Opening the trunk on a Nissan Note: all methods and solutions to problems

trunk Nissan Note - a knot that seems simple until it stops opening at the most inopportune moment. Owners encounter this problem for various reasons: from a dead battery in the key fob to a jammed lock or a broken cable. In this article we will look at all possible ways to open the trunk - from standard to emergency, and we will also tell you how to diagnose and eliminate typical faults.

Feature Nissan Note (especially models E11 And E12) is that its trunk can be locked both electronically (via the central locking) and mechanically (with a key or a lever in the cabin). If one method doesn't work, there are always fallback options - the main thing is to know where to look. We also added video instructions And mechanism diagrams, so that you can visually navigate the process.

1. Standard methods of opening the trunk

Let's start with the obvious: if the trunk won't open, first check all the standard methods. Often the problem lies in small things - a discharged remote control, a dirty lock, or an incorrect position of the lever.

• 🔑 Ignition key: Turn the key in the driver's door lock clockwise until it stops - this will unlock all the locks, including the trunk. On some models Note You need to turn the key twice with a pause of 1 second.
• 🚗 Lever in the cabin: Under the driver's door handle (to the left of the steering wheel) or on the floor next to the driver's seat there is a lever with a trunk icon. Pull it towards you and the lock should click.
• 📟 Remote control: Press the button with the image of an open trunk (usually it is separate or combined with the door unlock button). If the battery is low, replace it with CR2032.
• 🔄 Central lock: On some versions Note The trunk opens automatically when you double press the unlock button on the remote control (interval - 2 seconds).

If none of these methods work, move on to the next section. But first make sure that the problem is not child lock (if it is activated, the trunk will not open from the passenger compartment). To turn it off, find the switch on the driver's door or in the glove compartment (depending on the year of manufacture).

2. Emergency opening of the trunk from the passenger compartment

If the trunk is locked, but you have access to the interior, you can use emergency rope. It's on everyone Nissan Note, but its location depends on the generation:

• 🔧 Note E11 (2004–2012): The cable is hidden under a plastic cover on the rear shelf (remove it by pulling it up). Look for an orange or red loop.
• 🔧 Note E12 (2012–2020): The cable is located behind the trunk trim (you will have to remove the left side of the trim by snapping off the clips).

Algorithm of actions:

1. Remove the trim or pickguard (use a plastic pick to avoid damaging the clips).
2. Find the cable - it is usually attached to a metal hook or has a plastic handle.
3. Pull the cable sharply down (to yourself) - the lock should unlock.

Important: If the cable is broken or jammed, do not pull it by force - this could damage the lock mechanism. In this case, proceed to the mechanical method (section 4).

What to do if the cable breaks?

If the cable breaks, try to remove the remains with pliers and pull. If this does not help, you will have to remove the trunk lock from the inside (instructions in section 5).

3. Opening the trunk with a key (mechanical method)

At all Nissan Note under the rear license plate there is hidden lockwhich is opened with the ignition key. This method works even with a completely dead battery or faulty electronics.

Instructions:

1. Pry it off with a screwdriver or coin decorative overlay under the license plate (it is held on by 2–4 clips).
2. Under the overlay you will see keyhole — insert the ignition key into it.
3. Turn the key counterclockwise until it clicks. The trunk will unlock.

If the key does not turn:

• 🔹 Check if it is the right key (sometimes owners confuse keys from other cars).
• 🔹 Lubricate the lock WD-40 or silicone grease - it often jams due to corrosion.
• 🔹 Try to slightly move the key up and down while turning it.

4. Electrical problems: diagnosis and solutions

If the trunk does not open using any of the mechanical methods, the problem may be electrical part. Most often the culprits are:

• ⚡ Fuse F30 (10A) or F33 (15A) — responsible for the central locking and trunk drive.
• ⚡ Central locking relay (located in the fuse box under the steering wheel).
• ⚡ Oxidized contacts on the trunk actuator (needs to be cleaned).
• ⚡ Faulty electric lock drive (requires replacement).

How to check:

1. Open the fuse box (for location see user manual).
2. Remove the fuse F30 or F33 and check it with a tester. If it is burnt out, replace it.
3. Check the relay: swap it with a known working one (for example, with a turn signal relay).
4. If the fuses and relays are good, but the trunk does not open, the problem is actuator (electric motor of the lock).

Critical information: On Nissan Note E12 after 2016 the trunk actuator is connected to the system Nissan Intelligent Key. If the battery in the key is dead, the trunk may not open even mechanically - first replace the battery in the key fob.

