Removing the standard radio Nissan Note E12 (2012–2017) is a task that owners face when upgrading an audio system, repairing or replacing a device. At first glance, the process seems simple, but there are pitfalls here: from hidden fasteners to the risk of damaging the panel’s plastic clips. In this article we will analyze step-by-step algorithm removal of the radio, we will list the necessary tools and warn about typical mistakes that can result in expensive repairs.

It is important to consider that depending on the year of manufacture and configuration Note E12 The radio mounts may vary slightly. For example, in machines with a system NissanConnect (2015+) a different type of connector is used, and in basic versions there is simplified fixation. We focus on universal steps, but also point out key differences for different modifications.

If you have never disassembled car electronics, we recommend reading the article to the end before starting work. Some steps (such as disconnecting connectors) require caution: Incorrectly removing the plugs may result in a short circuit or reset the on-board computer.

Preparation: Tools and Safety Precautions

Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have everything you need on hand. The absence of even one tool can complicate the process or damage interior parts. Here minimum setwhich will be required:

  • 🔧 Plastic mounting blades (2–3 pcs.) - for removing the panel without scratches. It is not recommended to use metal screwdrivers!
  • 🔌 Socket wrench set (size 10 mm) - for unscrewing the radio mounts in some configurations.
  • 📦 Phillips head screwdriver (PH2) - for control panel screws.
  • 🔋 Multimeter (optional) - to check the voltage at the connectors before connecting a new radio.
  • 📸 Smartphone — for photographing the location of connectors and wires (useful for reassembly).

Also prepare your work area: make sure the car is on a level surface and the handbrake is set. Disconnect the negative battery terminal 10-15 minutes before starting work - this will prevent accidental short-circuiting and resetting of electronic systems (for example, climate control or clock).

⚠️ Attention! If your Nissan Note E12 equipped with a system NissanConnect with navigation, before removing the radio, remove the memory card from the slot. Otherwise, the software may crash and require flashing.
📊 What kind of radio are you planning to install?
  • Standard (repair/replacement)
  • 2DIN with Android Auto
  • 1DIN with CarPlay
  • Audio system with screen
  • Other

Removing the decorative panel: step-by-step analysis

The first stage is to dismantle the plastic panel that covers the radio. B Nissan Note E12 it is secured with latches and two screws (screws may be missing in some versions). Be careful not to break the clips:

  1. Start with bottom of panel. Insert a plastic spatula into the gap between the panel and the dashboard on the right or left side. Gently pry until you hear the click of the latch release.
  2. Repeat on the opposite side, then gradually release the top of the panel. Do not pull it towards you - first unclip all the fastenings around the perimeter.
  3. If the panel does not budge, check for hidden screws under decorative plugs (they can be to the right or left of the radio). Carefully pry off the plugs with a screwdriver.

After removing the panel you will see four screws, fixing the radio (two on top and bottom). In some trim levels Note E12 instead of screws, metal staples are used - they need to be carefully squeezed with pliers and pulled out.

Disconnected battery terminal|Photographed connectors and wires|Prepared tools (shovels, screwdrivers)|Checked for hidden screws-->

Disconnecting connectors: how not to damage the wiring

Behind the radio you will find three main connectors:

  1. Power connector (usually black) - responsible for power and ignition.
  2. Audio jack (gray or white) - connects speakers and antenna.
  3. CAN bus (yellow or orange, in versions with NissanConnect) — connects the radio with the on-board electronics.

To disconnect the connectors, don't pull the wires! Each plug has a plastic lock - press it and gently pull the connector towards you. If the latch does not budge, check if there is an additional latch on the side (found in radios Clarion, which were installed on Note E12 until 2015).

Connector type Color Purpose Features
Power Black Power supply +12V, ignition, ground May have an additional fuse (3A) on the reverse side
Audio Grey/white Connecting speakers (4–6 channels) Top contacts are front speakers, bottom contacts are rear
CAN Yellow/orange Communication with on-board network Only in versions with NissanConnect and climate control
Antenna Black coaxial Connecting an FM/AM antenna Rotate counterclockwise to disconnect
⚠️ Attention! If the radio cannot be removed after disconnecting the connectors, check for hidden metal bracket top or bottom of the device. In some Note E12 (especially 2016-2017) it secures the case in addition to the screws.
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If the CAN bus connector is difficult to disconnect, before installing a new radio, lubricate its contacts dielectric grease - this will prevent oxidation and problems with communication with the on-board system.

