Series engines QGinstalled on Nissan Almera N16, are known for their reliability and efficiency, but have one critical drawback. This is a belt drive of the gas distribution mechanism, which if broken leads to serious consequences. Valve timing are knocked down instantly, and the valves are bent with 100% probability. That is why the issue of timely replacement of the timing belt is especially acute for owners of this model.
Many car enthusiasts are trying to save money and delay visiting the service until strange sounds or vibrations appear. However Nissan Almera with engine QG15DE or QG18DE does not forgive negligence. Replacing the timing belt is not just a routine procedure, but insurance against major engine repairs. In this article we will analyze all the intricacies of the process, from the selection of spare parts to the nuances of installation.
It is important to understand that on these motors the belt is in a dense housing, and access to it requires partial disassembly of the attachment. Tensioner rollers and the idler rollers often wear out faster than the belt itself, so they need to be replaced as a set. Ignoring this rule can lead to rapid wear of the new blade.
Consumables and selection of components
Before starting work, you must purchase a quality kit. In the spare parts market for Nissan There are many options available, but not all of them are suitable for long-term service. An original belt from the manufacturer is always a safe choice, but there are also proven analogues that are not inferior in quality.
The key element is the belt itself. It must withstand high loads and maintain elasticity under temperature changes. Also don't forget about guide roller and tensioner pulley. If you only change the belt, and the rollers already have play or noise, then the new belt may jump over the teeth after just a couple of thousand kilometers.
- 🔧 Timing belt (original Nissan or analogues Gates, ContiTech)
- 🔧 Set of rollers (tension and bypass)
- 🔧 Timing cover gasket (recommended to be replaced during disassembly)
- 🔧 Antifreeze (in case of drainage to access the pump)
Many experts recommend changing the water pump at the same time as the timing belt. This is due to the fact that to access the pump on motors QG I still have to disassemble the front part of the engine. If the pump leaks after a year, you will have to pay for the work twice. Coolant pump works in tandem with the timing drive, and its wear directly affects the belt tension.
Pay attention to the packaging of spare parts. Counterfeits often have rough casting marks and unclear markings. Buy components only from trusted suppliers to avoid premature failure of the entire system. For QG15DE and QG18DE engines, it is critical to use a roller with a hydraulic damper if it is included in your configuration, as mechanical equivalents may not provide the required tension.
Necessary tools and vehicle preparation
To replace the belt yourself, you will need a standard set of tools, but taking into account the specifics of the Japanese automobile industry. Bolts often have non-standard sizes or stick. Prepare the head for 10, 12, 14 and 17, as well as keys for removing wheels and crankcase protection.
The vehicle must be securely secured. Use stands under the body if you are lifting it with a jack. Working from under a vehicle without insurance is dangerous. You will also need a special tool to hold the crankshaft pulley in place while you remove the bolt.
Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will protect you from accidental engine starting or short circuit when removing the sensors. Crankshaft position sensor (DPKV) is in the access zone and can be damaged if handled carelessly.
- 🔨 Jack and support posts (stands)
- 🔨 Set of socket heads and sockets
- 🔨 Key for turning the crankshaft clockwise
- 🔧 Flat and Phillips screwdrivers
The next step is to remove the right wheel arch. On Nissan Almera N16 This is standard procedure for accessing the belt. You will need to remove the plastic fender liner and possibly part of the mudguard. Do not break the fasteners; use the screwdriver carefully so as not to damage the plastic.
It is also necessary to remove the alternator belt and crankshaft pulley. The crankshaft pulley bolt is tightened with a huge torque, so it cannot be unscrewed without fixing the shaft. You can use a special puller or fix the shaft through the hole in the clutch housing by inserting a crowbar or a powerful screwdriver.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the timing belt
The replacement process begins with setting the piston of the first cylinder to top dead center (TDC). This is a critical moment, since engine operation depends on the correct installation of the marks. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise and follow the marks on the camshaft pulley and on the engine housing.
Remove the upper and lower timing covers. They are attached with bolts, which may be hidden under dirt or sealant. Carefully pry off the covers so as not to damage the seats. If the sealant is stuck, use a scraper, but be careful.
- 🔧 Unscrew the bolts securing the timing covers
- 🔧 Remove the crankshaft pulley and place it aside
- 🔧 Loosen the tension roller and remove the old belt
- 🔧 Check the condition of the gears for chips or wear
Installing a new belt requires care. First put it on the camshaft gear, then on the idler roller, and only then pull it onto the crankshaft gear. Make sure all marks line up perfectly. Any displacement even by one tooth can lead to incorrect operation of the motor.
Now you need to adjust the tension. On Nissan Almera An automatic or hydraulic tensioner is used depending on the year of manufacture. If you have a mechanical tensioner, use a wrench to turn it and lock it in position. After installation, turn the crankshaft two turns and check again that the marks match.
⚠️ Attention! Never try to turn the engine by the camshaft gear, as this may cause it to break. You can only turn it by the crankshaft bolt.
