Replacing the timing chain with Nissan Almera N16 - one of the most important procedures in servicing this car. Unlike a belt drive, a chain is considered more reliable, but it also has a limited resource. On 1.5-liter QG15DE engines (the most common option for N16) the chain requires replacement every 150–200 thousand km, however, the actual period depends on operating conditions, oil quality and driving style.

The main problem is stretching of the chain and wear of the tensioner shoes, which leads to the links jumping by 1-2 teeth and the valves meeting the pistons. The consequences of such a “collision” are a major overhaul of the engine with replacement of the cylinder head. In this article, we will look at how to diagnose chain wear, what tools and spare parts will be needed, and also describe in detail the replacement process, taking into account typical errors.

Signs of timing chain wear on Nissan Almera N16

The first symptoms of circuit problems are often confused with problems with other systems. However there is 5 Key Signs, which directly indicate the need for diagnosis:

  • 🔊 Metallic knock from the timing cover side on a cold engine (especially noticeable in the first 10–15 seconds after starting). The sound resembles a “ratchet” or “chain rustling”.
  • 📉 Floating speed at idle speed the chain slips by 1 tooth, throwing off the valve timing.
  • ⚠️ Error P0340 (or P0345) is a malfunction of the camshaft position sensor, often caused by a stretched chain.
  • 🚗 Power Loss and “dullness” of the engine during acceleration is a consequence of timing violations.
  • 🛑 The engine stalls after a sudden release of gas or when braking.

If you notice at least 2-3 symptoms from the list, the circuit needs to be checked immediately. For an accurate diagnosis you will need:

  1. Remove the valve cover and visually assess the chain tension (sagging more than 10 mm is critical wear).
  2. Rotate the crankshaft by hand (with the spark plug removed) and listen for any extraneous sounds.
  3. Use an endoscope to inspect the tensioner and damper shoes.
⚠️ Attention: On motors QG15DE after the 2005 release, a modified chain with an increased resource was installed, but it also requires replacement after a mileage of over 180 thousand km. Do not focus only on mileage - oil quality and frequent “cold” starts reduce the life of the chain by 1.5–2 times.
📊 How often do you check the condition of the timing chain?
  • Every 50 thousand km
  • Only when symptoms appear
  • Never checked
  • I trust the diagnostics at the service station

What spare parts and tools will you need?

To replace the timing chain with Nissan Almera N16 will be required set of spare parts And specialized tool. There is no point in saving on parts - a low-quality chain or tensioner will last no more than 30–50 thousand km.

List of spare parts (articles for original and analogues)

Name Original article Analogs (brand + article) Note
Timing chain 13028-4M50A Febi 22626, INA 530 0543 10 The original comes complete with shoes
Chain tensioner 13070-4M500 Ajusa 12026600, SKF VKM 30601 It is better to take it complete with a plunger
Chain damper 13085-4M500 Corteco 10001607 It is necessary to change, even if visually intact
Tensioner shoe 13086-4M500 Nipparts J130864M500 Often sold complete with chain
Timing cover gasket 13032-4M500 Elring 725.140 It is recommended to replace during assembly

You will also need:

  • 🔧 Head set (10, 12, 14, 17 mm) and extensions.
  • 🔨 Hammer And metal mandrel for pressing in the crankshaft oil seal.
  • 🛠️ Crankshaft pulley puller (article OTC 6595 or equivalent).
  • 🔗 Camshaft lock (you can make it yourself from a metal plate).
  • 🧲 Magnetic holder for bolts - useful when working with the timing cover.
⚠️ Attention: If you plan to replace only the chain without touching the tensioner and damper, be prepared to disassemble again after 20–30 thousand km. These parts wear out synchronously and are necessarily change as a set.
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Before purchasing spare parts, check their compatibility using the vehicle's VIN code. On Almera N16 with engines QG15DE And QG18DE different timing chain kits are used.

