Nissan Cedric is a legendary Japanese sedan that has gained popularity due to its reliability, comfort and stylish design. The hood of this car not only performs an aesthetic function, but also protects key engine components from external influences. However, over time, even the most durable part wears out: dents from hail appear, corrosion at the joints, or hinges break after an accident.

In this article we will analyze hood design Cedric different generations, typical faults (from cracks to problems with the lock), and we will also give step-by-step instructions for removal, repair and replacement - with photos, diagrams and tips from body repair specialists. We will pay special attention unique “diseases” of the hood Y31/Y32 (1987–2004), which are often overlooked even by experienced car owners.

Hood structure Nissan Cedric: materials and design

Hood Cedric made from sheet steel 0.7–0.9 mm thick (depending on generation) with anti-corrosion coating. In models Y30 (1983–1987) heavier metal was used, and starting from Y31 (1987–1995), the manufacturer switched to lightweight alloys to improve the car's balance. Inside the hood are located:

  • 🔧 Reinforcing ribs — prevent deformation under loads (in Y32 their number was increased to 5 pieces).
  • 🔑 Hood lock — mechanical or electrical (in top trim levels Gloria).
  • 🔄 Loops — on most models, non-separable, with grease nipples for lubrication.
  • 🛡️ Sealing rubber — protects the engine compartment from dust and moisture (requires replacement every 5–7 years).

Deserves special attention hood safety system. B Cedric Y32 (1995–2004) appeared gas struts (instead of traditional springs) that secure the hood in the open position. However, they have a drawback: at sub-zero temperatures, the gas in the shock absorbers is compressed, and the hood may spontaneously lower.

📊 Which Cedric is yours?
  • Y30 (1983–1987)
  • Y31 (1987–1995)
  • Y32 (1995–2004)
  • Other/don't know

Typical hood malfunctions: from corrosion to broken hinges

Even with careful use, the hood Nissan Cedric susceptible to several “diseases” that depend on the generation and conditions of use:

Malfunction Reason Generation Remedy
Corrosion at edges and joints Damage to anti-corrosion coating, chips Everything, especially Y30 Stripping, priming, painting or replacing
Cracks at the hinges Metal fatigue, overload Y31/Y32 after 150 thousand km Reinforcement by welding or replacement of the hood
Problems with the lock (won't open) Mechanism wear, cable breakage All generations Lubrication, cable or lock replacement
Sagging hood Wear of hinges or gas stops Y32 with gas shock absorbers Adjusting hinges or replacing stops

The most common problem - corrosion in the area hinges and drainage holes. B Y30 drainage channels often become clogged with leaves, which leads to moisture accumulation and rust from the inside. B Y32 weak point are gas struts: their service life rarely exceeds 100 thousand km, and replacement costs 3–5 thousand rubles per pair.

⚠️ Attention! If the hood Cedric Y31 started “walking” when opening (flapping in the wind), check condition of rubber stops under the hinges. Their wear leads to play and can damage the paintwork upon impact.

How to remove the hood Nissan Cedric: step by step instructions

Removal of the hood will be required to replace, paint or repair the hinges. The procedure takes 30–40 minutes and does not require special tools except partner (hood weighs 12–18 kg). Before starting work:

Disconnect the battery (to avoid short circuit)

Prepare supports for the hood (wooden blocks or stands)

Take a photo of the location of the lock cable and hinges

Wear gloves (the edges of the hood are sharp) -->

Algorithm of actions:

  1. Open the hood and secure it with stops (or supports). B Y32 use gas shock absorbers as support.
  2. Mark with marker the position of the hinges on the body - this will help with reinstallation.
  3. Disconnect the lock cable (in Y30/Y31 it is secured with a 10mm nut Y32 - latch).
  4. Unscrew the hinge bolts (usually 4 pieces: two in front and two in back). B Y32 use a 12mm socket.
  5. Remove the hood together with a partner, avoiding distortions.

When installing a new hood adjust the gaps between it and the wings (the optimal gap is 3–5 mm). If the hood tilts to the side, tighten the hinges or add shims.

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If the hinge bolts are stuck, use WD-40 and heat with a hair dryer. Do not hit with a hammer - this will deform the seats!

Selection of spare parts: original vs. analogues

When replacing the hood Nissan Cedric owners are faced with a dilemma: to buy original part (expensive, but quality guaranteed) or analogue (cheaper, but there is a risk of inconsistency in fastenings). Let's consider the options:

  • 🔹 Original hood (article for Y32: 62100-4M000 or 62100-4M001). Pros: perfect fit, factory paint. Cons: price from 25 thousand rubles, long delivery times.
  • 🔹 Analogues from Dorman or Febi. Pros: price 2–3 times lower, fast delivery. Cons: there may be problems with gaps (especially among Chinese manufacturers).
  • 🔹 Used hood from the showdown. Pros: low price (5–10 thousand rubles). Cons: risk of hidden corrosion or damage after an accident.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

  • 📏 Matching hinge fastenings (in Y31 And Y32 they are different!).
  • 🎨 Factory primer quality - with cheap analogues it often peels off.
  • 🔧 Presence of drainage holes (in fakes they may forget to drill them).
⚠️ Attention! When purchasing a hood for Cedric Gloria (luxury version) check availability holes for the emblem — the basic models don’t have them, and you’ll have to drill them yourself.