- According to regulations (60 thousand km)
- Mileage more than 80 thousand km
- Only if it's torn
- I don't know when to change
Tension check and final assembly
After the belt is installed and the marks are checked, you need to make sure that the tension is correct. On many models Nissan There is a special mark on the tensioner, which should coincide with the risk. If the tensioner is hydraulic, give it time to stabilize after starting.
Reassemble all removed parts in reverse order. Install the timing covers, being sure to use new sealant if the old one is damaged. This will prevent oil or dirt from getting into the mechanism. Tighten the bolts to the recommended tightening torque to avoid stripping the threads.
An important step is installing the crankshaft pulley. The bolt is tightened with great force. If you don't use a torque wrench, tighten it as far as it will go, but don't overdo it. After installing the pulley, put on the alternator belt and check its tension.
Before starting the engine, check to see if any tools are left inside the engine compartment. Make sure all sensors are connected and wires do not touch hot parts of the engine. Ignition system must be ready to work.
☑️ Final check before launch
Cost of work and common mistakes when replacing
If you decide not to make the replacement yourself, but to contact a service center, the cost of the work will depend on the region and the chosen service station. On average, replacing the timing belt with Nissan Almera N16 costs from 3,000 to 6,000 rubles excluding spare parts. At dealerships the price can be significantly higher.
However, when replacing it yourself, there is a risk of making a mistake that will lead to serious consequences. The most common mistake is incorrectly setting labels. Even the slightest misalignment can cause the valves to meet the pistons. Phase synchronization - This is the basis of engine operation.
| element | Average price (RUB) | Recommended Brand |
|---|---|---|
| Timing belt | 1500 - 3000 | Gates, Contitech |
| Tensioner roller | 2000 - 4500 | SKF, INA |
| Idler roller | 1000 - 2000 | SKF, Febi |
| Water pump | 3000 - 5000 | GMB, Aisin |
| Timing kit (original) | 12000 - 18000 | Nissan |
Another common mistake is installing new rollers without replacing the belt, or vice versa. The wear of one element inevitably leads to the wear of another. Also don't forget about the sealant. On some engines, the timing cover is adjacent to the block without a gasket, and the use of low-quality sealant will lead to oil leakage.
If you hear a strange sound after replacement (squeaking, humming), stop the engine immediately. This may indicate that the belt is skewed or not tensioned correctly. Roller noise - the first sign of their imminent failure, and if it appears immediately after replacement, it means an error was made during installation.
Features of QG15 and QG18 engines
Engines QG15DE and QG18DE have their own design features that must be taken into account during repairs. Both engines are 16-valve and have two camshafts. This complicates the process of setting marks, since you need to control the position of both shafts.
On the motor QG18DE A common problem is that the water pump gets stuck. This occurs due to low quality coolant. If you have not changed the antifreeze for a long time, be sure to check the condition of the pump before installing a new belt.
It is also worth paying attention to the variable valve timing system (CVTC). On some engine versions it is installed on the camshaft. When replacing the belt, make sure that the CVTC mechanism has no play and is working properly. Its breakdown can lead to floating speed and loss of power.
Don't forget about the sensors. On Nissan Almera N16 The camshaft position (CMP) and crankshaft position (CKP) sensors play a key role. If they are dirty or damaged, the engine may not start even with a perfectly installed belt. Wipe them down before assembly.
⚠️ Attention! On QG engines with a CVTC system, it is strictly forbidden to rotate the camshafts separately from the crankshaft without a belt installed, this will damage the phase regulator.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
At the end of the article, we have collected answers to the most popular questions that owners have. Nissan Almera N16 when servicing the timing system.
What is the timing belt replacement interval for Nissan Almera N16?
The manufacturer's official guidelines indicate replacement every 60,000 km or every 4 years, whichever comes first. However, experienced mechanics recommend reducing this interval to 45-50 thousand km, since the belt may wear out ahead of schedule due to climatic conditions or fuel quality.
What happens if the belt breaks while driving?
Series engines QG are “bending” motors. If the valve belt breaks, the valves will meet the pistons, causing them to deform. In the worst case, the piston itself, the cylinder head and even the engine block can be damaged. Repairs will cost tens of times more than the cost of replacing the belt.
Is it possible to change only the belt without changing the rollers?
Theoretically it is possible, but it is highly not recommended. Old rollers have worn out bearings, which creates additional stress on the new belt. This can lead to rapid wear, jumping or breakage. Saving on rollers often results in repeated repairs in a short time.
Do I need to change the water pump when replacing the timing belt?
Highly recommended. To access the pump on motors QG I still have to disassemble the front part of the engine. If the pump leaks after six months, you will have to pay for the labor to disassemble and reassemble. Replacing your pump at the same time is a smart investment in reliability.
How to check if the labels are installed correctly?
After installing the belt and tensioning, you must turn the crankshaft two full turns (720 degrees) by hand. Then stop the shaft and check that the marks on the camshaft and crankshaft gears match the marks on the housing. If the marks match, the installation was completed correctly.