Removing the door trim Nissan Note (first and second generation) - a task that owners face when replacing speakers, repairing power windows, or eliminating squeaks. At first glance the process seems simple, but Incorrect actions can lead to broken clips, broken wiring or damage to plastic elements. In this article we will analyze step-by-step instructions, taking into account the features of the fastenings Note, a list of necessary tools and common mistakes.

It is important to understand that the casing design is Nissan Note E11 (2004–2012) and E12 (2012–2020) has differences in the location of the clips and the attachment of the handle. For example, in models with electrical accessories, you will additionally have to disconnect the control button connectors. We focus on these nuances so that you avoid common problems.

Preparation: tools and materials

Before starting work, make sure you have everything you need. Using the wrong tools is the leading cause of broken clips and scratches on plastic. Here is the minimum set:

  • 🔧 Plastic puller or pick — for carefully prying off the clips (metal screwdrivers scratch the plastic!).
  • ⚙️ Phillips screwdriver (PH2) - for screws in the handle and armrest.
  • 🔍 Flashlight or table lamp — lighting helps to see hidden clips.
  • 📦 Container for small parts — screws and clips are easily lost.
  • 🧴 Silicone Grease (WD-40) - useful for processing window lifter guides.

If you plan to work with electricians (for example, changing speakers), additionally prepare multimeter for checking circuits and electrical tape for contact insulation. For models with leather trim, you may need hair dryer — warming up the adhesive joints will make it easier to remove the material without tearing.

📊 What generation of Nissan Note do you have?
  • E11 (2004–2012)
  • E12 (2012–2020)
  • I don't know the generation
  • Other

Step-by-step instructions: remove the front door trim

Let's start with the front door - its design is more complex than the rear one due to the presence of a window lifter and a control unit. Follow the algorithm so as not to miss fastenings:

  1. Remove the decorative handle trim (if any). Use a puller to pry it off from the inside - a screw for a Phillips-head screwdriver is hidden there.
  2. Unscrew the screws:
    • 1 screw under the door handle;
    • 1-2 screws in the armrest (lift the compartment cover for small items);
    • 1 screw in the lower corner of the casing (can be hidden by a plug).
  • Remove the window lifter handle. On models with a mechanical drive, it is secured with a locking ring - pry it off with a screwdriver. On Note With an electric drive, the handle will simply be removed after unscrewing the screw.
  • Detach the trim. Start from the bottom corner, carefully prying off the clips with a puller. Move around the perimeter, holding the panel so as not to break the speaker or button wires.

    • Critical detail: on Nissan Note E12 With the electrical package, the control unit connector is hidden in the casing. Don't pull the panel too hard - unplug it first! If you hear a cracking sound, it means the clip is broken. In this case, you will have to replace it with a new one (article number of clips for Note: 77010-4M000).

    Disconnected the battery (for electric models)|

    I took a picture of the location of the clips|

    Prepared a container for small parts|

    I checked the presence of a puller (not a screwdriver!) -->

    The nuances of the back door and generational differences

    back door Nissan Note It is easier to remove - there is no window lifter or control unit. However, there are some peculiarities:

    • 🔹 On E11 the casing is attached to 4 clips and 1 screw (in the lower corner).
    • 🔹 On E12 added second screw under the decorative plug near the speaker.
    • 🔹 Child locks (if installed) require preliminary removal of the plastic cover.

    The main mistake when working with the back door is ignoring plastic guides at the top of the casing. They often break if you pull the panel down. The correct order is to first slide the bottom out of the grooves, then carefully slide the trim up to release the guides.

    What to do if the clip breaks?

    If the clip is cracked but holds the panel in place, it can be temporarily fixed with superglue (for example, Loctite 406). However, this solution is short-lived - the next time it is dismantled, the mount will still break. The best option: buy a repair kit of clips (see article above) or use universal clips from 3M (suitable by diameter).

