Nissan Cefiro A33 is a legendary sedan that is still in demand due to its reliability and comfort. However, over time, the trunk lining wears out: cracks appear, the fabric peels off, and the sound insulation no longer copes with road noise. You can update the interior of the luggage compartment yourself - this will not only return the car to a presentable appearance, but also improve acoustic comfort.

In this article we will analyze all the stages of lining the trunk. Cefiro A33: from the choice of materials (faux leather, Alcantara, vinyl) to step-by-step installation, taking into account the characteristics of the body. We will place special emphasis on soundproofing - a key point for cars of this generation, where factory protection often leaves much to be desired. We will also consider typical mistakes that beginners make and give recommendations for caring for new skins.

Why trunk trim? Nissan Cefiro A33 requires attention?

trunk Cefiro A33 (1994–2003) has several “weak points” that appear with age:

  • 🔊 Poor factory sound insulation: a thin layer of bitumen mastic cracks over time, allowing vibrations from the wheels and exhaust system to pass through.
  • 🧵 Wear of fabric covering: the original material (most often gray velor) fades, wears out and crumbles, especially in the places where the spare tire is attached.
  • 💧 Corrosion under the skin: condensation and dirt accumulate in the joints, causing rust on the metal (typical of rear arches).
  • 🔧 Problems with fastenings: plastic clips break during dismantling, and self-tapping screws rust and “stick.”

Updating the sheathing solves these problems comprehensively. For example, modern materials (e.g. SPLEN 3004 or Bitoplast 5MM) not only improve the appearance, but also reduce the noise level by 30–40%. And proper metal processing before installation prevents corrosion for 5–7 years.

📊 What material would you prefer for trunk lining?
  • Leatherette
  • Alcantara
  • Vinyl
  • Original velor (restoration)
  • Other

Sheathing materials: comparison of options and prices

The choice of material depends on the budget, goals (aesthetics vs. sound insulation) and work skills. Let's look at the main options:

Material Pros Cons Cost (per 1 m²) Difficulty of installation
Leatherette (vinyl leather) ✅ Durable, moisture resistant, easy to clean
✅ Wide selection of textures (leather, carbon)		 ❌ Heavy (increases the load on the trunk hinges)
❌ Requires high-hold adhesive		 800–1 500 ₽ Average
Alcantara ✅ Premium look, soft texture
✅ Good sound insulation		 ❌ Afraid of moisture (needs waterproofing)
❌ Difficult to glue without experience		 1 200–2 500 ₽ High
Vinyl (automotive) ✅ Cheap, easy to install
✅ Resistant to chemicals		 ❌ Short-lived (cracks in the cold)
❌ Low noise insulation		 300–600 ₽ Low
Original velor (restoration) ✅ Maintains factory style
✅ Light weight		 ❌ Difficult to find in good condition
❌ Gets dirty quickly		 2,000–4,000 ₽ (used) High

For Cefiro A33 the optimal combination of price/quality will be leatherette + sound insulation. For example, the combination SPLEN 8 mm (soundproofing) + vinyl leather "leather" will cost ~5,000–7,000 rubles and will last 7–10 years. If the goal is only to update the appearance, you can limit yourself to Alcantara with gluing problem areas Bitoplast.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing leatherette, check it frost resistance (must withstand down to –30°C). Cheap Chinese analogues crack even at –10°C, which is critical for Russian winters.

Preparing the trunk: dismantling the old trim and processing the body

Before installing new sheathing, it is necessary to completely remove the old one and prepare the surface. This stage takes up to 40% of the time, but the durability of the result depends on it.

Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (to avoid short circuit)

Take photos of the location of the clips and wiring

Prepare tools: T20, T25 screwdrivers, plastic puller, pliers

Remove the spare tire and tools from the trunk -->

Step 1. Dismantling the casing:

  1. Remove the plastic trims on the trunk threshold (they are attached with clips - pry them off with a puller).
  2. Unscrew the screws that secure the casing around the perimeter (usually 4-6 pieces under the plugs).
  3. Carefully remove the trim from the body, starting at the corners. B Cefiro A33 The clips at the rear lights often break - it is better to replace them in advance (article: 90520-4M000).
  4. Remove the factory sound insulation (if it is peeling off). To do this, use a spatula and a hair dryer (heat the bitumen to 60–70°C).

