<em>Kayaba</em> struts for <em>Nissan Almera Classic</em>: complete selection and installation guide

Nissan Almera Classic (also known as Nissan Almera N16 in some markets) remains a popular choice among budget sedan owners due to its reliability and unpretentiousness. However, over time, even the most durable components require replacement - and shock absorbers are no exception. Japanese racks Kayaba (or KYB) are considered one of the best analogues of original spare parts, but their selection and installation have nuances that you should know about in advance.

In this article we will look at exactly which rack models Kayaba suitable for Almera Classic (including restyled versions), how to distinguish a fake from the original, and why even high-quality shock absorbers can “die” after 20 thousand km if used incorrectly. And also - step-by-step replacement instructions with photos and videos, a comparative table of analogues and answers to frequently asked questions from owners.

Which Kayaba struts are suitable for Nissan Almera Classic?

The first thing you need to understand: Nissan Almera Classic (in the back B10 or N16, depending on the year of manufacture) was equipped with different types of suspension. Always used for the front axle MacPherson struts, and for the rear - either classic shock absorbers with springs (for sedans) or struts (for hatchbacks). Kayaba offers solutions for both options, but it is important to consider year of manufacture And complete set car.

For most versions Almera Classic (2006–2012) the following rack models will fit KYB:

• 🔧 Front struts: KYB 334303 (Excel-G) or KYB 334304 (Ultra SR) - for versions with engines 1.5 And 1.6.
• 🔧 Rear shock absorbers: KYB 344277 (Excel-G) - for sedans with multi-link suspension.
• ⚠️ For restyling 2010+: racks with modified fastenings may be required - check by VIN.

Separately, it is worth noting the line KYB Excel-G - this is gas oil struts with improved characteristics compared to standard hydraulic ones. They are suitable for everyday use and provide more precise handling. But Ultra SR - this is already sports version with increased rigidity, which should be chosen only when tuning the suspension.

Kayaba vs original: which is better for Almera Classic?

Many owners Almera Classic wondering: is it worth overpaying for original racks? Nissan, if Kayaba 30–40% cheaper? Let's compare the key parameters:

Parameter	Original Nissan struts	Kayaba Excel-G	Kayaba Ultra SR
Service life (thousand km)	80–100	70–90	60–80 (less when driving aggressively)
Hardness	Average	Medium (+10% to the original)	Increased (+30%)
Price per set (front + rear), rub.	22 000–28 000	14 000–18 000	18 000–22 000
Warranty	1 year (at dealers)	2 years (for official partners)	1 year

Critical note: Kayaba Ultra SR struts are not compatible with factory Almera Classic springs due to differences in damping. Installing them without replacing the springs with stiffer ones will lead to accelerated wear of the silent blocks.

According to owner reviews, Excel-G They are practically not inferior to the original in terms of comfort, but are superior in price. But Ultra SR It’s worth taking only if you plan to completely upgrade the suspension - otherwise you risk getting “reinforced concrete” handling on uneven roads.

How to distinguish original Kayaba stands from fake ones?

Fake shock absorbers Kayaba - one of the most common problems in the aftermarket for Nissan. Counterfeit goods are often passed off as originals using similar packaging and labeling. Here are the key signs to look out for:

• 📦 Packaging: original racks KYB are supplied in boxes with a holographic sticker and a barcode, which can be checked on the manufacturer’s website.
• 🔍 Markings on the body: stamped on the original racks KYB, article number and production date laser (not paint!). Counterfeits often have blurred or stenciled lettering.
• 🛠️ Quality of welds: The counterfeit seams are rough, with metal deposits. The original ones are smooth and neat.
• 💰 Price: if stand Kayaba costs less than 3,500 rubles. per piece - this is 100% fake. Even with official distributors, the minimum price starts from 4,200 rubles.

Another way to check is weight. Original stand Kayaba Excel-G for front axle Almera Classic weighs about 3.8 kg. Counterfeits are usually 200–300 grams lighter due to the use of thinner metal.

⚠️ Attention: Fake racks Kayaba they often “die” after 10–15 thousand km, losing their tightness. At the same time, they may not flow externally, but inside the oil turns into an emulsion, and the shock absorber stops working.

How to check the authenticity of a stand using a barcode?

On the official KYB website there is a “Check Authenticity” section where you can enter the code from the box. If the system does not find the number, this is a fake. Also pay attention to the country of origin: original racks for Almera Classic are produced only in Japan or Thailand (KYB factories).

Step-by-step instructions for replacing Kayaba struts with Almera Classic

Replacing the front struts with Nissan Almera Classic - a task of medium complexity that requires a minimum set of tools and an inspection hole (or a lift). Rear shock absorbers are easier to change, but there are some nuances with the fastenings. Below are step-by-step instructions for the front axle.

Required tools:

• 🔧 A set of sockets and keys (required) 17 mm, 19 mm, 21 mm).
• 🔧 Puller for springs (or couplers).
• 🔧 Torque wrench (for proper tightening).
• 🔧 WD-40 or a similar composition for unscrewing stuck nuts.

Work order:

1. Unscrew the shock absorber rod nut (you will need to hold the rod with a wrench 6 mm to avoid turning).
2. Disconnect the brake hose from the bracket on the rack.
3. Unscrew the two bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle (useful here WD-40, since bolts often stick).
4. Remove the three nuts securing the strut to the body (in the engine compartment).
5. Remove the strut, tighten the springs and transfer all the elements (bump stop, boot, spring) to the new strut Kayaba.
6. Install the new rack in the reverse order, observing the tightening torques:
   • Rod nut - 40–50 Nm.
   • Bolts for fastening to the knuckle - 80–100 Nm.
   • Top fastening nuts - 20–25 Nm.

