Replacing rear springs on a <em>Nissan Almera N16</em>: a detailed guide with photos and tips

Nissan Almera N16 is a popular sedan, but over time its rear suspension requires attention. One of the key elements that wears out faster than others is rear springs. They lose elasticity, sag or break, which leads to poor handling, body roll and even damage to shock absorbers. In this article we will look at how to independently replace the rear springs with Almera N16 (2000–2006), without resorting to the services of a service station.

The procedure does not require professional skills, but has its own nuances: from choosing the right spare parts to observing safety precautions. We will describe each stage in detail, indicate the necessary tools, provide photos of key points and give tips on how to avoid common mistakes. If your car begins to “squat” on the rear axle or you hear squeaks when driving over uneven surfaces, these instructions are for you.

Signs of wear on rear springs Nissan Almera N16

Rear suspension springs Almera N16 designed for 100–150 thousand km, but their service life depends on operating conditions. For example, frequent driving on dirt roads or overloading a vehicle reduces its service life by 1.5–2 times. How do you know if the springs need replacing?

• 🔍 Visual inspection: cracks, corrosion or deformation of coils. It is especially dangerous if the spring sank more than 20 mm relative to the new one — this is critical for the suspension geometry.
• 🚗 Change in clearance: The rear of the car “sags” even when there is no cargo in the trunk. In this case, the front part may appear raised.
• 🔊 Extraneous sounds: squeaks or knocks when driving over bumps. This is often a sign that the spring is rubbing against the cup or shock absorber.
• 🌀 Deterioration in handling: the car “yaws” at speed, holds the road worse when cornering, and a “dive” effect occurs when braking.

If you notice at least two of these signs, check the condition of the springs. To do this, just look under the car or remove the wheels. Please note: on Almera N16 springs often break at the bottom, where the metal is thinner. Also check rubber gaskets (buffers) - they may delaminate or crack.

⚠️ Attention: Don't ignore spring sag! This increases the load on shock absorbers and silent blocks, which leads to their premature wear. In critical cases it is possible spring break while driving - this is dangerous for you and other road users.

Which springs to choose for replacement: original vs analogues

When choosing spare parts for Nissan Almera N16 owners have two options: original springs from Nissan or analogues from third-party manufacturers. Original parts guarantee compatibility, but are often overpriced. Analogues can offer a better price-quality ratio, especially when it comes to proven brands.

Manufacturer	Article	Price (per piece), rub.	Features
Nissan (original)	54300-4M000 (right), 54300-4M001 (left)	4 500–6 000	Guaranteed quality, but high cost. Suitable for all modifications Almera N16.
Sachs	315 514	2 800–3 500	Good quality, often used in services. The rigidity is close to the original.
Lesjöfors	111734	2 500–3 200	Budget option, but the quality is lower than the original. Suitable for a quiet ride.
Febi	23906	3 000–3 800	Reinforced springs are recommended when the car is frequently loaded.

When choosing analogues, pay attention to rigidity (marking on the spring) and height. For Almera N16 standard rear spring stiffness - approx. 220–240 N/mm. If you frequently transport cargo, you can consider reinforced options (for example, from Febi), but they will make the suspension stiffer.

Also check the package contents: some sets include rubber gaskets (buffers) and cups. If they are worn out, it is better to replace them immediately. For example, gaskets from Corteco (article 23026009) fit perfectly.

Necessary tools and preparation for work

To replace the rear springs with Nissan Almera N16 you don't need specialized equipment, but some tools are a must. Here's the full list:

• 🔧 Jack And supports (or lift). Important: the standard jack included with the car is not suitable - you need reliable support!
• 🔩 Head set (10, 12, 14, 17 mm) and extension cord. Without them, you cannot unscrew the shock absorber mounts.
• 🔧 Socket wrenches And ratchet handle for convenience.
• 🛠️ Clamps for springs (required!). Without them, removing/installing springs is unsafe.
• 🧲 Magnet or wire - will help hold the nuts and bolts during dismantling.
• 🧴 WD-40 or similar lubricant for loosening stuck nuts.
• 👓 Safety glasses And gloves — springs under tension can cause injury!

Before starting work, complete the following steps:

Disconnect the battery (remove the negative terminal)|Jack the car and put it on stands|Remove the rear wheels|Clean the shock absorber mounts from dirt|Treat all threaded connections with WD-40-->

Important: it is better to replace springs in a garage or on a level area. If you're working outside, make sure the weather is dry—moisture can make it difficult to remove the nuts. Also prepare in advance new nuts and bolts (especially if the old ones are covered with rust). For Almera N16 threaded bolts fit M10x1.25.

⚠️ Attention: Never work under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack! Use safety supports or special stands. The springs are under high voltage and may shoot if handled carelessly.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing rear springs

Now we move on to the most important stage - dismantling the old springs and installing new ones. Follow the instructions strictly step by step to avoid mistakes.

Step 1: Removing the shock absorber

First you need to free access to the spring. To do this:

1. Unscrew lower shock absorber mount (17 mm bolt). It is located next to the beam.
2. Unscrew top mount (14 mm nut) in the trunk under the trim. To do this, you need to remove the plastic plug.
3. Carefully remove the shock absorber along with the spring. Be careful - the spring is under tension!

Step 2: Removing the Old Spring

Here you will need spring clamps. Place them on the spring and compress until it loosens. After this:

1. Remove rubber gaskets (top and bottom). Assess their condition - if they are cracked, replace them.
2. Unscrew shock absorber rod nut (17 mm wrench) and disassemble the assembly.
3. Carefully remove the spring, holding it with clamps. Do not release the clamps until they are completely dismantled!

