How to remove the rear light on a <em>Nissan Note</em>: instructions with photos and tips

Nissan Note - a compact and practical hatchback, but even it may have problems with the rear optics over time: cracks, moisture ingress or burnt out light bulbs. Dismantling the lantern on this model has its own characteristics, especially when it comes to versions E11 (2006–2012) And E12 (2013–2020). Unlike many cars, where it is enough to unscrew a couple of bolts, here you have to take into account the design of the bumper and the fastening of the wiring.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photos, a list of necessary tools, as well as unique nuances for Nissan Note with K13 body (European version). We'll look at how to avoid common mistakes - for example, damage to bumper clips or broken license plate light wires. And if you are planning to replace the light bulbs or the entire lantern unit, here are tips on choosing analogue and original parts.

What tools are needed to remove the rear light?

Before you start work, prepare everything you need. Without the right tools, you risk breaking fasteners or scratching the body. Here minimum setwhich will be required:

• 🔧 10 mm socket wrench — to unscrew the bolt securing the lamp to the body.
• 🔨 Flat head screwdriver (preferably with a thin tip) - for prying off bumper clips and plastic clips.
• 🔩 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) — may be needed to remove the trunk trim on some modifications.
• 🧲 Magnetic holder or tweezers - so as not to lose small bolts and nuts in hard-to-reach places.
• 🧴 Silicone grease or WD-40 - if the fasteners are rusty or stuck.
• 📦 Plastic spatulas (optional) - for careful removal of clips without damaging the paintwork.

If you plan to replace light bulbs, additionally prepare:

• 💡 New lamps (For example, W5W for dimensions, P21/5W for stop/turn signal).
• 🧤 Gloves - so as not to leave greasy marks on the glass of the lantern.

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note with the system LED optics (for example, restyled versions of 2016+) the lamps are not replaced separately - you will have to change the entire lamp unit. Check the markings on the back before purchasing spare parts!

Preparing the car: 5 steps before dismantling

Improper preparation may result in short circuit or damage to the wiring. Follow this checklist:

Disconnect the negative battery terminal (required!)

Clear the trunk of excess items - you need freedom of movement

Raise the car on a jack or drive it into an inspection hole (if you are working from below)

Take photographs of the location of wires and connectors before disconnecting

Prepare a box for small parts (bolts, clips, rubber seals) -->

Pay special attention disconnecting the battery. On Nissan Note with the system CAN buses (for example, versions with a multimedia system NissanConnect) A sudden power outage can reset the on-board computer settings. To avoid this, use portable charger to maintain network voltage.

If you are working in a garage, make sure there is good lighting - many clips and bolts are on Note hidden in shadow areas. For example, the bolt that attaches the light to the body is often covered with a plastic plug that is easy to miss.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the tail light on a Nissan Note

The removal process differs depending on the side (left/right headlight) and year of manufacture. Below are universal instructions for most versions Nissan Note E11/E12:

Step 1: Removing the trunk trim

Let's start on the right side (passenger's side), since it's easier to get to the fastenings there:

1. Open the trunk and remove the plastic plugs covering the trim bolts (usually there are 2-3 of them).
2. Using a screwdriver, carefully pry the clips around the perimeter of the casing. On Note They are fragile so don't use too much force.
3. Remove the trim by disconnecting the trunk light connector (if equipped).

Step 2: Unscrewing the canopy bolts

Now you have access to the inside of the flashlight:

• 🔧 Find 10mm bolt in the upper part of the lamp (trunk side).
• 🔧 Unscrew second bolt, located below - it can be hidden under a rubber seal.
• 🔧 On some versions there is third bolt on the side (closer to the bumper) - it is more convenient to unscrew it with a socket wrench with an extension.

Step 3: Removing the Bumper Clips

This is the most critical stage. On Nissan Note The light is partially attached to the bumper through plastic clips. They need to be disconnected without breaking:

1. Pry it up with a flat screwdriver lower part of the lantern (from the bumper side).
2. Gently pull the flashlight towards you - 2-3 clips should come out.
3. If the clips do not budge, spray them WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.

⚠️ Attention: On versions with parking sensors in the bumper, be careful - the sensors are attached to the same plastic base as the light. Excessive force can tear off the sensor wires!

Step 4: Disconnecting Wiring

When the flashlight is freed from its mounts, all that remains is to disconnect the connectors:

• 🔌 Find the main power connector (usually black or gray).
• 🔌 Press the latch and carefully pull out the connector. Don't pull the wires!
• 🔌 If there is one on the lantern license plate light, disconnect it separately (smaller connector).

The lamp can now be completely removed. If it does not budge, check whether there are any hidden clips or bolts (for example, on versions with rear view camera there may be additional fastening).

What to do if the light is stuck to the body?

If the lamp cannot be removed even after unscrewing all the bolts, the reason may be oxidation of contacts or deformation of the plastic base. In this case:

1. Treat the joints penetrating lubricant (For example, Liqui Moly Rostloser).

2. Gently tap the edges of the lamp with a rubber mallet.

3. If it doesn’t help, warm up the area around the clips construction hairdryer (do not overheat!).

4. In extreme cases, you will have to cut off the clips and install new ones (item number for Nissan Note E11: 76530-4M000).

