<em>Nissan Almera N16</em>radiator grille: how to choose, replace and upgrade

Nissan Almera N16 (2000–2006) is one of the most popular foreign cars on the secondary market of the CIS, but even such a reliable car wears out plastic body elements over time. **The radiator grille** is a part that not only shapes the appearance of the car, but also protects vital components: the radiator, the air conditioner condenser and the fan. In this article we will look at how to choose the right grille for Almera N16, what analogues exist, how to replace it yourself and what tuning options are available to owners.

Standard grille on N16 made of plastic and secured with 4–6 clips (depending on the year of manufacture). Over time, it loses color, cracks from impacts or becomes deformed in an accident. Original spare parts from Nissan are expensive, but there are decent analogues on the market from Febi, Hella And Denso, which are not inferior in quality. And for those who want to stand out, manufacturers offer chrome, mesh and even carbon options.

Original radiator grille: articles and features

Factory grille for Nissan Almera N16 has a catalog number 62610-4M000 (for 2000–2003 models) and 62610-4M001 (for restyled versions 2003–2006). The original part is made of ABS plastic with UV protection, but even this will fade in the sun over time. The cost of a new grille from an official dealer starts from 8,500–12,000 rubles (for 2026), which makes its purchase not always justified for budget repairs.

Key features of the original grille:

• 🔹 Material: Impact-resistant ABS plastic with anti-corrosion coating.
• 🔹 Fastening: 4 plastic clips (2 on top, 2 on bottom) + 2 metal latches on the sides.
• 🔹 Compatibility: suitable for all modifications N16, including versions with air conditioning.
• 🔹 Weight: ~350–400 grams (10–15% lighter than analogues).

When purchasing an original, pay attention to the availability Nissan holograms on packaging and labeling Genuine Part. Counterfeits are often made of brittle plastic that cracks at the first frost. Also check the package: the box should contain all the mounting clips and rubber seals.

⚠️ Attention: On restyled models Almera N16 (after 2003) the grille has a slightly reshaped lower part. Make sure that the part number matches the year of your car, otherwise the part will not fit into place!

Radiator grille analogues: what to choose instead of the original?

If your budget is limited, you can consider analogues from trusted manufacturers. The best options in terms of price/quality ratio:

Brand	Article	Price, ₽	Features
Febi	26126	3 200–4 500	Durable plastic, fully compatible with the original, clips included.
Hella	8GC 355 109-031	4 800–6 000	Improved UV protection, suitable for versions with air conditioning.
Denso	550-0109	5 500–7 000	High quality plastic, but may require adjustment to fasteners.
Patron	PGR1601	2 500–3 500	A budget option, but plastic is less resistant to frost.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• 🔧 Plastic thickness — thin gratings (less than 2 mm) crack quickly.
• 🔧 Complete set — some manufacturers do not include clips; you will have to buy them separately.
• 🔧 Color - cheap analogues often have a shade different from the original “black gloss”.

If you buy a grille online, be sure to check with the seller whether it is suitable for your modification Almera N16 (with or without air conditioning). For example, the grilles for climate control versions have additional cutouts for the condenser tubes.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the radiator grille

Replace the grille with Nissan Almera N16 you can do it yourself in 20–30 minutes, without resorting to the help of a service station. You will need:

• 🔨 Flat screwdriver or plastic puller.
• 🔨 New radiator grill + set of clips (if the old ones are broken).
• 🔨 Rag and plastic cleaner (e.g. Sonax Plastic Cleaner).

Step 1. Dismantling the old grille

1. Open the hood and remove the negative terminal from the battery (for safety).
2. Carefully pry the upper grille clips with a screwdriver (they are located under the hood, closer to the windshield).
3. Release the side clips by pulling the grill towards you.
4. Remove the lower clips (they may be hidden under the bumper).

Step 2: Install a new grille

1. Clean the seat from dirt and dust.
2. Install new clips (if required).
3. Secure the grille, starting with the top clamps, then the sides and bottom.
4. Check that the part fits tightly, without gaps.

⚠️ Attention: If the plastic clips break during dismantling, do not use screws or wire for fastening! This may damage the radiator upon impact. Buy original clips (08915-4M000) or analogues from Febi.

After replacement, it is recommended to polish the grille with a protective compound (for example, Turtle Wax Plastic Polish) to extend its service life. If the grille is chrome, use special products for caring for metallized surfaces.

