Where is the cabin filter located in the Nissan Note E11: detailed instructions with photos

Replacing the cabin filter in Nissan Note E11 (first generation, 2006–2013) - a procedure that many owners put off until the last minute. Meanwhile, a dirty filter not only worsens the air quality in the cabin, but can also cause glass fogging, unpleasant odors and even breakdown of the ventilation system. In this article we will look at where exactly is the cabin filter located in the Nissan Note E11, how to find it without disassembling half of the torpedo, and what nuances to consider when replacing.

Construction Note E11 different from later versions (eg E12), so instructions for other generations will not work here. We will focus on the original layout, relevant for models with gasoline engines HR15DE (1.5 l) and HR16DE (1.6 l), as well as diesel K9K. If your car has been restyled or tuned, the location of the filter may have changed - we will also talk about this below.

Design features of the Nissan Note E11: why the filter is “hidden”

Unlike many modern cars, where the cabin filter is located behind the glove compartment or under the hood, in Nissan Note E11 engineers placed it in a less obvious location. This is due to the compact dimensions of the model and the desire to save space in the cabin. The filter here is integrated into the ventilation system under the center console, next to the pedal assembly.

This solution has its pros and cons:

• ✅ Moisture protection: The filter is less susceptible to water ingress during rain or washing.
• ✅ Compactness: Does not take up space in the glove compartment or engine compartment.
• ❌ Difficulty of access: To replace, you will have to partially disassemble the plastic panels.
• ❌ Risk of damage: If installed carelessly, the latches or air ducts may be damaged.

It is important to understand that in Note E11 The cabin filter is not just a “mesh”, but a full-fledged carbon or paper element that traps dust, bacteria and even exhaust gases. If heavily soiled, it may completely block the air flow into the cabin, which will lead to overheating of the climate control system.

Exact location: where to look for the cabin filter

Cabin filter in Nissan Note E11 is located under the center console, passenger side. To get to it, you need to:

1. Remove the plastic trim under the glove compartment (it is secured with 2-3 latches).
2. Unscrew the self-tapping screw (usually a Phillips screwdriver) that secures the lower part of the console.
3. Peel back the carpet and find the black plastic filter housing.

Visually it looks like this:

element	Description	Photo (conditional)
Plastic cover	Gray color, with latches on the sides. Removable by hand without tools.	[Overlay image]
Self-tapping screw	One screw under the glove compartment (sometimes hidden by a plug).	[Image of self-tapping screw]
Filter housing	Black rectangular block with a snap-on lid.	[Case image]
Filter	Rectangular, size ~20×15 cm. Can be white (paper) or black (coal).	[Filter Image]

Important nuance: in some versions Note E11 (for example, with air conditioning Automatic Climate Control) the filter can be moved closer to the pedal assembly. If you don't find it under the console, check the space behind the gas pedal - sometimes an additional filter element is installed there.

Signs of a dirty filter: when is it time to change it

The manufacturer recommends changing the cabin filter at Nissan Note E11 every 15–20 thousand km or once a year. However, in the realities of Russian roads (dust, reagents, poplar fluff), this interval should be reduced to 10–12 thousand km. The following symptoms indicate that the filter requires replacement:

• 🌬️ Weak air flow from the deflectors even at maximum fan speed.
• 🤧 Constant smell of dampness or mold in the interior (especially after rain).
• 🚗 Fogging of windows, which does not go away even when the airflow is turned on.
• 💨 Dust on the dashboard a few days after harvesting.
• 🦠 Allergic reactions in passengers (sneezing, itchy nose).

What happens if you don't change the filter for years?

In addition to discomfort, a dirty filter creates additional load on the stove fan, which can lead to its failure. In advanced cases, mold begins to multiply in the air ducts, which can only be removed by completely cleaning the system using antibacterial agents.

If you notice at least 2-3 signs from the list, the filter is already critically polluted. In some cases, you can try to clean it with a vacuum cleaner or compressor, but this is a temporary measure - the porous structure of paper filters cannot be fully regenerated.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove and replace the filter

To replace the cabin filter in Nissan Note E11 you will need:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (or T20 bit).
• 🧴 New filter (original and analogue articles are given below).
• 📸 Phone for photo recording (so as not to confuse the assembly order).
• 🧹 Vacuum cleaner or brush for cleaning the case.

Step 1. Removing the plastic cover

Carefully pry the plastic panel under the glove compartment (passenger side) and pull it towards you. It is secured with 3-4 latches. If the panel does not budge, check for hidden screws - sometimes they are disguised as plugs.

Step 2. Access to the filter housing

After removing the cover, you will see a black plastic case with a lid. The cover is secured with 2–3 latches. Before opening it, place a rag under the case - there may be dust and debris inside.

