Nissan Note is a compact hatchback that has gained popularity due to its efficiency, maneuverability and practicality. One of the key questions for owners and potential buyers remains fuel tank volume: how many liters does the tank hold, how does this affect the power reserve and what nuances should be taken into account when refueling? In this article we will analyze the technical characteristics of the tank in all generations Note, compare with analogues and give practical advice on operation.
Many car owners are faced with conflicting information: some sources indicate the volume 41 liter, in others - 46 liters. Let’s figure out where such discrepancies come from, how to correctly interpret the manufacturer’s data, and what to do if the gas tank is “not full.” You will also learn how to calculate the actual range taking into account fuel consumption and what errors when refueling can reduce the life of the fuel system.
Official data: Nissan Note tank capacity by generation
Manufacturer Nissan indicates the volume of the fuel tank in the technical documentation, but these figures often require clarification. The fact is that the passport volume is rated capacity, while the actual volume may differ by 1–3 liters due to design features (for example, the neck or ventilation system). Below is a table with official data for all generations Note, produced since 2004.
| Generation | Years of manufacture | Tank volume (liters) | Fuel type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E11 (first) | 2004–2012 | 41 | Gasoline (AI-92, AI-95) | In some markets (for example, Japan) the volume was indicated as 40 l |
| E12 (second) | 2012–2020 | 41 (petrol) / 32 (diesel) | Petrol, diesel (1.5 dCi) | Diesel versions had a smaller tank due to design features |
| Aura (E12 facelift) | 2016–2020 | 41 | Gasoline | The actual volume when filling “under the throat” is up to 43 l |
| E13 (third, for Japan) | 2020–present | 35 | Gasoline, hybrid | Reduced tank due to hybrid installation |
It is important to understand that the actual volume when refueling may exceed the rated volume by 2–5 liters due to the “emergency reserve” - the space above the filler neck. However, it is not recommended to regularly fill the tank to capacity: this increases the load on the fuel pump and can lead to overflow due to thermal expansion of the fuel.
⚠️ Attention: In diesel versions Nissan Note E12 The 32-liter tank is designed for a shorter range due to higher fuel consumption. At the same time, it is absolutely forbidden to refuel such models “before shooting” the pistol - there is a risk of air getting into the fuel system!
Why the tank is “underfilled”: common reasons and solutions
Many owners Note they complain that when refueling, the tank holds less fuel than indicated in the passport. For example, instead of 41 liters, only 35–38 are filled. The reasons for this phenomenon can be both technical and related to operating features:
- 🔧 Incorrect operation of the fuel level sensor — over time, the float may “stick” or wear out, showing incorrect data. Solution: diagnostics at a service station or replacement of the sensor.
- ⛽ Filler neck design — in some models, the neck has a bend that does not allow fuel to be poured “under the neck” without the risk of overflow.
- 🌡️ Thermal expansion of fuel - if the car has been standing in the sun for a long time, the gasoline expands, and when refueling it holds less liters.
- 🔄 Remaining fuel in the system — after turning on the ignition, some of the gasoline goes into the lines, and the sensor shows a lower level.
To check the actual volume of the tank, perform the test:
- Fuel the car “before the gun fires” (do not top up manually!).
- Reset the odometer or record the mileage.
- Drive until the reserve light comes on (usually 5–7 liters).
- Fill up again “before shooting” and compare the number of liters filled with the passport volume.
If the difference between the rated volume and the actual volume exceeds 10%, check the tightness of the tank and fuel lines. The tank may leak or become deformed after an accident.
Comparison with competitors: who wins in terms of power reserve?
