Nissan Note - a compact hatchback, popular due to its efficiency and practicality. But even such a reliable car eventually has maintenance issues, and one of them is the parameters of the exhaust system. The diameter of the exhaust pipe affects engine performance, exhaust sound and compatibility with tuning parts. In this article we will look at standard sizes for all generations. Note, features of the selection of spare parts and nuances of modifications.
Many owners are faced with a problem: when replacing a muffler or installing a forward flow system, sellers offer pipes of different diameters - from 40 to 63 mm. What is the original size? Is it possible to increase the diameter to improve dynamics? And what happens if you install a pipe with a smaller cross-section? The answers are below, with technical justifications and practical advice.
Standard exhaust pipe diameters for Nissan Note by generation
The dimensions of the exhaust system depend on the vehicle generation, engine type and supply market. For Nissan Note first generation (E11, 2004–2013) and second (E12, 2013–2020) parameters differ slightly, but there are key nuances.
On most versions with gasoline engines HR12DE (1.2 l), HR15DE (1.5 l) and K9K (1.5 diesel) standard diameter of the main exhaust pipe (from the catalyst to the resonator) is 45–50 mm. However, at the exit from the muffler the cross section often narrows to 40–42 mm - this is due to the design of the rear can. For diesel modifications, the diameter can be increased to 50–55 mm for better gas removal.
- 🔧 E11 (2004–2013): 45 mm (main pipe), 40 mm (muffler outlet)
- 🔧 E12 (2013–2020): 50mm (main pipe), 42mm (outlet)
- 🔧 Diesel (K9K): 50–55 mm (full length)
- 🔧 Sports versions (Nismo): 55–60 mm (modified systems)
It is important to note that Japanese and European versions may have different standards. For example, Note for the Japanese domestic market (JDM) is often equipped with smaller diameter pipes due to more stringent environmental regulations. When ordering spare parts, always check VIN code or year of manufacture!
- HR12DE (1.2 l)
- HR15DE (1.5 l)
- K9K (1.5 diesel)
- Other
- I don't know
Table: Exhaust pipe diameters for Nissan Note by modifications
| Generation | Engine | Main pipe diameter (mm) | Outlet diameter (mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E11 (2004–2013) | HR12DE (1.2) |
45 | 40 | European market standard |
| E11 (2004–2013) | HR15DE (1.5) |
50 | 42 | Versions with automatic transmission can be narrowed to 38 mm |
| E12 (2013–2020) | HR12DDR (1.2 Dig-S) |
50 | 45 | Turbocharged versions require precise selection |
| E12 (2013–2020) | K9K (1.5 diesel) |
55 | 50 | Larger diameter for better soot removal |
The data in the table is relevant for original systems. When installing non-original mufflers (for example, Bosal or Walker) diameters may differ by ±2 mm. Always check the manufacturer's catalogs!
Is it possible to increase the diameter of the exhaust pipe for tuning?
Increasing the diameter of the exhaust pipe is a popular way to improve exhaust flow and increase power slightly. However for Nissan Note With its low-power engines (<120 hp), this tuning requires caution.
Basic rules:
- ⚡ Optimal magnification: no more than +10 mm from the standard size. For example, for
HR15DEmaximum recommended diameter - 60 mm. - ⚡ Diesel engines better tolerate increases up to 63 mm due to high torque.
- ⚡ Turbocharged versions (For example,
HR12DDR) require comprehensive modifications: in addition to the pipe, you need to change the downpipe and flash the ECU. - ⚡ Sound: Increasing the diameter by 10–15 mm will make the exhaust louder by 3–5 dB. For a comfortable ride, use resonators.
⚠️ Attention: Installation of a pipe with a diameter of more than 63 mm to atmospheric Note will lead to a loss of “low end” (torque at low speeds). The engine will become “stupid” when accelerating from 1000–2000 rpm.
For a real increase in power (5–7 hp), it is not enough to simply bore the pipe. A set of measures is required:
☑️ What you need for effective exhaust tuning
Without ECU adjustment, increased pipe diameter may cause an error P0420 (low catalyst efficiency) due to changes in back pressure.
How to measure the diameter of the exhaust pipe yourself
If you are unsure of the dimensions of your exhaust system, you can measure them by hand. You will need caliper or flexible tape measure. Follow the instructions:
- Raise the car on a lift or drive it into a viewing hole. Do not work under the car with a jack!
- Clean the pipe from dirt and rust at the measurement site (use a wire brush).
- Measure outer diameter pipes in three places:
- Directly after the catalyst (or stronger).
- In front of the resonator.
- At the outlet of the muffler.
D = L / π, where L - circumference (measured with a thread).⚠️ Attention: Don't be confused external And internal diameter! Spare parts catalogs usually indicate the external size, and the internal size is 2–4 mm smaller (due to the thickness of the metal). For example, a pipe with an outer diameter of 50 mm has a clearance of ~46 mm.
