<em>Nissan Note</em> trunk lock: why it won’t open and how to fix it yourself

Nissan Note - a compact and practical hatchback, but even it eventually has problems with the trunk lock. Either the door refuses to open with the key, then the central lock jams, or a creak appears when closing. If you are faced with a similar situation, do not rush to go to the service: many faults can be fixed with your own hands.

In this article we will analyze all possible reasons, according to which the trunk lock Nissan Note (including models E11 And E12) may fail, and we will also give step by step instructions for repair and replacement. Let us dwell separately on methods for emergency trunk opening without damaging the body - this is relevant if the key is lost or the mechanism is completely blocked.

Typical trunk lock malfunctions Nissan Note

Trunk lock problems generally fall into two categories: mechanical (wear of parts, corrosion, damage) and electric (malfunction of central locking, wiring, control unit). Let's look at the most common cases:

• 🔑 The key does not turn or is jammed - often associated with wear of the cylinder or dirt ingress.
• 🔌 Central locking does not work - the problem may be in the actuator, fuse or wiring.
• 🔊 Creaking or crunching noise when opening/closing - a signal about insufficient lubrication or deformation of the mechanism.
• 🚗 The trunk can only be opened from the passenger compartment — the microswitch or control unit is faulty.
• 🔋 The lock works “every time” — there may be problems with contacts or power supply.

On models Nissan Note E11 (2004–2012) more common mechanical breakdowns due to the age of the car, and E12 (2012–2020) — electricconnected to the central lock. If the trunk stops opening after rain or washing, most likely the problem is oxidation of the contacts or moisture getting into the mechanism.

⚠️ Attention: If the trunk lock Nissan Note suddenly stopped responding to the key and central locking, do not try to open it by force - this may damage the hinges or deform the lid. Check the fuse first F30 (10A) in the cabin block (it is responsible for the central locking).

How to open the trunk Nissan Note keyless: 3 working ways

The situation when the key is lost or the lock is jammed is familiar to many owners. Let's consider safe methodsthat will not damage the body or mechanism:

1. Through the cabin (if the rear seat is folded down).

   Fold back the rear sofa, put your hand through the opening and try to reach emergency opening cable (usually it is located to the right of the lock, under the casing). On models E12 the cable may be hidden by a plastic plug - you need to carefully pry it off with a screwdriver.

2. Using a screwdriver (for mechanical locks).

   If the cylinder does not turn, try inserting a flathead screwdriver into the keyhole and lightly tapping it with a hammer while turning it. This often helps move rusted parts. Don't try too hard - you can break the key inside.

3. Direct power connection (for electric locks).

   If the problem is in the wiring, you can apply +12V directly to the lock actuator. To do this:

   • 🔧 Remove the trunk trim from the lock side.
   • 🔌 Find the actuator connector (usually black or white).
   • 🔋 Connect the wires from the battery to the actuator contacts (polarity is not important - if it doesn’t work, swap them).

Step-by-step replacement of the trunk lock Nissan Note with your own hands

If repair is not possible, the lock will need to be completely replaced. On Nissan Note This is a procedure of medium complexity - if you have the tools, it will take about 1–1.5 hours. You will need:

• 🔧 Set of screwdrivers (phillips, flat).
• 🔨 Socket wrench on 10 mm.
• 🧴 WD-40 or similar lubricant.
• 🔑 New lock (article for E11: 73101-4M000, for E12: 73101-4M010).

Replacement instructions:

1. Remove the trunk trim.

   Unscrew the screws around the perimeter (usually there are 6-8 of them) and carefully remove the plastic panel, starting from the corners. Be careful - there may be clips under the casing.

2. Disconnect the cables and connectors.

   Disconnect the emergency opening cable (it is secured with a plastic fastener) and the actuator power connector (if the lock is electric).

3. Unscrew the lock fastening.

   The lock is secured with two key bolts 10 mm. After removing them, the mechanism can be removed from the seat.

4. Install a new lock.

   Repeat the steps in reverse order. Before installation, lubricate the moving parts of the new lock. graphite lubricant (do not use lithol - it thickens in the cold).

The emergency opening cable is connected correctly|

The actuator connector is not confused with others|

The lock fastening bolts are tightened with a force of 8–10 Nm|

The trunk trim fits without gaps -->

Cost of a new lock for Nissan Note varies from 1,500 to 3,500 rubles depending on the type (mechanical or electrical) and manufacturer. Original spare parts are more expensive, but last longer. Analogues from Febi or TRW cheaper, but may require adjustment.

Repairing the trunk lock cylinder: when does it make sense to restore

If the problem is only in the cylinder (the key does not turn or is jammed), you can try to repair it without changing the entire lock. This is true for mechanical locks on Nissan Note E11, where the larva is removable. You will need:

• 🔧 Thin screwdriver or awl.
• 🧴 WD-40 or rust remover.
• 🔨 File (if you need to adjust the key).

Procedure:

1. Remove the larva.

   There is a retainer (usually a metal pin or plastic clip) on the back of the lock. Press it with an awl and pull out the larva.

2. Clean and lubricate the mechanism.

   Wash the larva in kerosene or WD-40, then blow with compressed air. Lubricate with graphite grease or Liqui Moly Silberfett.

3. Check the key.

   If the key is worn out, it can be slightly sharpened with a file (compare with the spare one). The main thing is not to overdo it, otherwise the key will no longer fit.

