Owners Nissan Almera new generation (body code G15), produced since 2012, often face the problem of wear of suspension elements. One of the most critical nodes is hub, which ensures free rotation of the wheel with minimal friction. Without a serviceable bearing, driving safety is at risk, as the wheel can jam while driving.
This component experiences enormous loads from the weight of the vehicle, lateral forces during cornering and uneven road surfaces. In the conditions of Russian roads with their potholes and curbs, the service life of original parts is often halved. Understanding of operating principles, ability to recognize early signs of malfunction and know how to properly perform replacement, will allow you to save money and maintain confidence behind the wheel.
Many car owners ignore a slight hum, attributing it to the quality of the coating, but this is a direct path to expensive repairs of the entire suspension. In this article, we will look in detail at how to distinguish a problem with a bearing from other problems, which brands offer worthy analogues, and how to do the work yourself without special equipment.
Symptoms of wear and initial diagnosis
The first and surest sign of an onset of illness is sound. The characteristic hum, which increases in proportion to the speed of movement, rarely has other causes. If the noise disappears when coasting or changing trajectory, this is almost guaranteed hub requires attention.
It's important to differentiate the sound of a worn bearing from a tire hum or a transmission malfunction. Try changing lanes or making a smooth turn. When turning left, the load on the right wheel increases, and if the noise intensifies, the problem is in the right unit. Conversely, when turning right, the noise on the left side increases.
- 🔊 Extraneous hum or howl that changes tone when turning the steering wheel.
- 📉 Vibration on the steering wheel or floor of the car at speeds above 60 km/h.
- 🛑 Uneven wear of brake discs or wheel jamming.
- 🔧 Play in the wheel when rocking it with your hands (on a lift).
In some cases, the indicator may light up ABS on the dashboard. This happens because the wheel angle sensor is installed in the hub assembly, and wear causes the signal to be lost or distorted. The on-board computer interprets this as a failure of the stabilization system.
⚠️ Attention: Ignoring bearing noise can lead to complete destruction of the unit. In the best case, this will end in the wheel jamming and loss of control, in the worst case, the wheel will tear off the hub at high speed.
Design features of Nissan Almera G15
On Nissan Almera G15, which is the global version Sunny (B17), wheel bearings with an integrated ABS sensor are used. Structurally, this is a closed unit that does not require maintenance (the grease is filled at the factory and cannot be replaced). This means that if play or noise occurs, the unit must only be completely replaced.
The rear suspension of the car is a beam, and the front is an independent MacPherson type. At the rear, the hub is often integrated directly into the brake drum, making removal more difficult than with disc brakes at the front. The front bearing operates faster due to active acceleration and braking.
Particular attention should be paid to the quality of tightening of the mounting bolts. The manufacturer requires the use of a torque wrench to secure the hub to the steering knuckle. Insufficient tightening will lead to the rapid appearance of play and destruction of the separator, and excessive tightening will lead to deformation of the inner race.
- 🔩 Tightening torque of the hub bolts: strictly according to the regulations (usually about 120-140 Nm).
- 🔧 The presence of a magnetic ring for the ABS sensor inside the bearing.
- 🛡️ Protection from moisture and dirt through rubber seals.
Some craftsmen try to press out the old bearing and press in a new one using a special tool. However for Almera G15 is a risky operation as there is a high chance of damaging the ABS sensor or deforming the bearing housing. Replacement the assembled unit is considered a more reliable solution.
- Up to 50,000 km
- 50-100,000 km
- 100-150,000 km
- More than 150,000 km
Selection of original and high-quality analogues
When choosing a spare part for Nissan Almera The G15 is a balance worth considering between price and durability. Official Nissan often re-glues products of large Japanese concerns. But buying an original at an inflated price is not always justified if there are proven brands with similar quality.
There are several reliable manufacturers on the spare parts market. Japanese brands traditionally lead in quality, but their prices can be high. European and Korean manufacturers offer excellent alternatives that are often used on the assembly line.
| Brand | Country | Features | Approximate price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan (Original) | Japan | Ideal geometry, high price | High |
| Koyo | Japan | One of the world leaders, very reliable | Average |
| NTN | Japan | Excellent value for money | Average |
| SKF | Sweden | European standard, durable | Average |
| Febi Bilstein | Germany | Good availability, decent quality | Low/Medium |
Avoid buying cheap analogues from unknown brands. Saving 1,000 rubles may result in the need to buy a new bearing after 5,000 km. Also check the packaging for holograms and barcodes, as the market is oversaturated with fakes.
⚠️ Attention: Purchasing “left-handed” bearings labeled with popular brands often leads to the unit jamming already at the test site or immediately after installation.
Before purchasing, be sure to check the vehicle's VIN code. Different versions of Almera (with different engine sizes or year of manufacture) may have hubs with different seat sizes and ABS sensors.
Preparation for replacement and necessary tools
To carry out the work, you will need a reliable lift or inspection pit, as well as a set of high-quality tools. Without special equipment, dealing with jammed bolts and pressing will be extremely difficult. Prepare a jack, jack stands and wheel chocks for safety.