For clarity:
An example of calculating diameter by circumference
Let's say the circumference of the pipe (measured with a thread) is 140 mm. Then the diameter D = 140 / 3.14 ≈ 44.6 mm. We round up to 45 mm and look for a spare part with this external size.
Selection of spare parts: original vs analogues
When replacing an exhaust pipe, owners Nissan Note are faced with a choice: buy original parts or analogues from third-party manufacturers. Let's look at the pros and cons of each option.
Original pipes (items start with 20520- or 20560-):
- ✅ Exact fit to sizes and fastenings.
- ✅ Guaranteed compatibility with catalyst and lambda probe.
- ✅ Durability (metal thickness 1.5–2 mm).
- ❌ The price is 2-3 times higher than analogues (from 8,000 rubles per section).
Analogues (popular brands: Bosal, Walker, Eberspächer):
- ✅ Price from 2,500 rub. for the pipe.
- ✅ Often better than the original in terms of corrosion resistance (stainless steel).
- ❌ The fixings may need to be modified.
- ❌ Risk of diameter mismatch (especially for cheap Chinese brands).
When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:
Check the catalog not only for the diameter, but also for the length of the pipe, the location of the flanges and the type of fastening (clamps/bolts). For example, for Note E12 with engine HR15DE a pipe will do Bosal 257-533 (50 mm), but it requires replacing the rubber hangers.
| Manufacturer | Article | Diameter (mm) | Applicability | Price (RUB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan (original) | 20520-4M000 |
50 | E12, HR15DE |
12 000 |
| Bosal | 257-533 |
50 | E11/E12, 1.2–1.5 l | 3 200 |
| Walker | 21436 |
45 | E11, HR12DE |
4 500 |
Common problems with the exhaust system Nissan Note and their solution
Exhaust system Note does not belong to the “weak points” of the car, but over time it also requires attention. Let's look at typical faults and how to fix them.
1. Burnout of the pipe near the catalyst
Symptoms: metallic ringing when starting the engine, smoke from under the bottom.
Reason: high temperatures + corrosion. The solution is to replace the pipe section (part number 20520-4M00A for E12). Temporary repair: welding machine + stainless steel patch.
2. Cracks in the corrugation
Symptoms: knocking noise when driving over uneven surfaces, smell of exhaust gases in the cabin.
Reason: wear of rubber suspensions or mechanical damage. The solution is to replace the corrugation (article no. 20560-4M000) or the entire front section.
3. Muffler blockage (on diesel engines)
Symptoms: loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust pipe.
Reason: accumulation of soot in the jar. The solution is washing with special compounds (for example, Liqui Moly Pro-Line Dpf Cleaner) or replacing the muffler.
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note with engineK9K(diesel) it is strictly not recommended to remove the catalyst without reflashing the ECU. This will result in a permanent errorP2002(clogged particulate filter) and the engine goes into emergency mode.
To prevent problems:
☑️ How to extend the life of the exhaust system
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the exhaust system Nissan Note
Is it possible to put a pipe with a diameter of 63 mm on atmospheric Note 1.5?
Technically yes, but it's pointless without modifying the cylinder head and intake. On a standard motor HR15DE The power increase will be no more than 2–3 hp, but there will be a “failure” at low speeds. The optimal diameter for aspirated is 50–55 mm.
What is the diameter of the pipe Nissan Note Nismo?
On the sports version Nismo (2016–2020) with engine HR12DDR standard diameter is 55 mm. In tuning kits (for example, from HKS) a 60–63 mm pipe with a modified manifold is used.
What happens if you install a pipe with a smaller diameter (for example, 40 mm instead of 50 mm)?
Reducing the diameter will increase back pressure, which will lead to:
- Loss of power (up to 10–15 hp).
- Engine overheating (especially at high speeds).
- Accelerated wear of the catalyst.
A temporary narrowing of no more than 5 mm is acceptable (for example, 45 mm instead of 50 mm).
Which metal is better for replacing a pipe: stainless steel or aluminized steel?
For Nissan Note optimal choice:
- Stainless steel (brands
AISI 409or304): more expensive, but lasts 8–10 years without corrosion. Suitable for regions with salty roads. - Aluminized steel: Cheaper, but will last 3-5 years. Requires regular anticorrosive treatment.
For diesel versions, only stainless steel is recommended due to the high temperature of the gases.
Do I need to change gaskets when replacing a pipe?
Yes, this is a must! Gaskets between sections of the exhaust system are disposable. Their repeated use will lead to air leaks and lambda probe errors (P0441, P0455). For Note suitable gaskets:
14045-4M000(between the catalyst and the pipe),14045-4M010(between the pipe and the muffler).