Step 3: Removing the old filter

Pull out the old filter by sliding it down and slightly to the right (in some versions Note E11 it is fixed with an additional stop). Please note arrow direction on the filter housing - the new one must be installed in the same way!

Step 4: Install a new filter

Before installing a new filter, clean the housing from dust with a vacuum cleaner. Make sure that the rubber seals on the filter are intact. Insert it until it clicks, then close the lid and put the plastic cover back in place.

Filter selection: original vs analogues

Original cabin filter for Nissan Note E11 has an article number 27277-4M000 (paper) or 27277-4M001 (coal). However, its price (from 1,200 rubles) often forces owners to look for analogues. The table below contains proven replacements, indicating manufacturers and average cost.

Manufacturer	Article	Type	Price, ₽	Notes
Nissan	27277-4M001	Coal	1 200–1 500	Original, guaranteed compatibility
Mann-Filter	CU 22011	Coal	800–1 000	High quality, often recommended by services
Bosch	1 987 429 655	Paper	500–700	Budget option, suitable for regions with low humidity
Filtron	K 1152	Coal	600–800	Good price/quality ratio
Sakura	CAF22011	Coal	400–600	Economical analogue, but the filtration quality is lower

When choosing between a paper and carbon filter, consider the operating conditions:

• 🌆 Coal better suited for the city (absorbs exhaust fumes and odors).
• 🌳 Paper cheaper and quite effective for country trips.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even such a simple procedure as replacing the cabin filter can result in problems if you do not take into account several nuances. Here are the most common mistakes owners make Nissan Note E11:

⚠️ Attention: Never install the filter “in reverse” (against the arrow on the housing). Not only will this reduce the filtration efficiency, but it can also allow debris to get into the ducts, causing noise when the fan operates.

Error 1. Damage to the case latches

The plastic latches on the filter cover are very fragile. If you pull the lid by force, they will break. Solution: Before removing, press the latches on the sides and then lift the cover up.

Error 2. Incomplete cleaning of the housing

If you do not remove dust and leaves from the housing before installing a new filter, they will immediately clog it. Solution: Use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow attachment or compressed air.

Error 3. Filter sizes do not match

Some analogues (for example, cheap Chinese ones) may be 1–2 mm wider than the original. Solution: Before purchasing, check the dimensions (original: 200×150×25 mm).

Mistake 4. Forgetting about the air direction

There is an arrow on the filter housing with the inscription AIR FLOW. If you install the filter against the arrow, it will work 2-3 times less efficiently. Solution: the arrow should “look” towards the interior.

What to do if the filter does not fit into place?

Check if the rubber seal is in the way (sometimes it bends during transportation). Also make sure there are no foreign objects (such as leaves or insects) inside the cabinet.

Additional tips for caring for your ventilation system

Replacing the filter is only part of caring for the climate system in Nissan Note E11. To ensure that the air in your cabin always remains clean, follow these recommendations:

• 🌀 Once every 3 months Turn on the fan at maximum speed for 5-10 minutes - this will help dry the air ducts.
• 🚿 After the rain Leave the windows slightly open for 10–15 minutes to allow the moisture to evaporate.
• 🧪 Once a year treat the air ducts with an antibacterial spray (for example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger).
• 🌿 When parking under trees cover the deflectors with a mesh - this will prevent poplar fluff from entering.

If there is a persistent smell of mold in the cabin, simply replacing the filter is not enough. Will be required complete system cleaning, which is best left to professionals. Services use steam generators and special chemical compounds for this purpose.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?

Technically, yes, but this will lead to rapid contamination of the stove radiator and air ducts. Without a filter, dust, leaves and even insects will enter the cabin. In the long term, this can damage the fan or cause corrosion of the air conditioner evaporator.

Which filter is better: carbon or regular?

A carbon filter is more effective at trapping odors and harmful gases (for example, exhaust from traffic jams), but it is more expensive and clogs faster. A regular paper filter is cheaper and lasts longer, but is less effective at removing chemical contaminants. Coal is optimal for the city, paper is optimal for the highway.

How long does it take to replace a filter?

If you have the tools and experience - 15–20 minutes. If this is your first time, allow 30-40 minutes (including time to take pictures of the process and clean the case).

Is it possible to wash the cabin filter?

Paper filters cannot be washed - they get wet and lose their shape. Carbon filters are also not washable, since the carbon layer is washed out. The only option is to carefully run a vacuum cleaner over the surface, but this is a temporary measure.

Why does the cabin smell worse after replacing the filter?

This can happen for two reasons: 1) the new filter (especially carbon) has its own odor, which will disappear in 1-2 days; 2) mold has accumulated in the air ducts, and its smell became more noticeable after improving air circulation. In the second case, antibacterial treatment will be required.