Removing the rear seat Nissan Note - a task that sooner or later faces every owner of this compact van. The reasons may be different: from banal cleaning of the interior to repairing the fuel pump, replacing gaskets or installing additional equipment (for example, a subwoofer or alarm). However, many car owners are afraid of damaging the fastenings or electrical wiring, especially if we are talking about models with heated seats or seat belts integrated into the backrest.

In this article we will analyze the process of removing the rear sofa on Nissan Note first (E11, 2004–2012) and second (E12, 2012–2020) generations, we will indicate the key differences between the versions, and also give practical advice on avoiding common mistakes. You will learn what tools are needed, how to properly disconnect electrical connectors (if any) and what to do if the seat is “stuck” to the body. For clarity, we present fastening diagrams and a table of tool compatibility.

What tools will you need for the job?

Before you begin dismantling, prepare the necessary set of tools. Most rear seat anchors are Nissan Note are fixed using plastic clips and socket bolts, but in some configurations other types of fasteners may be found. Here's a complete list of what you'll need:

  • 🔧 Socket wrench or socket on 10 mm (for bolts securing the seat to the body).
  • 🔨 Plastic spatula or mounting spatula (for removing decorative plugs and clips).
  • ⚡ Phillips head screwdriver (may be needed to remove the armrest or backrest).
  • 🔌 Flat-head screwdriver (for prying off the electrical connector clamps if the seat is heated).
  • 🧲 Magnetic holder (so as not to lose bolts and nuts in the cabin).
  • 📸 Phone or camera (to record the location of wires and fasteners before dismantling).

In some cases it may be necessary WD-40 or a similar penetrating lubricant - if the bolts are soured or the clips are difficult to snap off. However, you should use it carefully: if the grease gets on the seat upholstery, it can leave greasy stains.

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Before starting work, remove the terminals from the battery if you plan to disconnect electrical connectors. This will prevent a short circuit and reset the on-board computer.

Differences between mounts in Nissan Note E11 and E12

Rear seat design Nissan Note first (E11) and second (E12) generations has a number of differences that are important to consider when dismantling. Below is a comparison table:

Parameter Nissan Note E11 (2004–2012) Nissan Note E12 (2012–2020)
Seat cushion mounting type 2 bolts per 10 mm front + plastic clips at back 4 plastic clips (no bolts) + metal latches
Seat back Fixed with two bolts on 12 mm (in the trunk) Attaches with plastic clips and one bolt on 10 mm
Electrical wiring (heating) Connector under the pillow, accessible after removal The connector is located in the trunk, under the trim
Seat belts Integrated into the back, attached separately Straps on separate brackets (not connected to the backrest)

Particular attention should be paid to models with ISOFIX system. B Note E12 The mountings for child seats are located under the decorative plugs and may interfere with dismantling. They must first be removed by prying them off with a plastic spatula.

📊 What Nissan Note do you have?
  • E11 (2004–2012)
  • E12 (2012–2020)
  • I don't know the generation
  • I have a different model

Step-by-step instructions: Removing the rear seat cushion

Let's start by dismantling the lower part of the seat (cushion). This process is the same for most trims, with the exception of heated models. Follow the instructions:

  1. Open the back doors and lower the front seats to allow access to the mountings. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove thresholds or decorative trims.

  2. Find the mounting bolts (if they exist). B Note E11 They are located on the front of the pillow, under the plastic plugs. B Note E12 There are no bolts - only plastic clips.

  3. Move the seat forward. To do this, pull it up and towards you. B Note E12 Considerable force may be required as the clamps often “stick”.

  4. Disconnect the electrical connector (if there is heating). It is located under the pillow and is secured with a plastic latch. Gently press on it and pull out the connector.

☑️ Preparing to remove the seat cushion

Done: 0 / 6

If the seat does not give way, do not use excessive force - check that all the latches are latched. B Note E12 Often there is a situation where the back of the pillow clings to the carpet. In this case, lift the carpet and inspect the fastenings.

⚠️ Attention: Do not pull on the seat upholstery as this may tear the fabric or leatherette. Always grasp the metal frame under the pillow.

Removing the rear seat back

Seat back in Nissan Note can be removed separately from the pillow. There are some nuances here, especially when it comes to models with seat belts, integrated into the back (relevant for Note E11). Sequence of actions:

  1. Remove decorative trims in the trunk, covering the backrest mounting bolts. They are fixed with plastic clips and can be easily removed with a spatula.

  2. Unscrew the bolts (usually 2 pieces per 10–12 mm, depending on the generation). B Note E12 there may be one bolt and several plastic clips.

  3. Disconnect the seat belts (if they are attached to the back). To do this, you will need to unscrew the bolts securing the belts to the body (usually under the trunk trim).

