Removing an automatic transmission on a Nissan Almera: a complete guide with nuances for different generations

Removing the automatic transmission (Automatic transmission) on Nissan Almera - a task that requires not only technical training, but also knowledge of the design features of a particular model. If you are planning a major overhaul, replacing the clutch (in CVTs) or diagnosing faults, dismantling the box is inevitable. In this article we will analyze the process for all generations Almera (from N16 2000s before G15 2019+), paying attention key differences between 4-speed torque converter automatic transmissions (RE4F03B) and variators (JF011E/JF016E).

The peculiarity of the procedure is that Almera The box is integrated with the engine and is attached to it via a bellhousing, and is also connected to the suspension and drive shafts. On models with CVT JF016E (installed on Almera G15 after 2016) a special fluid must be drained NS-3 and fixing the timing chain before dismantling, otherwise the risk of damage to the valves is 80%. We will analyze each stage in detail - from preparing tools to final assembly, and also provide spare parts compatibility table And list of common mistakeswhich lead to expensive repairs.

Preparing to remove the automatic transmission: tools and conditions

Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have everything you need. The job requires not only a standard set of keys, but also specialized tools. Here's the full list:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and socket wrenches (required) 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 17 mm And 19 mm)
• 🔨 Jack and supports (minimum load capacity - 2 tons)
• 🛠️ Puller for axle shafts (for Almera N16 fits KUKKO 204-2)
• 🧰 Torque wrench (for tightening the bell bolts to a torque 40–50 Nm)
• 🔩 Special key for automatic transmission drain plug (on CVTs - hexagon 10 mm)
• 📦 Container for draining oil (volume of at least 8 liters)
• 🧴Sealant Loctite 574 (for processing bell joints)
• 🔋 Multimeter (to check sensors after removal)

Important: if you are working with Almera G15 (2013–2019), where a CVT is installed JF016E, you will additionally need a timing chain retainer (Nissan 11990-4M100). Without it, turning the crankshaft after removing the box is strictly prohibited - this will lead to the pistons colliding with the valves.

⚠️ Attention: On models with engine HR16DE (1.6 l) before removing the automatic transmission, you must disconnect the negative terminal of the battery and remove the starter. Otherwise, the risk of a short circuit when dismantling the wiring is 60%.

Also prepare your workspace:

• 🚗 The car must be on a flat surface (preferably on a lift or inspection hole).
• 🔥 Stock up on rags and solvent (WD-40) for cleaning threaded connections.
• 📸 Take a photo of the location of all connectors and tubes - this will simplify reassembly.

Draining Oil and Disconnecting Components

The first stage is draining the transmission fluid. On Almera N16 with RE4F03B the drain plug is located on the box tray (key 17 mm), and on CVTs G15 - on the side of the crankcase (hexagon 10 mm). Draining process:

1. Warm up the box to operating temperature (drive 5–10 km).
2. Place the container and unscrew the cap. Fluid on CVTs NS-3 It drains slowly - don’t rush the process.
3. After draining, remove the pan (on RE4F03B — 14 bolts 10 mm) and clean the magnets from metal shavings.

Next, disconnect:

• 🔌 Connectors for speed sensors and selector (on Almera G15 they are located on top of the box).
• 🔗 Selector cable (the lock is removed by pressing the plastic latch).
• 🚿 Automatic transmission cooling hoses (pre-clamp them to avoid fluid leakage).
• 🔧 Bracket for fastening the box to the body (4 bolts 14 mm).

⚠️ Attention: On CVTs JF016E After disconnecting the connectors, it is necessary to close the contacts of the selector position sensor (pin 1 and 3), otherwise the engine ECU will put it into emergency mode. Use a jumper wire with a cross section of 0.5 mm².

At this stage also remove the starter (3 bolts 12 mm) and disconnect the drive shafts. For Almera N16 You will need an axle shaft puller, since the spline joint often sticks.

