Where is the starter located in the Nissan Cube: a detailed guide with photos and diagrams

Owners Nissan Cube sooner or later they face the need to repair or replace the starter - especially if the car is operated in city traffic jams or cold climates. But before you start work, you need to know exactly where is this node located in the engine compartment. Unlike classic sedans, the compact Cube with its non-standard engine layout, it can baffle even experienced car owners.

In this article we will look at exact location of the starter on all generations Nissan Cube (including Z11, Z12 And Z13), we will provide visual diagrams and photographs, as well as practical advice on how to access it. We will pay special attention to nuances that are often overlooked: for example, on models with automatic transmission, the starter may be partially covered by the gearbox, which requires the removal of additional elements. If you are planning the work yourself, this material will help you avoid common mistakes and save time.

Starter location in Nissan Cube: general diagram

Starter in Nissan Cube located traditionally for front-wheel drive cars - from the gearbox side, next to the engine flywheel. However, due to the compact dimensions of the body and the specific layout of the units, access to it can be difficult. Here are the key points:

• 🔧 On Cube Z11 (1998–2002) starter is attached to the engine block GA13DE or GA15DE from below, closer to the front of the car. It is visible when the crankcase protection is removed.
• 🔄 On Cube Z12 (2002–2008) with engines HR15DE or KR15DE the starter is moved closer to the automatic transmission (if it is installed), which requires removal of the air duct and part of the box.
• ⚡ On Cube Z13 (2008–2019) with motor MR18DE access is even more difficult: the starter can be covered with a heat shield or an engine support bracket.

It is important to understand that the exact position of the starter depends on the type of transmission:

- On mechanics, it is usually open for access after removing the protection.

- Automatic (especially with CVT) Jatco) it may be necessary to dismantle the pallet or part of the box.

Photo and diagram: what the starter looks like in the engine compartment

In order not to guess by touch, we will provide visual guidelines. The photo below shows the starter on Nissan Cube Z12 with engine HR15DE (view from below the car):

Description of the scheme:

1. Starter (1) is a cylindrical body with two bolts securing it to the block.
2. The power terminal (2) is a thick wire from the battery (usually red).
3. Signal wire (3) is a thin cable from the ignition switch.
4. Fastening bolts (4) - can be hidden under plastic plugs.

On Z13 starter closes frequently heat shield (metal plate), which is attached to 3 bolts. It needs to be removed first. Also note engine mount bracket - sometimes it makes it difficult to pull out the starter without first loosening it.

Generation	Engine	Starter location	Difficulty of access (1–5)
Z11	GA13DE, GA15DE	Below, next to the flywheel	2
Z12	HR15DE, KR15DE	Bottom, partially closed automatic transmission	4
Z13	MR18DE	Below, under the heat shield	5

Step-by-step instructions: how to get to the starter

To remove the starter Nissan Cube, follow this algorithm. Disconnect the battery before starting work (negative terminal first!) to avoid short circuit.

Remove the crankcase protection (if equipped)|Disconnect the battery|Drain the oil (if necessary)|Prepare tools: 10, 12, 14 mm sockets and extension-->

Step 1: Removing the protection and duct

• 🔩 Remove the plastic crankcase protection (attached with 4-6 bolts or clips).
• 🌀 On Z12/Z13 remove the air duct from the air filter to the throttle valve - it may block access.
• 🔧 On automatic transmissions, you may need to remove the pan (drain the oil first!).

Step 2: Disconnecting Wires

Unscrew the nut on power terminal (10 or 12 mm wrench) and remove the wire. Then disconnect signal wire (usually a chip with a latch). Be careful - contacts may be fragile!

Step 3: Removing the Starter

Unscrew the two bolts securing the starter to the block (14 mm socket with extension). On Z13 may be needed universal joint to access the top bolt. Carefully pull the starter down, turning it for better removal.

What to do if the starter does not pull out?

If the starter is stuck, check:

1. Is the engine mount bracket in the way (you will have to loosen its bolts).

2. Is it clinging to the wiring (move it to the side).

3. Is there any corrosion on the guides (treat with WD-40 and wait 10 minutes).

Typical problems when replacing a starter

Even experienced craftsmen encounter difficulties when working with a starter on Nissan Cube. Here are the most common of them:

⚠️ Attention: On Cube Z13 with variator Jatco When removing the starter, you can accidentally damage the crankshaft position sensor if you do not secure the flywheel. Use a special clamp or screwdriver inserted into the flywheel teeth through the hole in the block.

