<em>Nissan Almera Classic</em>CV joint: how to diagnose and replace it yourself

Nissan Almera Classic - a reliable car, but even its chassis parts wear out over time. One of the most vulnerable parts is constant velocity joint (CV joint), which transmits torque from the gearbox to the wheels. Wear of the CV joint is manifested by characteristic clicks when turning, vibration, and can even lead to complete wheel locking. In this article we will look at how to recognize the problem in time, choose high-quality spare parts and make the replacement yourself.

Feature Almera Classic (in bodies N16 And B10) lies in the design of the drive shafts: both internal and external CV joints are used here, with the external ones failing more often due to increased loads. If you notice a crunching sound when turning the steering wheel or jerking during acceleration, this is a reason to check the condition of the joints. Ignoring the problem can result in expensive transmission repairs or even an accident.

Signs of a CV joint malfunction on Nissan Almera Classic

The first and most obvious symptom is crunching or clicking noises when turning, especially when the car is fully loaded. The sound usually occurs when turning the steering wheel to the left or right and intensifies when driving on uneven roads. This is due to the fact that worn balls inside the CV joint begin to slip in the grooves, creating a characteristic noise.

Other signs to look out for:

• 🔧 Vibration on the steering wheel during acceleration or braking - indicates play in the outer CV joint.
• 🚗 Jerks when starting off from a standstill, especially if they are accompanied by a knock - wear of the internal hinge is possible.
• 💨 Lubricant leakage from under the boot - if the boot is torn, dirt and moisture will quickly destroy the CV joint.
• 🔄 Difficulty rotating the wheel when the suspension is suspended, it is a sign of critical wear.

On Almera Classic With mileage over 150,000 km, CV joints often wear out on both sides at the same time, but the outer joints are the first to suffer. If you ignore the crunching noise, over time it will develop into a constant grinding noise, and then into a wheel locking while driving. On models with automatic transmission, CV joint wear can be disguised as transmission malfunctions, so it is important to carry out diagnostics at the first symptoms.

⚠️ Attention: The crunching sound of a CV joint is often confused with a knocking sound from a strut or steering linkage. To accurately determine the source of the sound, try driving in a circle on a level surface with the steering wheel turned completely - if the crunching intensifies, the problem is in the CV joint.

What CV joints are on Nissan Almera Classic and their catalog numbers

On Almera Classic Two types of CV joints were installed depending on the year of manufacture and configuration:

• 🔹 External CV joints — transmit torque directly to the wheel hub. They wear out faster due to angular loads.
• 🔹 Inner CV joints - connect the gearbox to the drive shaft. They fail less often, but replacing them is more difficult.

Original spare parts from Nissan have the following articles:

CV joint type	Catalog number	Applicability	Average price, rub.
External (right/left)	39310-4M000	Almera Classic N16 (2006–2012)	4 500–6 000
Internal (right/left)	39300-4M000	Almera Classic N16 (2006–2012)	5 000–7 500
Outer CV joint boot	39380-4M000	All modifications	800–1 200
Drive Shaft Assembly Kit	39100-4M000	Left/right side	12 000–18 000

In addition to original parts, the market offers high-quality analogues from GKN (Loebro), SKF And Febi. For example, an external CV joint from GKN with article number DS1028 will cost 3,000–4,000 rubles and will last no less than the original. When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

• 🔍 Compliance with catalog number - even a small discrepancy can lead to incompatibility.
• 🛡️ Lubricant included - some manufacturers skimp on lubricant and have to buy it separately.
• 📦 Complete set — Ideally, the kit should include a boot, clamps and lubricant.

⚠️ Attention: On Almera Classic with engines 1.5 (QG15DE) And 1.8 (QG18DE) different drive shafts are used. Check compatibility by VIN code to avoid mistakes when purchasing.

CV joint diagnostics: how to check without disassembling

Before you start replacing, make sure that the problem is in the CV joint. Here are several diagnostic methods without removing parts:

1. On-the-go check:
   • 🚗 Accelerate to 20–30 km/h and sharply turn the steering wheel to the left, then to the right. A crunching sound when turning left indicates a malfunction right CV joint, and vice versa.
   • 🔊 Listen to the sound when driving in a straight line with a load (for example, uphill) - if there is a crunching noise without turning, the problem is internal CV joint.
2. Checking on a lift or pit:
   • 🔧 Jack up the car and spin the wheel manually. Play or binding is a sign of wear.
   • 👀 Inspect the anthers for cracks or grease leaks. If the boot is torn, the CV joint is already damaged.

For more accurate diagnosis, you can use wheel alignment stand. The technician will be able to measure the play in the hinges using special equipment. If the play exceeds 0.5 mm, the CV joint must be replaced.

Step-by-step replacement of the outer CV joint with Nissan Almera Classic

Replacing an outer CV joint is a task of average complexity that can be handled in a garage environment. You will need:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and keys (for 17, 19, 30).
• 🔨 Hammer and wooden spacer.
• 🔩 Puller for retaining rings and ball joints.
• 🧴 Lubricant for CV joints (for example, LIQUI MOLY LM47).
• 🛠️ Jack and stops.

Sequence of work:

1. Removing the wheel and disconnecting the hub:
   • Raise the car on a jack and remove the wheel.
   • Unscrew the hub nut (you will need a 30mm wrench and an extension).
   • Remove the ball joint from the steering knuckle using a puller.
2. Removing the drive shaft:
   • Remove the end of the shaft from the hub by pulling it towards you.
   • Remove the inner CV joint from the gearbox by carefully prying it off with a mounting blade.
3. Replacing the CV joint:
   • Remove the retaining ring from the shaft and tap the old CV joint with a hammer through the wooden spacer.
   • Install a new CV joint, first adding lubricant to it.
   • Secure it with a retaining ring and put on a new boot with clamps.

