2021-2023 Nissan Clicking Noise from Axle TSB

Symptoms

Owners of various 2021-2023 Nissan models may notice a distinct "clicking" noise. This sound typically originates from either the left or right front/rear CV-type axles and is most apparent during vehicle take-off or acceleration. If you hear a Nissan Sentra clicking noise when you start moving, this bulletin may apply to your vehicle.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The clicking noise is specifically linked to the CV-type axles and occurs during the initial phase of acceleration. Technicians are instructed to confirm this condition before proceeding with the repair. The TSB notes that for Nissan LEAF vehicles, it's important to first check the lug nut torque by referring to TSB NTB19-105 before performing this bulletin.

Important Warnings and Owner Information

Nissan has issued several important advisories regarding this repair:

• Do not remove the axle: For this specific bulletin, technicians are instructed not to remove the axle from the hub or transmission. This is crucial for the correct application of the repair.
• Cape Chisel requirement: "Some of the APPLIED VEHICLES require the axle nut to be removed with a Cape Chisel, to prevent axle thread damage. Refer to NTB21-013 for specific details."
• Cotter Pin replacement: "To avoid the risk of minor personal injury or property damage, replace the Cotter Pin after every use. If not done, a drive axle may become loose."
• Torque specifications are critical: For 2007-2019 Versa Sedan, Versa Hatchback, and Versa Note models, the center Lock Nut must be tightened to 133 ft-lb (180 N•m). For 2013 LEAF models, the center Lock Nut must be tightened to 89 ft-lb (121 N•m). The bulletin explicitly states: "If the center Lock Nut is tightened more than [specified torque], the clicking noise could occur." and "If the center Lock Nut is tightened less than [specified torque], looseness could occur." Additionally, "If the center Lock Nut is reused, the clicking noise could occur."
• Professional repair recommended: "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."

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves applying a specialized grease to the hub bearing surfaces without fully disassembling the axle. Here's a summary of the steps:

1. Access the axle nut: Remove the cotter pin and lock nut from the front or rear wheel bearing, depending on where the noise is detected.
2. Create clearance: Gently push the axle back to create space for grease application.
3. Apply grease: Apply a moderate coat of Molykote® M77 grease to the entire wheel hub bearing surface.
4. Re-install components: Re-install the wheel bearing lock nut and a new cotter pin. Ensure proper torque specifications are met, especially for Versa and LEAF models, and install a new washer for 370Z, LEAF, NV200, and 2013-2019 Sentra vehicles.
5. Test drive: Conduct a test drive to confirm that the clicking noise has been resolved.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this repair, the following parts are specified:

• Nut-Lock, Wheel Bearing: (Part number varies by model, refer to Electronic Parts Catalog) - 1 per side
• Cotter Pin: P/N 40073-0L700 - 1 per side (single-use part)
• Washer: P/N 40037-1CA0A - 1 per side (required for 370Z, LEAF, NV200, and 2013-2019 Sentra)
• Molykote® M77 Grease: P/N 44003-7S000 (one container can repair multiple vehicles)

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a Nissan Sentra clicking noise or similar symptoms from your 2021-2023 Nissan vehicle, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Nissan dealer. They can diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repair as outlined in TSB NTB12-055J. This repair typically involves applying the specified grease to the hub bearing surfaces. The cost for the Molykote® M77 grease is listed with Expense Code 048, with a maximum amount of $4.15, suggesting this is a relatively minor part of the overall service.

Bulletin History

This bulletin, NTB12-055J, is a revision of several previous versions, with the original bulletin NTB12-055 published on June 27, 2012. It has undergone multiple amendments, with the latest revision on March 29, 2023, updating applied vehicles, parts information, adding an expense code, and changing 'NOTE' references to 'HINT'.

---

Source: NHTSA ID 10233904