounting bolt is so limited that removing additional elements (for example, a generator bracket or part of the exhaust manifold) is not possible. However, on most Almera Classic manages to get by with minimal intervention by simply using extended extensions and universal joints for the ratchet. The main thing is not to use excessive force, so as not to strip the threads or damage fragile parts nearby.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Disconnecting the electrical circuit and control connector
Once you have secured physical access to the starter, the next critical step is to disconnect the electrical. The starter is a powerful device that draws high current, so improper disconnection can cause arcing and damage to the contacts. On Nissan Almera Classic There are two main wires going to the starter: a thick power cable and a thin solenoid relay control wire.
The power wire is attached with a 13 mm bolt directly to the contact of the solenoid relay. A thin control wire (usually purple or white) is connected through a plastic connector or a separate 10mm bolt. Make sure the battery is completely de-energized before disconnecting, and check for no voltage with a multimeter if in doubt.
The procedure for turning off the electrics is as follows:
- 🔌 Disconnect the thin control wire from the solenoid relay terminal
- 🔌 Loosen the nut securing the thick power cable and remove it
- 🔌 Carefully move the wires to the side so that they do not touch hot parts of the engine
- 🔌 Check the condition of the contacts for oxidation or burning
Pay special attention to the contacts on the starter itself and the solenoid relay. If you see melt marks or severe oxidation, this could be the cause of the engine starting poorly, even if the starter itself is fine. In this case, it is recommended to clean the contacts with fine sandpaper or use a special contact lubricant after installing the new unit.
⚠️ Attention! Never disconnect the power cable while the battery is connected. A spark generated when disconnecting a thick cable can melt the wire insulation or damage the annealed relay contacts, leading to costly repairs.
What to do if the nut on the power cable is stuck?
If the nut on the power wire is stuck, do not try to yank it off, as this may cause the contact inside the solenoid relay to break off. Use a penetrating lubricant (WD-40, Liquid Wrench) and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then try to gently wiggle the key or use a special puller. As a last resort, you can gently heat the nut with a hair dryer, but be extremely careful with the plastic and rubber around it.-->
The process of unscrewing the mounting bolts
Starter mounting on Nissan Almera Classic carried out with two bolts. One bolt is located at the top and is attached to the cylinder block, the second is at the bottom, to the gearbox housing. The top bolt is usually easier to access, but may be obscured by the heat shield or other components. The bottom bolt often requires work from the inspection hole and the use of an extension.
The order of unscrewing matters
It is recommended to loosen the top bolt first, then the bottom. This will allow the starter to move slightly and relieve stress on the threads. If you start with the bottom bolt, the starter may hang on the top mount, making subsequent removal difficult and possibly damaging the gasket or seal.
Algorithm for unscrewing fasteners:
- 🔩 Loosen the upper starter mounting bolt with a 14 mm socket
- 🔩 Go under the car and loosen the lower mounting bolt
- 🔩Unscrew both bolts completely, keeping them in a safe place
- 🔩 Check the condition of the studs and threads in the cylinder block
Sometimes bolts can be over-tightened or become stuck due to time and high temperatures. In such cases, you should not use excessive force to avoid stripping the threads in the aluminum engine block. Use a quality tool and, if necessary, heat the fastening area with a hair dryer or use a penetrating lubricant.
Removing the starter and checking its condition
When all the bolts are unscrewed and the electrics are turned off, you can begin to remove the starter. This must be done carefully, holding the knot with your hand, since it is quite heavy (about 4-5 kg). The starter may get caught on suspension components or the gearbox housing, so be careful when removing it. It is best to remove it from below, pointing it towards the exhaust system or subframe.
After removal, carefully inspect the starter for external damage, oil leaks or signs of overheating. Pay special attention to the bendix (overrunning clutch) - check if it is free from play or sticks when rotating. Also inspect the solenoid relay for the integrity of the housing and the condition of the contacts.
Key points for checking the extracted node:
- 🔍 Inspect the case for cracks or signs of mechanical damage
- 🔍 Check the condition of the bendix for play and jamming
- 🔍 Assess the wear of the brushes and commutator (if it is possible to disassemble)
- 🔍 Check the operation of the solenoid relay by applying voltage directly
If you plan to repair the starter rather than replace it with a new one, then after a visual inspection you need to disassemble it for more detailed diagnostics. Often the problem is wear on the carbon brushes or commutator, which can easily be fixed by replacing these consumables. In some cases, it is necessary to replace the solenoid relay or the bendix itself.