• 🔧 Rusted bolts - especially relevant for cars operated in high humidity conditions. It is recommended to pre-treat them with a penetrating lubricant (WD-40 or Liqui Moly).
• 🔌 Damaged terminals — when disconnecting the wires, do not pull on the wires themselves, only on the connectors! On Z11 The terminals often oxidize - clean them with fine sandpaper.
• 🔄 New starter mismatch - even if the model is identical, the Bendix gears may differ. Check the catalog number (23300-XXXX) before purchasing.

Another common mistake is incorrect starter installation. After installation, check:

• The gap between the Bendix gear and the flywheel (should be 1–2 mm).
• The tight fit of the starter housing to the block (there should be no distortions).
• Reliable fastening of wires (especially ground!).

How to check the starter without removing it from the car

Before dismantling the starter, make sure that this is the problem. Here 3 diagnostic methods without removal:

1. Voltage check:

   - Connect a multimeter to the starter terminal (positive wire).

   - When you turn the ignition key, the voltage should be 12–14 V. If less, the problem is in the battery or wires.

2. Spark test:

   - Remove the signal wire from the starter and short-circuit it to the “+” of the battery.

   - If the starter turns, the ignition switch or relay is faulty.

3. Audition:

   - When you try to start, listen: if you hear a click, but there is no rotation, the traction relay has burned out. If there is silence at all, there is an open circuit or a winding malfunction.

⚠️ Attention: Do not check the starter for a spark for more than 2-3 seconds - this can burn the winding! Also avoid shorting the terminals with metal objects (risk of short circuit).

Choosing a new starter: original vs analogues

When replacing the starter with Nissan Cube The owner is faced with a choice: buy an original part or an analogue. Here is a comparison table:

Parameter	Original (Nissan)	Analogs (Bosch, Denso, Valeo)
Service life	100,000–150,000 km	60,000–100,000 km
Price, rub.	12 000–18 000	4 000–8 000
Warranty	24 months	12–18 months
Compatibility	100% (by VIN code)	Requires catalog verification

If you choose an analogue, pay attention to the following brands:

• 🔋 Denso - original supplier for Nissan, the quality is close to factory.
• 🔧 Bosch — reliable starters, but may differ in fastenings.
• ⚡ Valeo - a budget option, but the resource is 20–30% lower.

When purchasing, check:

• Availability bendix gears included (on Cube Z13 it is often sold separately).
• Coincidence mounting holes (on some analogues they are shifted).
• Availability warranty card (without it, the return will be problematic).

Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Cube starter

Is it possible to replace the starter on a Cube without a pit or lift?

Theoretically yes, but it is extremely inconvenient. On Z11 it is still possible to reach from under the hood while lying on the ground, but on Z12/Z13 without a hole or overpass you will have to remove the wheel and part of the fender liner. It’s better not to take risks and use a viewing hole.

How long does it take to replace a starter?

Depending on generation and skills:

• Z11: 1–1.5 hours (easy access).
• Z12: 2-3 hours (box may need to be removed).
• Z13: 3–4 hours (difficult access, heat shield).

What tools are needed for replacement?

Minimum set:

• Heads for 10, 12, 14 mm (preferably with an extension and cardan).
• Ratchet handle.
• Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips).
• WD-40 or similar lubricant.
• Multimeter for testing.

For Z13 You may need a puller for the engine mount bracket.

What to do if after replacement the starter does not turn?

Check:

1. Connection power wire (must be tight).
2. Condition fuse (on Cube this is usually F10 in the block under the hood).
3. Performance starter relay (located in the interior fuse box).
4. Battery charge (must be at least 12.4 V).

Can the starter be repaired or is it just a replacement?

Repair is possible, but not always advisable. Most often they fail:

• 🔄 Bendix — can be replaced separately (cost ~1,500 rubles).
• 🔥 Traction relay — it is being repaired, but it is cheaper to buy a new one (~2,000 rubles).
• 🔧 Brushes or winding — repairs will cost 50–70% of the cost of a new starter.

If the starter is more than 10 years old, it is usually cheaper and more reliable to install a new one.