Rear pillars Nissan Almera Classic (B10) is one of the key suspension elements on which not only comfort, but also control safety depends. Over time, shock absorbers wear out, lose efficiency, and their replacement becomes inevitable. Car service centers charge from 3 to 6 thousand rubles for this work, but if you have a minimum set of tools and patience, you can do it yourself.

In this article we will analyze the entire process from A to Z: how to diagnose a faulty rear strut, what spare parts to choose (original vs analogues), what tools will be needed, and most importantly - step-by-step instructions with photos and videos for replacement without pit and lift. We will pay special attention to typical mistakes that beginners make and give tips on extending the service life of new shock absorbers.

Signs of wear on the rear struts on Almera Classic

Rear shock absorbers Almera Classic rarely “die” suddenly - usually the malfunction develops gradually. Here are the key symptoms that indicate the need for replacement:

  • 🔴 Deterioration in handling on an uneven road: the car begins to “float”, especially at speeds above 80 km/h. This is due to the fact that the struts no longer dampen body vibrations.
  • 🔴 Rear sag when loading the trunk or passengers. Normally, the body should return to its original position in 1–2 vibrations, and not “squat” for a long time.
  • 🔴 Knocks and squeaks from the rear suspension when driving over speed bumps or potholes. This is often a sign of bushing destruction or oil leakage from the shock absorber.
  • 🔴 Uneven rear tire wear. If the inside or outside of the tread wears faster, it may indicate a problem with the struts or springs.
  • 🔴 Oil leaks on the shock absorber body. Even small marks mean that the rack has lost its seal and requires replacement.

If you notice at least 2-3 of these signs, it's time to get diagnosed. The simplest test: press hard on the rear bumper and release. If the body oscillates more than 2 times, it’s time to change the struts. For an accurate check you can use vibration table (the service costs about 500 rubles in most services).

⚠️ Attention: On Almera Classic with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, not only the struts often wear out, but also support bearings, bushings, and springs. If you ignore these details, new shock absorbers will last 2 times less.
📊 How often do you check the condition of the suspension?
  • Every 10 thousand km
  • Once a year
  • Only when knocking occurs
  • Never

Which racks to choose: original or analogues?

On Nissan Almera Classic (2006–2013) rear pillars with catalog number were installed 56210-9M600 (right) and 56210-9M601 (left). Original shock absorbers from Nissan will cost 4–6 thousand rubles apiece, but there are decent analogs for less.

Brand Article Price per piece, ₽ Features
Nissan (original) 56210-9M600/1 5 500–6 200 Soft, long service life, but high price
Kayaba (KYB) 343304 3 200–3 800 Stiffer than the original, good stability
Monroe G4503 2 800–3 300 Medium hardness, suitable for the city
Sachs 314 515 3 500–4 000 High quality, but rarely found in stores
Fenox SA10007O7 2 100–2 500 Budget option, resource ~50 thousand km

When choosing shock absorbers, consider your driving style:

  • 🚗 Suitable for urban use Monroe or Fenox — they are softer and more comfortable on uneven surfaces.
  • 🏁 For aggressive driving or bad roads it is better Kayaba — they are tougher, but more reliable.
  • 💰 If your budget is limited, you can take Fenox, but be prepared to replace it after 40–50 thousand km.

Important: Since 2010, Almera Classic has sometimes been equipped with racks from Renault Symbol (article 56210-9M602). They are interchangeable, but have a different rigidity. Please check the VIN or old racks before purchasing.

Tools and materials for replacement

To replace the rear struts yourself Almera Classic you will need:

Jack and supports (or lift)

Socket set (10, 12, 14, 17, 19 mm)

Ratchet wrench and extension

Socket wrench for shock absorber lock nuts

Spring puller (required!)

Hammer and pry bar

WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant

Torque wrench (optional, but recommended)

New struts, springs (if necessary), bushings and boots-->

If you are replacing racks for the first time, rent spring puller — without it, it is almost impossible to remove old shock absorbers (the spring is under high voltage!). We also recommend replacing:

  • 🔧 Strut bushings (article 56218-9M600) - cost pennies, but wear out quickly.
  • 🔧 Anthers (article 56215-9M600) - protect the rod from dirt.
  • 🔧 Support bearings (if there is play) - article 56217-9M600.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use gas keys to unscrew the shock absorber nuts - they can tear off the edges. It is better to take a spanner or socket wrench.
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Before starting work, take photographs of the location of all bolts and nuts on the phone. This will help avoid confusion during assembly, especially if this is your first time replacing racks.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing rear struts

The replacement process is the same for both racks, so let's look at it using one side as an example. Working time: 2–3 hours for a beginner, 1–1.5 hours for an experienced car owner.

Step 1: Preparing and removing the wheel

1. Place the car on a flat surface, engage first gear and place stands under the front wheels.

2. Loosen the rear wheel nuts, then jack up the car and remove the wheel.

3. Clean the bolts securing the strut to the hub and the upper mount in the trunk from dirt (use a wire brush and WD-40).