Hood repair: from straightening to painting

Not every dent or scratch requires a hood replacement. In most cases it is enough local repairs. Let's consider the main types of work:

1. Removing dents without painting

For small dents (for example, from hail), the method is used PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) — straightening without damaging the paintwork. Suitable for Cedric Y31/Y32, if the metal is not pulled. Average cost: 1.5–3 thousand rubles per dent.

2. Straightening and putty

In case of serious deformations (after an accident), you will need:

  1. Remove the hood and strip the damaged area to bare metal.
  2. Straighten the geometry by straightening (use soft-faced hammer for Cedricto avoid damaging the amplifiers).
  3. Apply putty (for example, Novol Plus) in 2–3 layers and let dry.
  4. Sand and paint (color selection according to code Nissan — see plate on the body).

3. Anti-corrosion treatment

If rust has already appeared, proceed as follows:

  1. Strip the corrosion down to the “living” metal (use brush attachment to the drill).
  2. Process rust converter (For example, Tsinkar).
  3. Apply primer (preferably epoxy) and paint.
Why is hinge corrosion dangerous?

If rust has affected the hinges, their fastening weakens and the hood may fall off while walking. B Y30 this led to relapses even after welding work - the metal became brittle. The only solution: complete replacement of the hinges (article for Y32: 62110-4M000).

Adjusting and lubricating the hood

Over time the hood Nissan Cedric starts sag, close poorly or make squeaks. These problems can be solved by adjustment and lubrication:

1. Height adjustment

If the hood tilts to one side:

  • 🔧 Loosen the hinge bolts (without removing the hood completely).
  • 📏 Adjust the position, checking the gaps around the perimeter (should be the same).
  • 🔩 Tighten the bolts and check the operation of the lock.

2. Lubrication of hinges and lock

To prevent squeaks and corrosion:

  • 🛢️ Use lithium grease (For example, LIQUI MOLY LM 47) for loops.
  • 🔑 Suitable for a castle WD-40 Specialist or graphite grease.
  • 🧴 Treat the rubber seal silicone grease (will extend service life).

B Y32 with gas stops, check additionally shock absorber tightness. If the hood begins to rise slowly or lowers itself, the stops require replacement (part number: 62120-4M000).

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Hood adjustment Cedric carry out in warm weather (from +10°C) - this way the metal is more ductile and you will avoid distortions.

Frequently asked questions about the hood Nissan Cedric

Is it possible to install a hood from Gloria to normal Cedric Y32?

Yes, but with reservations. Hoods Cedric And Gloria (luxury version) are interchangeable in terms of fastenings, however Gloria may differ:

  • 🔹 The shape of the central rib (more expressive).
  • 🔹 Holes for the emblem (in Cedric there are none).
  • 🔹 Metal quality (y Gloria thicker anti-corrosion coating).

If you are satisfied with these nuances, replacement is possible without modifications.

What is the weight of the hood Nissan Cedric Y31?

Hood weight Y31 (1987–1995) is 14–16 kg depending on the configuration. B Y30 it is heavier (up to 18 kg due to thicker metal), and in Y32 — lighter (12–14 kg due to the lightweight design). When removing/installing, be sure to use a second person or a stand.

What to do if the hood does not open from the passenger compartment?

If the lock cable is broken or jammed, proceed as follows:

  1. Remove radiator grille (attached with 4 clips in Y31/Y32).
  2. Get to hood lock hand or a screwdriver.
  3. Click on locking lever (in Y32 it is red).
  4. If this does not help, drill a hole in the lock (above the latch) and press it out.

After opening, replace the cable (part number: 62130-4M000) or the entire castle.

How to paint a hood Cedric at home?

For quality painting:

  1. Remove the hood and strip completely old paint (use a sander with P80–P120 grit).
  2. Degrease the surface White spirit.
  3. Apply soil (2-3 layers with drying).
  4. Paint spray gun (pressure 2–2.5 atm) in 3 layers.
  5. Cover varnish and polish after 2-3 days.

Select color by code Nissan (For example, KH3 — “Dark blue metallic” for Y32).

Why the hood Y32 Does it go down on its own when you open it?

B Y32 are used gas struts, which lose pressure over time. Reasons:

  • 🔹 Natural wear and tear (resource - 80-100 thousand km).
  • 🔹 Temperature changes (gas compresses in the cold).
  • 🔹 Mechanical damage to the rod.

Solution: replacing the stops (article: 62120-4M000 or 62120-4M001 for left/right). The cost of a pair is 2–4 thousand rubles.