How to open the trunk on a Nissan Note: step-by-step instructions and problem solving

trunk Nissan Note is one of those parts that seems simple until problems arise. Owners of this model often encounter situations where the lock jams, the button does not respond, or the key stops turning. In some cases, the wear and tear of the mechanism is to blame, in others it is a simple lack of awareness of the hidden functions of the car.

In this article we will look at all possible ways to open the trunk on Nissan Note (including models E11 And E12), as well as typical malfunctions and methods for eliminating them. You will learn what to do if the trunk is locked, how to avoid damage to the lock, and what to do if the electronics refuse to work. The instructions are suitable for both owners with mechanical locks and those who have a system installed Intelligent Key.

1. Standard methods of opening the trunk

Let's start with the basic methods, which should work 90% of the time. Nissan Note is equipped with several standard ways to access the luggage compartment - their choice depends on the configuration and year of manufacture of the car.

The most obvious option is key usage. On most models Note The trunk lock is located under the handle on the rear door. Insert the key and turn it counterclockwise (clockwise on some versions). If the key does not turn, do not apply force: this may break the mechanism. It's better to first try cleaning the lock from dirt or using WD-40.

• 🔑 Key: insert the key into the lock on the back door and turn. On models with Intelligent Key You may need to first press the unlock button on the key fob.
• 🚗 Interior button: on most versions, the trunk release button is located on the panel to the left of the driver (next to the gas tank flap release button). Press it with the ignition on.
• 🔄 From keychain: if you have Intelligent Key, hold the trunk open button on the key fob for 1-2 seconds. Some key fobs have a separate button for this.

On models Nissan Note E12 (2012–2020) the button in the interior can be hidden by a plastic plug - it must be carefully pryed off with a screwdriver. If the button does not respond, check the fuse F37 (10A) in the fuse box (located under the steering wheel).

2. Emergency trunk opening: if nothing works

Situations when the trunk Nissan Note refuses to open using standard methods; they happen less frequently, but they are the most stressful. The reasons can be different: from a dead key fob battery to a mechanical breakdown of the lock. In such cases it will help emergency rope or access through the salon.

The most reliable way is emergency rope, which is available on most models Note. It is located under the rear seat. To get to it:

1. Fold the rear seat down (press the lever under the seat or pull the hinge).
2. Lift the carpet - the cable is usually attached to the body near the trunk latch.
3. Pull the cable (it may be red or orange).

If there is no cable or it is broken, try opening the trunk from inside the cabin. To do this:

• 🔧 Remove the plastic trunk trim (it is attached with clips).
• 🔍 Find the lock mechanism and manually move the latch with a screwdriver or pliers.
• ⚠️ Be careful not to damage the wiring of sensors and lamps.

What to do if the cable is broken?

If the cable is broken, it can be temporarily replaced with wire or fishing line. Pass it through the hole where the cable was and pull. This will help to open the trunk once, but for permanent use the cable will need to be replaced.

⚠️ Attention: If the trunk can only be opened from the inside, this may indicate a faulty microswitch in the lock. In this case, the mechanism needs to be replaced - independent repairs without experience can damage the wiring.

3. Problems with the trunk lock: diagnosis and repair

If the trunk Nissan Note does not open in any of the ways, the problem is most likely in mechanical or electrical part of the lock. Let's look at typical faults and how to fix them.

Symptom	Possible reason	Solution
The key won't turn	Lock is dirty or corroded	Clean with WD-40, lubricate with graphite grease
The button in the cabin does not work	Blown fuse or broken wiring	Check F37 (10A), ring the chain
The trunk opens but does not close	Worn latch or microswitch	Replacing the lock or adjusting the position
The electric drive does not work	Malfunction of the actuator or control unit	Diagnostics with a multimeter, replacement of parts

One of the most common problems is lock jamming due to dirt. Over time, dust, moisture, and in winter, salt from the roads get into the mechanism. This leads to corrosion and difficulty turning the key. Solution:

1. Treat the lock with a penetrating lubricant (for example, WD-40).
2. Insert and remove the key several times to distribute the lubricant.
3. If the key still won't turn, try lightly tapping the lock with a hammer (not too hard!).

On models with Intelligent Key the problem may lie in access control unit. If the key fob does not respond, try:

• 🔋 Replace the battery in the key fob (type CR2032).
• 🔄 Reboot the system by disconnecting the battery for 5-10 minutes.
• 🚘 Check the immobilizer antenna (located around the ignition switch).

4. How to open the trunk without a key: emergency methods

Situations where the key is lost or broken require non-standard solutions. If you don't have a spare key or access to the interior, you can try the following methods (but remember: they can damage the car if done incorrectly).

