Nissan Almera 2017: ground clearance, features and practical tips

Nissan Almera 2017 is a popular sedan in the budget segment, which attracts buyers with a combination of price, reliability and efficiency. However, one of the key parameters affecting operating comfort, especially in Russian conditions, is ground clearance (ground clearance). Unlike crossovers, sedans traditionally have less clearance, which can raise questions among potential owners.

In this article we will analyze the official data on ground clearance Almera 2017 model year, compare them with actual measurements of the owners, and also give practical recommendations for operation and modifications. We will pay special attention to how ground clearance affects cross-country ability, suspension wear and tire selection.

Official ground clearance of Nissan Almera 2017: what the manufacturer says

According to technical documentation Nissan, ground clearance Almera 2017 is 160 mm for all modifications, including versions with manual and automatic transmissions. This figure is relevant both for the basic configuration and for top-end versions with additional options.

However, it is important to understand that 160 mm is the clearance under a loaded car (with driver, passengers and luggage). When empty, the ground clearance can be 10–15 mm higher due to preloaded springs. The actual clearance is also affected by:

• 🔧 Suspension condition (worn shock absorbers or springs reduce ground clearance).
• 🚗 Tire pressure (inflated tires raise the body, deflated tires lower).
• 📦 Loading the car (a full trunk or 5 passengers reduces the clearance by 15–20 mm).

The manufacturer does not divide ground clearance by body type (sedan is the only version available Almera), but some sources mention that cars for the Russian market could have minor suspension adjustments. However, there is no official confirmation of this.

Real ground clearance as measured by owners: does it differ from the declared one?

Many owners Nissan Almera In 2017, they carry out independent measurements of ground clearance, and their results often differ from official data. According to forums and reviews, the actual clearance in an empty state (without load) is 170–175 mm under the front bumper and 165–170 mm under the back.

The difference is explained by several factors:

• 📏Measuring technique: the manufacturer measures the clearance under engine compartment or rear beam, and owners often measure under front overhang or crankcase protection.
• 🔄 Suspension wear: after 50–70 thousand km, the springs may sag, reducing the ground clearance by 5–10 mm.
• 🛠️ Modifications: some owners install spacers or reinforced springs, increasing the clearance to 180–190 mm.

For example, on a popular car forum Drive2 user with nickname AlmeraFan published a photo of measurements of his 2017 car: under the front bumper - 172 mm, under the rear beam - 168 mm. At the same time, the car's mileage was 45 thousand km, and the suspension was in standard condition.

How to correctly measure ground clearance yourself?

To accurately measure ground clearance, use a ruler or caliper with a depth gauge. Take measurements at three points:

1. Under the front bumper (at the edge of the protection).

2. Under the engine compartment (lowest point of the pan or crankcase protection).

3. Under the rear beam (central part).

The vehicle must be parked on a level surface, without a load (driver only).

Comparison of Nissan Almera 2017 ground clearance with competitors

In the budget sedan segment Nissan Almera It is not a leader in ground clearance, but it is not critically behind its competitors. For clarity, here is a comparison table:

Model	Ground clearance, mm	Body type	Notes
Nissan Almera 2017	160	Sedan	Official data (under load)
Renault Logan 2017	155	Sedan	5 mm smaller, but better maneuverability due to short overhangs
Kia Rio 2017	160	Sedan/Hatchback	Similar ground clearance, but hatchback has less rear overhang
Hyundai Solaris 2017	160	Sedan	Identical Almera, but with a stiffer suspension
Lada Vesta 2017	178	Sedan/Wagon	Leader in class clearance, but inferior in comfort

From the table it is clear that Almera is in the middle group in terms of clearance. The main advantage over Logan — a softer suspension that better absorbs bumps, even with less clearance. But Lada Vesta wins in this parameter, but loses in handling and sound insulation.

The influence of clearance on cross-country ability and operation

Clearance 160 mm is a compromise between stability at high speeds and the ability to overcome bumps. Let's consider how this parameter affects various aspects of operation:

• 🛣️ Urban conditions: there is enough clearance to overcome speed bumps, holes and curbs up to 10–12 cm high. However, sudden impacts may cause damage to the front overhang.
• 🌳 Dirt roads: There are no problems on dry primers, but after rain or on broken country roads there is a high risk of catching the crankcase guard or muffler.
• ❄️ Winter operation: snow drifts of more than 15 cm in height can be a problem, especially if the machine is loaded. We recommend using high profile winter tires (e.g. 185/65 R15 instead of standard 185/60 R15).
• 🔧 Suspension wear: When constantly driving over uneven surfaces, shock absorbers and springs wear out faster. The average resource of the front struts is 60–80 thousand km, the rear struts are 80–100 thousand km.

