Removal and Installation: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Altima, 2003 Nissan Altima, and 2002 Nissan Altima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Before removing the front axle assembly, remove the wheel sensor from the assembly. Then move it away from the front axle assembly area.
Failure to do so may result in damage to the sensor wires and the wheel sensor becoming inoperative.

Remove wheel bearing lock nut using power tool.
Remove brake caliper assembly and rotor using power tool. Brake hose need not be disconnected from brake caliper. In this case, suspend caliper assembly with wire so as not to stretch brake hose. Be careful not to depress brake pedal, or piston will pop out.
Make sure brake hose is not twisted.

Fig 1: Removing Wheel Bearing Lock Nut Using Power Tool
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Separate tie rod from knuckle with Tool. Install stud nut on stud bolt to prevent damage to stud bolt.

Fig 2: Removing Brake Caliper Assembly And Rotor Using Power Tool
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Separate drive shaft from knuckle by lightly tapping it. If it is hard to remove, use a puller.
Cover boots with shop towel so as not to damage them when removing drive shaft.

Fig 3: Installing Drive Shaft From Knuckle By Lightly Tapping
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Remove lower strut mounting bolts.

Fig 4: Removing lower strut mounting bolts
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Loosen lower ball joint tightening nut.
Separate knuckle from lower ball joint stud with Tool.
Remove knuckle from transverse link.

Fig 5: Removing Knuckle From Transverse Link
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.