Removing the box: step-by-step instructions

Now we move on to the most important stage - removing the box from the engine. The process is different for different generations Almera:

For Nissan Almera N16 (2000–2006, automatic transmission RE4F03B)

1. Unscrew the bolts securing the box to the engine (6 bolts 14 mm and 2 bolts 17 mm at the bottom).
2. Remove the engine mount (hydra) - it interferes with moving the box forward.
3. Carefully pry the box away from the engine, using a pry bar to separate the bellhousing.
4. Remove the input shaft from the clutch and remove the box (weight ~50 kg, an assistant will be required).

For Nissan Almera G15 (2013–2019, CVT JF016E)

1. Secure the timing chain with a special clamp (Nissan 11990-4M100).
2. Unscrew the bell bolts in a criss-cross sequence (the tightening torque during assembly is 45 Nm).
3. Remove the torque converter (it remains on the gearbox shaft) and check the condition of its bearing.
4. Move the box forward, avoiding distortions - the variator is sensitive to mechanical loads.

General recommendations for all models:

• 🔧 Do not drop the box - even a small impact can damage the hydraulic unit.
• 📏 Check the gap between the bell and the engine after removal - if it is less than 5 mm, the flywheel may be damaged.
• 🔍 Inspect the splines of the input shaft for the presence of scuffs (especially important for variators).

Is the battery disconnected?|Has the oil been drained from the automatic transmission?|Is the timing chain locked (for CVTs)?|Are all connectors and tubes disconnected?|Is there a helper to remove the box?-->

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced technicians make mistakes when removing an automatic transmission. Nissan Almera. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Failure to comply with the tightening torque of the bell bolts	Oil leaks, vibrations, damaged threads	Use a torque wrench (40–50 Nm)
Lack of timing chain retainer on CVTs	Impact of pistons with valves, engine overhaul	Always use Nissan 11990-4M100
Turning the box over after removal	Oil leaking from the torque converter, air entering the system	Store the box only in an upright position
Using the wrong fluid when refilling	Variator slipping, belt wear	For JF016E - only NS-3, for RE4F03B — Matic-S

Another critical mistake is ignoring the torque converter check. On Almera N16 its bearing often wears out, resulting in vibrations at speeds of 80–100 km/h. Before installing a new box, be sure to:

• 🔄 Turn the torque converter manually - it should rotate without jamming.
• 🔍 Check the shaft play (no more than 0.5 mm is acceptable).
• 🛠️ If necessary, replace the oil seal (Nissan 31397-31X01).

What happens if you don't drain the oil before removing it?

When dismantling the box without draining the oil, the liquid will spill onto the floor and may also get on the clutch or flywheel, which will lead to slipping. In addition, in CVTs JF016E Residual oil in the valve body can cause corrosion of the contacts if the box is stored for a long time without sealing.

Features for different engines

The process of removing an automatic transmission varies depending on the type of engine installed in your Almera. Let's look at the key differences:

Engine GA16DE (1.6 l, Almera N16)

On these models the box RE4F03B Attached to the engine via an aluminum bellhousing with 8 bolts. Features:

• 🔧 The bell bolts have different lengths - remember their location.
• 🔗 The drive shafts are removed along with the CV joints (the struts must be disconnected).
• 🛠️ After removal, check the condition of the flywheel - for GA16DE it is often deformed.

Engine HR16DE (1.6 l, Almera G15)

A variator is used here JF016E, and the process is complicated by the need to fix the timing belt. Additional nuances:

• 🔧 The box mounting bracket is integrated with the engine mount - remove them together.
• 🔌 The speed sensor connector is located under the thermostat - access to it is difficult.
• 🛠️ Before installing a new box, update the ECU firmware (relevant for 2017+ models).

Engine K4M (1.6 l, Almera Classic)

These cars (often found in taxis) use the same RE4F03B, but with a reinforced bell. Please note:

• 🔧 Bell bolts have a tightening torque 55 Nm (10% more than GA16DE).
• 🔗 The drive shafts are fixed with retaining rings - they are easy to lose when removed.

