Classification:

Reference:

FA12-003a

Date:

NTB12-090a

November 26, 2013

2013 ALTIMA; DRUMMING NOISE IN
FRONT SUSPENSION WHEN TURNING
This bulletin has been amended. The Parts Information section has been revised.
No other changes have been made. Please delete all previous versions.

APPLIED VEHICLE:

2013 Altima Sedan (L33)

IF YOU CONFIRM
•

There is a drumming noise from the right front Strut Tower area when the Steering
Wheel is being turned to the left and while moving at under 15 MPH.
And/or

•

A witness mark is present as shown in Figures 1 and 2 on page 3.

ACTION
•

Replace the right front strut Coil Spring with the model specific part listed on page 2
under PARTS INFORMATION.

•

Repair witness mark with SERVICE PROCEDURE on page 3 to prevent corrosion.

NOTE: Refer to the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for the correct procedure for
replacement of the coil spring.

IMPORTANT: The purpose of "ACTION" (above) is to give you a quick idea of the work
you will be performing. You MUST closely follow the entire Service Procedure as it contains
information that is essential to successfully completing this repair.
Nissan Bulletins are intended for use by qualified technicians, not 'do-it-yourselfers'. Qualified technicians are
properly trained individuals who have the equipment, tools, safety instruction, and know-how to do a job
properly and safely. NOTE: If you believe that a described condition may apply to a particular vehicle, DO
NOT assume that it does. See your Nissan dealer to determine if this applies to your vehicle.
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PARTS INFORMATION
DESCRIPTION

PART NUMBER

QUANTITY

NOTE

Front Spring

54010-3TA2A

1

QR25 engine

Front Spring

54010-3TA1B

1

VQ35 engine

as needed

(1)

as needed

(2)

Bitumen Wax
Zinc-Rich Primer

999MP-9G001P
(shop supply)
Local Source
(shop supply)

(1) Order this item through the Nissan Maintenance Advantage program: Phone: 877-NISNMA1 (877-647-6621). Website order via link on the dealer portal www.NNAnet.com
and click on the “Maintenance Advantage” link.
(2) Use one of the following Zinc Rich primers or an equivalent:
•

3M™ Zinc Spray 16-501
For help finding a local source for 3M™ products or obtaining an MSDS, contact
3M™ Automotive Aftermarket Division at 1-877-MMM-CARS (1-877-666-2277).

•

CRC® Zinc-It® 18412
For help finding a local source for CRC® products contact CRC® Customer Service
Representative at 1-800-272-8963. To obtain an MSDS log on to
crcindustries.com.

SERVICE PROCEDURE
1. Remove right side strut assembly from vehicle.
2. Replace strut coil spring with model specific part listed in PARTS INFORMATION,
above.
3. While strut is out of vehicle, clean witness mark of any rust, corrosion, etc. See Figure 1
and Figure 2 on the next page.

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NTB12-090a

To prevent corrosion:
4. Apply Zinc-Rich Primer (see PARTS INFORMATION) within 12 mm
(approx. ½ inch) on and around the witness mark area; allow to dry.
5. Apply Bitumen Wax (see PARTS INFORMATION) within 12 mm
(approx. ½ inch) on and around the witness mark area; allow to dry.
•

Follow instructions on the label of Bitumen Wax.

6. Reinstall strut into vehicle.
NOTE: Refer to the ESM for the correct procedure for replacement of the coil spring.

Witness mark
viewed from top

Witness mark
viewed from bottom

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 1 and Figure 2 show witness mark from coil spring. Shown with right front Strut
removed for reference only.

CLAIMS INFORMATION
Submit a Primary Part (PP) type line claim using the following claims coding:
OPERATION

OP CODE

PFP

SYM

DIAG

FRT

RPL Front Spring

MA14AA

(1)

ZL

46

(2)

(1) Refer to the Parts Information section above and use the appropriate Front Spring part
number as the primary part.
(2) Reference the current Nissan Warranty Flat Rate Manual and use the indicated flat rate
time.

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NTB12-090a