The hub nut is tightened to a torque of 220–250 Nm|

The boot is installed without distortion|

The boot clamps are tightened with special pliers|

The hinge is lubricated according to the manufacturer's instructions -->

After assembly, check the operation of the CV joint on the move: accelerate and make several turns. The crunch should disappear. If the sound remains, there are two possible reasons:

• 🔧 Insufficient lubrication inside the hinge.
• 🚗 The internal CV joint is damaged (additional diagnostics are required).

Replacing the internal CV joint: features and difficulties

Inner CV joint on Almera Classic changes less frequently, but the process is more difficult due to limited access. Main difficulties:

• 🔧 Removing the drive shaft from the gearbox — care is required so as not to damage the box seal.
• 🔨 Fixing the inner CV joint — it is secured with a locking ring, which is difficult to remove without a special puller.
• 🛠️ Risk of boot damage during dismantling, the internal boots often stick to the shaft.

Replacement algorithm:

1. Remove the drive shaft completely (as described in the previous section).
2. Clamp the shaft in a vice through soft spacers and remove the retaining ring.
3. Knock out the old CV joint with a hammer, then install the new one, after lubricating it.
4. Reinstall the shaft into the gearbox, making sure the splines are fully engaged.

Important nuance: when installing the inner CV joint Do not hit the shaft with a hammer - this can deform the splines. Use only a soft spacer or a special mandrel.

What happens if you don’t replace the inner CV joint on time?

With critical wear, the inner CV joint may fall apart inside the gearbox, which will lead to blocking of the drive shaft. In this case, it will be necessary not only to replace the CV joint, but also to repair the gearbox (replacement of oil seals, bearings), as well as cleaning the gearbox housing from metal shavings. The cost of such repairs can exceed 30,000 rubles.

Choosing a lubricant for a CV joint: what to use Almera Classic

The life of the CV joint depends on the quality of the lubricant. On Nissan Almera Classic the manufacturer recommends using lubricants based on molybdenum disulfide or lithium complex. They withstand high loads and prevent corrosion.

Best options:

• 🧴 LIQUI MOLY LM47 — universal lubricant for CV joints with high heat resistance.
• 🧴 Molykote BR2 Plus — contains molybdenum disulfide, recommended for severe operating conditions.
• 🧴 Castrol Optitemp LTS 2 — suitable for internal and external CV joints.

What not to use:

• ❌ Normal Litol-24 - does not withstand high temperatures and is quickly washed out.
• ❌ Graphite lubricants do not provide sufficient protection against wear.
• ❌ Lubricants with copper additives can cause corrosion of the balls.

When replacing the CV joint, apply lubricant evenly, filling all grooves and balls with it. Excess lubricant is not critical - the excess will be squeezed out when installing the boot. The main thing is that there are no voids left inside the hinge.

How much does it cost to replace a CV joint? Nissan Almera Classic in service

The cost of work depends on the type of CV joint and region. The average prices in Russia are:

Type of work	Cost, rub.	Lead time
Replacement of outer CV joint (one side)	2 500–4 000	1–1.5 hours
Replacing the inner CV joint (one side)	3 500–5 000	2–2.5 hours
Replacing the drive shaft assembly	5 000–7 000	2.5–3 hours
Chassis diagnostics (comprehensive)	1 000–1 500	30–40 minutes

The total cost of repairs consists of the price of spare parts and labor. For example, replacing both external CV joints with original parts will cost 15,000–20,000 rubles, and with analogues - 8,000–12,000 rubles. The service can also offer:

• 🔧 Free diagnostics when ordering repairs.
• 🔨 Work guarantee (usually 6–12 months).
• 🛠️ Discount on spare parts for complex chassis repairs.

If you decide to change CV joints yourself, keep in mind that saving on work may result in additional costs. For example, incorrect installation of the boot will lead to its rapid wear and repeated repair.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about CV joints on Nissan Almera Classic

Is it possible to drive with a crisp CV joint?

Short term - yes, but not worth the risk. The crunching noise means that the balls inside the joint are already worn out, and at any moment the CV joint can jam. It is especially dangerous to drive with a faulty internal CV joint - its destruction can damage the gearbox.

How often do you need to check the condition of CV joints?

It is recommended to inspect the boots every 20,000 km or before the winter season. If the boot is torn, the CV joint will fail within 500–1,000 km. If there is no external damage, it is enough to check the hinges when a crunch or vibration appears.

What is the difference between CV joints on Almera Classic with automatic and manual transmission?

Structurally - nothing. The only difference is the length of the drive shafts (on automatic transmissions they are shorter due to a different layout). However, on vehicles with Automatic transmission CV joints wear out faster due to smoother transmission of torque, which increases the load on the joints.

Is it possible to restore the CV joint or just replace it?

Restoration is possible only at an early stage of wear (for example, replacing the lubricant and boot). If the balls or cage are worn out, the hinge must only be replaced. Attempts to “repair” a worn CV joint by welding or spraying lead to its rapid destruction.

What tools are needed to replace a CV joint at home?

Minimum set: a jack, wrenches 17, 19, 30, a puller for retaining rings, a hammer with a wooden spacer, a mounting spade and a torque wrench (for tightening the hub nut). A vise is also useful for fixing the shaft when replacing the inner CV joint.