Box installation and first check

Assembly is carried out in reverse order, but there are several critical points:

1. Before installation, clean the mating surfaces of the bell and engine from old sealant.
2. Apply new sealant (Loctite 574) in a thin layer (thickness no more than 0.5 mm).
3. Tighten the bellhousing bolts in 3 stages: first by hand, then with torque 20 Nm,finally up to 45 Nm.
4. After installing the box, adjust the selector cable (to Almera N16 adjustment is carried out using a nut on the bracket).

First engine start after installation:

• 🔑 Start the engine and let it idle for 3-5 minutes.
• 🔄 Check all gears (including reverse) for smooth shifting.
• 💧 Monitor the oil level - if necessary, add through the dipstick (on variators there is no dipstick, the level is checked through the control hole).

⚠️ Attention: On CVTs JF016E After changing the oil, an adaptation procedure is required. To do this you need:

1. Reset errors via Consult-III or Launch X431.
2. Drive 20–30 km in gentle mode (without sudden acceleration).

Cost of work and spare parts

If you decide to entrust automatic transmission removal to professionals, the cost of work varies depending on the region and type of transmission:

Type of work	4-speed automatic transmission (RE4F03B)	CVT (JF016E)
Removing/installing the box	8 000 – 12 000 ₽	12 000 – 18 000 ₽
Changing oil with filters	3 500 – 5 000 ₽	5 000 – 8 000 ₽
Troubleshooting	2 000 – 3 500 ₽	3 500 – 6 000 ₽
Replacing the torque converter	15 000 – 25 000 ₽	20 000 – 35 000 ₽

Cost of spare parts (original vs analogues):

• 🔧 Automatic transmission filter: original Nissan 31726-31X00 (2 500 ₽) vs JS Asakashi (1 200 ₽).
• 🛢️ Oil NS-3 (4 l): original (4,800 ₽) vs Idemitsu (3 200 ₽).
• 🔄 Torque converter bearing: original Nissan 31397-31X01 (3 800 ₽) vs Koyo (2 100 ₽).

Tip: when buying a used box, be sure to check it by VIN code. On Almera G15 variators JF016E have 3 modifications that are not interchangeable according to the ECU firmware.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing an automatic transmission on a Nissan Almera

Is it possible to remove the box without a pit or lift?

Technically possible, but extremely inconvenient. You will need a jack with a high lift (minimum 50 cm) and reliable supports. The main difficulty is access to the upper bell bolts and sensor connectors. In practice, without a pit, the work will take 2–3 times longer.

What should I do if, after removing the box, metal particles are found in the pallet?

This is a sign of wear on the clutches (for RE4F03B) or variator belt (JF016E). In the first case, you will need to disassemble the box and replace the bags; in the second, you will need to replace the belt and cones (set Nissan 31727-4M000, cost ~45,000 ₽). If the particles are large (more than 1 mm), the box is easier to replace.

How to check that the box has been removed correctly and is not damaged?

After dismantling:

1. Spin the input shaft - it should rotate smoothly, without jamming.
2. Check the shaft play (up to 0.3 mm is acceptable for RE4F03B and up to 0.1 mm for variators).
3. Inspect the splines for burrs.
4. Check the integrity of the sensor wiring.

If at least one of the points does not meet the standard, the box must be repaired before installation.

How much oil should I fill after installing a new box?

Volumes depend on the type of box:

• RE4F03B: 7.2 l (including torque converter).
• JF011E: 6.8 l.
• JF016E: 7.5 l (requires double replacement with flushing).

On CVTs, the level is checked at operating temperature (60°C) through the control hole. Overfilling is just as harmful as underfilling!

Is it possible to drive with a faulty automatic transmission before repair?

Depends on symptoms:

• ✅ Jerking when switching (on RE4F03B) - you can drive, but not more than 500 km.
• ⚠️ Burning smell from oil - stop urgently, this is a sign of overheating of the clutches.
• ❌ Sharp impacts or lack of forward/backward movement - operation is prohibited, a tow truck is required.

On CVTs JF016E even minor jerks during acceleration are a reason for immediate diagnosis. These boxes do not tolerate overheating!