Yours Nissan Note refuses to start, but mysterious lights are on the dashboard? This problem is familiar to many compact van owners, especially in the cold season or after a long period of inactivity. The reasons can vary from a simple battery discharge to serious malfunctions of the fuel system or electronics.

In this article we will analyze in detail all possible reasons, according to which Note (including models E11 And E12) may not start, and we will also give step by step instructions for diagnostics and troubleshooting. You will learn how to identify problems with starter from malfunctions immobilizer, why the engine may “grab” but not start, and when you should turn to professionals.

We will pay special attention unique "diseases" Nissan Noteassociated with the ignition system and engine control unit (ECU), which often go unnoticed during superficial diagnostics. If you are not a specialist, but want to save on repairs, this guide will help you avoid mistakes and unnecessary expenses.

1. Discharged or faulty battery

The most common reason why Nissan Note It won't start - there is a problem with the battery. Even if the instrument panel lights up when you turn the ignition key, this does not guarantee that the battery is capable of cranking the starter. This is especially true for cars with Start/Stop systemwhere the battery is under increased load.

How to check a battery without special instruments:

  • 🔋 When you turn on the ignition, the dashboard lamps light up dimly - a sign deep discharge.
  • 🔊 When you try to start, the relay clicks are heard, but the starter does not turn - the battery is discharged to 10-11 V.
  • ⚡ The starter barely cranks the engine (with a characteristic “hooting”) - the voltage is lower 11.5 V.
  • 🚗 After a successful start from the donor, the car does not start again - it is possible open circuit or plate sulfation.

On Nissan Note with engines HR12 And HR16 a common problem with terminal oxidation batteries - they need to be cleaned at least 2 times a year. Also check weight on the body (usually attached to the frame member under the hood) - corrosion in this area can simulate a low battery.

⚠️ Attention: If after "lighting" Note starts, but after a few days history repeats itself - the problem is not in the battery, but in generator or leakage current. On these models, the diode bridge of the generator often fails, which leads to undercharging.
📊 How often do you check the battery in your Nissan Note?
  • Once a month
  • Only when problems arise
  • Never
  • Before winter

2. Malfunctions of the starter and retractor relay

If you hear when you turn the key single click, but the starter does not turn - the solenoid relay is to blame. On Nissan Note first generation (E11) this is a typical “disease” after 100,000 km. The relay may “stick” due to burnt contacts or mechanical wear.

How to distinguish a starter malfunction from battery problems:

Symptom Battery Starter/relay
Clicking noise when turning the key Repeated (relay clicks) One loud click
The starter turns, but slowly Yes (low voltage) No (unless worn)
Starter does not respond to key Possibly (full discharge) Yes (winding break, jamming)
Burning smell under the hood No Yes (contacts burn)

On Note with engine K9K (diesel) the starter experiences increased loads due to high compression. If it starts to turn “tightly” even when hot, this is a sign bushing wear or burnout of the collector. In this case, repairs will cost less than replacement (about 3-5 thousand rubles versus 12-15 thousand for a new starter).

Check the voltage at the battery terminals (should be 12.6 V)

Try push start (for manual transmission)

Tap the starter housing with a wooden handle (sometimes helps with sticking)

Check fuse F30 (10A) in the block under the hood-->

3. Problems with the immobilizer and the chip in the key

Nissan Note equipped with an immobilizer NATwhich often causes startup failure for no apparent reason. If the dashboard flashes or stays on red key — the system does not recognize the chip in the key. This may happen due to:

  • 🔑 Dead battery in the key fob (even if the buttons work!).
  • 📡 Damage to the immobilizer antenna around the ignition switch.
  • 💻 Failure in the control unit BCM (Body Control Module).
  • 🔧 Incorrect key synchronization after battery replacement.

How to temporarily bypass the immobilizer (for emergencies only!):

  1. Insert the key into the ignition and turn to position ON (not completely).
  2. Wait 10 minutes - during this time the system should “see” the chip.
  3. Turn the key to position START and try to start it.

If the procedure does not help, check fuse F17 (7.5A) in the cabin unit - it is responsible for powering the immobilizer. On Note E12 after 2012 release, a problem with broken paths on the board BCM, which requires soldering or replacing the unit (the cost of a new one is from 20 thousand rubles).

What to do if you lose your Nissan Note key?

If you only have one key left, immediately make a duplicate at a service center with diagnostic equipment (for example, Nissan Consult). If you lose all keys you will need:

1. Replacing the ignition switch with immobilizer.

2. Flashing ECU And BCM with new keys (cost from 15 thousand rubles).

3. Synchronization of all electronic units.

It is impossible to start the engine without the original key or immobilizer PIN code!

