Tail light on Nissan Note - a unit that sooner or later requires attention: be it replacing a lamp, repairing after an accident, or installing LED modules. Unlike many European cars, where access to the headlight requires removing the bumper, in Note (especially models E11 And E12) the process is simplified, but has its own tricks. For example, inexperienced owners often break plastic clips when trying to pull out the headlight by force, or forget to turn it off battery weight, risking a short circuit.

This article is not just instructions, but a collection practical life hacksbased on the experience of auto electricians and owners Nissan Note. We'll look at:

  • 🔧 What tools are really needed (spoiler: not always required T20).
  • 🚨 Typical mistakes due to which the headlight cannot be removed or the mount breaks.
  • ⚡ How to avoid damage to the wiring when disconnecting the connector.
  • 💡 Nuances for restyled versions (2013+ years).

Preparation: Tools and Safety Precautions

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need. In 90% of cases, to remove the headlight Nissan Note The minimum set is enough, but some operations (for example, dismantling the bumper to access the bolts on versions with LED optics) will require an expanded arsenal.

Mandatory minimum:

  • 🔩 Phillips screwdriver PH2 (for headlight mounting bolts).
  • 🔧 Socket wrench or socket 10 mm (for the bolt inside the trunk).
  • 🧲 Magnetic holder (so as not to lose bolts in the casing).
  • 🔦 Flashlight or head light (trunk light Note leaves much to be desired).

📊 Which version of Nissan Note are you repairing?
  • E11 (2004–2010)
  • E12 (2010–2016)
  • Restyling (2013+)
  • I don't know

Additionally you may need:

  • 🧰 Plastic spatulas for removing the trim (if access to hidden fasteners is required).
  • 🔌 Tester or multimeter (to check contacts after removal).
  • 🧴 WD-40 or similar spray (if the bolts are sour).

⚠️ Attention: On versions with rear view camera (optional for top trim levels) the headlight connector is integrated with the camera wiring. A sharp tug can tear off the contacts - disconnect the connector carefully, holding onto its base.
Tool Purpose Alternative
Screwdriver PH2 Bolts securing the headlight to the body Screwdriver PZ2 (less convenient)
Head 10 mm Bolt inside the trunk (at the threshold) open-end wrench 10 mm
Plastic spatula Removing the casing without damage Flathead screwdriver (risk of scratching plastic)
Magnetic holder Fixing bolts during dismantling Scotch tape or duct tape

Step 1: Turn off the power and prepare the work area

The first rule when working with car electrics is system de-energization. B Nissan Note The negative battery cable is located under the hood (on most versions) or in the trunk (on hybrid versions). Disable massto avoid a short circuit if the headlight contacts are accidentally shorted.

Next:

  • 🚗 Open the trunk and remove everything unnecessary (mat, tools, spare tire).
  • 🔦 Light up the work area - in the trunk Note There is often not enough light for comfortable work.
  • 📸 Take a photo of the location of the bolts and connectors (useful for reassembly).

💡

If the headlight is removed to replace the lamp, check its functionality before dismantling — sometimes the problem lies in the oxidized contacts of the connector, and not in the lamp itself.

On restyled versions (2013 and newer) an additional bolt was added to secure the headlight to the wheel arch. It's easy to miss if you don't know about it in advance. This bolt is hidden under a plastic plug and requires 10 mm socket wrench.

Step 2: Removing the trunk trim (if necessary)

On most Nissan Note (especially pre-restyling) the headlight is attached only three bolts, and it is not necessary to remove the casing. However, if you need to get to power connector or a bolt at the threshold, the casing will have to be partially dismantled.

How to remove the trim without damage:

  • 🔹 Start with the plastic clips at the threshold of the trunk - pry them up with a spatula, pulling up.
  • 🔹 Unscrew the bolt securing the trim under the trunk closing handle (screwdriver PH2).
  • 🔹 Carefully bend the trim without tearing it off completely - it is enough to free access to the headlight.

What to do if the clip breaks?

If the plastic trim clip is cracked, do not try to put it back in - it will no longer hold. Replace with a new one (part number for Nissan Note: 90520-4M000). A temporary solution can be a screed or double-sided tape, but this will break the seal.

⚠️ Attention: On versions with parking assistance system (sensors in the bumper) trunk trim is connected to the sensor wiring. A sharp tug can tear off the connectors - disconnect them in advance, remembering the location.

Step 3: Unscrewing the headlight bolts

Now we move on to the main stage - removing the headlight itself. On Nissan Note (all generations) the headlight is attached to the body with the following elements:

  • 🔩 Two bolts from the outside (under the hood, viewed from the side).
  • 🔩 One bolt inside the trunk (at the threshold, under the trim).
  • 🔗 Plastic retainer in the upper part of the headlight (often breaks during careless dismantling).

Procedure:

  1. Unscrew the two bolts from the outside (screwdriver PH2). They are located next to the fender and below the headlight.
  2. If there is a bolt inside the trunk, unscrew it with a head 10 mm.
  3. Gently pull the headlight towards you while simultaneously pressing the plastic retainer in the upper part (it can be hidden by a seal).

