Rear door trim Nissan Qashqai J11 (2013–2021) is not just a decorative element, but a complex structure with speakers, wiring and locking mechanisms. Its dismantling may be necessary to replace glass, repair electric drives, install sound insulation or eliminate squeaks. However, the wrong approach is fraught broken clips, damage to the wiring or even failure of the window regulator.
In this article - step-by-step analysis of the process taking into account typical mistakes and pitfalls. We'll tell you what tools you'll need, how to avoid losing power to your speakers, and why. on models with a rear view camera, the trim removal algorithm differs from the standard one. The instructions are suitable for all modifications Qashqai J11, including restyled versions 2017–2021.
Preparation: Tools and Precautions
Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have everything you need. The absence of even one tool can lead to improvisation “on your knees” - and this is a direct path to broken clips or scratches on the plastic.
Here minimum setwhich will be required:
- 🔧 Plastic puller (or a set of picks) - for carefully prying up the clips. Use metal screwdrivers it's impossible!
- 🔩 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) - for screws securing the handle and speaker.
- 🔌 Multimeter — to check the integrity of the wiring after removing the casing (optional, but recommended).
- 📦 Container for small parts — clips and screws are easily lost.
- 🧴 Silicone grease — for processing the window lifter guides (if you plan to clean them).
⚠️ Attention! On models with electric trunk (optional Power Liftgate) before removing the casing be sure to disconnect the battery. Otherwise, you risk causing a false operation of the mechanism if the wiring is accidentally shorted.
Also prepare your workspace:
- 🚗 Place the car on a flat surface and lock the front door in the open position (so as not to interfere).
- 🔦 Provide good lighting - for example, use LED lamp with magnet, which can be mounted on the roof.
- 📸 Take a photo of the location of the clips and wires before work starts - this will simplify reassembly.
- Yes, more than once
- Yes, but the clips were broken
- No, this is my first experience
- I'm planning to do it for the first time
Step 1: Removing decorative elements and handles
We start by removing visible fasteners. On the casing Qashqai J11 There are only three of them: two under the decorative trim of the handle and one under the plug next to the speaker.
Procedure:
- Gently pry handle cap (from the passenger compartment) with a plastic puller. It is held on by two latches - pull perpendicular to the plane of the doorso as not to break.
- Under the plug you will find two screws - unscrew them
Phillips screwdriver PH2. - Remove speaker cover (if any). It is attached to 4 clips - pry it from the edges, starting from the bottom.
- Under the cover you will find another screw - unscrew it.
Now you can start removing the handle itself. It is attached to two screws (hidden under the decorative panel) and plastic retainer from the glass side. To avoid damaging the latch:
- 🔧 Unscrew the two screws under the cover.
- 🖐️ Click on the latch from the inside (through the access hole) and pull the handle towards you.
- 🔌 Disconnect the backlight connector (if any) - it is usually white with a latch.
⚠️ Attention! On versions with leather trim handles the retainer may be fragile. If the handle does not budge, do not apply force - check that all screws are unscrewed.
The battery is disconnected (for models with Power Liftgate)|Clips and connectors are photographed|Tools are prepared (puller, PH2 screwdriver)|Small parts (screws, plugs) are removed into the container-->
Step 2: Disconnecting Wiring and Speaker
Before removing the trim, you must disconnect all electrical connectors. In the back door Qashqai J11 there are usually three of them:
- 🔊 Speaker (gray or black connector).
- 🔒 Window lifter control unit (white connector with 4–6 pins).
- 📹 Rear view camera (only on versions with the option
Around View Monitor- yellow connector).
How to disconnect the connectors:
- Carefully peel back the casing near the speaker to gain access to the connector. Don't pull the wires!
- Click on connector lock (usually a plastic latch on the side) and pull it to the side.
- For rear view camera, first remove protective rubber plug (it is glued with sealant).
If the speaker interferes with further dismantling, it can be removed:
- Remove the 4 speaker mounting screws (
PH2). - Carefully remove it, remembering to disconnect the connector.
- Place the speaker on a soft surface (such as a towel) to avoid scratching the cone.
| Connector type | Color | Number of contacts | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speaker | Grey/black | 2 | Power and signal |
| Window lifter | White | 4–6 | Motor control |
| Rear view camera | Yellow | 6–8 | Video signal + power |
| Handle illumination | White (small) | 2 | LED backlight |
If the connector does not disconnect, do not pull the wires - there is a risk of tearing the contacts off the board. Try swinging it left and right while pressing the lock.
Step 3: Removing the trim - technique and nuances
Now we move on to the most important stage. Rear door trim Qashqai J11 attached to 8–10 plastic clips And two metal pistons (at the bottom). Main rule: do not pull the casing towards you, and carefully move it up, releasing the clips one at a time.
Step by step instructions:
- Start with bottom corner (from the door hinge side). There are no clips here - the casing simply fits into the groove.
- Insert the plastic puller into the gap between the trim and the metal part of the door. Press gently to release the first clip.
- Walk around the entire perimeter, releasing the clips one by one. Don't rush — if the casing does not give in, it means that somewhere it remains unconnected.
- Pay special attention top part — a clip is often located here, hidden under the glass seal.
- When all the clips are released, slide the trim up (it is engaged with the guides) and remove it.