4. Fuel system malfunctions

If the starter turns the engine briskly, but Note won't start, the problem may lie in fuel supply. On petrol versions (HR12/HR16) most often to blame:

  • ⛽ Fuel pump — does not pump gasoline (you can’t hear a buzzing sound when you turn on the ignition).
  • 🔥 Injectors — clogged with deposits (especially if you refueled at dubious gas stations).
  • 🛢️ Fuel pressure regulator - “pours” or does not hold pressure.
  • 🔌 Fuel pump relay - doesn't work (check R17 in the block under the hood).

Quick check of the fuel system:

  1. Remove the return hose from the fuel rail and place it in a bottle.
  2. Ask an assistant to turn the ignition key (do not start!).
  3. Fuel should come out of the hose under pressure. If not, the problem is in the pump or filter.

On diesel Note (K9K) risks associated with freezing diesel fuel in winter or faulty glow plugs. If the engine "starts" but does not start, check:

  • 🌡️ Coolant temperature (must be no lower +5°C for a confident start).
  • 🔥 The operation of the glow plugs (checked with a multimeter - the resistance should be 0.5-6 Ohm).
  • 🛢️ Fuel quality (if you suspect water in the tank, drain the sediment).
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note with engine HR16 installed after 2010 electronic throttle. If, when you press the gas, the speed does not rise and the engine stalls, you need throttle adaptation through a diagnostic scanner. Self-cleaning without adaptation will lead to unstable operation!

5. Problems with the ignition system

If the engine Note “enough”, but does not start or works intermittently, the ignition system is to blame. Typical faults:

  • ⚡ Spark plugs - wear or incorrect clearance (must be 0.8-1.1 mm).
  • 🔌 Ignition coils — breakdown or break (checked with an oscilloscope).
  • 📶 High voltage wires - current leakage (resistance must be 5-10 kOhm).
  • 🛠️ Ignition module - fails after 150,000 km.

On Nissan Note E12 with engine HR12DE a common problem with cracks in the ignition distributor cap. This leads to current leakage and misfire. Signs:

  • The engine stalls when cold.
  • At idle speed the tachometer needles float.
  • In rain or high humidity, the car will not start.

How to check ignition coils without a scanner:

  1. Remove the coil from the first cylinder.
  2. Insert a working candle into it and apply it to the mass.
  3. Have a helper crank the starter.
  4. There must be a spark bright blue and stable. An orange or intermittent spark is a sign of a problem.
💡

If after replacing spark plugs Nissan Note Starting becomes worse, check their heat rating. For engines HR12/HR16 candles with number fit NGK IFR6A11 or Denso FXE20HR11. Installing "cold" or "hot" spark plugs will cause starting problems.

6. Malfunctions of electronic units (ECU, BCM)

Modern Nissan Note are literally “stuffed” with electronics, and malfunctions in the control units can lead to complete startup failure. The most problematic nodes:

  • 🧠 ECU (Engine Control Unit) — the “brains” of the engine. If there is a malfunction, it lights up Check Engine, but errors may not be read by the scanner.
  • 🔌 BCM (Body Control Module) — controls the immobilizer, lighting, power windows. If it fails, it may block startup.
  • 📡 Kan-tire — break or short circuit in the network CAN-BUS leads to "deafness" of blocks.

Symptoms of a problem ECU:

  • The engine starts and immediately stalls.
  • There are lights on the dashboard all indicators at the same time.
  • The scanner shows errors U1000 or P0606.
  • The fuel pump does not turn on when the key is turned.

On Note E11 (2006-2012) a common problem with oxidation of contacts in connectors ECU. This results in loss of communication with the sensors and startup failure. Solution:

  1. Remove the cover of the passenger compartment fuse box (to the left of the steering wheel).
  2. Find ECU (black block with inscription Nissan).
  3. Disconnect all connectors and clean contacts special liquid (For example, Kontakt 60).
  4. Check the integrity of the wiring for chafing.
⚠️ Attention: If after washing the engine or heavy rain Nissan Note stopped starting, don't rush to change it ECU! Dry the control unit first hairdryer (temperature no higher than 60°C) and check the fuse F1 (10A) in the cabin unit - it is responsible for powering the electronic units.

7. Engine mechanical problems

If all electronic systems are in order, but Note stubbornly does not start, the reason may lie in mechanics. The most critical failures:

  • 🔗 Broken timing belt — the engine does not turn over or turns over too easily.
  • 🛢️ Piston group jamming — the starter cannot crank the crankshaft.
  • 🔧 Camshaft failure — a metallic knock is heard when scrolling.
  • 💨 Valve burnout — the engine starts, but does not start.

