Removing the rear seat Nissan Note - a task that every owner of this compact hatchback faces sooner or later. The reasons may be different: from banal cleaning of the interior to repairing electrical wiring, replacing upholstery or installing additional equipment (for example, a subwoofer or battery for hybrid versions). Despite its apparent simplicity, the process has its own pitfalls, especially if we are talking about models with heated seats or side airbags.

In this article we will look at step-by-step dismantling algorithm, we will list the necessary tools and tell you how to avoid common mistakes. We will pay special attention features of fastenings in versions Nissan Note E11 (2004–2012) and E12 (2012–2020)because their design is different. If you plan to work with electricians, do not skip the section on disconnecting battery terminals!

Preparing for work: tools and safety precautions

Before you begin removing the seat, make sure you have everything you need on hand. The minimum set of tools includes:

  • 🔧 10 or 12 mm socket wrench (depending on year of manufacture)
  • 🔨 Flat head screwdriver (for prying off plastic clips)
  • 🧲 Magnetic holder (so as not to lose bolts in the cabin)
  • 🔋 Multimeter (if there is electrical work to be done)
  • 🧴 WD-40 or similar spray (for stuck fasteners)

Important: if your Nissan Note equipped airbags in the rear seats (optional for top trim levels), before dismantling be sure to disconnect the battery to avoid triggering the squibs. To do this:

  1. Turn off the ignition and remove the key.
  2. Remove the negative terminal from the battery (usually it is black).
  3. Wait at least 10 minutes - this time is necessary for the discharge of capacitors in the SRS system.
⚠️ Attention: Do not touch the orange wire harnesses - these are the airbag circuits. Damage to them can lead to irreversible operation or errors in the control unit.
📊 What year is your Nissan Note?
  • 2004–2008 (E11)
  • 2008–2012 (E11 facelift)
  • 2012–2016 (E12)
  • 2016–2020 (E12 facelift)
  • I don't know

Step 1: Removing the head restraints

Start by removing the headrests - this will allow easier access to the seat mounts. In most versions Nissan Note they are fixed metal pins, which are inserted into the backrest guides. To remove the headrest:

  1. Locate the plastic button at the base of the headrest (usually at the front).
  2. Press it and pull the headrest up until completely removed.
  3. Repeat the procedure for the second headrest.

If the button does not press or the headrest is stuck, do not use excessive force. Most likely the problem is guide corrosion. In this case:

  • 💦 Apply WD-40 on the pins and wait 5-10 minutes.
  • 🔄 Swing the headrest left and right while pulling it up.
💡

If the head restraints are removed frequently (for example, to transport large loads), lubricate the pins silicone grease - this will prevent corrosion and facilitate dismantling in the future.

Step 2: Detaching the Lower Seat Mounts

Rear seat in Nissan Note attached to the body in four points: two bolts at the front (under the plastic plugs) and two at the rear (under the trunk trim). Let's start with the front mounts:

  1. Move the front seats as far forward as possible to gain access to the rear seat.
  2. Pry it up with a flat screwdriver plastic plugs on the front edge of the seat (they are located at the feet of the rear passengers).
  3. Under the plugs you will see bolts - unscrew them with a socket wrench by 10 or 12 mm (depending on the model).

The rear mounts are hidden under the trunk trim. To reach them:

  • 📦 Open the trunk and remove plastic cover on the threshold (it is held on by clips).
  • 🔍 Under the casing you will find two more bolts - unscrew them.
Model Nissan Note Mounting bolt size Number of attachment points
E11 (2004–2012) 10 mm 4 (2 front, 2 rear)
E12 (2012–2016) 12 mm 4 + 2 additional for heating*
E12 restyling (2016–2020) 12 mm 4 (fastenings under the trunk trim are reinforced)

*Versions with heated rear seats may have additional bolts to secure the heating elements.

⚠️ Attention: B Nissan Note E12 with ISOFIX system For fastening child seats, the bolts can be hidden under decorative trims. Do not try to unscrew them without removing the linings - this will lead to thread failure!

Step 3: Turn off the electrics (for heated versions)

If your car is equipped heated rear seats, before completely removing the sofa, you must disconnect the electrical connectors. They are located under the seat and connected to:

  • 🔥 Heating elements (usually two connectors - on the left and right sides).
  • 🚨 Seat occupancy sensors (in models with occupant warning system).

To disconnect connectors:

  1. Raise the front of the seat (after unscrewing the front bolts).
  2. Find black or gray plastic block with wires.
  3. Press the connector latch (usually orange or red) and carefully pull out the connector.
What happens if you don't disconnect the connectors?

If you remove the seat without disconnecting the electrics, you may damage the wires or short the circuit. At best, the fuse will blow (usually F37 (10A) in the block under the steering wheel), in the worst case, the heating control unit will fail.

After disconnecting the connectors insulate exposed contacts (for example, wrap it with electrical tape) - this will prevent a short circuit during further manipulations.

