<em>Nissan Note</em> washer reservoir: volume, replacement and fluid selection

Washer reservoir in Nissan Note - a small but critical detail on which the cleanliness of the windshield and driving safety depend. Many owners are faced with problems: from simple freezing of liquid in winter to cracks in the housing or pump failure. In this article we will look at everything you need to know about the washer fluid reservoir. Note - from standard volume and location to step-by-step replacement and fluid selection.

Feature Nissan Note (especially models E11 And E12) in a compact engine compartment, where the tank is often hidden behind other components. This complicates access, but does not make repairs impossible. We have collected proven instructions, diagnostic tips, and even non-obvious life hacks - for example, how to temporarily restore the seal of a cracked tank without replacement.

Where is the washer fluid reservoir located? Nissan Note

In most versions Nissan Note (including restyled ones) the washer reservoir is located on the left side of the engine compartment, closer to the front bumper. The exact location depends on the year of manufacture and configuration:

• 🔧 Note E11 (2004–2012): the tank is white or translucent, attached to the side member on the right (in the direction of travel). Often covered by an air duct or battery.
• 🔧 Note E12 (2012–2020): shifted closer to the center, next to the coolant expansion tank. May be black.
• 🔧 Note Acenta/Visia: on some versions the reservoir is integrated with the headlight washer pump (if equipped).

To accurately identify the tank, look for a plastic container with blue or black lid, on which there is a pictogram of a windshield with splashes of water. B Note with diesel engines (1.5 dCi) the tank may be shifted to the left due to the layout.

Washer reservoir volume and recommended fluids

Standard tank volume in Nissan Note — 3.5–4.2 liters, depending on the modification. However, the actual useful volume is 0.5–0.7 l less due to the design of the neck and the location of the level sensor. It is important not to fill the liquid “to capacity” - this can lead to leaks when heated.

For Note The following types of liquids are suitable:

Liquid type	Temperature range	Features	Recommended Brands
Summer (concentrate)	from +5°C	Diluted with water 1:1. Not suitable for winter.	Liqui Moly Scheiben-Frostschutz, Sonax
Winter (ready)	up to -25°C	Contains alcohol. Do not dilute!	Castrol Radicool, Mannol
Universal	-10°C to +5°C	Suitable for off-season. Can be diluted.	Hi-Gear, Fenom
Concentrate (-40°C)	up to -40°C	For the far north. Diluted 1:3.	Sintec, Felix

Important: In the tank Nissan Note It is absolutely forbidden to fill in methanol-based liquids - they destroy the plastic and rubber seals of the pump. Look for “methanol-free” or “safe for plastics” on the label.

⚠️ Attention! If the washer pump stops working after replacing the fluid, check fuse F32 (10A) in the block under the steering wheel. It is responsible for the washer circuit and often burns out if there is a short circuit.

Typical washer reservoir problems Nissan Note

Owners Note The most common problems encountered are:

• 💧 Tank leak: cracks appear due to aging of the plastic or mechanical damage. Typical places are seams and the bottom where sediment accumulates.
• ❄️ Freezing of liquid: Even when using “winter” liquid, an ice crust may form if it is diluted with water.
• 🔊 Pump noise: A humming or grinding noise during operation indicates wear on the impeller or debris.
• 🚫 Washer does not work: reasons - burnt contacts, burnt out pump or broken wiring.

The most insidious problem is microcracks in the upper part of the tank. They appear only when the tank is full, when liquid under pressure leaks out. You can diagnose them by pouring water with a dye (for example, potassium permanganate) and inspecting the tank for leaks.

What should I do if the washer pump hums but does not pump?

Most likely, the pump impeller rotates on the shaft. This is a typical problem for Nissan Note after 100,000 km. A temporary solution is to remove the pump and wash it WD-40 and install it back. But this will not help for a long time: the pump will need to be replaced (part number 28397-4M000 for E11, 28397-JK00A for E12).

Step-by-step replacement of the washer reservoir Nissan Note

To replace the tank you will need:

• 🔧 10 mm wrench (for attaching the tank).
• 🔧 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing clamps).
• 🔧 New tank (original 28394-4M000 or equivalent Febi 28394).
• 🔧 Silicone sealant (for sealing).

Replacement instructions:

1. Drain the liquid through the hose by disconnecting it from the pump (use a container with a volume of at least 4 liters).
2. Unscrew the fastening bolt at the bottom of the tank (10mm wrench).
3. Carefully slide the tank up, freeing it from the latches.
4. Disconnect the pump's electrical connector and hoses (label them so as not to mix them up when reassembling).
5. Install a new tank, first applying sealant to the joints.

Advice: If the crack is small (up to 2 cm), you can temporarily restore the tank using epoxy resin or special glue for plastic (Loctite Plastics). However, this solution is only suitable for “holding out until replacement”.

How to extend the life of your washer reservoir

The service life of the tank depends not only on the quality of the plastic, but also on operation. Here are some proven ways to avoid premature wear:

• 🌡️ Use liquid according to season: in summer - with anti-scale, in winter - with temperature reserve (for example, -30°C instead of -20°C).
• 🚿 Rinse the tank: once a year, drain the remaining liquid and flush the system with water containing citric acid (1 tablespoon per 1 liter).
• 🔌 Check your contacts: oxidation of the pump terminals leads to overheating and failure.
• 🛠️ Avoid mechanical stress: Do not press on the reservoir when washing the engine.

Frequently asked questions about the washer reservoir Nissan Note

Can I use water instead of washer fluid?

For a short time - yes, but only in the warm season. Water does not clean the glass from the oil film and can cause corrosion of the metal parts of the system. In winter, water freezes, which leads to rupture of the tank or hoses.

Why does the washer run jerkily?

This is a sign air leak into the system. Check:

• Tightness of hose connections.
• Liquid level (if it is below the minimum, the pump “grabs” air).
• The condition of the mesh filter at the pump inlet (it may become clogged with dirt).

Which washer pump is suitable for Nissan Note E12?

Original article - 28397-JK00A. Suitable analogues:

• Febi 28397 (Germany).
• Valeo 583022 (France).
• Denso 283970 (Japan, best quality).

When replacing the pump, be sure to check connection polarity - incorrect connection will damage it.

What to do if fluid does not flow to the rear washer?

B Nissan Note with rear wipers the problem often lies in tee clogged, which divides the flow between the front and rear washers. The tee is located under the bumper and can become clogged with ice or dirt. Solution:

1. Remove the rear hose and blow it out with compressed air.
2. Rinse the tee with water vinegar (if the blockage is organic).
3. Check the integrity of the hose for kinks.

Conclusions: what is really important to remember

Washer reservoir in Nissan Note - a simple but capricious detail. Key points to pay attention to:

• 🔹 Check the fluid level regularly - sensor in Note often lies, especially in cold weather.
• 🔹 Don't skimp on liquids — cheap compounds destroy plastic and rubber.
• 🔹 At the first sign of a leak (puddles under the car, the smell of antifreeze) inspect the tank - cracks are easier to “catch” at an early stage.