Inspect the shock absorber for oil leaks. If there are any, replace it immediately - this will save time in the future.

Step 3: Installing a New Spring

Before installing a new spring, check its markings. On Almera N16 the right and left springs may differ in the number of turns or stiffness. Usually they have marks:

• R - right (right),
• L - left (left).

If there are no marks, install springs just like the old ones stood (in the direction of the turns).

Installation sequence:

1. Place on shock absorber bottom gasket And boot (if included).
2. Install the spring, securing it with clamps. Make sure it fits into the grooves of the cup.
3. Put it on top gasket and tighten the shock absorber rod nut (tightening torque - 40–50 Nm).
4. Remove the clamps and check that the spring is not distorted.

Step 4: Assembly and Testing

Reinstall the shock absorber, securing the lower and upper mounts. Tighten the bolts graduallyto avoid skew. After assembly:

• Install the wheel and lower the car.
• Bleed up the suspension by pushing the rear of the car several times.
• Check ground clearance - it should be the same on both sides.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced motorists sometimes make mistakes when replacing springs. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

• 🔧 Incorrect tightening of nuts. If you overtighten the shock absorber rod nut, you can damage the threads. Use torque wrench (tightening torque - 40–50 Nm).
• 🌀 Spring misalignment. If the spring is installed crookedly, it will rub against the cup or shock absorber. Always check its position before final assembly.
• 🔄 Confusion of right and left springs. On Almera N16 they may differ! Compare old springs before installing new ones.
• 🛑 Working without clamps. This is extremely dangerous - the spring can “shoot” and cause injury. Never skimp on safety!
• 🔩 Use of worn gaskets. Rubber buffers become tanned and crack over time. Replace them along with the springs.

Another common problem is squeak after replacement. It may occur due to:

• Lack of lubrication between the spring and gaskets (use silicone grease).
• Poorly tightened shock absorber fastenings.
• Poor quality gaskets (especially Chinese analogues).

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the springs the car tilts to one side, check spring height on both sides. Perhaps one of them is defective or installed incorrectly. Also make sure there are no heavy objects in the trunk that could create an imbalance.

What to do if the spring breaks during dismantling?

If the spring cracks or breaks during removal, do not try to “pull” it all the way! Carefully secure the fragments with clamps and remove. Do not reuse a broken spring under any circumstances - even if it “holds”, its resource has been exhausted. When installing a new spring, check for burrs on the shock absorber cups that could damage it.

When to contact the service: cases when amateur activity is dangerous

Although replacing the rear springs with Nissan Almera N16 - the task is feasible for most car owners, there are situations when it is better to trust the professionals:

• 🔧 Lack of experience with suspension. If you have never disassembled shock absorbers or used clamps, the risk of error is too great.
• 🛠️ Rusted or broken bolts. If the shock absorber fasteners are stuck and cannot be unscrewed, you will need Bulgarian or welding machine - this is a job for a service station.
• 🚗 Problems with body geometry. If the car has been in an accident and its rear beam is bent, replacing the springs yourself can aggravate the problem.
• ⚡ Shock absorber malfunctions. If during inspection you find that the shock absorbers are “sweating” or not working, they also need to be replaced. This requires a special tool (eg silent block remover).

The cost of replacing springs in the service for Almera N16 amounts to 3,000–5,000 rubles (for both sides). If replacement of shock absorbers or silent blocks is required, the price will increase to 8,000–12,000 rubles. However, in some cases this is justified - for example, if you are not confident in your abilities or you do not have the necessary tool.

Also contact service if, after replacing yourself:

• The car “steers” to the side when driving.
• A knocking or creaking sound appeared that was not there before.
• The suspension has become too stiff or, conversely, “breaks through” on bumps.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing rear springs with Nissan Almera N16

Is it possible to replace only one spring if the second one is in good condition?

Not recommended. Springs sag over time, and if you replace only one, there will be imbalance in height. This will lead to poor handling and uneven tire wear. Always change springs in pairs.

How often should rear springs be replaced? Almera N16?

Service life depends on operating conditions. On average, springs last 80–120 thousand km. However, if you often drive on bad roads or carry heavy loads, replacement may be required after 60–80 thousand km. Inspect springs regularly for cracks and corrosion.

Is it possible to drive if the spring is broken?

Absolutely not! A broken spring may:

• Damage the tire or wheel while driving.
• Cause loss of control on uneven roads.
• Create additional load on the shock absorber and silent blocks, which will lead to their breakdown.

If the spring is cracked but still holds, you can temporarily drive to the garage at low speed (no more than 40 km/h), but it is better to call a tow truck.

Do I need to do a wheel alignment after replacing the springs?

On Nissan Almera N16 The rear wheels do not have wheel alignment adjustment, so this procedure is not required. However, if you notice that the car is “pulling” to the side, check:

• Correct installation of the springs (is there any misalignment).
• Condition of the rear beam silent blocks.
• Tire pressure.

Which springs are best to choose for a comfortable ride?

If you prefer a soft suspension, choose springs with stiffness 200–220 N/mm. For example:

• Sachs (article 315 514) — close to the original in terms of comfort.
• Lesjöfors (article 111734) - a little softer, but less durable.

Avoid reinforced springs (e.g. Febi), if you don’t plan to frequently transport cargo, they will make the suspension stiffer.