⚠️ Attention: If the cylinder is severely worn or deformed, repair may not help - in this case it is easier to replace it with a new one (item number for E11: 73201-4M000). On E12 The cylinder often comes complete with a lock, so it is not sold separately.

Mechanical (opens only with a key)|

Electric (with central locking)|

I don't know|

Another option-->

The central lock does not open the trunk: diagnostics and repair

If the trunk does not open from the key fob or button in the cabin, the problem lies in electrical part. On Nissan Note responsible for this:

• 🔋 fuse F30 (10A) - Responsible for powering the central locking system.
• 🔌 Relay K30 — controls the operation of actuators.
• 📡 Central locking control unit — located under the dashboard on the driver's side.
• 🔧 Trunk lock actuator - may fail due to oxidation or mechanical wear.

Diagnostic algorithm:

1. Check the fuse.

   It is located in the mounting block under the steering wheel (there is a diagram on the cover). If the fuse is blown, replace it and check the wiring for a short.

2. Ring the actuator.

   Remove the trunk trim and connect to the actuator +12V from the battery. If it does not work, the actuator itself is faulty (part number: 28520-4M000).

3. Check the signal from the control unit.

   The actuator connector should have 12V when you press the open button. If there is no voltage, the problem is in the block or wiring.

Malfunction	Reason	Remedy	Repair cost
Central locking does not respond to key fob	The battery in the key fob is dead or the control unit is faulty	Replace the battery in the key fob or ring the unit	200–2,000 rub.
The trunk can only be opened with the key	The actuator is faulty or the wiring is broken	Replace the actuator or restore the wiring	1,500–3,000 rub.
The lock works every once in a while	Oxidation of contacts or wear of actuator gears	Clean contacts or replace actuator	500–2,500 rub.
Central locking works, but trunk doesn't	Broken cable or faulty microswitch	Replace cable or switch	800–1,500 rub.

Malfunction prevention: how to extend the life of the trunk lock

To avoid problems with the trunk lock on Nissan Note, just follow simple rules:

• 🧴 Lubricate the lock 2 times a year. Use graphite lubricant or Liqui Moly Tiefenpfleger. Do not use silicone-based oils - they attract dust.
• 🚿 Avoid direct contact with water. After washing, dry the lock with compressed air or wipe with a dry cloth.
• 🔑 Do not use a low quality duplicate key. Cheap copies wear out the larva faster.
• 🔋 Check fuses. Inspect the fuse box every six months for oxidation.
• 🔌 Keep an eye on the wiring. If you notice that the central locking has become worse, check the actuator contacts.

Pay special attention winter period — at low temperatures, the lubricant thickens, and moisture in the lock mechanism can freeze. Treat your lock before the cold weather WD-40 Specialist (it displaces moisture and does not freeze).

What to do if the trunk lock is frozen?

If the lock does not turn due to ice, do not break the key! Use lock defroster (For example, Liqui Moly Tür-EntEiser) or heat the key with a lighter and insert it into the hole for 10–15 seconds. Do not pour boiling water under any circumstances - this will deform the plastic parts.

Common mistakes when repairing a trunk lock Nissan Note

Many owners, trying to save on service, make mistakes that only aggravate the problem. That's what can't do:

• 🔧 Use lithol or grease for lubrication. These lubricants thicken in the cold and attract dirt. It is better to use graphite lubricant or specialized products.
• 🔨 Use excessive force when opening. If the key does not turn, do not press harder - this can break the key inside the cylinder.
• 🔌 Ignore checking fuses. Often the problem lies in a blown fuse. F30, but the owners immediately dismantle the lock.
• 🧲 Try to open the trunk with a magnet. On Nissan Note this will not work - the lock does not have a magnetic mechanism.
• 🔋 Connect the actuator directly without checking the polarity. If you confuse plus and minus, you can burn the motor winding.

Another common mistake is purchase of non-original spare parts. For example, actuators from unknown brands often fail after 1–2 years. It’s better to overpay for the original or proven analogues (Hella, Valeo).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the trunk lock Nissan Note

Is it possible to open the trunk Nissan Note, if the key inside the cylinder breaks?

Yes, but carefully. Take a thin drill (∅1–2 mm) and drill into the cylinder next to the key to loosen the fixation. Then try to pull the piece out with tweezers. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to remove the lock and disassemble it.

Why does the central locking open all doors except the trunk?

Most likely the problem is trunk actuator or cable breakage. Check if voltage reaches the actuator when you press the button. If yes, but it does not work, replace it. If there is no voltage, look for a break in the wiring.

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

The cost of work depends on the region and complexity:

• Replacing the larva: 800–1,500 rub.
• Replacing the entire lock: 1,500–3,000 rub.
• Actuator repair: 1,000–2,000 rub.

Prices do not include the cost of spare parts.

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

Optimal options:

• Liqui Moly Silberfett - lasts a long time, does not thicken.
• WD-40 Specialist — displaces moisture, but dries quickly.
• Graphite lubricant is cheap and effective, but gets dirty on your hands.

Do not use Litol-24 or Solid oil — they attract dust and freeze in winter.

Is it possible to install an alarm with automatic trunk opening on Nissan Note?

Yes, but this will require:

1. Install an additional actuator (if it does not exist).
2. Connect it to the alarm unit.
3. Set up a program to open the trunk using the key fob.

The cost of such modification: 5,000–10,000 rub. (depending on the alarm configuration).