Owners of a compact hatchback Nissan Note often face the need to increase luggage space to transport large cargo. The standard interior configuration does not always allow for the placement of bulky items such as bicycles, building materials or long pipes. In such cases, the only solution is to remove the rear sofa, which turns the car into a full-fledged microtruck.
The process of removing the seat on models E11 And E12 has its own technical features, which are critically important to take into account so as not to damage the casing or fastening mechanisms. Incorrect actions may damage the plastic clips or scratch the body. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how to safely and quickly remove the rear seat, what tools you'll need, and what you should pay special attention to when working on specific modifications.
Preparing tools and workspace
Before you begin to physically impact the interior elements, you need to provide yourself with comfortable working conditions and collect the necessary set of tools. Most dismantling operations do not require sophisticated professional equipment, but the presence of specific devices will significantly speed up the process and reduce the risk of injury. The space around the car must be free so that you can move the seat freely after it is detached from the body.
You will need a set of keys and screwdrivers, as some fastening elements may be hidden under decorative plugs. Pay attention to the condition of the trunk floor - if there is dirt or small stones there, they should be removed so as not to scratch the covering when moving the sofa. It is also important to clear space on the floor where you plan to place the removed item to avoid damage to it.
Key tools for the job include:
- 🔧 A set of 10 and 12 mm sockets for unscrewing the pillow mounting bolts
- 🔨 A plastic prybar or screwdriver with a wide tip for prying up the fasteners
- 🛡️ Gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges and dirt in niches
Don't forget about safety: before starting work, make sure that the vehicle is securely in place and the parking brake is set. This will eliminate the risk of the machine accidentally moving, which is especially important if you are working in a cramped garage. If there is cargo in the trunk, it must be completely unloaded to gain access to the fastening elements.
⚠️ Attention: Never use metal tools without protection (for example, wrapped with electrical tape) to pry up plastic interior panels, as this will guarantee deep scratches on decorative elements.
Removing the rear sofa cushion
The first step in removing the rear seat is Nissan Note is to dismantle the lower part, which is called the pillow. It is attached to the body floor with a pair of bolts at the front and is often held in place by friction or additional clamps at the rear. The process begins with a visual inspection of the front of the pillow, where fasteners are usually hidden under plastic plugs or directly in niches.
You need to find two bolts located along the edges of the front end of the cushion. Depending on the year of manufacture of the model, they may be closed with decorative caps or be publicly accessible in special recesses. Unscrew them using a socket wrench. After this, the pillow is no longer rigidly fixed at the front, but at the back it is still held in place by hooks or latches.
To release the back part, you need to lift the pillow by the rear edge. It is important to act smoothly here so as not to break the plastic hooks into which the pillow loops go. If the pillow fits tightly, you can gently pull it up and toward you until the latches disengage. Sometimes rocking from side to side is required to ease the release of the latches.
After removing the cushion, you will have access to the lower part of the rear row of seats and the backrest mounting mechanisms. This is an important step, as this is where additional bolts or attachment points are often hidden that will interfere with removal of the top. Make sure you don't drop the bolts into hard-to-reach areas under the car.
- E11 (first generation)
- E12 (second generation)
- E13 (new generation)
- I don't know
Removing the backrest
The rear seat backrest is supported by a more complex mechanism than the cushion and requires a more careful approach. In most modifications Nissan Note it is attached to the body through the upper hinges and lower clamps, and may also have additional attachment points to the floor or side panels. First, check for bolts at the top of the backrest, which are often hidden under plastic caps in the headrest area.
If there are no bolts at the top, then the backrest is attached only from the bottom and through the central folding mechanism. In this case, you need to find the release levers or buttons located on the sides of the backrest or in its upper part. These items are often marked with a reclining seat icon. Push or pull them to move the backrest to the unlocked state.
In some versions, especially with the split-fold function, each section is removed separately. This allows you to unload one half of the sofa, saving the second for transporting passengers. Proceed one by one: first release the left section, then the right. If the backrest does not move, check whether it is blocked by the center armrest or seat belts.
After unscrewing all visible fasteners, the backrest must be carefully pulled away from the body. Be careful with seat belts, which may be tucked into special slots on the backrest. Pull them all the way out to avoid tearing the fabric when removing the part. If the backrest does not come off, check to see if there are any hidden bolts under the floor trim that may have been missed in the previous step.
☑️ Backrest removal tools
Design features E11 and E12
Interior design Nissan Note the first generation (E11) and the second generation (E12) have significant differences that affect the dismantling process. On the E11, the backrest is often secured through larger bolts located in recesses near the floor, and the folding mechanism may be less intuitive. Owners of this version should pay special attention to finding hidden attachment points, as they may be covered with decorative overlays.
In the E12 model, engineers tried to simplify the process of transforming the interior by making fastenings more accessible. Quick-release fasteners are often used here, which allow you to remove the seat without the use of tools or with a minimum of tools. However, in some trim levels with leather upholstery or additional options, the design may be complicated by the presence of heating or built-in speakers.
It is important to consider that in vehicles with the system Zero Gravity or other specific options, removal may require disconnecting electrical connectors. In such cases, you must first disconnect the contacts and then remove the mechanical fasteners. Ignoring this step may result in a short circuit or damaged wiring.
