Bumper Nissan Note - This is not only a design element, but also an important part of the car’s safety. It absorbs impacts in minor accidents, protects the body from chips and corrosion, and also serves as the basis for mounting fog lights and parking sensors. However, even minor damage to the bumper can lead to the need to dismantle it - be it for painting, replacing fasteners or installing tuning parts.
In this article we will look at all stages of working with a bumper on Nissan Note (first and second generation, body E11 And E12): from preparing tools to final adjustment of gaps. We will pay special attention hidden fastenings, which often break due to careless removal, as well as typical errors leading to squeaks and distortions. If you are planning a DIY repair, here you will find answers to questions that are not covered in standard manuals.
What tools will you need for the job?
Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have all the necessary tools. The absence of even one key or screwdriver can delay the process for hours. Here minimum setwhich will be required:
- 🔧 Socket wrenches by 10 mm and 12 mm (for bolts securing the bumper to the side members).
- 🔨 Flat head screwdriver with a thin tip - for prying off clips and latches.
- 🔩 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) - for self-tapping screws in wheel arches.
- 🧲 Magnetic holder or a telescopic grip - so as not to lose bolts in the engine compartment.
- 🔧 Head with extension (for hard-to-reach bolts under the headlights).
- 🛠️ Plastic spatulas — for gentle removal of clips without damaging the paint.
If you are planning complete bumper replacement, additionally prepare:
- 🔄 New clips and pistons (original art.
77261-4M000for Note E11 And77261-4M025for E12). - 🔧 Seam sealant (For example, 3M 08507) - for processing joints after installation.
- 🔦 Flashlight with flexible backlight — to illuminate the mounts in the wheel arches.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use metal spatulas to remove clips! They scratch the paintwork and can break the plastic clips. Original clips Nissan fragile - their repeated use often leads to breakage.
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Bumper mounting diagram for Nissan Note E11 and E12
Bumper mounting design Nissan Note depends on the generation of the car. Below is diagram for the most common versions:
| Model | Number of bolts | Number of clips | Additional mounts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Note E11 (2004–2012) | 6 bolts (10 mm) | 8 clips (4 in arches, 4 below) | 2 screws under the headlights |
| Note E12 (2012–2020) | 8 bolts (10 mm and 12 mm) | 10 clips (6 in arches, 4 below) | 4 pistons on the radiator grille |
| Note Acenta (E12) | 8 bolts + 2 nuts | 12 clips | Mounting parking sensors |
On Nissan Note E12 with rear view camera (optional Rear View Monitor) the bumper has an additional mount for wiring. When dismantling, be sure to disconnect the camera connector so as not to damage the cable. On models with fog lights (Fog Light) the bumper mounts are reinforced with metal plates - they cannot be removed without first turning off the power to the headlights (it is better to disconnect the battery).
On Note E11 2006–2008 model years, the bolts securing the bumper to the side members have M6 threads, while on later versions they have M8 threads. Using the wrong wrench will cause the thread to break!
Step-by-step instructions for removing the front bumper
The process of removing the bumper Nissan Note takes from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on experience. Follow the instructions strictly in orderto avoid breakdowns:
Disconnect the battery. This is a required step if your car has fog lights or parking sensors. It is enough to remove the negative terminal.
Remove the wheel arches. To do this, unscrew the screws with a Phillips screwdriver (3-4 pieces on each side) and carefully pull the arch towards you. It is attached with clips - do not yank sharply!
Unscrew the bolts in the arches. In each arch you will find 2-3 10 mm bolts (on E12 - additional caps).
Remove the radiator grille. It is attached with 4 clips on top and 2 bolts on the bottom. On Note E12 the grate can be glued - use a plastic spatula.
Unscrew the bolts under the headlights. Here you will need a head with an extension, since access is limited. On E11 the bolts are hidden under decorative plugs.
Remove the bumper. Ask a helper to support the bumper on the other side - it is heavier than it looks! Gently pull it towards you, starting from the corners.
Take a photo of the location of the clips|Mark the bolts with different threads with a marker|Prepare a container for hardware|Check for hidden fasteners (sensors, lights)|Disconnect the battery (if there are electronics)-->
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note E12 with the system Around View Monitor (all-round view) 4 cameras are hidden in the bumper. When dismantling, be sure to disconnect all connectors, otherwise the wires may break!
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when working with bumpers. Nissan Note. Here most common problems and ways to prevent them:
- 🔧 Broken threads of bolts. Occurs due to the use of an incorrect wrench or excessive force. Always check the bolt size to unscrewing!
- 💥 Broken clips. Clips Nissan fragile - never pull the bumper by force. If the clip does not budge, remove it separately with a plastic spatula.
- ⚡ Short circuit. If you do not disconnect the battery before working with electronics (headlights, sensors), you can blow the fuse
F37(10A) in the block under the hood. - 🔩 Loss of bolts in arches. Use a magnetic holder or tape the bolts to the body to prevent them from falling into the wheel.
- 🎨 Damage to paint. Metal tools will scratch the varnish - always use a cloth or plastic spatulas.
Another common mistake is incorrect installation of the bumperwhen the gaps between it and the wings are uneven. To avoid this, before final tightening the bolts, check:
- Symmetrical gaps on both sides (should be the same, ~5 mm).
- The position of the bumper relative to the radiator grill (there should be no distortions).
- The performance of parking sensors (if any) - sometimes they are displaced during installation.
If the clip breaks and you don’t have a new one at hand, temporarily fix the bumper with a cable tie (but don’t leave it for long, as it can wear out the plastic).