One of the key criteria for choosing a compact hatchback is range on one tank. Even with the same tank volume, the difference in fuel consumption can give an advantage of 100–150 km. Let's compare Nissan Note with the main competitors in the class:
| Model | Tank volume (l) | Average consumption (l/100 km) | Cruising range (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Note E12 (1.2 DIG-S) | 41 | 5.2 | 788 |
| Toyota Yaris (1.5 Hybrid) | 36 | 3.8 | 947 |
| Honda Jazz (1.3 i-VTEC) | 40 | 5.5 | 727 |
| Hyundai i20 (1.4 MPI) | 43 | 6.0 | 716 |
| Kia Rio (1.4 MPI) | 43 | 5.8 | 741 |
As can be seen from the table, Nissan Note loses Toyota Yaris Hybrid in terms of power reserve of 160 km, but outperforms Hyundai i20 And Kia Rio thanks to a more economical engine. At the same time tank volume 41 liters is the gold standard for the class, striking a balance between vehicle weight and practicality.
Interesting fact: in Japan the third generation Note (E13) equipped with a 35-liter tank due to the hybrid power plant. This reduces the range to 600–650 km, but is compensated by ultra-low consumption (3.5–4.0 l/100 km).
- Up to 500 km
- 500–700 km
- 700–900 km
- More than 900 km
How to Increase Your Range: Fuel Saving Tips
Even with a 41-liter tank, you can travel more than 800 km if you follow simple rules for economical driving. Here are proven ways to reduce fuel consumption by: Nissan Note:
- 🚗 Smooth acceleration and braking — sudden manipulations with the gas pedal increase consumption by 10–15%. Use the mode
Eco Mode, if it is included in your configuration. - 🛣️ Optimal speed — the most economical mode on the highway: 80–90 km/h. Exceeding up to 110 km/h increases consumption by 20–25%.
- 🔧 Regular maintenance — a dirty air filter or old spark plugs can increase consumption by 5–7%. For Note It is recommended to replace filters every 15,000 km.
- ⚙️ Tire pressure — a decrease in pressure by 0.2 bar increases rolling resistance and flow rate by 1–2%. Optimal values for Note: 2.2 bar front and 2.0 rear.
- 🅿️ Minimizing idle time — if you stand for more than 1 minute (for example, in a traffic jam), turn off the engine. Idling “eats” 0.6–1.0 l/hour.
Added bonus: use octane fuel AI-95 instead of AI-92. Although the manufacturer allows both options, 95 gasoline provides more efficient combustion and can reduce consumption by 2-3%.
Check the tire pressure|Fill up the tank at a trusted gas station|Reset the average consumption meter|Turn off unnecessary electrical appliances (air conditioning, heating)|Use cruise control on the highway-->
What to do if the reserve light comes on?
Low fuel light on dashboard Nissan Note lights up when there is approximately 5–7 liters gasoline. This means you have a range of 80–120 km left (depending on driving style). Here is the algorithm of actions:
- Don't panic, but plan to refuel within the next 30–50 km. Driving "on a light bulb" is harmful to the fuel pump, as it begins to trap air.
- If you are in a traffic jam or on a deserted highway, turn off the air conditioner and other energy consumers - this will reduce the load on the generator and slightly reduce consumption.
- Avoid sudden acceleration and braking - a smooth ride saves up to 10% fuel.
- If you run out of gas, do not try to push start the car - Note with an injector this can damage the catalyst.
⚠️ Attention: In diesel versions Note E12 Driving on fumes can result in air getting into the fuel system. This will lead to the need to pump the injection pump, which costs 3-5 thousand rubles!
If you do stall, use a can of fuel (necessarily an original one for gasoline!) and pour gasoline slowly through a funnel. Do not fill fuel “by eye” - overfilling can damage the adsorber.
What happens if you constantly drive with an almost empty tank?
Long-term operation with a fuel level below 1/4 tank leads to:
1. Overheating of the fuel pump (cooled by gasoline).
2. Accelerated wear of the coarse filter (collects sediment from the bottom of the tank).
3. Risk of air entering the system, especially on rough roads.
4. An increase in the concentration of condensate in the tank, which leads to corrosion.
Upgrading the tank: is it possible to increase the volume?