Below is a table with the main differences in fastening for different generations:
| Parameter | Nissan Note E11 | Nissan Note E12 | Nissan Note E13 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pillow mounting type | Bolts + hooks | Bolts + latches | Sliding + clamps |
| Bolt access | Hidden by stubs | Open in niches | Under the floor covering |
| Difficulty in dismantling | Average | Low | High |
| Availability of electrics | Rarely | Often (warm) | Very often |
⚠️ Attention: In cars with an automatic seat folding system (Auto Fold), it is strictly forbidden to disconnect the battery until all mechanical operations are completed, as this may disrupt the calibration of the mechanisms.
What to do if the backrest cannot be removed?
If the backrest cannot be removed after unscrewing the bolts, check whether the mechanism is blocked by the central lock or belts. Sometimes a slight rocking of the backrest back and forth while simultaneously pressing the release lever helps.
Working with electrics and seat belts
Safety and electrical components cannot be ignored when removing the rear seat. In modern cars, seat belts are often integrated into the seat structure or attached to it through special brackets. When removing the backrest, you must carefully release the belt strap from the guides so as not to damage the tension mechanism or the casing.
If in your Nissan Note If heated seats are installed, you will have to face the need to disconnect the electrical connectors. These connectors are usually located under the cushion or at the base of the backrest. Before disconnecting, press the connector lock and pull it gently without pulling the wires. This will prevent contact breakage and failure of the heating system.
It is also worth paying attention to the pressure sensors on the seats, if any. They can be installed in the cushion or backrest and transmit occupant presence data to the airbag. Improper shutdown may result in an error message on the dashboard. If you are not sure of your actions, it is better to consult a specialist or study the connection diagram for your model.
After removing the seat, check the condition of the connectors and wires. Make sure they are not frayed or have signs of oxidation. If you plan to leave the seat removed for an extended period of time, it is recommended that you cover the exposed connectors with protective caps or tape to prevent dust and moisture from entering.
Before disconnecting the electrical connectors, take a photo of their location - this will help you quickly and correctly connect them back when putting the seat back in place.
Installation and reassembly
Reinstalling the rear seat requires the same care as removing it, but in reverse. Start by attaching the backrest: align the hinges with the holes in the body and make sure they go all the way in. If there are bolts, tighten them, but do not overtighten them to avoid stripping the threads in the aluminum body inserts.
After fixing the backrest, proceed to install the pillow. Align the front bolt holes and tighten them. Then press the back of the pillow against the floor until you hear the characteristic click of the latches. This sound confirms that the hooks have engaged with the body. Check the secure fit by pulling the cushion up with moderate force.
It is important to check the functionality of all systems after installation. Make sure that the seat belts extend and lock freely and that the folding mechanism works correctly. If there is heating, turn it on and check if the seats are warm. Any unusual sounds or smells may indicate improper installation or damaged wiring.
Be sure to replace any trim caps or panels that were removed to access the fasteners. They not only protect the bolts from corrosion, but also prevent foreign objects from entering the mechanism. Check that there are no tools or fasteners left in the trunk so that they do not interfere with the movement of the vehicle.
⚠️ Attention: After installation, be sure to check that the seat has no play and is securely fixed. Any movement while driving may result in injury to passengers in the event of emergency braking.
Proper installation of the rear seat requires checking all fasteners and electrical connections before driving.
Common mistakes and expert advice
Many owners Nissan Note make typical mistakes when dismantling seats, which can lead to damage to the interior. One of the most common problems is trying to remove the backrest without first unscrewing the bolts. This leads to deformation of the plastic clamps and the need to replace them. Always check for hidden fasteners before using physical force.
Another common mistake is using brute force to remove the cushion. If it doesn't budge, you're most likely missing a fastener or bolt. In this case, it is better to carefully inspect all the attachment points again rather than break the fragile plastic. Use plastic spatulas to pry off elements to avoid scratches on the body.
It is also important not to leave the removed seat in the car unprotected. If you plan to transport dirty loads, cover the removed sofa with film or thick fabric. This will prevent dust and dirt from getting on the upholstery, which is especially important for bright interiors. Keep bolts and fasteners in a safe place to avoid losing them.
Experts recommend periodically checking the condition of the seat fastenings, even if you do not remove them. Over time, the bolts can become loose due to vibrations, reducing occupant safety. Regular inspection and tightening of fasteners will help avoid problems in the future and ensure reliable seat fixation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to remove the rear seat without tools?
Most models Nissan Note To remove the cushion and backrest, you need at least a minimum set of tools (socket wrench). However, some E12 trims can be keyless if quick releases are used, but this is rare.
How long does the dismantling process take?
If you have experience and the right tools, the process of removing the rear seat takes from 15 to 30 minutes. Beginners may need more time, especially if this is their first time encountering the fastening design.
What to do if the plastic retainer breaks?
If the latch is broken, it must be replaced with a new one. Such parts are sold in specialized spare parts stores. Do not try to fix a broken fastener with tape or glue - this is not secure and may cause the seat to move.
Do I need to disconnect the battery before removing the seat?
Typically, disconnecting the battery is not necessary unless the seat has complex electronics (such as built-in speakers or sensors). However, if you are working on heater wiring or sensors, it is best to de-energize the system for safety.
Is it possible to transport cargo with the seat partially removed?
No, transporting loads with the seat partially removed (for example, just without the cushion) is dangerous as it compromises the structural integrity and may result in injury. Remove the seat completely or use special partitions to divide the interior.