Step 4: Removing the Seat from the Rails

When all the bolts are unscrewed and the connectors (if any) are disconnected, you can begin to remove the seat. B Nissan Note it is fixed not only with bolts, but also latches on the guides. To remove the sofa:

All bolts are unscrewed|Electrical connectors are disconnected|Head restraints are removed|Trunk is cleared of cargo-->

  1. Lift the front of the seat and pull it out on yourself - this will release the latches on the front.
  2. Gently slide the seat back, then lift it up at an angle 30–45°.
  3. Pull the seat out through the doorway or trunk (depending on your convenience).

Weight of the rear sofa in Nissan Note amounts to 8–12 kg, so you can handle it alone. However, if the seat is “stuck” to the guides, do not yank it sharply - this can break the plastic clips. Instead:

  • 🔄 Rock the seat left and right to loosen the fastenings.
  • 💦 Apply WD-40 onto the guides and wait 5 minutes.
💡

In models E12 with wheelchair ramp (optional for the European market) the seat may have additional latches. Their location is indicated in the vehicle service documentation.

Step 5: Disassemble the seat (if necessary)

If you need to get to spring block, trim or heating elements, the seat will have to be disassembled. B Nissan Note it consists of three main parts:

  1. Frame (metal base).
  2. Spring block (responsible for elasticity).
  3. Sheathing (fabric or leather).

To disassemble the seat:

  1. Turn it over face down (on a soft surface so as not to damage the casing).
  2. Remove staples or clips, fixing the casing from the back (use a flat-head screwdriver).
  3. Carefully separate the casing from the box spring, starting at the corners.

If the goal is replacement heating element, it can be found under the trim. B Nissan Note E12 it is thin graphite mat, glued to the spring block. To replace:

  • 🔥 Disconnect the wires from the mat (remember their location!).
  • 🧴Apply to new mat hot melt adhesive and press it against the spring block.
  • 🔌 Connect the wires in reverse order.

Installing the seat back: nuances

Assembly is carried out in reverse order, but there are several critical momentsthat are often missed:

  1. Check the condition of the guides - if they are bent or corroded, the seat will wobble. In this case, replace the guides (part number for E11: 80310-4M000, for E12: 80310-4M100).
  2. Tighten the bolts firmly 20–25 Nm — insufficient tightening will lead to squeaks, excessive tightening will lead to thread failure.
  3. Connect the electrical connectors before the seat is finally fixed - this makes it easier to check the functionality of the heating.

After installation, be sure to check:

  • 🔍 Fixing the latches - Pull the seat up, it should not move.
  • 🔥 Heating performance (if there is one) - turn it on at maximum power and check the heating after 5 minutes.
  • 🚨 Operation of occupancy sensors - Fasten your seat belt in the back seat and make sure that the indicator on the dashboard goes off.
⚠️ Attention: In hybrid versions Nissan Note e-Power can be located under the rear seat high voltage battery. If it is damaged or incorrectly installed, the seats may leakage current or activation of the security system. In this case, it is recommended to contact the service.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the rear seat

Is it possible to remove the rear seat? Nissan Note without unscrewing the bolts?

No, that's impossible. The seat is fixed at least four bolts (two front and two rear), and in versions with ISOFIX or heated fastenings there are even more. Attempts to remove it without unscrewing the bolts will lead to breakage of the plastic latches or guides.

What tool is needed to unscrew bolts if they are stuck?

If the bolts do not fit with a standard wrench, use:

  • Impact wrench (For example, DeWalt DCF887) - it will help remove stuck threads.
  • Extractor attachment (if the bolt is broken).
  • Warming up with a hair dryer (heat the bolt to 100–150°C, then try to unscrew).

Do not use hammer and chisel - this will damage the threads in the body.

What should I do if the seat squeaks after installation?

Creaks usually occur due to:

  1. Insufficient tightening of bolts - check the tightening torque (20–25 Nm).
  2. Wear of plastic bushings on the guides - replace them (part number: 80350-4M000).
  3. Sheathing friction on metal - lay between the frame and the sheathing felt pad.

If the squeaking persists, remove the seat and apply silicone grease on all rubbing surfaces.

Can the rear seat trim be washed in a washing machine?

No, this is strictly prohibited! Rear seat trim in Nissan Note contains:

  • Foam layer, which is deformed during spinning.
  • Heating elements (in heated versions) which may short out.
  • Adhesive joints, which are destroyed in hot water.

To clean, use foam for car showroom (For example, Sonax Xtreme) and a soft brush. After treatment, dry the skin hairdryer within 1–2 hours.

Where can I find a wiring diagram for heated rear seats?

Official wiring diagrams for Nissan Note can be found in the following sources:

  • Service manual (For example, Nissan Note E12 Workshop Manual - search by code MWI5C12U0E).
  • Electronic databases:
    • Mitchell1 (paid, but the most complete coverage).
    • AutoData (available at many car repair shops).
  • Owner forums:

For heated rear seats, look for diagrams using keywords: Rear Seat Heater Wiring Diagram Nissan Note E12.