Nissan Almera Classic (also known as Nissan Sunny B10 in some markets) is a reliable front-wheel drive sedan, but even its transmission components wear out over time. One of the most vulnerable elements is internal CV joint (constant velocity joint), which operates under extreme conditions: constant loads, dirt, lack of lubrication. If you hear a characteristic crunching sound when turning or accelerating, most likely this is the problem.

Unlike outer CV joint, the internal hinge breaks less often, but replacing it requires more time and tools. In this article we will look at how accurately diagnose the malfunction of the internal CV joint on Almera Classic 2006–2012 without disassembly, which spare parts to choose (original vs analogues), and how to replace them yourself - taking into account the nuances of the design of this car.

Signs of a malfunctioning internal CV joint on Nissan Almera Classic

Inner CV joint on Almera Classic (models with engines 1.5 And 1.6) begins to “signal” about problems long before complete failure. The main thing is not to confuse its symptoms with suspension or gearbox faults. Look out for the following signs:

  • 🔊 Crunching or clicking noise when driving in a straight line with a load (for example, during sudden acceleration). Unlike the outer CV joint, the sound of the inner joint is often heard even when driving on a flat road.
  • 🌀 Vibration on the body at a speed of 60–90 km/h, which disappears when braking the engine. This is due to play in the hinge.
  • 🚗 Jerks when starting off, especially if the car is parked on a slope. In this case, the inner CV joint “bites” due to wear of the balls.
  • 💧 Lubricant leaks on the inside of the boot (visible when viewed from the gearbox). If the boot is torn, the CV joint will wear out 2-3 times faster.

Important: on Almera Classic with an automatic transmission, the crunching of the CV joint can be confused with a malfunction torque converter. To eliminate the error, check whether the sound changes when switching to neutral while driving (if yes, the problem is in the transmission, if not, in the CV joint).

⚠️ Attention: If you ignore the crunching sound of the inner CV joint, it can completely collapse, and its debris can damage the transmission. On Almera Classic with a manual transmission, this risks jamming the input shaft, which will lead to expensive repairs.

The design of the inner CV joint: how does it differ from the outer one?

Inner CV joint on Nissan Almera Classic (original article number - 39310-4M000 or 39310-4M001 depending on the year) has three key features:

  1. Tripoid design. Unlike the outer CV joint (ball type), the inner joint is equipped with three rollers on bearings that move along grooves. This allows the axial movements of the drive to be compensated.
  2. Greater resource. With a working boot, the inner CV joint lasts 150–200 thousand km, while the outer one lasts 80–120 thousand km.
  3. Difficulty of diagnosis. Due to its location next to the gearbox, its condition is more difficult to assess without removal.

On Almera Classic the inner CV joint is attached to gearbox differential through a splined connection, and on the other side it is connected to the wheel drive shaft. If the hinge is worn out, play appears in this unit, which causes vibrations.

📊 How often do you check the condition of the CV joints on your car?
  • Every 20 thousand km
  • Only when a crunch appears
  • Never checked
  • I replace it according to the regulations (every 100 thousand km)

How to choose an internal CV joint for Nissan Almera Classic: original vs analogues

When purchasing an internal CV joint for Almera Classic (body B10) it is important to consider not only the brand, but also spline type. Original articles:

Manufacturer Article Notes Average price, ₽
Nissan (original) 39310-4M000 For 2006–2008 models. 5 500–7 000
Nissan (original) 39310-4M001 For 2009–2012 models. (reinforced structure) 6 000–7 500
GKN (Lobro) ADG02633 High-quality analogue, delivered to the conveyor Renault-Nissan 4 200–5 000
SKF VKJA 7603 Good price/quality ratio, but there are fakes 3 800–4 500
Febi 28206 Budget option, resource 20–30% lower than the original 3 000–3 700

Advice: check when purchasing number of teeth on the spline - on Almera Classic there should be them 24 (some analogues have 22 or 26, which is not suitable!). Also pay attention to the package: a good set should include a new one retaining ring and lubricant.

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If you buy a non-original CV joint, be sure to check the sealing ring on the shaft - with cheap analogues it is often too thin, which leads to oil leaks from the gearbox.

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

Replacing the inner CV joint with Almera Classic requires removal of the drive shaft. To work you will need:

  • 🔧 A set of heads (especially on 17, 19 And 32).
  • 🔨 Hammer and punch made of soft metal.
  • 🔑 Snap ring remover and pliers.
  • 🧴 Lubricant for CV joints (for example, Molykote BR2 Plus).
  • 🚗 Jack and stops (or lift).

Replacement algorithm:

  1. Removing the wheel and disconnecting the hub.
    • Raise the car, remove the wheel and unscrew the hub nut (tightening torque - 220–250 Nm).
    • Disconnect the ball joint and steering knuckle from the steering knuckle.
  2. Removing the drive shaft.
    • Press the shaft out of the hub (you will need a puller or careful blows with a hammer through a wooden spacer).
    • Remove the gearbox boot and pull the shaft out of the box, after prying it up with a pry bar.
  3. Replacing the CV joint.
    • Remove the retaining ring from the shaft and knock out the old CV joint with a hammer.
    • Install the new hinge, having first coated the splines with lubricant. The retaining ring should click.