  4. Remove the backrest, pulling it up and towards you. Be careful - in some configurations the backrest may be connected to the body with additional cables (for example, to secure head pillows).

If the backrest does not come off, check:

  • 🔍 Are all the bolts unscrewed (sometimes they are hidden under the casing).
  • 🔌 Did you remember to disconnect the heating connector (in models with this option).
  • 🚗 Are there any additional fastenings for headrests (in Note E12 they can be fixed separately).
What to do if the bolts are soured?

If the backrest mounting bolts do not come off, do not try to remove them by force - this may damage the threads in the body. Treat them with WD-40 and wait 10-15 minutes. If after this the bolt still does not budge, try using an impact wrench or heating the fastening with a hair dryer (be careful not to damage the plastic!).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing the rear seat. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

  • 🔧 Lost bolts or clips. Always use a magnetic fastener holder or container. Inside Nissan Note the bolts easily fall under the seat or into the cracks in the upholstery.
  • ⚡ Damage to electrical wiring. Never pull the connectors “forcibly” - first press the latch. In heated models, the wires often fray and are easy to break.
  • 🔥 Ignoring fuses. If you disconnect the battery, do not forget that after connecting, the radio, clock and other settings may be reset. B Note E12 This may also lead to the radio being locked (a code will be required).
  • 🛠️ Damage to the casing. Plastic clips are fragile - do not pry them with metal tools. Use only plastic spatulas.

B Nissan Note E11 With a factory alarm, removing the rear seat may trigger the volume sensor (if installed in the trunk). Before work, turn off the alarm or switch it to service mode.

⚠️ Attention: If, after removing the seat, a foreign smell (for example, gasoline) appears in the cabin, immediately check the integrity of the fuel lines. B Note E11 The fuel pump is located under the rear seat and damage to it may cause a leak.

When to remove the rear seat: practical cases

Removing the rear sofa in Nissan Note may be needed in a variety of situations. Let's look at the most common ones:

Situation What to do Nuances
Installing a subwoofer or audio system Lay cables, secure speakers B Note E12 To do this, often only the pillow is removed, the back can be left
Fuel pump repair Access to the fuel tank flap Requires complete removal of airbag and battery disconnection
Cleaning the interior or removing stains Carpet and upholstery treatment It is better to carry out wet cleaning with the pad removed, so as not to flood the electrical wiring.
Replacing gaskets or seals Removing the backrest to access the rear parcel shelf B Note E11 It may be necessary to remove the trunk trim
Installing a child seat with ISOFIX Checking fasteners, installing additional fasteners B Note E12 ISOFIX fastenings are often hidden under plugs

If you are planning installation of additional equipment (for example, a DVR with a rear view camera), please note that in Nissan Note It is better to lay the wires under the door trim or along the thresholds, and not through the interior - this will reduce the risk of damage to them during subsequent dismantling of the seat.

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Before reassembling the seat, be sure to check whether there are any foreign objects (tools, bolts, rags) left under it. This can lead to squeaks or damage to the adjustment mechanisms.

Video tutorials and additional resources

For a better understanding of the process, we recommend that you watch the video instructions. Below are verified sources for different generations Nissan Note:

If you are looking electrical circuits or the location of the fuses (for example, for the heated seat system), they can be found in the repair manuals. For Nissan Note E11 documentation with code is up to date MNE11, for E12 — MNE12.

It is also useful to study spare parts catalogs, to estimate in advance the cost of clips or bolts in case they break. For example, original plastic clips for Note E12 have an article number 77010-3M000 (set of 10 pieces).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the rear seat

Is it possible to remove just the seat cushion without touching the backrest?

Yes, in most cases the pillow is removed separately. However, in Nissan Note E11 With integrated seat belts, it may be necessary to partially remove the backrest to access the seat belt bolts.

What tool is needed to unscrew the bolts in Note E12 if they are soured?

For soured bolts, it is recommended to use a socket with an extension and a wrench (not a ratchet handle!). Pre-treat the bolts with a penetrating lubricant (e.g. Liqui Moly LM-40) and give it time to work (15–30 minutes).

What should I do if the heating does not work after removing the seat?

First check if the heating connector is connected. If yes, but the heating does not work, the wiring may be damaged or the fuse may be blown. B Note E11 The rear seat heating fuse is usually located in the block under the steering wheel (number F32, 15A).

Can the removed seat be washed with water?

The seat cushion can be cleaned with a damp cloth and car shampoo, but do not allow water to get on the metal frame and electrical wiring (if there is heating). It is better to clean the backrest using the dry method or a steam generator. After washing, dry the seat thoroughly before installing it.

How long does it take to completely dismantle and reassemble?

On average, the process takes from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on experience and vehicle equipment. B Note E12 without heating, the seat can be removed faster (20–30 minutes), whereas in E11 with integrated seat belts it can take up to 2 hours.