Preparing the car for chain replacement

Before starting work it is necessary provide access to the timing mechanism and prepare the car. Here is a step-by-step algorithm:

  1. Install the machine on a flat platform (preferably on a lift or inspection hole). Secure the rear wheels with chocks.
  2. Remove the negative terminal from the battery to avoid short circuit.
  3. Drain the antifreeze (about 5 liters) - it interferes with removing the timing cover. To do this, unscrew the cap on the radiator and cylinder block.
  4. Dismantle:
    • Air filter with housing.
    • Throttle cable.
    • Generator (disconnect the wires and unscrew the fasteners).
    • Power steering pump (if any) - just loosen the mount and move it to the side.
  • Remove the accessory belt and crankshaft pulley. To do this, you will need a puller or a “locking” method with a screwdriver.

    • The most difficult stage - Removing the timing cover. It is secured with 15 bolts of different sizes (10 and 12 mm) and glued with sealant. To avoid damaging the cover:

    • Unscrew the bolts criss-cross, starting from the corners.
    • Pry off the cover with a plastic spatula at the junction with the block.
    • Do not use excessive force; the aluminum cover may crack.

    Drain the antifreeze|Remove the battery terminal|Remove the generator and power steering pump|Remove the accessory belt|Unscrew the timing cover crosswise-->

    After removing the cover do not turn the crankshaft - this can lead to displacement of the marks and meeting of the valves with the pistons. If the lid won't budge, spray the bolts with WD-40 and wait 10-15 minutes.

    Step-by-step instructions for replacing the timing chain

    Now we move on to the most important stage - replacing the chain. Follow the instructions strictly step by stepto avoid errors:

    Step 1: Fixing the camshafts and crankshaft

    Before removing the old chain, you must block camshafts and crankshaft in the TDC (top dead center) position of the 1st cylinder. To do this:

    1. Turn the crankshaft clockwise (by the pulley bolt) until the marks on the camshaft sprockets align with the protrusions on the cylinder head cover.
    2. Make sure that the mark on the crankshaft pulley matches the mark on the oil pump (it is visible through the inspection window).
    3. Install the camshaft clamp (you can use a homemade device made from a metal plate 3–4 mm thick).

    If the marks do not match, the chain has already slipped, and additional diagnostics of the valves will be required for bending.

    Step 2: Dismantling the old chain and related elements

    After fixing the shafts:

    1. Loosen the chain tensioner bolt (12 mm wrench) and remove it.
    2. Unscrew the bolts securing the camshaft sprockets (14 mm head) and remove them. Don't lose the keys!
    3. Remove the damper and tensioner shoe.
    4. Carefully pull the chain off the crankshaft gear.

    Please note the condition asterisks - if they have chips or worn teeth, they also need to be replaced.

    Step 3: Install New Chain and Tensioner

    Installation of a new chain is performed in the reverse order, but taking into account the nuances:

    1. Install a new tensioner shoe and damper.
    2. Place the chain on the crankshaft gear, aligning the marks (usually they are marked with a yellow or red marker).
    3. Install the camshaft sprockets, securing them with bolts with a torque of 60–70 Nm.
    4. Install the chain tensioner, but do not secure it with a bolt - it should automatically tension the chain.
    5. Rotate the crankshaft 2 turns and check that the marks match.

    If the marks match, tighten the tensioner bolt to a torque of 20–25 Nm. If not, repeat the installation.

    Step 4: Assembly and Testing

    After installing the chain:

    1. Apply sealant to the timing cover and install it, tightening the bolts crosswise to a torque of 10–12 Nm.
    2. Install the crankshaft pulley and tighten its bolt to a torque of 100–120 Nm (use a torque wrench!).
    3. Fill with antifreeze and check the system for leaks.
    4. Start the engine and listen to the timing belt - there should be no extraneous noise.
    💡

    The most common mistake when replacing a chain on an Almera N16 is incorrect installation of the marks. Even a shift of 1 tooth leads to a timing failure and loss of power.