Features of dismantling on different versions of Nissan Note

The design of the lanterns Nissan Note varied depending on the year of manufacture and configuration. The table below shows the key differences:

Model/year	Flashlight type	Number of bolts	Features
Nissan Note E11 (2006–2012)	Halogen	2	The clips are fragile and often break during dismantling. The lamps are replaceable.
Nissan Note E12 (2013–2016)	Halogen/LED (optional)	3	Additional bolt at the bottom. On LED versions, the lamps are not replaceable.
Nissan Note E12 (2017–2020, restyling)	LED	3	The flashlight is attached to the bumper through metal latches. Removal of part of the bumper is required.
Nissan Note Acenta (European version)	Halogen with chrome trim	2	The bolts can be hidden with decorative overlays.

On versions with rear view camera (for example, configurations Tekna) the light is integrated with the camera, and replacing it will cost more. In this case, it is recommended to contact the service, as you will need camera flashing after installing a new unit.

If your Nissan Note equipped with a system Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), be careful when working with the light wiring - the system sensors may be connected to the same wiring harness.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when removing the headlamp. Nissan Note. Here are the most common:

• 🔧 Broken bumper clips — most often break when trying to pull the lantern out by force. Solution: warm the clips with a hairdryer or use plastic spatulas.
• ⚡ Short circuit due to incorrect wiring. Solution: always disconnect the negative terminal of the battery first thing.
• 🔩 Lost bolts - they may fall into the cavity of the bumper. Solution: use a magnetic holder or cover the hole with tape before unscrewing.
• 💡 Lamp damage When replacing, do not touch the glass bulb with bare hands. Solution: use gloves or a cloth.
• 🔧 Incorrect assembly — if you forget to connect the license plate light connector, an error will appear on the dashboard. Solution: check all connectors according to the photograph taken before dismantling.

Another typical problem is moisture ingress into the lantern after installation. This happens if the rubber seal is damaged or the clips are not fastened correctly. To avoid this, apply to the sealant before assembly. silicone grease (For example, Gummi Pflege from Liqui Moly).

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note with the system Around View Monitor (360-degree camera) if the flashlight is connected incorrectly, the calibration of the cameras may be lost. In this case, diagnostics with a scanner will be required. Consult-III Plus.

How to replace the tail light bulbs on a Nissan Note

If the purpose of dismantling is to replace lamps, then complete removal of the lamp is not always necessary. On most versions Nissan Note (except LED) lamps are changed after hatch in the trunk. Here's how to do it:

Replacing the brake/turn lamp (P21/5W)

1. Remove the plastic hatch cover (it is secured with latches).
2. Turn the lamp socket counterclockwise and remove it.
3. Replace the lamp without touching the glass bulb.
4. Reinstall the cartridge and check the operation of the brake light.

Replacing the marker lamp (W5W)

The process is similar, but the cartridge is smaller. On some versions Note The parking lamp is integrated into the brake light unit, and replacing it requires removing the entire socket.

If the lamp does not light after replacement, check:

• 🔌 Chuck contacts - they could oxidize.
• 🔋 fuse (on Note The fuse is responsible for the rear lights F37 (10A) in the block under the steering wheel).
• 🔧 Wiring integrity - especially if work has recently been done on the bumper.

What to do after installing a new flashlight

Have you successfully installed the lantern? Do not rush to close the trunk - you need to perform several checks:

1. Check the operation of all lamps: brake light, turn signal, marker, reverse, license plate light.
2. Make sure there are no errors on the dashboard: if the icon is on ! in a triangle, it means the connector is not connected or the wiring is damaged.
3. Check the tightness: After washing or rain, inspect the lantern for moisture.
4. Adjust position: The lamp must fit snugly to the body without gaps.

If you installed non-original flashlightmay be required adjusting cut-off angles (relevant for brake lights). On Nissan Note this is done by turning the adjusting screws on the lamp socket.

It is also recommended to reset the on-board computer errors after replacing the flashlight. To do this:

1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
2. Press and hold the trip mileage reset button (on the dashboard) for 10 seconds.
3. Turn off the ignition and turn it on again - the errors should disappear.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the rear light on a Nissan Note

Is it possible to remove the headlight on a Nissan Note without removing the bumper?

Yes, on most versions Nissan Note E11/E12 There is no need to remove the bumper. The exception is the restyled 2017+ models with LED optics, where the lamp is partially integrated into the bumper. In this case, you will have to disconnect the bumper clips on one side.

What kind of bulbs are in the rear light of a Nissan Note?

Depends on the year of manufacture and configuration:

• Stop/Turn: P21/5W (double-strand).
• Dimensions/number lighting: W5W.
• Reverse: P21W.
• Fog light (if equipped): P21W.

On versions with LED optics, the lamps cannot be replaced separately.

How much does an original taillight on a Nissan Note cost?

Prices for new original lights (2023):

• Nissan Note E11 (2006–2012): 8,000–12,000 rub. per piece.
• Nissan Note E12 (2013–2020): 10,000–15,000 rub. (LED versions are more expensive).

Non-original analogues (for example, TYC or Hella) will cost 3,000–6,000 rubles, but may differ in the quality of plastic and tightness.

What should I do if the brake light does not work after replacing the light?

Possible causes and solutions:

• Connector not connected: Check that the main power connector is firmly inserted.
• Fuse blown: on Note this is F37 (10A) in the fuse block.
• Contact oxidation: Clean the lamp socket contacts with sandpaper.
• Faulty lamp: even a new lamp may be defective - check it with a multimeter.

Is it possible to paint the tail light on a Nissan Note?

Yes, but with reservations:

• Use only special paint for plastic (For example, Motip Duplicolor).
• Before painting, degrease the surface and apply a plastic primer.
• Don't paint light transmitting elements (brake light, turn signal) - this violates traffic rules.
• After painting, the coating may crack due to temperature changes.

The best option for tuning is to buy lights with tinting or chrome inserts (for example, from Spec-D).