Particular attention should be paid approach and departure angles. U Almera they make up 15° front and 22° rear. This means that when negotiating steep exits (for example, from a curb), there is a high probability of getting caught in the front bumper. In such cases, it is better to approach at an angle or use ramps.

How to increase the ground clearance of Nissan Almera 2017: methods and consequences

If the factory clearance is not enough, it can be increased in several ways. Let's consider the most popular and safe options:

1. Installing spacers for springs (20–30 mm). This is the most budget-friendly method, but it has disadvantages:
   • ⚠️ The load on shock absorbers increases, reducing their resource.
   • ⚠️ Handling may deteriorate at high speeds.

Replacing springs with reinforced ones or from other models (for example, from Nissan Note). It's more expensive, but more reliable. The average cost of a set is 8–12 thousand rubles.

Installation of large profile tires (For example, 195/60 R15 instead of 185/60 R15). This will add 5-7mm of ground clearance, but may require adjusting the speedometer readings.

Replacing shock absorbers with gas-oil ones with increased stroke (For example, Kayaba or Monroe). This will improve cross-country ability and comfort, but will cost 15–20 thousand rubles per set.

Also, after modifications, it is recommended to do a wheel alignment, since the wheel alignment angles change.

Correct installation of spacers/springs

No play in the suspension

Camber angles

Shock absorbers on the go

Compatible with crankcase guard-->

Frequent problems with suspension due to low ground clearance

During operation Nissan Almera 2017 with factory ground clearance, owners often encounter the following problems:

• 🔨 Damage to the crankcase guard when hitting high obstacles. The plastic protection cracks or breaks, exposing the oil pan.
• 🔊 Knocks in the suspension after 50 thousand km. Most often, worn stabilizer struts or control arm silent blocks are to blame.
• 🛞 Breaking through shock absorbers in deep holes. This leads to oil leakage and the need for replacement.
• 🔥 Overheating of brake discs when driving off-road. Due to low ground clearance, discs are more likely to come into contact with dirt and water, which accelerates corrosion.

To minimize risks, follow these recommendations:

⚠️ Attention: When driving on dirt roads, reduce your speed to 40–50 km/h. This will reduce the load on the suspension and reduce the risk of damage to the protection. Also avoid sharp braking on bumps - this is the main reason for shock absorbers to break through.

If you frequently drive your vehicle in harsh conditions, consider installing reinforced anthers on ball joints and protective covers on shock absorbers. This will extend the life of the suspension by 20–30%.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions about Nissan Almera 2017 ground clearance

Is it possible to set a ground clearance of 200 mm on Almera 2017?

Technically yes, but this will require serious modifications: replacing springs, shock absorbers, levers and even steering rods. Such changes must be coordinated with the traffic police, and the car’s handling will deteriorate. The best option is to increase it to 180–190 mm using spacers and larger diameter tires.

What is the ground clearance of Almera 2017 with automatic and manual transmission: is there a difference?

Officially there is no difference - and for Manual transmission, and for Automatic transmission ground clearance is 160 mm. However, in practice, cars with an automatic transmission may have 2–3 mm less clearance due to the greater weight of the box. But this difference is insignificant.

Which tires are best to choose to increase ground clearance?

For a slight increase in clearance (5–10 mm), high-profile tires are suitable:

• 185/65 R15 (instead of standard 185/60 R15)
• 195/60 R15 (will add ~7 mm ground clearance)

But keep in mind that larger diameter tires may touch the arches when fully loaded or on sharp turns. Check clearances before purchasing.

What should you do if, after replacing the springs, the car becomes worse to handle?

This is normal as clearance increases. To regain control:

1. Install stiffer shock absorbers (for example, Kayaba Excel-G).
2. Check and correct wheel alignment.
3. Reduce tire pressure by 0.2–0.3 bar for better grip.

If the problem persists, the springs may be too soft - contact a specialist to select the optimal stiffness.

What is the ground clearance of the restyled Almera 2020?

In the restyled version Nissan Almera (produced since 2019) ground clearance remains the same - 160 mm. However, the suspension has been improved: the shock absorbers have become softer and the springs have become a little more progressive. This improved comfort but did not affect clearance.