⚠️ Attention: After replacing the racks necessarily perform a wheel alignment. Even if you installed the racks the same length as the original ones, the wheel alignment angles may have changed due to wear on the bushings or arms.

Common mistakes when replacing racks and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when installing new racks Kayaba on Almera Classic. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

• 🔩 Loose nuts: If the tightening torques are not observed, the strut may play, which will lead to knocking and uneven wear. Always use a torque wrench!
• 🔄 Confused springs: on Almera Classic the right and left springs may differ in the number of turns. Make sure to place them on the same sides as they were.
• 🛑 Ignoring bump stops: Many people forget to replace old rubber bumpers, which lose elasticity over time. This leads to metallic knocks when driving over bumps.
• 🔧 Boot damage: When installing a new strut, it is easy to tear the boot with the sharp edges of the spring. Before assembly, check its integrity.

Another typical problem is improper bleeding of racks before installation. Shock absorbers Kayaba are supplied in a “compressed” state, and if they are not pumped, they can fail after a few hundred kilometers. Here's how to do it right:

1. Turn the stand over with the rod down and compress it until it stops.
2. Hold in a compressed position for 2-3 seconds, then turn the stem up.
3. Repeat the procedure 3-4 times until the rod moves smoothly.
4. After bleeding, the rack should remain in a “stretched” state until installation.

If after the replacement you notice that the car began to “feel” in corners or a roll appeared, most likely the struts were installed without bleeding or in violation of the technology.

Owner reviews: pros and cons of Kayaba racks on Almera Classic

To form an objective opinion about the racks Kayaba, we analyzed owner reviews Nissan Almera Classic on forums and social networks. Here are the key takeaways:

Pros:

• ✅ Durability: when the rack is installed and used correctly Excel-G serve 60–80 thousand km without loss of characteristics.
• ✅ Improved handling: compared to the original Kayaba Gives clearer feedback on the steering wheel.
• ✅ Price/quality: 30–40% cheaper than the original, but practically no worse in reliability.
• ✅ Availability: unlike original racks Nissan, which are often in short supply, Kayaba Available from most retailers.

Cons:

• ❌ Hardness: some owners note that Excel-G a little stiffer than the original, especially on bad roads.
• ❌ Fakes: the risk of running into counterfeit goods remains high, especially when purchasing from unverified sellers.
• ❌ Noisiness: in the first 500 km after replacement, extraneous sounds (creaks, knocks) may appear, which usually disappear after break-in.

Interesting fact: on the forum nissan-club.ru conducted a survey among owners Almera Classic, and 68% of respondents who installed Kayaba Excel-G, noted an improvement in comfort compared to worn-out original struts. However, only 12% complained of excessive rigidity.

Alternatives to Kayaba: what other racks can be installed on Almera Classic?

If for some reason the racks Kayaba are not suitable for you (for example, you are not satisfied with the price or rigidity), consider alternative options. The main thing is to choose shock absorbers that are certified for Nissan Almera Classic and have positive reviews.

Brand	Model (item)	Type	Average price, rub.	Features
Monroe	MONROE G4486	Gas-oil	12 000–15 000	Softer Kayaba, but less durable (resource ~50 thousand km).
Sachs	SACHS 315 188	Gas	16 000–19 000	High reliability, but more expensive. Suitable for aggressive driving.
Boge	BOGE 10-050638	Hydraulic	10 000–13 000	Budget option, but worse road holding at high speeds.
TRW	TRW JGM1022	Gas-oil	14 000–17 000	Good price/quality balance, but harder to find on sale.

If you choose between Kayaba And Sachs, consider your driving style:

- Better suited for quiet urban use Kayaba Excel-G.

- Worth considering for track and dynamic driving Sachs or KYB Ultra SR (but with replacement of springs).

But from cheap analogues (for example, Fenox or Pilenga) it’s better to refuse - they rarely last more than 30 thousand km and often leak within a year.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Kayaba struts on Nissan Almera Classic

Is it possible to install Kayaba struts only on the front axle and leave the rear ones as original?

Technically possible, but not recommended. Different stiffness of shock absorbers on the axles will lead to an imbalance in control: the car may “scour” along the road or brake unevenly. If the budget is limited, it is better to change the front axle first, and after 10-15 thousand km - the rear.

How long does it take to replace struts on Almera Classic?

If you have tools and an inspection hole, replacing the front struts will take 2–3 hours (for a beginner) or 1–1.5 hours (for an experienced master). Rear shock absorbers change faster - approx. 40–60 minutes on both sides.

Do I need to change the support bearings along with the struts?

Yes, necessarily. The support bearings wear out at about the same rate as the struts. If you leave the old ones, they will start knocking 5–10 thousand km after replacing the shock absorbers. Cost of new bearings for Almera Classic - about 1,500–2,000 rubles. per set.

Why did the car become lower after replacing the Kayaba struts?

This is normal if you have installed racks Excel-G or Ultra SR. They have a slightly shorter free length compared to the original (by 5–10 mm), which leads to slight sagging of the body. If the subsidence is more than 2 cm, check the integrity of the springs.

Is it possible to restore old racks instead of buying new Kayaba?

Theoretically it is possible, but inappropriate. Restoring one rack costs 3,000–4,000 rubles, and a new one Kayaba costs from 4,500 rubles. At the same time, restored shock absorbers serve 2–3 times less than new ones. The exception is collectible or rare models, where original spare parts are difficult to find.