How to open the hood on a <em>Nissan Qashqai</em>: instructions for J10, J11 and J12

Opening the hood to Nissan Qashqai It seems like a simple task, but many owners encounter difficulties: the lever does not work, the hood is stuck after washing, or it is simply not clear where to look for the unlocking mechanism. The problem is especially relevant for beginners who are faced with Japanese crossover — the location of the levers and the design nuances differ from European or Korean cars.

In this article we will look at all ways to open the hood on Qashqai first (J10, 2006–2013), second (J11, 2013–2021) and third (J12, from 2021) generations, including emergency methods if the standard mechanism fails. You will also learn how to avoid damage to the lock and what to do if the hood opens but does not lock in the up position.

Where is the hood release lever located in the cabin?

In the majority Nissan Qashqai the lever for opening the hood is located to the left of the driver's seat, under the dashboard. The exact location depends on the generation of the car:

• 🔹 J10 (2006–2013): the lever is hidden behind a plastic plug next to the clutch pedal (on a manual) or brake pedal (on an automatic). The plug can be easily removed by hand.
• 🔹 J11 (2013–2021): The lever is immediately visible - it is located at the level of the driver's knee, to the left of the steering column. Has a bright orange mark.
• 🔹 J12 (from 2021): the lever has been moved closer to the door, next to the fuse box. Can be hidden with a decorative overlay.

On some modifications (for example, Qashqai+2) the lever can be shifted 5–10 cm to the right. If you don't find it the first time, use a flashlight - often the problem is poor lighting.

⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse the hood lever with trunk release lever, which is located to the right and usually has a different color (gray or black). Forcibly pulling the wrong lever can damage the cable.

Step-by-step instructions: how to open the hood on a Nissan Qashqai

The process of opening the hood consists of two stages: unlocking from inside and fixing under the hood. Follow the algorithm:

1. Step 1. Make sure the car is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off. The gearshift knob must be in position P (automatically) or neutral (on mechanics).
2. Step 2. Locate the hood release lever (see section above) and pull it on yourself all the way. You should hear a click - this is the first lock that has activated.
3. Step 3. Get out of the car and go to the front of the hood. Below it, in the middle, is second castle (safety latch). Press it with your hand up or to the side (depending on the model).
4. Step 4. Lift the hood and secure it with stop (metal rod), which is located on the right or left under the hood.

If the hood does not open after pressing the lever, check:

• 🔧 Is the cable jammed (a common problem after washing or in winter).
• 🔧 Is the lock spring broken (a characteristic sign is that the lever falls through without resistance).
• 🔧 Is the hood blocked by an alarm (on some trim levels).

Common problems and their solutions

Even with the right actions, owners Qashqai encounter typical problems. Let's look at the most common ones:

Problem	Reason	Solution
The lever does not return to its original position	Broken cable or broken spring	Replace the cable (part no. 28510-4M00A for J11) or lock spring
The hood opens but does not lock	The stop is broken or the fastening is loose	Tighten the stop bolts or replace it (cost ~1,200 rubles)
The lock jammed after washing	Corrosion or water entering the mechanism	Treat with WD-40, dry with a hairdryer
There is a click, but the hood does not open	Contamination of the second lock under the hood	Clean the mechanism from dirt, lubricate it with silicone grease

In 80% of cases the problem is with opening the hood Nissan Qashqai J11 connected to a cable - it frays over time or rusts due to condensation. If you hear a click, but the hood does not lift, try pressing it from above with a force of 10–15 kg - sometimes this helps to move the jammed mechanism.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use a screwdriver or other metal objects to open the second lock under the hood. This may damage the paintwork or the mechanism itself. It's better to use a plastic spatula.

What to do if the cable breaks?

If the cable breaks, you can open the hood through the radiator grille:

1. Remove the plastic cover (held on by clips).

2. Reach into the lock and pull the remaining piece of cable or press the lock lever directly.

3. After opening, replace the cable (recommended part number for J10: 28510-4M000).

Emergency hood opening without lever

If the lever in the cabin breaks or the cable breaks, you will have to use alternative methods. The methods depend on access to the mechanism:

Method 1: Through the radiator grille

Pry up the plastic radiator grille (it is secured with 4-6 clips) and stick your hand to the lock. On Qashqai J11 the castle is located to the right of the center, on J10 — closer to the driver's side. Pull the cable or press the lock lever with your hand.