Step 2. Body processing:

  • 🧽 Clean rust from metal (use a rust converter, e.g. Tsinkar).
  • 🔧 Prime the bare areas (primer Body 960 suitable for Cefiro).
  • 🧴 Apply an anti-corrosion coating (for example, Movil or Dinitrol 4010) on arches and welds.
  • 🧼 Degrease the surface (White spirit or Antisilicone).
⚠️ Attention: B Nissan Cefiro A33 The wiring for the rear lights and the opening sensor is often hidden under the trunk trim. Before cleaning the body turn off the power (removing the fuse F10 in the block under the hood) and cover the connectors with masking tape.
How to remove old soundproofing without damaging the metal?

Use a combination of a heat gun (temperature 300–400°C) and a plastic spatula. Heat the area for 10-15 seconds, then gently pry up the edge. For bitumen residues, use solvent 646 (apply with a brush, then wipe with a rag). Do not use metal brushes - they will scratch the body!

Trunk noise insulation: materials and technology

Factory sound insulation Cefiro A33 leaves much to be desired - especially noticeable at speeds above 100 km/h, when road noise penetrates through the rear arch and boot floor. Proper sizing will reduce the noise level by 25–40 dB.

Recommended materials (layers from bottom to top):

  1. Vibration isolation (dampens resonant vibrations of the metal): SPLEN 4–8 mm or Bitoplast 5MM.
  2. Noise insulation (absorbs airborne noise): Accent 10 or Shumka Premium.
  3. Sealing (moisture protection): Madeleine or liquid rubber Body 951.

Work order:

  1. Stick vibration insulation onto trunk floor, rear arch And wheel arches. Cut the material with a margin of 2–3 cm, heat it with a hairdryer and roll it with a roller. B Cefiro A33 It is critical to glue the area under the spare wheel - this is where the metal is thinnest and resonates.
  2. Place a noise insulation layer on top of the vibration insulation. To save money you can use Visomat MP (budget analogue Accent).
  3. Treat joints and holes (for example, for wiring) Madelin or sealant Sikaflex-252.

Typical mistakes:

  • 🚫 Gluing only the floor without arches (noise insulation will be ineffective).
  • 🚫 Using cheap bitumen (it melts in the summer and peels off).
  • 🚫 Applying materials to dirty or rusty metal.
💡

To glue curved surfaces (for example, arches), cut the vibration insulation into small segments and stick them in a “herringbone” pattern - this way the material will lie better without bubbles.

Step-by-step instructions for lining the trunk

After preparing the body and soundproofing, you can begin installing the new skin. Let's look at the process using an example leatherette (the most popular option).

Required tools:

  • 🔪 Stationery knife and scissors.
  • 📏 Ruler and marker.
  • 🔥 Construction hair dryer (for softening leatherette).
  • 🧴Glue 88-NT or Cosmofen CA 12.
  • 🪛 Construction stapler (if the sheathing is on a frame).

Installation steps:

  1. Cut out the material. Use the old trim as a template or make a pattern using a template (you can download it for Cefiro A33 here). Don't forget about 1-2 cm allowances for hems.
  2. Applying glue. Cover the back side of the leatherette with glue 88-NT (in a thin layer), let dry for 5–7 minutes, then press onto the soundproofing. To be sure, roll with a roller.
  3. Forming corners. Heat the leatherette with a hairdryer (temperature 60–70°C) and carefully fold the edges. In hard-to-reach places (for example, near hinges), use a wooden spatula.
  4. Installation of fasteners. Drill holes for clips and screws (use original fasteners 90520-4M000 for Cefiro).
  5. Sheathing installation. Start by securing the top, then snap the clips around the perimeter. Check that the material is not stretched (this will lead to cracks).

If the casing is attached to a frame (for example, made of plywood or plastic), first assemble it and cover it with leatherette, securing it with a stapler. For Cefiro A33 frames are often used ABS plastic 4mm thick — it is light and does not rust.

💡

When covering with leatherette, avoid tension in the material - it must lie freely, otherwise folds or cracks will appear after the glue dries.