Removing the radio: nuances for different configurations

After disconnecting the connectors, the radio should move freely from its seat. However, depending on the configuration Nissan Note E12 There may be features:

  • 🔊 Basic version (without NissanConnect): The radio is secured with four screws and can be removed without additional effort. The weight of the device is about 1.5 kg.
  • 📱 C NissanConnect (2015–2017): in addition to screws, there are additional metal frame, which must be removed with a 10 mm socket wrench.
  • 🎵 With audio system Bose: The connectors have a unique pinout. Do not connect a new radio without an adapter!

If the radio gets stuck when removing it, do not force it. Possible reasons:

  1. Not disconnected antenna cable (it can cling to the body).
  2. Stayed unnoticed screw in the upper part (covered with a decorative overlay).
  3. Remained in the seat plastic guides - they need to be carefully moved.

What to do if the radio does not come out?

If the device does not budge even after unscrewing all the screws, check for hidden spring latch behind. In some Note E12 it is located on the right and blocks extraction. To press it out, you will need a thin screwdriver or wire. As a last resort, you can carefully pry the radio from both sides with plastic spatulas, but this is risky for the case.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing the radio. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

  • ⚡ Short circuit: occurs if you do not disconnect the battery or touch the connector contacts with metal tools. Always use plastic spatulas and check the voltage with a multimeter before work.
  • 🔧 Broken panel clips: Most often the top latches break. To avoid this, heat the panel with a hairdryer (temperature 40–50°C) before removing it - the plastic will become more elastic.
  • 📵 Lost on-board computer settings: in Note E12 When the battery is disconnected, the clock, radio stations and climate control are reset. Write down your settings in advance.
  • 🔌 Damaged connectors: Do not pull the wires! If the connector is stuck, use WD-40 (a few drops on the contacts) and wait 5-10 minutes.

Another typical problem is forgotten screws. For example, in radio tape recorders Clarion for Note E12 sometimes there is an additional screw under the decorative trim on the right. If you do not unscrew it, you may bend the metal frame of the case when removing it.

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Before starting work, take photographs of the location of all connectors and wires. This will save hours on reassembly, especially if you are installing a different brand of radio.

Installing a new radio: what you need to know

If you remove the radio for replacement, consider the following nuances:

  1. Seat size: in Note E12 standard is used 2DIN (height 100 mm). Most modern radios will fit, but check the depth - some models (for example, with a retractable screen) may not fit.
  2. Adapters for connectors: if the new radio is not from Nissan, you will need an adapter for the audio jack (for example, ISO-to-Nissan). For systems with NissanConnect may be required CAN adapter to maintain steering functions.
  3. Antenna: in Note E12 standard is used FM connector, but if you have a digital radio (DAB), you will need an additional unit.

When connecting a new radio, follow the diagram: 



Красный провод → ACC (зажигание)


Жёлтый провод → +12В (постоянное питание)


Чёрный провод → Масса (GND)


Синий/белый → Усилитель антенны (если есть)

After installation, check all functions:

  • 🔊 Sound in all speakers (front and rear).
  • 📻 Radio (signal reception, saving stations).
  • 📱 Connection via Bluetooth or USB (if supported).
  • 🚗 Compatible with steering wheel buttons (using an adapter).

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to remove the radio without disconnecting the battery?

Theoretically yes, but it's risky. B Nissan Note E12 A short circuit may cause the fuse to burn out. F37 (10A), responsible for the audio system. In addition, it is possible to reset the climate control settings. If you are an experienced auto electrician, you can do without disconnecting, but this is not recommended for beginners.

What should I do if, after removing the radio, the backlight of the climate control buttons does not work?

Most likely, you touched the backlight connector, which goes through a common bus with the radio. Check the fuse F22 (7.5A) in the block under the steering wheel. If the fuse is intact, inspect the connector contacts C10 (orange) - they may have oxidized or bent.

How to remove the radio if the clips on the decorative panel are broken?

If the clips are broken, you can temporarily fix the panel with double-sided tape (for example, 3M VHB), but this is a short-lived solution. It is better to order new clips (item number for Note E12 — 77110-4M000) or buy a decorative panel assembled (item no. 80910-BM40A).

Will the Nissan Juke radio fit the Note E12?

Physically fit (size 2DIN matches), but there will be connection problems. B Juke using a different audio jack (Nissan Type C), and in Note E12 — Type B. An adapter and, possibly, flashing of the CAN module will be required for the correct operation of the steering wheel buttons.

Is it possible to reflash the NissanConnect radio yourself?

Do-it-yourself firmware is possible, but risky. For NissanConnect in Note E12 official updates are distributed through dealers. Unofficial firmware (for example, from the forum NissanClub) may result in loss of navigation functions or communication with the CAN bus. If the radio is blocked, it can be restored through the service mode (hold MENU + NAVI + POWER when turned on).