Method 2: Through the bumper

On some modifications, you can remove the lower part of the bumper (it is held on by bolts 10 mm) to gain access to the lock. This method is more complicated, but more reliable if the radiator grille is not removed.

Method 3: Through the wheel

Remove the left front wheel and arch protection. Through the resulting space you can get to the cable or lock. Disadvantage of the method: Requires a jack and time.

If none of the methods help, contact service. Average cost of opening a hood per Nissan Qashqai in Moscow - from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles.

How to avoid problems with the hood: prevention

To ensure that the hood opens easily and without jamming, follow these simple rules:

• 🛠️ Lubricate once every 6 months cable and lock silicone grease (for example, Liqui Moly Silicon-Spray). Avoid lithol or grease - they collect dirt.
• 🚿 After washing, check if there is any water left in the lock mechanism. Dry with a hairdryer if necessary.
• ❄️ In winter, before opening the hood, warm up the engine for 2-3 minutes - this will melt the ice in the lock.
• 🔧 Check the condition regularly hood stops. If they become loose, the hood may fall and damage the latch.

On Qashqai J12 a more reliable mechanism with plastic bushings is installed, but it also requires maintenance. Pay special attention cable — on new models it is thinner and frays faster.

What to do if the hood opens but does not lock?

If the hood Nissan Qashqai raised, but does not stay in the upper position, the reasons may be as follows:

1. Broken stop (the metal rod that holds the hood in place). Often breaks due to rust or mechanical damage.
2. The stops are loose. Bolts can become loose due to vibration.
3. Bent hood hinge. This happens after an accident or careless closing.

Workaround:

• 🔧 Support the hood with a wooden block or a strong stick.
• 🔧 Use a rope, securing it to the stops and bumper.

For permanent repairs:

• 🛠️ Replace the stops (part number for J11: 68110-4M000 And 68110-4M001 - right and left).
• 🛠️ Tighten the fastening bolts (tightening torque - 10–12 Nm).
• 🛠️ Align the hinges (a welding machine or the help of a body mechanic is required).

⚠️ Attention: Do not secure the hood with wire or weak objects. If the hood breaks, it can fall sharply and damage your hands or parts under the hood (such as the radiator).

Video instructions and additional materials

If the text instructions seemed complicated, we recommend watching videos from official dealers and auto experts:

• 🎥 How to open the hood on a Nissan Qashqai J11 (Nissan official video)
• 🎥 Emergency opening of the hood through the radiator grille
• 📄 Official instruction manual Qashqai (section "Maintenance")

On the channel Nissan Russia there are detailed care videos Qashqai, including lubricating the locks and replacing the cable. If you are planning a renovation yourself, be sure to study mechanism diagrams for your generation (they are different!).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about opening the hood on Nissan Qashqai

Is it possible to open the hood if the battery is dead?

Yes, the hood release mechanism is on Qashqai does not depend on electronics. The lever in the cabin works purely mechanically. However, if the hood is blocked by the alarm, an emergency power outage may be required (see your alarm's instructions).

How often should the hood latch be lubricated?

Optimally - once every 6 months or before winter. Use silicone grease (not lithol!). If your car is frequently washed under high pressure, lubricate more often - every 3 months.

What to do if the hood opens while driving?

Immediately reduce speed and pull over to the side of the road. Do not try to close the hood with your hand - it is dangerous! After stopping, secure the hood with a rope or seat belt and drive to the service center.

Does the cable from J10 fit to J11?

No, the cables differ in length and fastening. For Qashqai J11 original article - 28510-4M00A, for J10 — 28510-4M000. Installing the wrong cable may cause jamming.

Can I adjust the hood hinges myself?

Yes, but experience is required. The hinges are adjusted with hex head bolts (5 mm or 6 mm). If the hood is skewed, loosen the bolts, align the position and tighten to torque 8–10 Nm. If there is an error, the hood may not close properly.