Step 2: Unscrewing the stand from the bottom

1. Unscrew the two bolts securing the rack to steering knuckle (head size - 17 mm). You may have to use a pry bar to get the bolts out of place.

2. Disconnect the brake hose from the bracket on the rack (carefully so as not to damage it!).

Step 3: Removing the Top Mount

1. In the trunk, remove the plastic trim to gain access to the upper strut support.

2. Holding the shock absorber rod with a 6 mm wrench (so that it does not rotate), unscrew the fastening nut (size - 19 mm).

3. Remove the strut assembly with the spring.

Step 4: Disassembling and replacing the shock absorber

1. Install the stand in spring puller and compress the spring until the support cup is released.

2. Unscrew the shock absorber rod nut (17 mm wrench) and disassemble the strut.

3. Transfer all parts (spring, cups, boot) to the new strut. Don't forget to check the condition of the spring - if there are cracks or subsidence on it, replace it (part number 56210-9M602).

Step 5: Assembly and Installation

1. Reassemble the stand in reverse order, making sure that the spring is positioned correctly (the ends of the coils should rest against the protrusions on the cups).

2. Reinstall the stand and secure the top nut and bottom bolts. Tighten the bolts only after the vehicle has been lowered onto its wheels!

3. Repeat the process for the second rack.

What to do if the shock absorber rod nut does not unscrew?

If the nut is stuck, try the following methods:

1. Apply WD-40 generously and wait 10-15 minutes.

2. Lightly tap the key with a hammer to move the threads.

3. Use a gas wrench (as a last resort), but be careful - you can break the rod.

4. If all else fails, cut off the nut with a grinder and replace the rod (part number 56210-9M603).

After replacement, be sure to check wheel alignment! On Almera Classic The rear wheels also have alignment angles, and their violation leads to uneven tire wear.

Typical mistakes when replacing racks

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that shorten the life of new shock absorbers or impair handling. Here are the most common:

  • 🔧 Incorrect bolt tightening. If you tighten the bolts holding the strut to the knuckle under weight (without load), they may loosen after lowering the machine. Tighten all bolts only with the vehicle lowered!
  • 🔧 Ignoring bushings and boots. Old rubber bushings often crack and boots are torn. Replacing them costs a penny, but extends the life of the racks by 2 times.
  • 🔧 Confused springs. On Almera Classic the right and left springs may differ in the number of turns. Always check the labeling!
  • 🔧 No rack bleeding. New shock absorbers need to be pumped before installation (especially oil ones). To do this, fully extend and compress the rod 3–5 times.
  • 🔧 Saving on spring puller. Attempts to disassemble a strut without a puller often result in injury or damage to the spring.
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The most common mistake is loose strut mounting bolts. This leads to play, knocking and uneven tire wear. Always use a torque wrench (tightening torque: 80-100 Nm for bottom bolts, 40-50 Nm for top nut).

Service life and care of new racks

The average life of the rear shock absorbers is Almera Classic:

  • 🚗 Original racks: 80–120 thousand km.
  • 🚗 Kayaba/Monroe: 60–90 thousand km.
  • 🚗 Budget analogues (Fenox): 30–50 thousand km.

To extend the life of shock absorbers:

  • 🛣️ Avoid sharp impacts (for example, jumping off curbs).
  • 🧹 Wash wheel arches regularly - dirt and salt eat away at the anthers.
  • 🔧 Check the racks every 20 thousand km for leaks and backlash.
  • 🚘 Do not overload the car - maximum load on the rear axle Almera Classic is 400 kg.

If you frequently drive on dirt roads or carry heavy loads, consider installing reinforced springs (for example, from Nissan Note, article 56210-3M000). They increase ground clearance by 2–3 cm and reduce sagging.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing rear struts

Is it possible to change racks one at a time, or only in pairs?

It is recommended to replace the racks in pairs, even if one of them is still “alive”. Different stiffness of shock absorbers leads to an imbalance in handling, especially at high speeds. An exception is if one rack is almost new (mileage less than 20 thousand km).

Do I need to do a wheel alignment after replacing the struts?

Yes, definitely! On Almera Classic the rear wheels have a small toe (0°10'–0°20'). If not adjusted, the tires will wear unevenly. The cost of adjusting the rear axle: 800–1,200 rubles.

What is the difference between oil and gas oil struts?

Oil shock absorbers are softer and cheaper, but perform worse at low temperatures. Gas-oil (for example, Kayaba Excel-G) are stiffer, but more stable at speed and last longer. For Almera Classic The best choice is gas-oil ones if you drive mostly on the highway, or oil ones for the city.

Is it possible to drive with a broken rear strut?

Technically possible, but highly undesirable. Worn struts increase braking distance by 20–30%, worsen directional stability and increase the risk of aquaplaning. If the rack is leaking or completely damaged, replace it as soon as possible.

Which struts are best for Almera Classic with a mileage of 200+ thousand km?

At high mileage, not only the struts are often worn out, but also the silent blocks and lever bushings. In this case it is better to put reinforced shock absorbers (For example, Kayaba Ultra SR) and at the same time change all rubber-metal suspension parts. This will cost more, but will save money in the long run.