Is the hub nut tightened (torque 220–250 Nm)|

Integrity of boot and clamps|

Availability of lubricant in the CV joint (at least 80–100 g)|

No play in the hinge (rock the shaft by hand) -->

Critical moment: when installing the shaft back into the gearbox do not allow distortions - this can damage the differential seal. If oil leaks appear after assembly, the oil seal will have to be replaced (part number - 38342-4M000).

⚠️ Attention: On Almera Classic with an automatic transmission, when replacing the internal CV joint, be sure to check the oil level in the box - if you remove the shaft carelessly, you can lose up to 100–150 ml of fluid.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when working with the internal CV joint on Nissan Almera Classic. Here are the most common:

  • 🔧 Using unsuitable lubricant. Cannot be used Litol or Solid oil - they cannot withstand high temperatures. Only specialized lubricants for CV joints (for example, Castrol LMX).
  • 🔨 Damage to boot during installation. If you tighten the clamps too tight, the rubber will crack. Optimal effort - 1.5–2 kg on a torque wrench.
  • 🚗 Incorrect installation of the retaining ring. If it does not fit into the groove completely, the CV joint will eventually fly off the shaft.
  • 🔑 Ignoring backlash check. After replacement, you need to rock the shaft by hand - if the play remains, the problem is in the gearbox differential.

Pay special attention hub nut tightening torque. On Almera Classic it is strictly regulated: 220–250 Nm. If you overtighten, the hub bearing will fail after 5–10 thousand km. If you don't tighten it enough, the nut will unscrew, which will lead to an accident.

What to do if vibration remains after replacement?

If vibration does not disappear at speeds of 60–80 km/h, check:

1. **Balancing the wheel** - even a new CV joint will not eliminate the imbalance.

2. **Condition of the engine mounts** - worn mounts transmit vibration to the body.

3. **Play in the ball joint** - this can simulate the symptoms of a faulty CV joint.

4. **Correct shaft installation** - if it is twisted, vibration will appear again.

Cost of service replacement vs self-repair

The price of replacing the inner CV joint with Nissan Almera Classic in service depends on the region and type of service station:

Service type Cost of work, ₽ Lead time Warranty
Official dealer Nissan 8 000–12 000 3–4 hours 12 months
Specialized car service 4 500–6 000 2–3 hours 6 months
Garage craftsmen 3 000–4 500 2–5 hours No or 1 month
Self-replacement 0 (spare parts only) 4–6 hours —

The savings when doing the repair yourself are obvious, but keep in mind: without experience, removing/installing the drive shaft can take up to 6 hours. In addition, you will need a special tool (for example, a circlip puller), which is not always available in the garage.

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If you have never worked with CV joints, it is better to entrust the replacement to professionals - installation errors can lead to damage to the gearbox, and its repair will cost 30-50 thousand rubles.

Prevention: how to extend the life of the internal CV joint

Resource of internal CV joint for Nissan Almera Classic directly depends on operating conditions. To avoid premature wear:

  • 🚗 Check the anthers every 15–20 thousand km. Even a small crack will lead to dirt getting in and the CV joint failing.
  • 💨 Avoid abrupt starts with the wheels turned out - this creates maximum load on the hinge.
  • 🛢️ Use high-quality gearbox oil. On Almera Classic with manual transmission recommended Nissan MT-XZ 75W-80, with automatic transmission - Nissan Matic S.
  • 🔧 Lubricate the CV joint every time it is removed. (for example, when replacing brake pads). It is enough to add 20–30 g of fresh lubricant.

If the car is often driven off-road or in high humidity conditions, reduce the boot check interval to 10 thousand km. Sand and salt quickly destroy rubber, and repairs will cost more than prevention.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the inner CV joint Nissan Almera Classic

Is it possible to drive with a crisp inner CV joint?

Short-term (1-2 weeks) - yes, but only if the crunching occurs rarely. If the sound is constant or accompanied by vibration, the CV joint may fail at any time, resulting in loss of control. On Almera Classic With an automatic transmission this is especially dangerous, as debris can damage the torque converter.

How to distinguish a faulty internal CV joint from an external one?

The inner CV joint crunches when moving in a straight line (especially under load), and external - when corners. Also, the inner joint often gives out vibrations on the body, and the outer joint often produces clicks when the steering wheel is turned to the maximum.

Do I need to change the boot when replacing the CV joint?

Definitely! Even if the old boot is intact, the rubber loses its elasticity over time. New boot (article - 39370-4M000) costs only 500–800 ₽, but prevents premature wear of the hinge.

Is it possible to restore the internal CV joint (for example, replace the balls)? summary>

Theoretically yes, but in practice it is impractical. The cost of the repair kit (balls, separator) is comparable to the price of a new CV joint, and the service life of the repaired joint will be 2-3 times lower. The exception is rare models for which new spare parts are no longer produced.

Which lubricant is best for CV joints? Almera Classic?

Optimal options:

  • Molykote BR2 Plus — original lubricant for CV joints Nissan.
  • Castrol LMX — universal lithium grease with molybdenum.
  • Liqui Moly LM 47 - Suitable for extreme loads.
Do not use graphite or copper lubricants - they are not intended for CV joints.