On models with rear view camera the skin may “fit” more tightly due to additional fastenings. In this case:
- 📹 Check if the camera connector is disconnected (see step 2).
- 🔧 You may need to unscrew another screw under the decorative cover of the camera.
⚠️ Attention! If the trim is stuck at the top, do not force it. You probably forgot to disconnect the connector door closing sensor (small black connector near the lock).
What to do if the clip breaks?
If the plastic clip cracks, don't panic. It can be replaced with a new one (article for Qashqai J11 — 77110-4M000 or 77110-4M010). Temporary option - use plastic clamp appropriate size, but this will reduce the reliability of fastening. In extreme cases, the casing can be fixed to double sided tape, but this is not recommended for regular use.
Step 4: Access to mechanisms - window regulator, lock, wiring
Once the trim is removed, you will have access to all of the door's internal components. Here's what you can do at this stage:
1. Window lifter
- 🔧 For cleaning or replacement guides remove the plastic protection of the mechanism (attached with 3 clips).
- 🛠️ Before removing the glass fix it tape in the upper position so as not to drop.
- 🔄 To replace the window lift motor, disconnect the connector and unscrew the 3 bolts (
10 mm).
2. Lock and opening mechanism
- 🔐 To get to the lock, remove the plastic protection (2 screws
PH2). - 🔧 For adjustment lock drive loosen the nut on
8 mmand adjust the position of the rod. - 🚨 If the door does not close tightly, check rubber seal - it can be lubricated with silicone.
3. Wiring and speaker
- 🔌 To check the speaker circuit, use a multimeter in
calls. Normal resistance -4–8 ohms. - 🔊 If the speaker “wheezes”, clean the connector contacts alcohol swab.
- 📶 To improve the sound, you can install sound insulation (For example, StP A25) on the inside of the casing.
Before assembly, check the operation of all mechanisms: scroll the glass up and down, check the lock and speaker. This will save time if something goes wrong.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when disassembling a door. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:
1. Broken clips
- ❌ Error: Using a metal screwdriver instead of a plastic puller.
- ✅ Solution: Buy a set plastic picks (they are inexpensive, but they will keep the clips).
2. Broken wires
- ❌ Error: Pull the casing without disconnecting the connectors.
- ✅ Solution: Before removing the casing check all connectors (see step 2).
3. Lost screws
- ❌ Error: Storing screws “on the knee” or in an unmarked pile.
- ✅ Solution: Use magnetic tray or a container with cells.
4. Damaged glass seal
- ❌ Error: Prying up the casing in the area of the seal with a sharp object.
- ✅ Solution: Carefully bend the seal hands, not a tool.
5. Rear view camera not working
- ❌ Error: You forgot to disconnect the camera connector or damaged its wiring.
- ✅ Solution: Before assembly check the image on the media screen.
Assembling the casing - reverse order and check
Installing the trim back is an equally important process. What's important here is:
- Make sure everything is connectors are connected (speaker, window regulator, camera).
- Check that clips are not deformed. If in doubt, replace them.
- Place the trim on guides at the top and gently press down until the clips snap into place.
- Tighten all screws (handle, speaker, plugs).
After assembly be sure to check:
- 🔊 Is the speaker working (is there any wheezing or silence).
- 🔄 Does the glass rise and fall smoothly?
- 🔒 Does the door close the first time (without slamming).
- 📹 Does the rear view camera work (if any).
⚠️ Attention! If, after assembly, the glass “bites” when moving, it means the casing presses on the guides. You need to remove it and adjust the position of the clips.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing trim
Is it possible to remove the trim without a puller?
Theoretically, yes, but the risk of damaging the clips or plastic is extremely high. As a last resort you can use plastic card (for example, a discount), but it must be tough and without burrs. Use metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) absolutely not possible.
How many clips are there on the rear door trim? Qashqai J11?
The number of clips depends on the configuration:
- Basic version (without rear view camera) - 8 clips.
- Versions with a camera or premium audio system - 10–12 clips (a speaker and a camera are additionally attached).
There is also 2 metal pistons at the bottom of the casing.
What should I do if the window lifter does not work after assembly?
There may be several reasons:
- The power window motor connector is not connected (check the white connector with 4-6 pins).
- The power cord is pinched (inspect the harness for kinks).
- The fuse has blown (on Qashqai J11 this is
F37 (15A)in the passenger compartment fuse box). - The motor is damaged (check with a multimeter - the winding resistance should be
10–20 Ohm).
If the problem is in the motor, it can be replaced separately (part number - 28530-JM00B for the left door, 28530-JM00A for the right one).
How to remove the trim if the door cannot be opened from the inside?
If the door is locked (for example, after an accident or a broken lock), you will have to act differently:
- Remove internal sill trim (it is attached with 2 clips and 1 screw under the rubber mat).
- Through the technological hole, get to lock rods and pull it up (simulating opening from the inside).
- If the link is broken, use wireto engage the lock mechanism.
⚠️ Be careful - in this case the risk of damaging the wiring or casing is higher.
Can the trim be washed after removal?
Yes, but with caution:
- Use soft brush And soap solution (without aggressive detergents).
- Do not wash with strong water pressure - this may damage speaker or get caught in the connectors.
- Suitable for removing stains from plastic isopropyl alcohol (70%).
- Before installing the trim back dry it at least 2 hours.