Replacing the rear bumper: features and differences from the front
Rear bumper Nissan Note It is easier to remove than the front one, but has its own nuances. The main difference is fewer fasteners, but a more fragile design due to plastic latches. Here are the key points:
- 🔧 On E11 rear bumper is attached to 4 bolts (2 on each side) and 6 clips (bottom and sides).
- 🔧 On E12 added 2 screws under the lights and pistons for attaching fender liners.
- 🚗 To access the bolts you will have to remove tail lights (unscrew 3 10 mm nuts from the inside of the trunk).
- 🔌 If installed on the machine parking sensors, their connectors are hidden under the trunk trim.
The hardest part is removing the bumper from the latches on the arches. They break frequently, so it is recommended to pre-treat them with silicone lubricant (for example, WD-40 Specialist). If the latch still breaks, it can be replaced with a universal one from 3M (art. 08595).
When installing the rear bumper, pay attention to sealing rubber gaskets — they prevent water from entering the trunk. If the gaskets are torn, they need to be replaced (original art. 80311-4M000).
What to do if the bumper doesn't fit in place?
If the bumper does not fit tightly after installation, check:
1. Are the metal mounting brackets bent (they often bend during an accident).
2. Are there any old clips left in the grooves - they may interfere with proper fit.
3. Are the bolts skewed? Sometimes they are screwed in crookedly, which causes the bumper to pull to the side.
If the problem persists, it is possible that the bumper itself is deformed and requires editing on a bench.
Bumper repair and painting: what you need to know
If the bumper is damaged but does not require complete replacement, it can be repaired. Here main stages recovery:
Washing and degreasing. Use car shampoo and degreaser (for example, APP W900). Dirt and grease interfere with the adhesion of the putty.
Filling cracks. For plastic bumpers, putty with reinforcing fibers is suitable (for example, Novol Plastic). Apply it in 2-3 layers and let it dry.
Primer. Use plastic primer (eg Mobihel Plast Prime). It improves the adhesion of paint to the surface.
Painting. To select an exact color, use your paint code. Nissan Note (located on the sign in the doorway). Apply the paint in 3 layers, drying for 15 minutes between layers.
Polishing. After drying (24 hours), polish the bumper with paste 3M 09374 to restore shine.
If the bumper has deep cracks, it can be reinforced on the back side using fiberglass and epoxy resin. To do this:
- Clean the crack on both sides.
- Glue the fiberglass fabric onto the epoxy on the inside.
- After drying (6-8 hours), putty and paint the front side.
⚠️ Attention: When painting the bumper Nissan Note with chrome inserts (optional Chrome Package) they need to be sealed with masking tape. Paint does not stick to chrome and will peel off!
Bumper tuning: what you can do yourself
Bumper Nissan Note - an excellent base for tuning. Here are some ideas that can be implemented without major body modifications:
- 🔥 Splitter installation. Front splitter (e.g. from Maxton Design) improves aerodynamics and gives a sporty look. Attached with self-tapping screws to the bottom of the bumper.
- 💡 LED strip for fog lights. Instead of standard lamps, you can install LED modules (for example, Osram LEDriving FOG). Wiring needs modification.
- 🔊 Radiator grille with mesh design. Replacing a standard grille with a perforated one (for example, from Spec-D) visually makes the front more aggressive.
- 🚗 Rear diffuser. On Note E12 you can install a diffuser from Nismo (art.
26530-JM000). Bumper trim required. - 🎨 Vintilation (pasting). Partially covering the bumper with vinyl (for example, matte black or carbon) is cheaper than painting.
When installing tuning parts, consider:
- Splitters and diffusers reduce clearance - on Note with a low suspension this can lead to bumping into curbs.
- LED lamps in PTF must have EEC certificate, otherwise you may receive a fine.
- When covering with vinyl, avoid cheap materials - they peel off after 1–2 years.
Any modifications to the bumper that change its geometry (splitters, extensions) require adjustment of the fasteners. Otherwise, the bumper may fall off on bumps!
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Note bumper
Is it possible to drive without a bumper?
Technically yes, but this unsafe and illegal. Without a bumper, important elements are exposed: radiator, headlights, wires. In addition, according to the traffic rules (clause 7.18), operating a vehicle with defects that threaten safety is prohibited. Fine - 500 rubles (Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).
How much does the original bumper on Note E12 cost?
Price of a new original bumper (art. 62600-4M025) - from 12,000 to 18,000 rubles, depending on color and configuration. Analogues from Febi or Hella will cost 6,000–9,000 rubles. At salvage yards you can find a used bumper for 3,000–5,000 rubles, but check it for hidden cracks!
What glue should I use to glue cracks?
For plastic bumpers Nissan Note fit:
- 3M Scotch-Weld DP8005 (two-component, strength 20 MPa).
- Loctite Plastics Bonding System (with primer for better adhesion).
- Weicon Plastic Repair (suitable for PP and ABS plastic).
Do not use superglue (cyanoacrylate) - it does not withstand vibrations and will fall off after a few days.
What should I do if the bumper squeaks after installation?
Creaks occur due to:
- Poorly tightened bolts (check all fasteners).
- Lack of rubber gaskets between the bumper and the body (install original
80311-4M000). - Friction of plastic on metal (treat contact points with silicone grease).
If the squeak persists, check the geometry of the bumper - it may be deformed after the impact.
Is it possible to spray paint a bumper?
Yes, but the result will be worse than with professional painting. To minimize risks:
- Use car paint in cans (For example, Motip or Duplicolor).
- Apply paint to 3–4 thin layers from a distance of 20–25 cm.
- After painting, coat the bumper varnish (For example, APP Clear Coat).
- Dry the bumper in dustproof box (or in a well-ventilated garage).
The service life of this type of paint is 1–2 years (professional paint lasts 5+ years).