The most gentle way is using a pick or wire. To do this:

1. Insert a thin wire or pick into the gap between the door and the body next to the lock.
2. Try to engage the lock mechanism and move it to the “open” position.
3. If the lock is electric, you can try to apply voltage directly to the actuator (but this requires knowledge of auto electricians).

On models Nissan Note E11 (2004–2012) sometimes helps remove rear light:

• 🔧 Unscrew the two screws securing the flashlight (they may be hidden under plastic plugs).
• 🔍 Through the resulting hole, you can reach the lock mechanism with your hand or tool.
• ⚠️ After opening the trunk, check the tightness of the flashlight - if assembled incorrectly, water may enter the trunk.

⚠️ Attention: If you decide to open the trunk with a wire, do not use brute force. On Nissan Note plastic clips for fastening the trim easily break, and replacing the trunk trim will cost 15–20 thousand rubles.

On models with the system Nissan Intelligent Key You can try to activate the emergency mode: insert the key into the ignition, turn to the “ON” position and hold the trunk release button on the key fob for 5–7 seconds. Sometimes this resets the lock.

5. Prevention of problems with the trunk lock

To avoid situations where the trunk Nissan Note refuses to open, just follow a few simple rules of care. Most breakdowns occur due to neglect or lack of maintenance.

Firstly, lubricate the lock regularly. This should be done at least twice a year (spring and autumn). Best suited:

• 🛢️ Graphite grease - does not attract dust, lasts a long time.
• 💧 Silicone grease - protects from moisture, does not freeze in winter.
• ❌ Do not use petroleum based oils (for example, motor oil) - they thicken in the cold.

Secondly, monitor the condition of the seals. The rubber bands on the tailgate lose their elasticity over time, which allows moisture and dirt to get into the trunk. Check their integrity and, if necessary, treat with silicone spray.

Thirdly, don't slam the tailgate. Closing abruptly leads to deformation of the latch and microswitch. Always hold the door when closing.

Lubricate the lock 2 times a year|Check the seals for cracks|Do not slam the trunk door|Clean the drainage holes under the trunk|Check the operation of the electronics during maintenance-->

6. Replacing the trunk lock: when repair is impossible

If all attempts to open the trunk fail, and the diagnostics show a faulty lock, it will have to be replaced. On Nissan Note you can do this yourself with a minimal set of tools.

To replace a mechanical lock you will need:

• 🔧 Screwdriver with a Phillips bit.
• 🔨 Pliers.
• 🔑 New lock (article for Note E11: 72601-4M000, for E12: 72601-4M010).

Procedure:

1. Remove the trunk trim (it is secured with clips and screws under the plastic plugs).
2. Disconnect the emergency opening cable and wiring connectors (if the lock is electric).
3. Unscrew the lock mounting bolts (usually 3-4 pieces).
4. Install the new lock in reverse order.

Cost of a new lock for Nissan Note ranges from 2,500 to 5,000 rubles depending on the model. If the lock is electric, additional adjustment of the control unit may be required (this is best done at a service center).

⚠️ Attention: When replacing a lock on a model with Intelligent Key it is necessary to “bind” the new lock to the immobilizer. To do this you need a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431) or contact an official dealer.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about opening the trunk of a Nissan Note

Is it possible to open the trunk if the battery is dead?

Yes, but the methods depend on the model. On Nissan Note E11 You can use a mechanical key in the rear door lock. On E12 with Intelligent Key you will have to either recharge the battery (at least up to 9 V), or open the trunk from the passenger compartment via the emergency cable.

Why doesn't the trunk release button in the cabin work?

There are several reasons:

• Fuse blown F37 (10A).
• Broken wiring or oxidation of contacts.
• Microswitch in the lock is faulty.

Check the fuse first, then test the circuit with a multimeter. If the problem is in the lock, it will have to be disassembled or replaced.

How to open the trunk if the key is broken and stuck in the lock?

Do not try to remove the key piece yourself - this may damage the mechanism. Better:

1. Lubricate the lock with penetrating lubricant.
2. Carefully try to pull out the fragment with tweezers or a magnet.
3. If that doesn’t work, call a car mechanic or contact a service center.

As a last resort, you can drill out the lock, but then it will have to be completely replaced.

What should I do if the trunk opens but does not lock in the open position?

This is a typical problem with worn gas struts (shock absorbers). On Nissan Note they are located on the sides of the rear door. Replacement will cost 1,500–2,500 rubles per pair. If the stops are in order, check the door hinges - they could be deformed.

Is it possible to install an electric drive on a mechanical lock?

Technically yes, but it would require:

• Actuator purchases (for example, from Nissan Micra - they are compatible).
• Wiring and connections to the control unit.
• Immobilizer settings (if you have Intelligent Key).

The cost of service work is from 8,000 rubles. Self-installation is possible, but requires the skills of an auto electrician.