Symptom	Probable Cause	Solution
The trunk does not open with the remote control, but it opens with the key.	The battery in the key fob is dead or the transmitting module is faulty	Replace the battery CR2032 or reprogram the key fob
A click is heard, but the trunk does not open	The lock mechanism is jammed or the cable is broken	Lubricate the lock or replace the cable (section 5)
The trunk can only be opened from the inside	External actuator or fuse is faulty	Check F30/F33 and use the tester to ring the actuator
The trunk opens spontaneously	Short circuit in wiring or faulty relay	Check the central locking relay and wire insulation

5. Repair and replacement of the trunk lock

If you've tried all the methods and the trunk still won't open, you'll have to disassemble the lock. This is a labor-intensive process, but you can do it yourself.

Tools you will need:

• 🔧 Phillips and flat screwdriver.
• 🔧 Pliers and round nose pliers.
• 🔧 WD-40 or lock lubricant.
• 🔧 New cable or lock (if replacement is required).

Step-by-step instructions for Nissan Note E11:

1. Remove the trunk trim (snap off the clips around the perimeter).
2. Unscrew the lock mounting bolts (usually 3-4 pieces).
3. Disconnect the cable and electrical connector (if there is an actuator).
4. Remove the lock and inspect it. Most often they break:
   • Plastic gears inside the mechanism.
   • Return spring.
   • Cable (breaks or jumps off the guides).

Replace broken parts or install a new lock (part number for Note E11: 28530-4M000).

For Note E12 the process is more complicated due to the integrated actuator. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact the service. The average cost of replacing a lock at a car service center is: 3,500–6,000 rubles (with spare parts).

6. Prevention of trunk problems

To avoid trunk opening problems in the future, follow these tips:

• 🔄 Lubricate the lock regularly (every 6 months) with silicone grease or WD-40.
• 🔋 Monitor your battery charge in the key fob - when the discharge is below 20%, malfunctions of the central locking may occur.
• 🚿 Avoid exposure to water into the lock (for example, when washing under high pressure).
• 🔧 Check the cable for wear and tear during each maintenance (especially if the trunk is opened with force).

Also useful to know:

• On Nissan Note with keyless entry (Nissan Intelligent Key) the trunk can be opened by holding the key fob to the rear door and pressing the button on the handle. If this function stops working, the key must be reprogrammed.
• In cold weather the castle may freeze. To unlock it, use lock defroster (do not pour boiling water!).

Attention: If you frequently transport heavy loads, check whether the rear door is deformed. Even a slight misalignment can cause the lock to jam.

7. Where to find diagrams and manuals

If you need detailed diagrams of the mechanism or electrical diagrams, they can be found in the following sources:

• 📖 Official repair manual (Nissan Note Service Manual). You can download it from sites like nicoclub.com or nissan-manuals.com.
• 🎥 Video on YouTube: search for "Nissan Note trunk lock repair" or "Nissan Note trunk won't open».
• 🔧 Owner forums: drive2.ru, nissan-club.ru — Photo reports on repairs are often posted there.

For Nissan Note E11 useful spare parts articles:

• Trunk lock: 28530-4M000 or 28530-4M001 (depending on the year).
• Trunk release cable: 28535-4M000.
• Central locking actuator: 28520-4M000.

Attention: When purchasing spare parts, please check VIN code your car - details may differ even within the same generation.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to open the trunk Nissan Notewhat if the battery is dead?

Yes, there are two ways:

1. Use mechanical key in the well under the license plate.
2. If the key does not turn, remove the interior trim and pull emergency rope (described in section 2).

If the battery is completely discharged, first “light” the car to open the central locking.

Why does the trunk open by itself?

This is a typical problem with:

• Short circuit in wiring (check fuse F30).
• Malfunction of the central locking relay.
• Moisture has entered the control unit (you need to dry it and check the contacts).

If the problem persists, disable the trunk actuator until repaired.

What is the best lubricant to use on the trunk lock?

Use:

• Silicone grease (does not attract dust).
• WD-40 Specialist (to remove rust).
• Graphite grease (for mechanical locks).

Do not use Litol or Solid oil - they thicken in the cold.

How much does it cost to replace a trunk lock at a service center?

The cost depends on the region and type of lock:

• Mechanical lock: 2,000–4,000 rubles (with work).
• Electric lock (with actuator): 4,500–7,000 rubles.
• Cable: 800–1,500 rubles.

Replacing it yourself will save up to 50% of the cost.

Is it possible to open the trunk if the key is lost?

Yes, but you will need:

1. Remove the interior trim and pull the emergency cable.
2. Or call an auto electrician who will open the lock through the diagnostic connector (if you have access to the interior).

After this, order a duplicate key using the VIN code (cost: 1,500–3,000 rubles).