Interior of Nissan Note E11: Complete guide to the interior

First generation Nissan Note with index E11 has become a real hit on the Russian market due to its compactness and surprisingly spacious interior space. Many buyers chose this car precisely because the interior feels like a larger crossover, despite the dimensions of a hatchback. Company designers Nissan They used a unique layout that allows passengers to be accommodated with maximum comfort, even in the back row.

Owners often pay attention to the practicality of the interior, where each shelf and niche has its own purpose. However, like any used car, the interior Nissan Note E11 requires attention and regular care. In this article we will analyze in detail all aspects of the interior: from the quality of materials to the nuances of tuning and repair.

A special feature of the model is the high driver's seating position and excellent visibility, which makes control easy and intuitive. The dashboard design is made in the “flying console” style, which visually expands the space. But in order to maintain this effect for many years, you need to understand how to properly operate and maintain interior elements.

Design features and ergonomics of the front row

The first thing that catches your eye when landing in Nissan Note E11 — this is the well-thought-out ergonomics of the front seats. The seats have pronounced lateral support, although they are not inherently sporty. The seat cushion is long enough to comfortably accommodate the legs of both short and tall drivers.

The steering wheel is only adjustable for height, which can be a problem for drivers of unusual height. At the same time, the controls on the steering wheel are conveniently located, and access to the buttons does not require taking your hands off the wheel. The center console is turned towards the driver at a slight angle, which makes access to the radio and climate control unit easier.

Particular attention should be paid to the armrest. In basic configurations it may be absent or removable, which is not always convenient for long trips. Many owners solve this problem by installing universal armrests or searching for original parts from richer versions.

The instrument panel is equipped with large dials with white backlighting, which is readable even on a bright sunny day. The speedometer and tachometer have a classic layout, and between them there is a small on-board computer display. It displays fuel consumption, outside temperature and mileage.

It is important to note that the plastic on the dashboard has a soft texture, but over time it can begin to creak when driving over uneven surfaces. This is a common disease of the model, associated with the peculiarities of fastening the panels and temperature deformations. Fixing the problem often requires dismantling the console and gluing the joints.

Finishing materials and interior durability

Quality of materials in the cabin Nissan Note E11 assessed as average, which is typical for the budget segment of that period. The upper part of the dashboard is made of soft plastic, which is pleasant to the touch, but is easily scratched by keys or coins. The lower console and door panels are made of hard plastic that resists wear but looks cheaper.

Seat upholstery is available in two options: fabric or leather. Fabric chairs are more practical to use, as they “breathe” and do not heat up so much in the summer. However, they get dirty faster and are more difficult to clean from difficult stains. Leather upholstery looks more prestigious, but requires regular care with special products.

Standard floor mats are often of poor quality and wear out quickly. Many owners immediately replace them with rubber or fabric counterparts with a high side to protect the floor from dirt and moisture. This is especially true for regions with harsh climates and a lot of snow.

Pay special attention to the condition of your seat belts. Over time, they may become worn or lose the smooth operation of the tension mechanism. Regularly checking your belts is the key to your safety during emergency braking.

Over time, the plastic of door cards may lose its color and crack in the sun. This is due to the use of low-quality dyes in the plastic. To prevent fading, it is recommended to use sun visors or window tint.

⚠️ Attention: Cleaning the interior with chemicals without first testing it in an inconspicuous area may cause irreversible discoloration of the plastic or upholstery.

• 🧽 Clean fabric upholstery regularly with a special steam generator or dry cleaning foam.
• 🛡️ Use protective sprays for plastic to avoid cracks caused by ultraviolet radiation.
• 🔧 Check the panel fastenings once every six months to avoid the appearance of squeaks and backlashes.
• ☀️ Try to park your car in the shade or use a sun screen on the windshield.

Rear space and trunk functionality

Rear row of seats in Nissan Note E11 is a real surprise for a car of this class. Thanks to the convertible rear panel, you can not only fold the seats, but also change their position. This allows you to carry long loads while maintaining space for one or two passengers in the rear seat.

The luggage compartment has a capacity of 250 liters, which is enough for everyday needs, but may seem a bit small for family trips. However, with the rear seats folded down, the volume increases to 630 liters, which allows you to transport large household appliances or furniture.

The trunk floor has a double level: it can be raised to provide hidden storage for tools or a first aid kit, or lowered to increase loading height. Unfortunately, the spare tire is often located under the trunk floor, requiring the use of a jack to access it.

Many owners complain about the lack of head restraints in the rear seats in basic versions. This reduces side impact safety and creates discomfort for passengers. Installing headrests from richer trim levels is a popular type of upgrade.

The rear windows are large enough to provide good light and visibility. However, in hot weather, rear passengers may suffer from overheating, since the ventilation system reaches them with difficulty. Installing additional air conditioning or climate control is worth considering for the comfort of your family.

Standard audio system and multimedia

Standard audio system in Nissan Note E11 often leaves much to be desired. In basic configurations these are simple radios with low sound quality and low speaker power. The sound may be flat, lacking deep bass and crisp highs.

To improve the acoustic characteristics, many owners decide to replace the standard radio with a modern multimedia system. This allows you not only to get high-quality sound, but also to add navigation, a rear view camera and connect a smartphone via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

When replacing the head unit, it is important to consider the size of the stock opening. In most cases, a transition frame will be required to hide gaps and give the panel a finished look. The speakers can also be replaced with more powerful ones, but this often requires modifying the door cards and installing additional acoustic podiums.

