Removing the rear backrest on a Nissan Almera Classic: instructions with photos and tips

Backrest in Nissan Almera Classic (body B10, 2006–2012) is not only an element of comfort, but also a barrier to access to hidden body cavities, the fuel tank or the spare wheel. Owners are often faced with the need to remove it when repairing the suspension, replacing shock absorbers, installing a subwoofer, or even for cleaning the interior from dirt, accumulated under the casing. However, the dismantling process has nuances: from the type of fasteners (depending on the year of manufacture) to the risk of damaging the plastic clips.

In this article - step-by-step algorithm removing the backrest taking into account the features Almera Classic, including unique fastenings in the trunk hinge area, which often break during careless dismantling. We will look at what tools you will need, how to avoid mistakes when detaching the trim, and what to do if the backrest is “stuck” to the body. For clarity, we present fastening diagrams and videos from the car repair channel.

Preparation: Tools and Safety Precautions

Before starting work, make sure you have everything you need. Unlike modern models, where the backrest can be removed in 5 minutes, Almera Classic requires patience and the right approach.

• 🔧 Tools: Phillips screwdriver (PH2), flat blade screwdriver, plastic puller (or credit card), 10 mm wrench, flashlight.
• 🧴 Consumables: silicone grease (for treating rubber seals), new clips (item no. 90467-01200 for Nissan), rags.
• 🚗 Conditions: work in a well-lit place, at temperatures above +10°C (plastic becomes brittle in the cold).

Pay special attention trim fasteners. B Almera Classic There are 8–10 of them, and most of them are disposable. If you plan to remove the backrest regularly (for example, for tuning), replace the standard clips with metal ones with latches (sold in car dealerships).

⚠️ Attention: Do not apply force to the top of the backrest near the rear window - this is where the heating wiring harness goes (if the option is installed). A sudden movement can break the contacts.

Step 1: Removing the trunk trim

The backrest is attached not only to the body, but also to the trunk trim. Let's start with it:

1. Open the trunk and remove all items, including the carpet and spare tire (if stored there).
2. Remove the plastic plugs above the trunk hinges - pry them off from the side with a flat-head screwdriver.
3. Unscrew the two bolts securing the casing under the plugs (10 mm wrench).
4. Gently pull the trim up, starting at the corner on the hinge side. The clips should come out with a characteristic click.

Under the casing you will see black plastic box - This is the rear fuse box. Don't touch it unless necessary. If the backrest is removed to access the fuel pump, the box can be temporarily disconnected by first photographing the location of the connectors.

Step 2: Disconnecting the Lower Back Mounts

Now let's move on to the back itself. At the bottom it is fixed on two metal hooks that fit into the grooves of the body. To release them:

1. Lift the backrest up as far as it will go - this will take the load off the hooks.
2. Push the backrest forward (towards the interior) and at the same time pull it up. The movement should be smooth, without jerking.
3. If the backrest does not budge, check whether the hook is caught on the wires (important for cars with a rear wiper).

In some trim levels Almera Classic (for example, with leather trim) the hooks can be covered with a decorative overlay. It needs to be removed by prying it off the end with a screwdriver.

Mounting type	Location	Removal tool
Metal hooks	Lower backrest (2 pcs.)	Hands (no tools)
Plastic clips	Sides (3–4 pcs.)	Plastic puller
M6 bolts	Upper corners (under the trim)	10 mm wrench
Rubber seals	Along the perimeter of the glass	Silicone grease

Step 3: Release the Side Clips

The most important step is detaching the side clips. B Almera Classic there are 3-4 of them on each side, and they often break during careless dismantling. Proceed like this:

• 🔍 Start on the right side (passenger side) - there are fewer wires there.
• 🖐️ Insert a plastic puller between the back and the body at the bottom corner.
• 🔄 Gently press the puller until you hear a click (this is the clip coming out).
• 🔁 Repeat for all clips, moving upwards.

If the clip doesn't budge, don't pull harder - it's better heat the mounting area with a hairdryer (temperature 40–50°C). The plastic will become more elastic and the clip will come out without damage. As a last resort you can use WD-40, but do not overdo it - the solvent can damage the sheathing.