Some owners Nissan Note are thinking about installing a larger tank, especially before long trips. Technically this is possible, but it is associated with a number of difficulties:
- 🔧 Compatibility - tank from another model (for example, Micra or Juke) may not fit properly due to differences in fastening or shape.
- 📝 Legal nuances — any changes to the fuel system must be certified, otherwise the car will not pass inspection.
- ⚖️ Weight balance — increasing the tank volume by 10–15 liters will add 8–12 kg of weight, which can affect handling.
- 💰 Cost — ordering a non-original tank and installing it will cost 20–40 thousand rubles, which is rarely justified.
An alternative option is to install additional fuel tank in the trunk. For example, 20 liter canisters with an electric pump. However this requires:
- Proper fastening (so that the canister does not become a “projectile” in an accident).
- Use of fuel lines resistant to gasoline.
- Registration of changes in the traffic police (such as re-equipment).
For most owners Note a more rational solution would be installation of gas cylinder equipment (GBO). This will increase the power reserve by 1.5–2 times without changing the standard tank. The average cost of installing a 4th generation gas equipment is 35–50 thousand rubles, and the payback for a mileage of 20,000 km/year is 1.5–2 years.
Increasing the fuel tank volume on a Nissan Note is only advisable for extreme conditions (for example, a rally or an expedition). In everyday use, it is enough to monitor your driving style and refuel at proven gas stations.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Note tank capacity
Is it possible to fill in 98 gasoline instead of 95?
Yes, Nissan Note with gasoline engines allows the use of AI-98, but only if it is recommended by the manufacturer for your modification (check in the service book). 98 gasoline has a higher octane number, which theoretically can improve dynamics, but in practice the difference in consumption and power will be minimal (1–2%). The main thing is to refuel at trusted gas stations, since low-quality 98 may contain additives harmful to the catalyst.
How many liters are left in the tank when the light comes on?
B Nissan Note The low fuel light comes on when there is approximately 5–7 liters. However, this indicator may vary depending on:
- Vehicle tilt angle (for example, on an uphill slope the sensor will show a lower level).
- Fuel temperature (in hot weather, gasoline expands and the light may come on later).
- Wear of the fuel level sensor (over time it begins to lie).
To accurately measure the balance, refuel “before shooting” after the light comes on - this way you will know the real reserve.
Why does the tank show incomplete after refueling?
This is normal and is associated with:
- Neck design - it often has a bend that does not allow fuel to be filled to the very top of the tank.
- Ventilation system — during fast refueling, the air does not have time to escape, and the machine turns off the gun.
- Temperature expansion - if the car was parked in the sun, the gasoline expanded and after cooling the level dropped.
To avoid this, refuel with a cold car and do not add fuel after firing the gun.
Which gasoline is better for Nissan Note - 92 or 95?
Manufacturer recommends AI-95 for most modifications Note, but allows the use of AI-92. Difference:
- 🔥 95 gasoline ensures more stable combustion, which has a positive effect on the service life of the engine and catalyst.
- ⚡ 92 gasoline cheaper, but can cause detonation when driven aggressively, especially in hot weather.
If you're running a 92, keep an eye out for Check Engine - this may indicate detonation. In the long term, 95 gasoline is more profitable: it reduces the risk of carbon deposits and increases the interval between cleaning injectors.
Is it possible to drive with an almost empty tank in winter?
In winter, driving with a fuel level below 1/4 tank is especially harmful for three reasons:
- Condensation — due to temperature changes, water forms on the walls of the tank, which then gets into the fuel and can freeze in the lines.
- Fuel pump — it is cooled by gasoline, and when the fuel level is low, it overheats, which reduces its service life.
- Diesel waxing - if you have a diesel Note, when the fuel level is low, paraffins can crystallize and clog the filter.
In winter, try to keep the tank at least 50% full. If the car has been parked in the cold, before starting, turn on the ignition for 10–15 seconds so that the pump has time to bleed the system.