<em>Nissan Qashqai J11</em>radiator grille: how to choose, replace and upgrade

Nissan Qashqai J11 is one of the most popular crossovers on the Russian market, and its appearance is largely determined by the front grille. This element not only shapes the appearance of the car, but also performs important practical functions: it protects the radiator from mechanical damage, provides the necessary air exchange, and even affects aerodynamics. However, over time, the grille may lose its original appearance - crack, fade in the sun, or be damaged in a minor accident.

In this article we will look at all the nuances associated with the radiator grille Qashqai J11: from the selection of original and non-original spare parts to step-by-step instructions for replacement. We will pay special attention to tuning options - both budget ones (painting, chrome plating) and more serious ones (installation of sports grilles or LED inserts). If you are planning a renovation or want to update the appearance of your crossover, this information will be useful.

Original radiator grille: articles and features

Factory grille for Nissan Qashqai J11 (2013–2021) is available under several article numbers depending on the configuration and year of manufacture. Main original numbers:

• 🔹 62610-JM00A — basic version for models before restyling (2013–2017), without chrome inserts.
• 🔹 62610-JM01A — grille for restyled versions (2017–2021) with chrome trim.
• 🔹 62610-4M00A — option for top trim levels (for example, Tekna) with additional decorative elements.

The original grilles are made of durable plastic with UV protection, but even they can fade or develop microcracks over time. The average price of a new part in official dealership centers is from 8,000 to 15,000 rubles, depending on the version. When ordering through online stores (for example, Exist.ru or Autodoc) the cost may be 20–30% lower.

It is important to note that original grilles are often supplied without an emblem Nissan — it will have to be transferred from the old part or purchased separately (emblem number: 40501-JM00A). Also, in some trim levels, the grille is assembled with the bumper frame, which complicates replacement.

Analogs and non-original spare parts: what to choose?

If the original grille seems too expensive, you can consider analogues from third-party manufacturers. The main thing is to pay attention to the quality of the material and the compliance of the fasteners. Among the trusted brands:

• 🔧 Febi (article 22610) - German quality, close to the original, price ~5,000 rubles.
• 🔧 Hella (article 8GC 355 109-121) is a good alternative for restyled models.
• 🔧 Dello (article 301261017) is a budget option (~3,500 rubles), but plastic is less resistant to UV rays.
• 🔧 TWR — offers sports grilles with perforations for tuning.

When choosing an analogue, be sure to check with VIN code your car or use online catalogs (for example, Nissancatalog.ru). Cheap Chinese grilles (price from 1,500 rubles) often have inaccurate fastenings and quickly lose color.

⚠️ Attention: Some aftermarket grilles may not be compatible with parking sensors or 360° cameras. Before purchasing, check compatibility with your equipment!

Manufacturer	Article	Price, rub.	Features
Nissan (original)	62610-JM01A	12 000–15 000	UV protection, precise fit
Febi	22610	4 800–5 500	Quality close to OEM
Dello	301261017	3 200–3 800	Budget option, possible problems with fastenings
TWR	TWR-NQ11-GRILL	7 000–9 000	Sports design, perforation

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the radiator grille

Replacing the grille with Nissan Qashqai J11 - a procedure of medium complexity that can be performed independently in 1–1.5 hours. You will need:

• 🔧 Flat and Phillips screwdrivers.
• 🔧 Plastic mounting spatulas (so as not to damage the bumper).
• 🔧 A rag or towel to protect the hood.
• 🔧 New grille and, if necessary, emblem Nissan.

If your vehicle has parking sensors or a 360° camera, you will need to temporarily disable them. To do this:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the connectors from the sensors (usually located behind the bumper).
3. Carefully remove the sensor mounts to avoid damaging the wiring.

Disconnect battery

Remove Nissan emblem (if necessary)

Prepare tools and a new grate

Cover the hood with protective cloth

Mark the location of parking sensors (if any) -->

Next follow the instructions:

1. Removing the bumper. Unscrew the bumper mounting bolts from the bottom (usually 4-6 pieces) and on the sides (in the wheel arches). Gently pull the bumper towards you, starting from the corners. It is held on by plastic clips - do not use too much force to avoid breaking them.
2. Removing the old grille. It is attached with 4–6 self-tapping screws and plastic latches. Unscrew the screws, then carefully snap the grille upwards.
3. Installing a new grille. Check the compatibility of the fasteners, if necessary, transfer the emblem and sensors from the old part. Secure the grille with self-tapping screws and snap the clips into place.
4. Assembly. Reinstall the bumper, securing it with bolts and clips. Connect parking sensors and battery.

⚠️ Attention: When removing the bumper, do not pull it sharply - in the lower part it may cling to the fog lights or engine protection mounts. If the clips are broken, replace them with new ones (clip part number: 08915-JA00A).

Tuning the radiator grille: modernization options

If you want to highlight your Qashqai J11, the standard grille can be upgraded. Here are the most popular tuning options:

• 🎨 Painting. The grille can be repainted in body color or a contrasting shade (for example, gloss black). To do this, use car paint in cans and pre-matt the surface with sandpaper. P800–P1000.
• 💎 Chrome plating or vinyl film. Chrome grilles look luxurious, but require careful maintenance. A more budget-friendly option is to cover it with chrome or carbon film.
• 🔥 Sports grilles. Companies TWR, Evo-R And Kamei They offer grilles with perforated or mesh designs that improve air exchange.
• 💡 Backlight. You can embed an LED strip into the grille (for example, Philips LEDstrip), connecting it to the dimensions or a separate switch.