⚠️ Attention: In cars 2008–2010. exhaust, under the back trim there is a pipe for the climate control system (if the option is installed). Do not bend it - this may lead to freon leakage.

What to do if the clip breaks?

If the clip remains in the body groove, pry it out with a thin screwdriver or tweezers. If a part on the back breaks off, drill out the remains and install a new clip with glue (for example, Loctite 406).

Step 4: Top Mounts and Backrest Removal

The last step is to detach the upper part of the backrest. There are two mounting options depending on the year of manufacture:

• 🔩 2006–2008: Two bolts under the trim near the rear window (10 mm wrench).
• 🔄 2009–2012: Plastic latches that need to be pressed out with a screwdriver.

After releasing all the fasteners, carefully remove the backrest from the interior. If it's slow, check:

• Are the seat belts caught (in versions with a rear sofa).
• Are there any fragments of clips left in the grooves of the body?
• Does the glass heating wiring interfere? (relevant for northern versions) Almera).

Place the backrest on a soft surface (such as a blanket) to avoid scratching the upholstery. If you plan to store it for a long time without a backrest, seal the opened grooves of the body with masking tape - this will protect it from dust and moisture.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when dismantling the backrest. Here are the most common:

1. Ignoring electrical wiring. In cars with a rear wiper or heated glass, wires run under the trim. Their breakage will lead to non-functional functions.
2. Lost clips. Small details are easily lost. Use a magnetic tray or zip-lock bag for storage.
3. Damage to the glass seal. The rubber seal hardens over time. When removing the backrest, lubricate it with silicone so as not to tear it.

Another typical problem is backrest distortion during installation. If after installation it wobbles or does not fit tightly, check:

• Are all the clips in place (sometimes they fall out during installation).
• Are the metal hooks at the bottom of the backrest bent?
• Is there anything in the grooves of the body (for example, a piece of plastic) getting in the way?

Video instructions and additional materials

For a better understanding of the process, we recommend watching the video from the channel "Do it yourself auto repair", which shows the dismantling of the backrest on Nissan Almera Classic 2009:

Video link: youtube.com/watch?v=EXAMPLE123 (replace with the current ID).

In the video, pay attention to:

• 🎥 Moment with detaching clips (02:45) - the author uses a homemade puller made from a plastic spatula.
• 🔧 Method of fixing the upper bolts (05:30) - in some machines they stick and need to be processed WD-40 in advance.
• ⚠️ Wiring Warning (07:10) - Shows how to carefully move the harness away to avoid damage.

If you have a different configuration (for example, with leather trim or heated seats), look for the video marked "Luxury Pack" — there may be additional fastenings.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about backrest removal

Is it possible to remove the backrest without a clip remover?

Yes, but the risk of damaging the trim or clips increases. As a last resort, use a flat-head screwdriver, wrapping the tip with electrical tape to avoid scratching the plastic. Move slowly, applying force perpendicular to the surface.

How long does dismantling take?

If you have experience - 20–30 minutes. The first time it can take up to 1–1.5 hours, especially if the clips are stuck or the back has not been removed for a long time. The main thing is not to rush at the stage of side fastenings.

What should I do if, after removing the backrest, the smell of gasoline appears in the cabin?

This is a sign of damage to the fuel lines or gas filler flap seal. Check immediately:

• The integrity of the hoses under the backrest (especially if they were removed to access the fuel pump).
• The tightness of the closure of the gas tank flap - sometimes its seal breaks during dismantling.
• Presence of fuel on the trunk floor (use a flashlight to inspect).

If you find a leak, do not start the engine - call a tow truck.

How to remove the backrest if it is stuck to the body?

This is true for cars that have been parked on the street or in a damp garage for a long time. Proceed like this:

1. Treat the joints of the backrest and body with silicone grease or WD-40 (do not use solvents!).
2. Wait 10-15 minutes, then gently tap the edges of the back with a rubber mallet.
3. Try rocking your back left and right while pulling up.

If it doesn’t help, contact service. Using brute force can bend the backrest frame.

Do I need to remove the rear parcel shelf to access the fuel pump?

No, it is enough to remove only the trunk trim and the hatch under the spare wheel. However, in some cases (for example, to replace the entire fuel module), the backrest is removed for convenience. If your goal is only the pump, just fold back the rear seat and remove the hatch.