There is practically no sound insulation of doors in the standard version. This means that even if the speakers are replaced, the sound may be distorted due to the vibration of the door metal. High-quality sound insulation of the doors and rear parcel shelf will significantly improve the perception of music.

Some owners prefer not to change the radio, but to modify the standard system. This may include installing an amplifier, replacing speaker components, or running new speaker wires. This approach preserves the aesthetics of the salon, but requires a professional approach to setup.

⚠️ Attention: When installing a new radio yourself, be sure to use adapters for wiring so as not to disrupt the integrity of the car’s standard electrical wiring.

• 🔊 Replace stock speakers with coaxial or component systems with a power of at least 45 W.
• 🎛️ Install an external amplifier if you plan to use the subwoofer in the trunk.
• 🚫 Refuse to install radios without a transition frame - this will ruin the appearance of the dashboard.
• 🔌 Use high-quality insulating tapes and heat shrink when laying new wires.

Electrics, lighting and climate control

Interior lighting Nissan Note E11 performed at the proper level. The lampshades are conveniently located, providing uniform light when the doors are opened. However, over time, light bulbs can burn out and sockets can oxidize, which requires regular checking and replacement.

The climate system, depending on the configuration, can be either mechanical or automatic. The mechanical control unit is simple and reliable, but does not allow you to accurately maintain the set temperature. Automatic climate control works more efficiently, but its sensors and actuators can break down over time.

An important element is the operation of the stove fan. If you hear strange sounds or feel a decrease in airflow power, the cabin air filter may be clogged or the fan motor is worn out. Replacing the filter is a simple procedure that you can do yourself.

Power windows operate smoothly, but the buttons can get dirty and lose sensitivity. It is recommended to periodically clean the keys and check the operation of the window lifting mechanisms. If jamming occurs, the guides may need to be lubricated or the buttons replaced.

In winter, special attention should be paid to the operation of heated seats and windshield (if provided). If the heating operates unevenly or does not turn on, the integrity of the heating elements or fuses may be damaged.

How to replace the cabin filter in Nissan Note E11?

The filter is located behind the glove compartment. It is necessary to unfasten the glove box opening limiters, lower it down, remove the filter cover and replace the element. The procedure takes no more than 10 minutes.

Tuning and modernization of the interior

Owners Nissan Note E11 often strive to make the salon more individual and comfortable. One of the popular methods is upholstering seats with leather or eco-leather. This not only improves the appearance, but also makes caring for the interior easier. Modern materials allow you to create unique color schemes and stitching.

Another popular type of tuning is installing lighting in door cards or on the floor. LED strips create a cozy atmosphere and make it easier to find objects in the dark. It is important to choose the right glow color and brightness so as not to distract the driver from the road.

To improve the sound insulation of the interior, the doors, floor and roof are often completely soundproofed. This reduces road and engine noise for a quieter, more comfortable ride. Soundproofing materials can be of different thicknesses and densities, depending on the budget and tasks.

You can also install additional armrests, holders for phones or tablets, and replace the steering wheel with a more comfortable option with perforated leather. The main thing is not to overdo it with the decor in order to maintain the functionality and ergonomics of the car.

Do not install heavy items on the ceiling or door panels without securing them securely. You should also avoid installing equipment that could interfere with the operation of the airbags.

Component	Standard material	Recommended Replacement	Difficulty of installation
Seats	Fabric/Velour	Genuine leather, Eco leather	High
Plastic dashboard	Soft PVC	Alcantara, Vinyl	Average
Armrest	Absent/Plastic	Adjustable armrest	Low
Noise insulation	Minimum	Vibration and noise absorbers	Medium/High
Acoustics	Standard 20-40 W	Component system 50+ W	Average

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the interior of the Nissan Note E11

Why does plastic squeak in the interior of the Nissan Note E11?

Creaking most often occurs due to the friction of plastic panels against each other or against metal fasteners. To eliminate it, it is recommended to disassemble the panel, clean the joints and glue them with anti-squeak material or felt.

Is it possible to install climate control in the basic version?

Installing full climate control is possible, but requires replacing the control unit, temperature sensors and, possibly, wiring. This is an expensive procedure, which is often not economically feasible compared to installing a high-quality autonomous heater.

How often should you change the cabin filter?

It is recommended to change the cabin filter every 15,000 km or once a year, depending on operating conditions. In dusty regions or when driving frequently on unpaved roads, replacement should be done more frequently.

What speakers are best to install in doors?

It is best to install 16cm coaxial or component speakers in doors. It is important to consider the depth of the speaker so that it does not rest against the window regulator. For high-quality sound, soundproofing of the door is required.

How to remove the smell in the cabin after a flood?

If the interior has been flooded with water, it is necessary to completely disassemble the trim, dry the carpeting and sound insulation. It is recommended to use special ozonizers to destroy mold and bacteria, and also replace the air conditioner filter.

⚠️ Attention: If you are planning serious tuning of the interior, be sure to consult with electrical specialists to avoid short circuits and failures in the on-board network.

Salon Nissan Note E11 is a space that, with proper care and upgrades, can last for years, providing comfort and driving pleasure. Despite some shortcomings in the stock trim, the enormous potential for improvement makes this car a compelling choice for enthusiasts.

Remember that regular maintenance and timely elimination of minor faults will prevent major problems from occurring in the future. Investments in interior comfort always pay off in the quality of the ride and overall mood behind the wheel.

Don't be afraid to experiment with your interior design, but always strike a balance between style and functionality. Your vehicle is an extension of your RV and deserves the best care possible.

A unique feature of the Nissan Note E11 interior is the ability to transform the rear row of seats into a “convertible” mode for transporting long loads without losing space for passengers.