How to check the timing belt without disassembling:

  1. Remove the timing belt cover (on HR16 — 3 star bolts).
  2. Check the belt tension - it should not bend more than 5 mm when pressed.
  3. Inspect the belt for cracks or delamination.
  4. Crank the engine manually (using the crankshaft pulley bolt) - if resistance is felt, it may water hammer.

On diesel Note (K9K) pay special attention turbine And EGR valve. If the engine does not start and white smoke comes out of the exhaust, it is possible turbine diaphragm rupture or valve jamming EGR. In this case, computer diagnostics will be required to read errors from P0299 (low boost pressure) or P0400 (malfunction EGR).

💡

On Nissan Note with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, be sure to check the compression in the cylinders before purchasing! The norm for gasoline engines is 12-14 bar, for diesel engines K9K - 28-32 bar. Reducing compression by even 20% can lead to starting problems.

8. External factors: weather, fuel, human factor

Sometimes Nissan Note It won’t start not because of breakdowns, but for external reasons. Let's consider typical situations:

  • ❄️ Winter launch - at temperatures below -20°C even a working battery loses 50% of its capacity. Solution: use preheater or remove the battery overnight.
  • ⛽ Bad fuel - after refueling at a questionable gas station, the engine may not start due to water in gasoline or unsuitable octane number.
  • 🔑 Human factor — you forgot to press the clutch (on a manual transmission), the alarm was turned on in immobilizer mode, the pedals were mixed up.
  • 🚗 After an accident - even a minor collision can cause damage inertia switch (located under the front panel).

If Note does not start after washing, check:

  • 💧 Has water gotten into air filter (sign: the engine “sneezes” when cranking).
  • 🔌 Corrosion on sensor connectors (especially crankshaft sensor).
  • 🛠️ Integrity of insulation of high-voltage wires.

On machines with gas equipment (HBO) the problem may lie in incorrect calibration or gearbox freezing. If the engine starts on gasoline but does not switch to gas, check:

  • 🔥 Gearbox temperature (must be no lower +40°C).
  • 📶 Gas pressure in the cylinder (the pressure gauge must show at least 0.5 MPa).
  • 🔧 Settings HBO ECU (often goes astray after disconnecting the battery).
💡

If Nissan Note does not start after a long period of parking (more than 2 weeks), before starting, disconnect the battery terminals for 10 minutes. This will reset errors to ECU and sometimes it helps to “revive” the immobilizer.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the launch Nissan Note

❓ Why does the starter turn, but the engine does not start?

This is a typical sign no spark or fuel. First check:

  1. Is there gasoline in the tank (the sensor may be lying!).
  2. Do you hear a whirring sound from the fuel pump when you turn on the ignition?
  3. Is there a spark at the spark plugs (unscrew one and check).

If everything is in order, look for the problem in crankshaft sensor or ECU.

❓ Is it possible to have Nissan Note from a pusher?

Yes, but only if:

  • You have manual transmission.
  • The battery is not completely discharged (otherwise the fuel pump will not work).
  • No problem with immobilizer.

Algorithm:

  1. Turn on the ignition.
  2. Depress the clutch and accelerate the car to 10-15 km/h.
  3. Engage 2nd gear and slowly release the clutch.

⚠️ Do not try this method on automatic - this will lead to breakdown Automatic transmission!

❓ Why after replacing the battery Nissan Note won't start?

This is due to a factory reset. immobilizer And ECU. Solutions:

  1. Wait 10 minutes with the ignition on - the system should “see” the key.
  2. Check the fuse F17 (7.5A) — he is responsible for powering the immobilizer.
  3. If it doesn’t help, it’s required key synchronization through a diagnostic scanner.

On diesel versions it can additionally be reset fuel pump calibration - adaptation will be required through Nissan Consult.

❓Which battery is best for Nissan Note?

Recommended settings:

  • Capacity: 55-60 Ah (for gasoline), 70-75 Ah (for diesel engines).
  • Starting current: not less 500 A (for HR16 — 600 A).
  • Type: Ca/Ca (calcium) or EFB (for cars with Start/Stop).

Verified models:

  • Bosch S4 005 (56 Ah, 540 A).
  • Varta Blue Dynamic D21 (60 Ah, 540 A).
  • Mutlu Silver Evolution 60 (60 Ah, 600 A).

⚠️ For diesel Note (K9K) take the battery from reverse polarity!

❓ What to do if Nissan Note Does it start and then stall immediately?

Causes and solutions:

Reason Diagnostics Solution
Defective crankshaft sensor Error P0335 or P0340 Replacement of the sensor (cost ~1,500 rub.)
Crowded injectors Engine troubles, errors P0300-P0304 Ultrasonic cleaning or replacement
Leakage intake manifold Whistle during operation, error P0171 Replacing gaskets or manifold
Crash ECU All lights on the panel are on Resetting errors with a scanner or flashing