Cabin filter in Nissan Note - this is a small but critical detail on which the air quality in the cabin, the operation of the ventilation system and even the life of the air conditioning system depend. Many owners ignore replacing it, attributing a bad smell or poor airflow to “car features,” although the problem often lies in a clogged filter. According to the manufacturer's regulations, it must be changed every 15–20 thousand km, but in the conditions of Russian roads with their dust, poplar fluff and reagents, it is better to reduce the interval to 10–12 thousand km.
Replacement procedure for Nissan Note (including models E11 And E12) takes no more than 15 minutes and does not require special tools - just a flat screwdriver and a new filter. However, there are nuances: for example, on cars with air conditioning, the filter may be located differently, and on restyled versions (after 2013), the glove box mount is different. In this article we will look at all filter placement options, we will show you how to remove it correctly, and tell you which filter to choose - carbon or regular.
Where is the cabin filter located in a Nissan Note?
In most versions Nissan Note (including Note E11 2006–2013 and Note E12 2013–2020) the cabin air filter is installed behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. It is accessible after removing the glove box. However there are exceptions:
- 🔧 On models without air conditioning there may be no filter at all - instead there is a dust collector mesh.
- 🚗 On Nissan Note for the Japanese market (right-hand drive versions), the filter is sometimes located on the driver's side.
- ❄️ On cars with climate control, the filter can be covered with an additional plastic cover.
To accurately determine the installation location, pay attention to air flow direction from the deflectors: if the air flows weakly when the fan is turned on, most likely the filter is clogged. You can also focus on VIN code — using it, dealers determine the equipment and the presence of a filter.
- Every 10 thousand km
- Every 20 thousand km
- Only when the smell appears
- Never changed
Which cabin filter to choose for Nissan Note?
There are three types of filters on the market for Nissan Note:
- Paper (regular) - the cheapest (from 300 rubles), they retain only large dust and pollen, but do not cope with odors and toxic gases.
- Coal - middle price segment (600–1200 rubles), effective against unpleasant odors and partially absorb harmful substances.
- Electrostatic - premium option (from 1,500 rubles), even catches bacteria and viruses, but requires careful handling.
For most regions of Russia, the optimal choice will be carbon filter — it copes with exhaust gases, reagent odors and dust. Among popular brands:
| Brand | Article | Type | Price, rub. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mann Filter | CU 22011 | Coal | 800–1000 |
| Bosch | 1 987 429 660 | Regular | 400–500 |
| Filtron | K 1321 | Coal | 600–750 |
| Nissan (original) | 27277-4M00A | Regular | 1200–1500 |
Important: on restyled Nissan Notes (after 2016), a filter with a different part number can be installed - 27277-4M01A. Check this information before purchasing!
If you often drive on dusty roads or in traffic jams, choose filters with additional impregnation against bacteria (for example, Mann Filter FP 22011). They keep the interior fresher longer.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter
The replacement process is the same for most versions Nissan Note, but there are differences depending on the year of manufacture. Below are universal instructions for models E11 And E12.
Step 1: Preparation
- 🔌 Turn off the ignition and open the glove compartment.
- 🧰 Prepare a flat screwdriver and a new filter.
- 📱 Take a photo of the location of the glove compartment mounts (useful during assembly).
Step 2: Removing the glove compartment
On models up to 2013, the glove compartment is secured with two plastic latches and one bolt (on the right). On restyled versions (after 2013), an additional latch is used instead of a bolt.
Turn off the ignition|Remove all things from the glove compartment|Disconnect the opening limiter (if equipped)|Press the latches on the sides-->
Gently press the sides of the glove compartment to release the latches, then pull it towards you. On some versions it may be necessary to unscrew the bolt with a wrench 10 mm.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force - plastic fasteners are fragile! If the glove compartment does not budge, check to see if a bolt or latch has gone unnoticed.
Step 3: Removing the Old Filter
Behind the glove compartment you will see a plastic filter cover (black or gray). It is secured with two latches. Squeeze them out and remove the lid. The old filter is pulled out downwards - sometimes it “sticks” to the housing, so you may need to carefully pry it off with a screwdriver.
Please note arrow direction on the filter - it indicates the direction of air flow (usually down). The new filter must be installed in the same way!
Step 4: Installing a New Filter
Before installing a new filter wipe the seat remove dust and debris with a damp cloth. Insert the filter so that the arrow matches the direction of air flow (usually down). Make sure it fits snugly with no gaps.