    Common mistakes and how to avoid them

    Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when replacing a timing chain with Nissan Almera N16. Here TOP-5 misses and their consequences:

    • 🔧 Failure to comply with tightening torques camshaft sprocket bolts. Leads to thread breakage or sprocket rotation.
    • 🔗 Using an old tensioner - it will not provide the required tension, and the chain will quickly stretch.
    • 📏 Label mismatch after installation. The engine will stall or not start at all.
    • 🛠️ Damage to the timing cover gasket during installation. Will lead to oil leakage.
    • 🚗 Forgot to fix the camshafts Before removing the chain, the valves may rest against the pistons.

    To avoid problems:

    • Use torque wrench for all threaded connections.
    • Before assembly check the chain for tension — the new set should not have a play of more than 5 mm when tensioned.
    • After replacement be sure to check the compression in cylinders - it must be at least 12 bar.
    ⚠️ Attention: On motors QG18DE (1.8 l) the process of replacing the chain is more complicated due to the different cylinder head design. Here you will need a special camshaft retainer (part no. NV-10142000) and additional phase adjustment after installation.
    What should I do if the engine does not start after replacing the chain?

    If the starter turns, but the engine does not start, check:

    1. Coincidence of timing marks (perhaps the chain is installed offset).

    2. Connecting the crankshaft position sensor (they often forget to connect the connector).

    3. Presence of a spark and fuel pressure (the injection phase may be off).

    4. Compression in the cylinders (if the valves are bent, the cylinder head will need to be repaired).

    Cost of replacing a timing chain: service station vs self-repair

    Timing chain replacement price Nissan Almera N16 varies depending on the region and service station level. Here are the approximate prices:

    Service/Spare part Cost (RUB) Note
    Timing chain kit (original) 8 000 – 12 000 Includes chain, tensioner, shoes
    Timing chain kit (analog) 4 500 – 7 000 Brands: Febi, INA, SKF
    Work at a service station 6 000 – 10 000 Includes removal/installation, adjustment
    Self-replacement 3 000 – 5 000 Only spare parts + tools
    Additionally (seals, gaskets) 1 500 – 2 500 It is recommended to change during disassembly

    Replacing it yourself will cost less, but will require:

    • 🛠️ Instrument (pulley puller, torque wrench, shaft clamp).
    • ⏳ Time (8–12 hours for beginners, 4–5 hours for experienced).
    • 📚 Knowledge (you need to understand the operating principle of the timing belt).

    If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the work to professionals. A mistake when replacing a chain can result in engine repairs costing 50,000–100,000 rubles.

    Frequently asked questions about replacing the timing chain on Nissan Almera N16

    Is it possible to drive with a stretched chain if there is no noise?

    No. Even if the chain does not knock, its stretching leads to a shift in timing phases, which worsens dynamics, increases fuel consumption and the risk of valves meeting the pistons. With a mileage of over 150 thousand km, the chain necessarily needs to be replaced even if there are no symptoms.

    Which brand of timing chain to choose: original or analogue?

    Original chain (Nissan 13028-4M50A) lasts longer, but also costs more. Among the analogues that have proven themselves well:

    • Febi (Germany) - optimal price/quality ratio.
    • INA (Germany) - high resource, but more expensive.
    • SKF (Sweden) - reliable tensioners.

    Avoid cheap Chinese kits - they break down after 30-50 thousand km.

    Do I need to change the oil after replacing the chain?

    Yes. When disassembling the timing belt, dirt or metal shavings may enter the engine. Change the oil and oil filter immediately after repair. It is also recommended to flush the system with flushing oil (for example, Liqui Moly Pro-Line).

    What happens if the timing marks are set incorrectly?

    When the marks are shifted by 1 tooth:

    • The engine will stall or not start.
    • Fuel consumption will increase.
    • The valves may bend (on engines QG15DE the risk is lower than QG18DE).

    If the marks are severely knocked down, you will need phase adjustment using special equipment.

    How long does a timing chain last after replacement?

    When installed correctly and using quality oil (e.g. Mobil 1 5W-30 or Motul 8100 X-Cess) the new chain will last:

    • 150–200 thousand km — with a quiet ride and regular oil changes (every 10 thousand km).
    • 100–120 thousand km - with an aggressive driving style or using cheap oil.

    Check the condition of the chain every 50 thousand km!