    Common mistakes and how to avoid them

    Even experienced car owners make mistakes when removing trim. Here are the most common:

    Error Consequences How to avoid
    Using a metal screwdriver instead of a puller Scratches on plastic, broken clips Buy a set of plastic pullers (cost from 200 ₽)
    Sharp twitching of the casing Broken speaker or button wires Check for connectors before removing
    Neglecting to photograph the process Problems during reassembly Take photos of the location of the clips and wires
    Battery not disconnected when working with electrical equipment Short circuit, blown fuse Remove the negative terminal before dismantling

    Pay special attention speaker wires. On Note they are often soldered directly to the pins rather than connected through a connector. If you pull on the casing, the wire may come loose from the solder joint. In this case, you will have to restore the connection using a soldering iron.

    ⚠️ Attention: On models with the system NissanConnect (available at E12 after 2016) antenna cables are installed in the doors for keyless entry. Their breakage will lead to a non-functional central lock! Before removing the casing, check the cable route according to the wiring diagram.

    What to do after removing the casing?

    When the panel is dismantled, you will have access to:

    • 🔊 Speakers (front size: 16 cm, rear: 13 cm).
    • 🪟 Window lifter mechanism (on E11 the cable often breaks, E12 - electric motor).
    • 🚪 Lock and central locking actuator.
    • 🔧 Glass guides (require lubrication when creaking).

    If the goal is to replace speakers, consider planting depth. To the front door Note Accommodates speakers up to 60 mm deep, and up to 45 mm deep in the rear. To improve the sound, we recommend installing sound insulation (For example, StopNoise or Shumoff) on the inside of the casing.

    💡

    Before assembly, clean the plastic clips from dust and apply a little silicone grease to them. This will make the next dismantling easier and extend the service life of the fasteners.

    Assembly: how to install the casing back

    Installing the panel is done in reverse order, but there are a few key points:

    1. Check all connectors. Make sure the speaker and button wires are connected correctly (speaker polarity is marked on the casing).
    2. Align the clips. They should fit into the grooves without distortion. If the clip does not lock, check to see if the plastic tab is bent.
    3. Tighten the screws in order: first the lower corner, then the handle, the armrest. Do not overtighten - the plastic may crack!
    4. Check the operation of the mechanisms. After assembly, test the window regulator, speakers and buttons.

    If after installation the casing “walks” or makes squeaks, the problem may be:

    • 🔹 Broken clips (replace them);
    • 🔹 Loose screws;
    • 🔹 Ingress of foreign objects between the panel and the door.
    ⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note E12 with the system Around View Monitor (all-round cameras) a video cable is laid in the front door. When assembling, make sure that it is not pinched by the casing - this will lead to artifacts on the screen or complete failure of the camera.
    💡

    The main rule of assembly: all clips must click! If at least one of them is not fixed, over time the casing will begin to rattle on bumps.

    FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

    How many fastening clips are there on the front door? Nissan Note E11?

    On the front door E11 installed 8 plastic clips and 3 screws (under the handle, in the armrest and in the lower corner). The rear door is secured with 4 clips and 1 screw.

    Is it possible to remove the trim without a puller?

    Technically yes, but the risk of damaging the plastic or clips is extremely high. As a last resort, use plastic card (for example, banking), but proceed with extreme caution. Metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) are absolutely not suitable!

    How to remove the trim if all the clips are broken?

    If the clips are broken, temporarily fix the trim double-sided tape (For example, 3M VHB) or plastic ties, threaded through holes in the metal of the door. However, this solution is short-lived - replace the clips with original ones as soon as possible.

    What should I do if, after removing the trim, the window lifter buttons stop working?

    Most likely, the control unit connector has come loose. Remove the casing again and check the connection white connector with 6 contacts (on E12) or yellow with 4 contacts (on E11). If the contacts are oxidized, clean them WD-40 Contact Cleaner.

    Where to buy trim clips Nissan Note?

    Original clips (item no. 77010-4M000) can be ordered from official dealers Nissan or in online spare parts stores (for example, Exist.ru, Autodoc). The cost of one clip is about 50–80 rubles. Alternative: universal clips 3M 08577 (fit to size).