Close the lid, return the glove compartment to its place and latch it. On restyled models, do not forget to screw the bolt back in!
If after replacing the filter there is still an unpleasant odor in the cabin, treat the air conditioning system with a special cleaner (for example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger).
Common mistakes when replacing the cabin filter
Even such a simple procedure as replacing a filter can be ruined by errors. Here are the most common:
- 🔄 Incorrect filter orientation — if you put it upside down, the cleaning efficiency will drop by 30–40%. Always follow the arrow!
- 🧹 Ignoring footprint cleaning — the dirt accumulated there will quickly clog the new filter.
- 🔧 Damage to glove compartment latches - If you pull too hard, the plastic may crack. It's better to spend an extra minute on careful removal.
- 🚫 Buying a non-original filter without checking the dimensions — some “universal” filters do not fit in size.
Another mistake - using used filters. Some owners try to “extend the life” of the filter by soaking it in fragrances or rinsing it with water. This is not only useless, but also dangerous: a wet filter becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, and fragrances can damage the plastic of the ventilation system.
⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the filter, a whistling or squeaking sound appears in the cabin when the fan is operating, check whether a foreign object (for example, a piece of an old filter) has entered the system.
When is it necessary to change the cabin filter ahead of time?
The regular replacement interval is 15–20 thousand km, but in some cases the filter requires replacement much earlier. Look out for the following signs:
- 🌫️ Constant smell of dust or mold in the cabin, even after cleaning.
- 💨 Weak air flow from the deflectors with the fan turned on to maximum.
- 🤧 Increased frequency of allergic reactions in passengers (sneezing, itchy nose).
- 🚗 Visible dirt on the filter during a visual inspection (if you have already removed the glove compartment).
Also, the filter should be replaced ahead of schedule if:
- Do you often travel dirt roads or in very dusty conditions (for example, during road repairs).
- Yours Nissan Note often stands in traffic jams (exhaust gases quickly clog the carbon filter).
- appeared in the salon insects or rodents - they can make a nest in the filter.
What happens if you don’t change the cabin filter at all?
Failure to replace the filter for a long time leads to serious consequences:
- The air conditioner evaporator is clogged, which leads to its breakdown (repair will cost 15–20 thousand rubles).
- Increased load on the stove fan - it can burn out (replacing the motor costs 5-7 thousand rubles).
- The proliferation of bacteria and fungi in the ventilation system, which causes chronic cough and allergies in passengers.
- Deterioration of glass blowing, which in winter leads to fogging and poor visibility.
Video instructions for replacing the cabin filter on a Nissan Note
For clarity, we recommend watching a video with step-by-step filter replacement. Below is a selection of proven videos for different generations Nissan Note:
- 📹 Replacing the filter on Nissan Note E11 (2006–2013) — a detailed analysis with comments on the glove compartment mounts.
- 📹 Nissan Note E12 (2013–2020) - filter replacement in 10 minutes — emphasis on restyled models.
- 📹 What to do if the glove box latches are broken? — Tips for repairing plastic fasteners.
If this is your first time changing a filter, it's best to watch the video for your model first to avoid mistakes with the mounts.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the cabin filter
Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?
Technically, yes, but this will lead to rapid clogging of the air conditioner evaporator and ventilation ducts. The interior will be constantly dusty, and in winter the windows will fog up. On models without air conditioning, there is a mesh instead of a filter - this also needs to be cleaned periodically.
Which filter is better - carbon or regular?
A carbon filter is more effective at eliminating odors and harmful gases, but it is more expensive and clogs faster in urban environments. A conventional filter is cheaper and lasts longer, but does not cope with toxic exhaust. For the city, coal is better, for the highway - regular.
What to do if the new filter does not fit?
Check if the item you purchased is the correct one. On restyled Nissan Note (after 2016) the filter may be wider. Also make sure that the filter is installed the correct way - sometimes it does not fit into place due to misalignment.
Is it necessary to change the filter if the car is not used much?
Yes, even if the mileage is short, the filter ages and loses its properties. It is recommended to change it every 1–2 years, regardless of mileage. This is especially true for cars that are parked in damp areas (garage, parking lot) - there the filter can become moldy.
Is it possible to clean the old filter instead of replacing it?
No, it's no use. Paper and carbon filters cannot be restored - their structure is destroyed when washed. The only exception is the metal mesh on older models without air conditioning, but it is better to replace them with a new filter.