Replacing the radio on a Nissan Note: a detailed guide with photos and tips

Replacing the standard radio with Nissan Note - a challenge faced by many owners of this compact hatchback. The reasons may vary: from the desire to get modern functions (for example, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto) until a banal breakdown of the factory device. However, the replacement process has nuances related to the design of the instrument panel, connectors and vehicle electrical systems.

In this article we will analyze all the stages - from choosing a new radio to its installation and configuration. You will find out which models are suitable for Nissan Note (including generations E11 And E12), how to properly remove the old system without damaging the plastic, and what two critical errors most often allowed when connecting, leading to a short circuit or non-functioning acoustics. We will also give recommendations on setting up sound and integrating with on-board electronics.

Which radio to choose for Nissan Note: compatibility and dimensions

The first step is to decide on the type and size of your new radio. B Nissan Note (especially in models before 2016) standard size is used 1-DIN (height 50 mm), but in some configurations it is also found 2-DIN (100 mm). Before purchasing, be sure to measure the niche in your car or check the documentation.

Modern radios are divided into several categories:

• 📻 Conventional radios - budget option with FM/AM, USB and Bluetooth. Suitable if you only need basic functions (for example, Pioneer MVH-S310BT or JVC KD-X351BT).
• 📱 Multimedia systems with screen - support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, have a touch screen. Popular models: Sony XAV-AX1000, Alpine iLX-W650.
• 🎵 Universal head units with navigation - include offline maps (for example, Kenwood DMX7020S or Garmin K2L).
• 🔧 Adapters for maintaining standard functions — if you want to leave the factory screen, but add CarPlay (for example, Dension Gateway 500).

Important to consider CAN bus compatible Nissan. Some radios (for example, from Alpine or Pioneer) require an additional adapter for correct operation with steering wheel buttons and on-board computer. Without it, fuel or engine temperature data may not be displayed on the screen.

⚠️ Attention: Radios with support Android Auto may require firmware updates to work with Nissan Note 2018+. Check this on the manufacturer's website before purchasing.

Radio type	Model example	Average price (2026)	Do you need a CAN adapter?
1-DIN with Bluetooth	Pioneer DEH-S4200BT	12 000 — 15 000 ₽	Yes (for steering wheel buttons)
2-DIN with CarPlay	Sony XAV-AX3005	28 000 — 32 000 ₽	Yes (for CAN and camera)
Adapter for standard screen	Dension Gateway 500	25 000 — 30 000 ₽	No
1-DIN with navigation	Kenwood KMM-BT328U	18 000 — 22 000 ₽	Yes

If you plan to use rear view camera, make sure that the radio supports RCA input for video. B Nissan Note The standard camera (if any) is connected via a separate connector, and an adapter may be required.

Tools and materials for replacing the radio

To dismantle the old and install a new radio you will need:

• 🔧 A set of plastic spatulas (so as not to damage the panel).
• 🔨 Phillips and flat head screwdrivers (size depends on fastenings).
• 🔌 A set of adapters for connection (if the radio is not original).
• 📦 Heat shrink tubing or electrical tape (to insulate connections).
• 🔍 Flashlight (interior lighting Nissan Note often insufficient).

Also prepare:

• 📱 Phone with a camera (to take pictures of connectors before disconnecting).
• 🔋 Multimeter (to check the voltage on the wires).
• 📝 Notepad and pen (to write down the color coding of the wires).

⚠️ Attention: In Nissan Note 2013–2017 radio mounting may differ from newer models. In some cases, you will need to remove the entire center console, which takes additional time.

If you are installing a radio with a screen, check whether the niche is deep enough. B Nissan Note first generation (E11) space behind the panel is limited, and some 2-DIN devices may not fit without modifications.

Step-by-step instructions: removing the original radio

The dismantling process depends on the year of manufacture Nissan Note, but the general scheme looks like this:

Step 1: Turn off the power.

Remove the negative terminal from the battery to avoid short circuit. B Nissan Note The battery is located under the hood, next to the air filter.

Step 2: Remove the decorative frame.

Carefully pry up the plastic frame around the radio with a spatula. In models E12 (2016+) it is attached with latches, in E11 (2006–2013) there may be screws under the decorative caps.

Step 3. Unscrew the radio mounts.

After removing the frame, you will see 4 screws (two each on the top and bottom). In some configurations they may be hidden under stickers or plastic plugs.

Step 4: Remove the radio.

Carefully pull the device towards you, having first disconnected all connectors at the back. B Nissan Note There are usually two main connectors used: ISO connector (power and speakers) and CAN bus (for communication with on-board electronics).

If the radio is “jammed” and does not come out, do not force it - check that all the screws are unscrewed and that there are no additional latches on the sides.

What to do if the connectors do not disconnect?

If the connectors are stuck, do not pull the wires - this may damage them. Instead, gently rock the connector from side to side while pulling on the connector body (not the wires!). As a last resort, use WD-40 or rubbing alcohol to clean the contacts.

Connecting a new radio: diagram and nuances

The most important step is connecting the wires. B Nissan Note Standard color coding is used, but it may vary depending on the year and configuration. Below is a typical layout for 2010–2020 models:

Wire color	Purpose	Where to connect
Yellow (Battery+)	Constant power (+12V)	To battery (via fuse)
Red (ACC+)	Power when ignition is on	To ignition wire (usually orange)
Black (GND)	Mass (ground)	To the metal part of the body
White/Grey/Green/Purple	Speakers (front/rear)	Observe polarity (+/-)
Blue/White (Amp Control)	Amplifier control	Only if there is an external amplifier

Pay special attention to connection CAN buses (usually orange and black wire). Without the correct connection the following will not work:

• 🔊 Steering wheel radio control buttons.
• 🚗 On-board computer data (fuel consumption, temperature).
• 🔋 Automatic on/off when turning the key.