Before installing a new or repaired starter, be sure to clean the mounting area of rust and dirt. Apply a thin layer of graphite lubricant to the threads of the bolts to make them easier to remove next time.
Installation of a new unit and final assembly
Installing the starter on Nissan Almera Classic is done in the reverse order of removal. First, carefully place the assembly in place, aligning the bolt holes with the threads in the cylinder block and gearbox. Hand tighten both bolts to ensure proper seating, then tighten them to the specified torque. Do not overtighten the bolts to avoid stripping the threads in the aluminum block.
After securing the starter, connect the electrics in the reverse order: first the thin control wire, then the thick power cable. Make sure all contacts are tight and secure. Before connecting the battery, make sure that the wires do not touch rotating parts of the engine and are not pinched between parts.
Final assembly steps:
- 🔋Connect the thick power wire and tighten the nut
- 🔋 Connect the thin control wire to the solenoid relay
- 🔋 Reinstall all removed protective screens and pipes
- 🔋 Connect the negative terminal of the battery and check the operation
After assembly, you need to check the operation of the starter. Start the engine and make sure it starts quickly and without any unusual sounds. If the starter operates normally, the job can be considered successful. If after starting you hear strange sounds or the engine does not start, turn it off immediately and check that the connection is correct.
The correct sequence of electrical connections - first the control, then the power wire - reduces the risk of sparking and damage to the solenoid relay contacts in the event of an accidental short circuit.
Features and Compatibility Table
For those who are planning to replace the starter with Nissan Almera Classic, it is important to know the technical characteristics of the original unit and its compatibility with other models. Below is a table with the main parameters that will help you choose the right analogue or original spare part.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Starter power | 1.0 - 1.2 kW | Sufficient to start a 1.6 l engine |
| Voltage | 12 V | Standard on-board voltage |
| Number of gear teeth | 9-10 | Compatible with HR16DE flywheel |
| Compatible Models | Nissan Tiida, Sentra | Same engines and gearboxes |
| Node weight | 4.5 - 5.0 kg | Important during dismantling and transportation |
When choosing analogues, pay attention to the workmanship and warranty. Cheap Chinese copies often cannot withstand long-term loads and require repeated replacement after a short time. Original or trusted brands such as Denso or Mitsubishi, provide reliable operation for many years.
⚠️ Attention! When purchasing a new starter, be sure to check the part number with the original one. Even visually similar starters may have differences in the location of the fasteners or electrical connectors, making installation impossible.
Frequently asked questions and answers
Below are answers to the most common questions that owners have. Nissan Almera Classic when dismantling and replacing the starter.
How long does it take to remove the starter?
If you have experience and the necessary tools, the process takes from 1 to 2 hours. If you are doing this for the first time and using a pit, the time may increase to 3 hours due to the need to find access and unscrew stuck bolts.
Is it possible to remove the starter without a pit?
Theoretically, it is possible by raising the front of the car on jacks and placing it on safety stands. However, access from below will be extremely limited, and work will become inconvenient and dangerous. It is recommended to use a pit or overpass.
What to do if the starter turns, but the engine does not start?
This may indicate a faulty bendix or flywheel. If the starter spins but does not transmit rotation to the engine, the teeth on the Bendix gear or flywheel may be broken. In this case, the bendix needs to be replaced or the flywheel repaired.
Do I need to change the gasket when installing a new starter?
Yes, it is recommended to replace the gasket between the starter and engine to prevent dirt and moisture from getting into the connection. It also provides better sealing and corrosion protection.
How to check the operation of the solenoid relay without removing the starter?
You can apply direct voltage from the battery to the relay control terminal by shorting it with a wire. If the relay activates and the starter begins to rotate, then the problem is not in the relay, but in the control circuit or the engine itself.
The correct approach to removing and installing the starter on Nissan Almera Classic will allow you to save significant money on car service costs and fix the problem yourself. The main thing is to follow safety precautions, use high-quality tools and carefully monitor the condition of all parts. Regularly checking the starting system will help avoid sudden breakdowns and ensure reliable engine starting in any conditions.