For painting or pasting, the grille will have to be removed (see instructions above). If you choose a sport grille, be aware that some models may reduce aerodynamics and increase fuel consumption at high speeds.

How to properly cover a grille with vinyl film?

1. Thoroughly wash and degrease the grate surface.

2. Cut the film according to the patterns with a margin of 2–3 cm.

3. Use a hair dryer to smooth the film and remove bubbles.

4. Trim off the excess with a utility knife.

5. Heat the film with a hairdryer for better adhesion (temperature ~60°C).

To illuminate the grille, it is recommended to use waterproof LEDs with IP67. It is better to entrust the connection to professionals to avoid short circuits. The average cost of a set of LEDs with a control unit is - 2,000–4,000 rubles.

Common problems and their solutions

Owners Nissan Qashqai J11 We often encounter several common problems related to the radiator grille:

• 🔊 Creaks and rattles. They occur due to wear of the plastic clips or dirt getting between the grille and the bumper. Solution: Clean the fasteners and lubricate them with silicone grease (for example, Liqui Moly Silicon-Spray).
• 🌞 Burnout and clouding of plastic. This is especially true for cars parked in the open sun. Solution: polishing with special means (for example, 3M PlastX) or painting.
• 🚗 Cracks after minor accidents. Minor damage can be repaired using a soldering iron and plastic solder. Serious cracks are a reason for replacement.
• 💧 Corrosion of fastenings. If the screws are rusty, they should be replaced with galvanized or stainless steel ones (size - M5×16 mm).

If the grille is deformed after an impact, you can try to straighten it with a hair dryer. Heat the damaged area until 80–100°C and carefully shape it using gloves. After cooling, fix the result by cold welding for plastic (for example, Poxipol).

⚠️ Attention: When plastic is heated, toxic fumes are released! Work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors using a respirator.

Where to buy a radiator grille for Nissan Qashqai J11?

There are several ways to purchase a radiator grille:

• 🏢 Official dealers Nissan. Guaranteed quality, but high price. The average delivery time is 3–7 days.
• 🛒 Online spare parts stores. Popular platforms:
  • Exist.ru — wide range, fast delivery.
  • Autodoc.ru — convenient selection by VIN code.
  • Emex.ru — there are often discounts on analogues.
• 🔧 Showdown. You can find a used grille in good condition for 30–50% of the cost of a new one. Verified sites: Avito, Drom.ru, Bamper.by.
• 🛠️ Tuning shops. For sport or chrome grilles: TWR-Russia.ru, Evo-R.com.

When purchasing a used grille, be sure to check:

• Condition of the plastic (are there any cracks or severe fading).
• Integrity of fasteners and clips.
• Compatible with your equipment (especially if you have a 360° camera).

If you buy a grate abroad (for example, eBay or AliExpress), keep in mind that delivery may take up to a month, and if the sizes do not match, it will be difficult to return the product.

Comparison of the original and tuned grille: pros and cons

The choice between an original and a modified grille depends on your goals. Below is a comparison table:

Criterion	Original grille	Tuned grille
Cost	High (RUB 8,000–15,000)	Various (from 3,000 to 20,000 rub.)
Installation	Simple, precise fit	May require modification of fasteners
Appearance	Classic, factory	Unique, stands out
Durability	High (UV protection, durable plastic)	Depends on the material (chrome may peel off)
Aerodynamics	Optimal for the model	May worsen (especially with perforated grilles)

If reliability and preservation of factory characteristics are important to you, choose the original. For those who want individuality, tuned options are suitable. However, remember that some modifications (for example, grilles with large perforations) can lead to dirt getting into the radiator and accelerated wear.

Perforated grilles increase the risk of damage to the radiator from small stones at high speeds. If you often drive on gravel, it is better to avoid such tuning.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the radiator grille Nissan Qashqai J11

Is it possible to paint the radiator grille without removing it?

Technically it is possible, but the quality will be worse. Without removing it, it is difficult to paint all areas evenly, especially if the grate has a complex topography. In addition, when painting on site, there is a high risk of paint getting on the bumper or hood. We still recommend dismantling the grille for better results.

How often should you replace your radiator grille?

With careful use, the original grille can last the entire life of the car. However, if it appears cracked, severely scuffed, or has lost its shape after an accident, replace it as soon as possible. A damaged grille not only spoils the appearance, but also worse protects the radiator from mechanical damage.

What should I do if, after replacing the grille, the parking sensor fault light comes on?

Most likely, the sensor connectors or their fastenings were damaged during installation. Check:

1. The tightness of the sensors to the shoes.
2. Integrity of the wiring (are there any breaks or creases).
3. The connectors are connected correctly (they should click).

If the problem persists, reset the error via a diagnostic scanner (for example, ELM327) or contact service.

Is it possible to install the grille from a restyled model on a pre-restyled model?

No, this is impossible without serious modifications. Grilles for Qashqai J11 before and after the 2017 restyling they have different shapes and fastenings. In addition, the restyled versions have a changed bumper shape, so even if it is physically possible to secure the grille, it will look ridiculous and may not coincide with the lines of the body.

Which grill is better - plastic or metal?

Plastic grilles are lighter, cheaper and do not rust, but are less resistant to mechanical damage. Metal (usually aluminum) are stronger and look more solid, but are more expensive and can corrode if the protective coating is damaged. For everyday use, a plastic grille is preferable, while a metal grille is suitable for tuning or off-road use.