If your new radio does not support Nissan CAN, you will need an adapter, e.g. Pac RP4-NIS01 or Connects2 CTNI001. The cost of such an adapter is about 3,000–5,000 rubles.

Installation and fastening of a new radio tape recorder

After connecting the wires, all that remains is to fix the radio in the niche. B Nissan Note for this we use:

• 🔩 Tripod mounts (included with the radio).
• 🔧 Self-tapping screws (if the fastenings do not fit in size).
• 🧲 Double-sided tape (for temporary fixation during setup).

Procedure:

1. Carefully insert the radio into the niche, making sure that the wires are not pinched.
2. Secure it with tripod lugs or self-tapping screws.
3. Install the decorative frame (if included).
4. Connect the battery and check the operation of the device.

If the radio does not turn on:

• Check the fuse (usually 10A or 15A in the block under the hood).
• Make sure the yellow and red wires are connected correctly.
• Check the ground (the black wire must be securely screwed to the body).

⚠️ Attention: In Nissan Note with the system NissanConnect (2018+) when replacing the radio, it may be necessary to reflash the on-board computer. Without this, some functions (for example, climate control) may not be displayed correctly.

Setting up the radio after installation

After physical installation, you need to configure the radio programmatically. Basic steps:

1. Sound settings.

In the radio menu, find the section Audio Settings and adjust:

• 🎛️ Balance and fader (for even sound in front and back).
• 🔊 Equalizer (choose the “Pop” or “Rock” preset to start).
• 🔇 Volume level (in Nissan Note Factory acoustics often require low-frequency amplification).

2. Connecting a smartphone.

For Apple CarPlay or Android Auto:

1. Connect your phone via USB (use the original cable!).
2. In the radio menu, select the appropriate source (CarPlay or Android Auto).
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to pair.

3. Setting up steering wheel buttons.

If you used a CAN adapter, the steering wheel buttons should work automatically. If not, go to the radio menu (Steering Wheel Control) and select the protocol Nissan.

In some radios (for example, Pioneer) there is a function Auto EQ — it automatically adjusts the sound to the interior acoustics. To use it you will need a microphone, which is usually included in the kit.

How to reset the radio settings to factory settings?

On most devices you need to hold down the button Menu or Source for 5–10 seconds. In radios Sony And Alpine reset is done through the menu Settings → Reset → Factory Reset.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even with careful installation, mistakes can be made that will lead to a non-functional radio or problems with the electronics. Here are the most common:

1. Incorrect power connection.

If you confuse yellow (Battery+) and red (ACC+) wires, the radio will discharge the battery when turned off. Check this with a multimeter: the yellow wire should have +12V constantly, on red - only when the ignition is on.

2. Ignoring the CAN bus.

Without an adapter, the steering buttons will not work, and the on-board computer may display errors. In some cases this even leads to failure of the climate control system (especially in Nissan Note E12 2017+).

3. Bad mass.

If the black wire is not securely fastened, the radio will turn on every once in a while or make noise. The optimal place for the mass is a bolt on the metal part of the center console.

4. Incompatibility with acoustics.

Factory speakers in Nissan Note often have resistance 2 ohm, while many radio tape recorders are designed for 4 ohm. This may cause sound distortion. The solution is to install an external amplifier or replace the speakers.

5. Neglect of isolation.

Exposed wires can short-circuit to the body, which will lead to a blown fuse or even a control unit. All connections must be insulated with heat shrink tubing or electrical tape.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to install a radio with a screen in the first generation Nissan Note (E11)?

Yes, but with reservations. B E11 (2006–2013) niche depth is limited, so not all 2-DIN radios will fit. The best option is devices with a retractable screen (for example, Pioneer AVH-X2800BT) or compact models with a depth of no more than 160 mm. The plastic panel may also need to be modified (cut or replaced with a universal one).

Do I need to code a new radio after installation?

In most cases no, but there are exceptions:

• If the radio supports Nissan CAN, you may need to select your car model from the menu (for example, Nissan Note E12).
• In radios with navigation (for example, Kenwood) sometimes you need to enter the PIN code that comes with the kit.
• If you are using an adapter to save the stock screen (for example, Dension), it needs to be “linked” to the car through special software.

Why do the steering wheel buttons not work after replacing the radio?

This is a major problem if there is no CAN adapter. Solutions:

1. Buy an adapter (eg Pac RP4-NIS01) and connect it between the radio and the CAN bus of the car.
2. Check if your radio supports the protocol Nissan in the steering wheel button settings.
3. Update the radio firmware (relevant for devices Pioneer And Alpine 2020+).

If the buttons worked before replacement, but stopped after, check the integrity of the orange-black CAN wire.

Is it possible to connect a rear view camera to a new radio?

Yes, but you need to consider two points:

• If in your Nissan Note There was already a standard camera, it can be connected via an adapter RCA → Nissan (For example, Metra 70-7552).
• If you didn’t have a camera, you’ll have to buy a universal one (for example, Boyo VTL375) and pull the wire to the radio. B Note For this purpose there is a technological hole under the trunk trim.

In the radio menu you need to enable the option Reverse Camera and select the signal type (NTSC or PAL, usually NTSC for Japan/Europe).

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

The cost of work in a car service depends on the region and complexity:

• Basic replacement (without CAN adapter) - 1 500–3 000 ₽.
• Replacement with connecting the camera and setting the steering wheel buttons - 3 500–6 000 ₽.
• Installation of a radio with a screen (including modification of the panel) - 5 000–8 000 ₽.

Self-replacement will only cost the cost of materials (wires, adapters), but requires care and electrical knowledge.