You will need: a torque wrench, a set of sockets (including 19, 21, 30 mm), a prying bar, a hammer and a drift. Removing the hub often requires a circlip puller and a hydraulic press if you plan to replace only the bearing itself and not the entire assembly.
- 🔨 Torque wrench (required for tightening).
- 🔧 Socket heads and ratchets (size 19-21 mm).
- 🛠️ Retaining ring remover (for brake drum).
- 🔩 Brake cleaner and thread lubricant.
If you decide to change the assembly, the process will be simplified, but it will require more time to unscrew the stuck bolts. Pour penetrating lubricant into threaded connections 15-20 minutes before starting work. This will make dismantling much easier.
☑️ Preparing to replace the wheel bearing
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the front bearing
Start by lifting the car and removing the wheel. Loosen the hub nut (it is very tight, the tightening torque is about 200-250 Nm) while the car is on the ground. After lifting, remove the wheel and unscrew the nut completely.
Next you need to remove the brake caliper and disc. To do this, unscrew the caliper guides and hang it on a wire so as not to damage the brake hose. Remove the brake disc if it is not in the way, or leave it on but be careful.
Disconnect the ABS sensor, which is usually attached to the steering knuckle with a bolt. Be extremely careful with the wire, as breaking it will result in an error message on the instrument panel. Unscrew the lower control arm and stabilizer link from the steering knuckle to free the hub.
Press the hub out of the bearing. This can be done with a puller or by carefully knocking it out with a hammer through a wooden spacer. After removing the hub from the steering knuckle, the old bearing is pressed out. Clean the seat from rust and dirt.
Момент затяжки гайки ступицы: 245 Нм (проверьте по мануалу для конкретного года выпуска)Install the new bearing using a press. Press it strictly along the outer race, applying force to the steering knuckle body. After installation, press the new hub into the inner race of the bearing.
Reassemble the assembly in reverse order. Do not forget to put on a new retaining ring, if provided by the design, and connect the ABS sensor connector. Install a new hub nut bolt, as old ones often stretch.
What to do if the hub nut does not unscrew?
Use extensions, heat the nut with a torch (be careful, there is brake fluid nearby!), or use an air hammer. Sometimes it helps to sharply rotate the wheel while the gear is engaged to break the tightening.
Features of replacing the rear bearing on the beam
Rear hub on Almera The G15 is structurally more complex due to the presence of drum brakes. Often the bearing is integrated into the drum, requiring complete disassembly of the rear axle to access it. This is a more labor-intensive procedure.
First remove the brake drum. If it is stuck, use a puller or carefully pry it around. Remove the brake pads and handbrake mechanism. Be careful with the springs so they don't fall off.
Unscrew the bolts securing the hub to the beam. The hub may be stuck, so warming up and the use of a mounting tool will be required. Remove the hub and press out the old bearing. Clean the seat from corrosion.
Install the new bearing and press the hub. Assemble the brake mechanism, adjust the handbrake and install the drum. Check the rotation of the wheel - it should be free, without touching.
⚠️ Attention: When assembling the rear drum, be sure to clean the dust from the brake pads. This dust is toxic and harmful to the lungs. Use special cleaning fluid and do not blow it away with air.
Proper tightening of the hub nut is the key to long bearing life. A nut that is tightened too loosely will cause play and destruction; if it is tightened too tightly, it will cause overheating and jamming.
Maintenance and inspection after replacement
After completing the work, be sure to test drive it. Listen to sounds as you drive at different speeds. If the hum remains, the new bearing may have been installed misaligned or defective.
After 500-1000 km, it is recommended to check the tightness of all suspension fasteners. Vibration from new parts can cause threaded connections to become loose. Also check the condition of the CV joint boots, as they could be damaged when replacing the hub.
Regular suspension diagnostics at a service station will help identify problems at an early stage. Inspection of bearings for play and lubricant leaks should be carried out during each maintenance.
Remember that Nissan Almera - a car with good driving performance, but only if the suspension is working properly. Timely replacement of bearings will return the machine to smooth running and safety.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to drive with a worn wheel bearing?
Technically it is possible, but it is extremely dangerous. The bearing can jam at any time, leading to loss of control and an accident. Wear also destroys the seat in the steering knuckle, which increases the cost of repairs.
Do I need to replace the bearings in pairs?
It is advisable to replace the bearings of one axle in pairs, especially if the car's mileage exceeds 150,000 km. If one bearing is worn out, the second one is most likely in a similar condition.
Why does the new bearing hum immediately after replacement?
This could be a defective product, incorrect installation (misalignment), too much tightening of the hub nut, or damage to the ABS sensor. The installation must be checked immediately.
How long does it take to replace a wheel bearing?
For an experienced technician, replacing one front bearing takes 1-1.5 hours. The rear bearing may require 2-3 hours due to the difficulty of removing the drum and brake mechanism.
Is it possible to lubricate an old bearing?
No. The design of the Nissan Almera G15 wheel bearings is non-separable. An attempt to disassemble and lubricate them will not work, since the cage and raceways are already worn out.