How to properly remove and secure the front bumper on a Nissan Note E11: detailed instructions with photos

Front bumper Nissan Note E11 - This is not only an element of the exterior, but also an important part of the safety of the car. It protects the body from minor damage, absorbs energy during impacts and serves as the basis for mounting headlights, fog lights and parking sensors. However, over time, the bumper mounts wear out, the plastic cracks, and even minor accidents require dismantling for repair or replacement.

In this article we will figure out how to properly remove and install the front bumper on Nissan Note E11 (2006–2013 model years), without damaging the fastenings or disturbing the geometry. You'll learn what tools you'll need, where all the mounting points are located, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to squeaks or misalignments. We will pay special attention hidden bolts, which beginners often forget about, and the nuances of working with plastic clips.

Nissan Note E11 front bumper design: diagrams and features

Bumper Nissan Note E11 consists of three main parts: an external plastic lining, an amplifier (if included in the package) and fastening elements. The outer part is made of polypropylene (PP) or ABS plastic, which loses its elasticity over time, especially in the Russian climate. The reinforcement (if equipped) is usually metal or fiberglass and is attached to the body rails.

Key bumper mounting points:

• 🔧 Bolts to side members (2 pieces - one on each side).
• 🔧 Bolts to subframe (2–4 pieces, depending on the year of manufacture).
• 🔧 Clips for wings (2-3 pieces for each wing).
• 🔧 Self-tapping screws for the bottom protection (if installed).
• 🔧 Latches for attaching the radiator grille (sometimes integrated into the bumper).

Feature Note E11 — availability additional hidden mounts under the headlights, which many miss when dismantling. If you do not unscrew them, the bumper will “hold on” to the plastic clips, which will lead to their breakage. Also present in some trim levels parking sensor, the wires of which must be disconnected before removal.

Mounting type	Quantity	Location	Tool
M8 bolts (side members)	2	Under the hood, at the edges of the bumper	10 mm head
Self-tapping screws (wings)	4–6	Under the wheel arches	Phillips screwdriver or PH2 bit
Plastic clips	6–8	Bottom of bumper and sides	Flathead screwdriver or clip remover
Subframe bolts	2–4	Central part under the bumper	12 mm head

⚠️ Attention: On models with fog lights Before removing the bumper, be sure to disconnect the power connectors! The wires are usually secured with plastic latches, which are easy to break if dismantled carelessly.

Necessary tools and materials for work

For dismantling and installing the bumper on Nissan Note E11 you will need a standard set of tools, but there are also specific devices that will make the job easier:

• 🔨 10 mm and 12 mm heads (for bolts of side members and subframe).
• 🔨 Socket wrench with extension (to access hidden bolts).
• 🔨 Screwdrivers: cross (PH2), flat (for clips), short (for hard-to-reach places).
• 🔨 Plastic clip remover (can be replaced with a flat screwdriver, but the risk of breaking the clips is higher).
• 🔨 Jack or lift (for ease of working from below).
• 🔨 WD-40 or similar lubricant (if the bolts are rusty).
• 🔨 New clips and bolts (it is recommended to replace the old ones, especially if they are deformed).

If you are planning bumper painting, additionally prepare:

• 🎨 Sandpaper (P80–P2000 for sanding).
• 🎨 Degreaser (for example, APP W900).
• 🎨 Primer and paint (selection by body color code).
• 🎨 Varnish (two-component for durability).

Don't skimp on clips! Original spare parts from Nissan (article 90467-XXXXX) are inexpensive, but securely fix the bumper, unlike universal analogues, which often fall out.

Step-by-step instructions for removing the front bumper

Before starting work disconnect the battery (remove the negative terminal) to avoid short circuit when disconnecting the wiring. It is also recommended to wash the bumper and the space under it - this will help not to lose small parts and see all the fasteners.

Step 1. Dismantling the radiator grille (if it is in the way).

• Open the hood and find the grille latches (usually 4-6 around the perimeter).
• Gently press them out with a flathead screwdriver.
• If the grille is secured with bolts, unscrew them with a 10 mm socket.

Step 2. Unscrewing the side member bolts.

• Under the hood, near the edges of the bumper, find two bolts (one on each side).
• Use a 10mm socket with an extension - they may be difficult to access.

Step 3. Removing the clips from the wings.

• Pry up the plastic clips with a flat-head screwdriver or a puller.
• Start with the top clips, then move to the bottom ones.
• If the clip is broken, do not try to “get it” - replace it with a new one.

Step 4. Disconnecting the lower fasteners.

• Raise the car on a jack or drive it into a pit.
• Unscrew the screws securing the bumper to the lower protection (if there is one).
• Disconnect the wires from the fog lights and parking sensors (if equipped).

Step 5. Removing the bumper.

• Gently pull the bumper towards you, starting from one of the edges.
• If it does not budge, check that all fasteners are unscrewed (especially the hidden bolts under the headlights!).
• Remove the bumper and place it on a soft surface to avoid scratching.

Disconnected battery terminal|Removed radiator grille (if required)|Unscrewed side member bolts|Disconnected fender clips|Checked hidden fasteners under headlights-->

⚠️ Attention: On models with adaptive cruise control (if installed) there may be a radar under the bumper. Do not pull the bumper sharply - first disconnect the radar connector!

Typical mistakes during dismantling and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to broken clips, skewed bumpers, or damage to the body. Here are the most common of them:

1. Missing hidden bolts under headlights. If you do not unscrew them, the bumper will “hold on” to plastic clips, which will definitely break. Solution: Always check for bolts under the headlights (they may be hidden under plugs).
2. Using worn out clips. Plastic loses its elasticity over time, and old clips will not provide reliable fixation. Solution: replace all the clips with new ones (they cost pennies).
3. Abrupt removal of the bumper. This may damage the fog lamp mounts or break the sensor wiring. Solution: remove the bumper slowly, starting from one edge.
4. Incorrect bolt tightening. If you overtighten the side member bolts, the bumper may become deformed. Solution: tighten the bolts with a force of 8–10 Nm (use a torque wrench).