Typical problems and how to avoid them

Even with careful installation, owners Nissan Cefiro A33 encounter typical errors. Let's consider them and solutions:

Problem Reason How to avoid
The casing peels off after 1–2 months Poor quality glue or poor surface cleaning Use Cosmofen CA 12 and degrease the metal Antisilicon
Wrinkles appear on the leatherette Too much tension during installation Form the material at a temperature of 60–70°C and leave allowances of 1–2 cm
Soundproofing does not reduce noise Missing arches or wheel wells Tape all surfaces, including rear shelf (she resonates in the bass)
Clips break during installation Using old dried out clips Replace all clips with new ones (part number for Cefiro A33: 90520-4M000)

Another common problem is condensation under the casing. It occurs due to temperature differences and insufficient ventilation. Solution:

  • Drill 2-3 holes with a diameter of 5 mm in the bottom of the paneling (cover them with insect netting).
  • Use breathable materials (For example, Accent instead of bitumen).
  • Process metal anticorrosive with zinc (For example, Zincor).

Caring for new cladding: how to extend its service life

To trim the trunk Nissan Cefiro A33 lasted longer, follow simple care rules:

  • 🧼 Cleaning: For leatherette use Autoglym Interior Shampoo (diluted 1:10). Clean Alcantara with a dry brush or vacuum cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals (eg. Vanish corrodes the glue).
  • 🌡️ Temperature protection: In cold weather (-20°C and below), do not place heavy objects on the upholstery - the leatherette becomes fragile. In summer, cover the trunk with a light-colored cover to avoid fading.
  • 💧 Moisture protection: If water gets into the trunk (for example, from wet shoes), dry it with a hairdryer for 10–15 minutes. For Alcantara use water repellent spray (For example, Scotchgard).
  • 🔧 Checking the fasteners: Inspect the clips and screws every six months. If they are loose, tighten or replace.

To restore the appearance of leatherette, apply once a year. vinyl conditioner (For example, Sonax Vinyl Rubber Care). This will prevent cracking and restore shine. Alcantara can be refreshed with a steam generator (temperature 80–90°C).

⚠️ Attention: Do not use on upholstery solvents (acetone, white spirit) or abrasive sponges - they destroy the protective layer of the material and lead to fading.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to line the trunk? Cefiro A33 without removing the trim?

Technically yes, but this is fraught with problems: dirt and rust will remain under the old skin, and the new one will lie unevenly. In addition, without dismantling it is impossible to properly glue the sound insulation. If time is short, you can only sheathe prominent areas (for example, the back wall), but the effect will be temporary.

What glue is best for leatherette?

For Nissan Cefiro A33 optimal:

  • Cosmofen CA 12 - instant fixation, but requires care (the glue sets instantly).
  • 88-NT — universal, suitable for beginners (allows 5–7 minutes for adjustments).
  • Kleo Ultra Pro — elastic, does not turn yellow over time.

Do not use moment or PVA - they cannot withstand temperature changes in the trunk.

How much does it cost to have a trunk trim serviced?

Prices depend on material and region:

  • Leatherette + sound insulation: 12,000–18,000 ₽.
  • Alcantara with full preparation: 20,000–25,000 rubles.
  • Restoration of original velor: 8,000–12,000 ₽ (if donor cladding is found).

Self-installation will cost 3–5 times less (materials - ~5,000 ₽).

How to avoid squeaks after covering?

Creaks occur due to friction of the skin against metal or sound insulation. To prevent them:

  1. Tape all sheathing joints anti-squeak tape (For example, 3M 051135-08410).
  2. Use soft pads made of foam rubber (thickness 2–3 mm) between metal and sheathing.
  3. Secure the trim not only with clips, but also double-sided tape (For example, 3M VHB).
Can trim from other Nissan models be used?

Theoretically yes, but with reservations:

  • From Teana J31: The rear wall fits, but the trunk floor is narrower by 5–7 cm.
  • From Maxima A32: the shape is similar, but the fastenings do not match (you will have to drill new holes).
  • From Primera P11: Only partially (eg sidebars).

It's best to order trim frozen or use an original (used) one from a donor Cefiro A33.