☑️ Check before removing the headlight

Done: 0 / 4

On restyled versions (Nissan Note E12 after 2013) added fourth bolt fastening to the wheel arch. To get to it, you will have to remove the plastic plug in the wheel arch (it is attached to 2 clips). The bolt usually turns sour - treat it WD-40 10–15 minutes before unscrewing.

Step 4: Disconnecting the Power Connector

When the headlight is freed from its fastenings, it must be carefully removed, not forgetting power connector. On Nissan Note it is located on the inside of the headlight and is secured with a plastic clip.

How to disconnect the connector correctly:

  • 🔌 Click on plastic tongue (usually gray) and pull the connector towards you.
  • 🔍 Check the contacts for oxidation - if they are green or black, clean them sandpaper.
  • 📌 Remember the location of the wires (especially if the headlight is LED modules or camera).

⚠️ Attention: On versions with xenon headlights There is high voltage in the connector (even when the ground is disconnected). Do not touch the contacts with bare hands - use gloves or a plastic spatula.

If the connector does not turn off:

  • Try swinging it left and right while pressing the lock.
  • Do not pull on the wires - only on the connector housing!
  • If the connector is stuck, use contact spray (For example, Kontakt 60).

Step 5: Removing the headlight and diagnosing faults

When the headlight is finally free, carefully remove it from its socket. Please note:

  • 🔍 Sealing rubber — if it is torn or has lost elasticity, it needs to be replaced (article: 265B0-4M000).
  • 💡 Lamps — check their integrity (especially if the headlight was removed due to a broken brake light).
  • 🔧 Fastenings - Inspect the plastic fasteners for cracks.

Typical rear light faults Nissan Note:

Symptom Probable Cause Solution
Stop light doesn't work The lamp has burned out or the contacts have oxidized Replacing the lamp (7506 or P21/5W), cleaning contacts
Water inside the headlight The seal is damaged or there is a crack in the housing Replacing the seal or sealing a crack
LED brake light flickers LED control unit faulty or poor contact Checking the connector, replacing the unit (if necessary)
The headlight dangles after installation The plastic retainer is broken or the bolts are loose Replacing the latch, tightening the fasteners

💡

If traces of water are found inside the headlight, before installing a new lamp or seal. dry the headlight with a hairdryer (temperature no higher than 60°C) to avoid re-fogging.

Reassembly: nuances and verification

Reinstalling the headlight is done in reverse order, but there are a few critical moments:

  • 🔩 Tighten the fastening bolts criss-crossto avoid misalignment of the headlight.
  • 🔌 Before connecting the connector, check that all lamps are installed correctly (especially double-stranded).
  • 🔍 After assembly, turn on dimensions And brake lightto make sure it works.

Common errors during assembly:

  • 🚫 Tightening the bolts - can lead to a crack in the headlight housing.
  • 🚫 Incorrect installation of seal - will cause fogging.
  • 🚫 They forget to connect the ground - the headlight will not work.

If after installation the headlight doesn't work, check:

  1. Is the power connector connected (sometimes it does not click into place).
  2. Integrity of the fuse (per Nissan Note The fuse controls the taillights F37 (10A) in the block under the steering wheel).
  3. Presence of voltage at the connector contacts (with a multimeter).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing a headlight on a Nissan Note

Is it possible to remove the headlight without removing the bumper?

Yes, on most versions Nissan Note (except for restyled ones with LED optics) the headlight can be removed without dismantling the bumper. The exception is if the bolt at the wheel arch has turned sour and cannot be unscrewed, then you will have to remove the fender liner.

What type of bulbs is used in the taillight?

Depending on the year and configuration:

  • 💡 Stop light/marker: P21/5W (double-strand).
  • 💡 Turn signal: PY21W (orange).
  • 💡 Reverse: P21W (white).
  • 💡 Fog light (if equipped): P21W.

On restyled versions with LED brake lights, the lamps cannot be replaced - the entire module must be replaced.

What should I do if the headlight fogs up after replacing the bulb?

Fogging indicates depressurization. Check:

  • Integrity sealing gum (replace if necessary).
  • Fit tightness lamp plugs (sometimes they forget to tighten it).
  • Availability cracks in the body headlights (can be sealed with silicone).

If fogging does not go away, the headlight will have to be replaced.

How to remove a headlight if the plastic retainer is broken?

If the retainer is cracked, you can:

  • Carefully remove with pliers (residues).
  • Replace with a new one (article: 265A0-4M000).
  • A temporary solution can be a tie or wire, but this will break the tightness.

On some versions, the lock can be removed without breaking it - to do this, you need to press on its center and pull the headlight towards you.

Do I need to remove the headlight to replace the bulb?

No, on Nissan Note taillight lamps (except for LED modules) can be replaced without dismantling the headlight. Enough:

  1. Open the trunk.
  2. Remove the plastic plug from the inside of the headlight.
  3. Remove the lamp socket, replace it and return it to its place.

The exception is if the lamp got stuck or the cartridge is broken.