Another common problem is gap mismatch after installation. This happens if the bumper was deformed in an accident or the clips are installed asymmetrically. To avoid this, before final tightening the bolts, check the gaps around the entire perimeter of the bumper (they should be the same on both sides).

Bumper installation: nuances and tips

Installing the bumper is the reverse order, but there are a few key points to ensure a proper fit:

1. Checking the condition of the fastenings.

• Inspect all clips and bolts. If they are deformed or rusty, replace them.
• Clean the holes for the clips from dirt (you can blow them with compressed air).

2. Preliminary fitting.

• Before final fixing, “evaluate” the bumper in place to make sure that all the holes match.
• Check the gaps between the bumper and fenders - they should be the same (optimally 3-5 mm).

3. Tightening order.

• First, secure the bumper with clips to the fenders.
• Then screw in the side member bolts (not all the way!).
• Install the lower screws and only then finally tighten all the bolts.

4. Electrical connection.

• Connect the connectors of the fog lights and parking sensors.
• Check the operation of all systems before closing the hood.

If after installation the bumper creaks or dangling, the reasons may be as follows:

• 🔊 The bolts of the side members are not tightened.
• 🔊 The clips are not fully latched.
• 🔊 Dirt or sand got between the bumper and the body.
• 🔊 The plastic cover itself is deformed (needs editing or replacement).

Bumper repair and painting: what you need to know

If the bumper is damaged (cracks, chips, scratches), it can be repaired without replacement. Here are the main steps:

1. Sanding.

• Use grit sandpaper P80–P120 to remove old paint and level the surface.
• For finishing, take P400–P600.

2. Repair cracks.

• Suitable for small cracks soldering iron with solder for plastic.
• Large damages are repaired using fiberglass and epoxy resin.

3. Primer and painting.

• Apply 2-3 coats of primer (e.g. APP Primer).
• After drying, paint the bumper in 2-3 layers, then varnish.

Paint color is selected according to body code (on Nissan Note E11 it is indicated on a plate under the hood or in the glove compartment). Popular colors for this model:

• 🎨 KH3 — "Titanium gray"
• 🎨 B54 — "Dark blue"
• 🎨 QM1 — "Metallic silver"
• 🎨 E30 - "Black Pearl"

⚠️ Attention: If the bumper has been painted previously and you notice paint peeling, be sure to remove it completely to the plastic! Otherwise, the new paint will also fall off.

How to properly dry a bumper after painting?

After painting, the bumper should be dried in a well-ventilated area at a temperature of 20–25°C for 24 hours. If you use infrared drying, the time is reduced to 4-6 hours, but it is important not to overheat the plastic (maximum 60°C). Avoid direct sunlight during the first 24 hours as this may cause the varnish to become cloudy.

Where to buy spare parts for bumper Nissan Note E11

If the bumper is severely damaged beyond repair, it will have to be replaced. Here's where you can buy original and aftermarket parts:

Part type	Original (item)	Analogue (brand)	Approximate price, ₽
Front bumper (without painting)	62601-4M000	Febi, Hella	8 000 – 12 000
Fastening clip (10 pcs.)	90467-04000	Dorman, MTC	200 – 400
Side member bolt (M8)	08915-6040A	Universal	50 – 100
Bumper reinforcement	62602-4M000	Febi	3 000 – 5 000

When purchasing a bumper, pay attention to:

• 🔍 Vehicle year (bumper for Note E11 2006 and 2012 may differ!).
• 🔍 Complete set (are there holes for fog lights, parking sensors).
• 🔍 Material (the original is usually made of higher quality plastic).

If you are buying a used bumper, check it for availability. hidden cracks (especially in places of fastenings) and traces of body repairs. Often these bumpers are sold after minor accidents, but they may have internal damage.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about fastening the Nissan Note E11 bumper

Is it possible to remove the bumper without removing the radiator grille?

Technically yes, but it will make the task much more difficult. The grill prevents access to the top bolts, and you risk breaking the clips. If the grille is attached with latches, it can be removed in 2–3 minutes, so it’s better not to be lazy.

How long does it take to remove and install a bumper?

If you have experience and tools - about 1–1.5 hours. If you are doing this for the first time, allow 2-3 hours (especially if the bumper is stuck or the bolts are rusty).

What should I do if the bumper squeaks after installation?

Creaking usually occurs due to:

• Poorly fixed clips (check all fastenings).
• Sand gets between the bumper and the body (you need to remove the bumper and clean it).
• Deformation of the plastic (you can try heating it with a hairdryer and straightening it).

A temporary solution is silicone lubricant in areas of friction, but it is better to eliminate the cause.

What glue is best to use to repair cracks?

For plastic Nissan Note E11 will fit:

• 3M Scotch-Weld DP8005 (two-component epoxy adhesive).
• Loctite Plastics Bonding System (polypropylene holds well).
• For small cracks - soldering iron with solder for plastic.

Be sure to degrease the surface before gluing. APP W900 or acetone.

Do I need to remove the bumper to replace the fog light bulb?

No, on Nissan Note E11 The lamp in the PTF can be replaced without removing the bumper. Enough:

1. Unscrew the screws securing the headlight from below.
2. Disconnect the power connector.
3. Turn the socket counterclockwise and remove the lamp.

But if the headlight has become sour or the headlight itself needs to be replaced, the bumper will still have to be removed.