Tuning the radiator grille: modernization options

Standard black grille Almera N16 It looks modest, but it is easy to modernize. Popular tuning options:

• 🔥 Chrome grille - gives the car a more premium look. Cost: from 5,000 ₽ (Chinese options) to 12,000 ₽ (European brands).
• 🔥 Mesh grid — improves radiator ventilation and adds sporty style. Popular models from Kamei And ABT.
• 🔥 Carbon grille — light and durable, but requires careful care (afraid of scratches). Price: from 8,000 ₽.
• 🔥 Grille with LED lighting — an original solution for night driving. Flexible tape can be installed SMD 5050 along the contour.

Before purchasing a tuned grille, check:

• 📏 Dimensions — some models may cover part of the radiator, impairing cooling.
• 🔧 Fastenings — not all grilles are compatible with standard clips N16.
• 🎨 Color — chrome parts require regular polishing, and carbon parts require special wax.

How to paint the grille yourself?

For painting the grille Nissan Almera N16 you will need:

1. Remove the part and clean it of dirt (use antisilicone).

2. Matte the surface with sandpaper P800–P1000.

3. Apply a plastic primer (e.g. Mobihel Primer).

4. Paint in 2–3 layers with acrylic paint (color according to the RAL code of the body).

5. Fix with varnish and dry for 24 hours.

The result lasts 2-3 years with proper care.

If you want to save money, you can vinyl the grille with carbon or chrome-look film. Cost of material: from 500 ₽ per roll, and the result is practically no different from factory processing.

Common problems with the radiator grille and their solutions

Owners Nissan Almera N16 often encounter the following problems:

1. Cracks in plastic - arise due to shock or frost. Solution: seal with epoxy resin (Poxipol) or replace the grille.
2. Color Burnout - plastic fades under the sun. Solution: restore color ink for bumpers or paint.
3. Broken clips — fastenings break during careless dismantling. Solution: buy a set of new clips (08915-4M000).
4. Poor fixation — the grate is loose. Solution: check the integrity of the latches on the bumper.

If the grille is deformed after an accident, you can try straightening it with a hair dryer (heating to 60–70°C) and pressing it with a weight. However, this method only works for shallow dents.

⚠️ Attention: If the grille is cracked near the mount to the radiator, do not operate the vehicle without repair! Sharp edges of plastic can damage the radiator honeycomb, which will lead to antifreeze leakage.

Where to buy a radiator grille for Nissan Almera N16?

You can purchase an original or analog grille in the following places:

• 🏢 Official Nissan dealers - quality guarantee, but high price.
• 🛒 Online stores:
  • Exist.ru - a wide range of analogues.
  • Autodoc.ru — convenient selection by VIN code.
  • AliExpress - cheap options (but the risk of running into a fake).
• 🔧 Showdown — you can find a used grille in good condition for 1,500–3,000 ₽.
• 🏗️ Tuning shops — for non-standard grilles (chrome, mesh).

When purchasing online, be sure to check:

• 📄 Reviews about the seller - especially on AliExpress And Avito.
• 📦 Photo of real product (not stock pictures).
• 🔄 Return Policy - in case the part does not fit.

Average prices for gratings for Almera N16 (for 2026):

Grille type	Price, ₽	Where to buy
Original (new)	8 500–12 000	Dealer, Exist.ru
Analogue (Febi, Hella)	3 000–6 000	Autodoc, EMEX
Used (disassembly)	1 500–3 000	Avito, Drom.ru
Tuning (chrome, mesh)	5 000–15 000	Tuning-shop.ru, AliExpress

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the radiator grille Nissan Almera N16

Is it possible to drive without a radiator grille?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. The grille protects the radiator from stones and debris. Without it, the risk of damage to the radiator cells or air conditioner condenser increases by 3–4 times. If the grate is broken, temporarily cover the hole with thick cardboard.

What glue should I use to repair a cracked grill?

A two-part epoxy adhesive is best (Poxipol, 3M DP8005) or specialized glue for plastic (Loctite Plastics). Regular superglue will not withstand vibrations and temperature changes.

Will the grille fit from Nissan Sunny N16 on Almera N16?

No, despite the external similarity, the fastenings and shape of the grilles are different. Sunny N16 has a narrower grille and will not fit into place without modification.

How often should you replace your radiator grille?

With careful use, the original grille lasts 8–10 years. Analogs may require replacement every 5–7 years. The main factors of wear are mechanical damage, UV radiation and aggressive detergents.

Is it possible to install a grille from Nissan Almera N15?

No, N15 And N16 They have different body shapes and fastenings. Grille from N15 Smaller in size and will not fit without major modifications to the bumper.