Replacing headlight glass on a Nissan Note: originals, analogues and step-by-step repairs

Headlight glass on Nissan Note is not just a protective element, but a key security component. Over time, it becomes cloudy from sandblasting, becomes covered with microcracks, or breaks when hit by stones. Even a small crack can lead to moisture getting inside the unit, oxidation of contacts and failure of the entire headlight. In this article, we will look at how to replace glass yourself, what original and non-original options exist, and also how much it will cost in 2026.

Feature Nissan Note (especially models E11 And E12) - in the non-separable design of headlights on some modifications. This makes repairs more difficult, but does not make them impossible. We analyzed the experience of owners, reviews from forums (including Drive2 And Nissan-Club) and data from service centers in order to collect the most complete instructions. If you are not confident in your abilities, at the end of the article there is a section with the addresses of trusted workshops in major cities of Russia.

Signs that the headlight glass Nissan Note needs to be changed

Many drivers drive for years with cloudy or cracked windows, unaware of the consequences. Here 5 Key Symptoms, which indicate the need for replacement:

• 🔦 Dimming the light — even after polishing, the glass transmits 30–40% less light, which impairs visibility at night.
• 💧 Condensation inside the headlight — if moisture accumulates inside after washing or rain, the seal is broken. This leads to corrosion of the reflector.
• 🪨 Chips and cracks — even minor damages dissipate over time, and sharp edges can cause injury when replacing lamps.
• 🌀 Yellowness and turbidity — ultraviolet radiation and reagents destroy the top layer of glass, which cannot be corrected by polishing.
• 🚨 Failure to pass inspection — according to GOST R 51709-2001, cracks and chips on headlight glasses are grounds for refusal.

Damage to headlights with xenon lamps — due to the high temperature, cracks spread 2–3 times faster than with halogen ones. If you notice at least one of these signs, there is no need to put off repairs.

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note Models from 2013–2017 (restyling) often encounter problems with the inner glass coating peeling off. This is not a defect, but a consequence of using low-quality sealants at the factory. Such glass can only be replaced - polishing is powerless here.

Original glass vs analogues: what to choose for Nissan Note

There are three types of headlight lenses on the market. Nissan Note:

1. Original (OEM) - are produced by the company Stanley Electric (Japan) or Valeo (France) commissioned by Nissan. Articles:
   • Right headlight: 26010-4M000 (until 2013) / 26010-4M010 (after 2013)
   • Left headlight: 26011-4M000 / 26011-4M010

Premium analogues — brands HELLA, Bosch, Depo. The quality is comparable to the original, but the price is 20–30% lower.

Budget analogues - Chinese manufacturers (TYC, Febi, Starline). The risk of defects is up to 15%, but with the right choice they can last 3–5 years.

Let's compare the key parameters in the table:

Parameter	Original (Nissan)	HELLA/Bosch	Chinese analogues
Service life	8–10 years	6–8 years	3–5 years
Light transmission	98–99%	95–97%	85–92%
UV resistance	High (UV-block coating)	Average	Low (turns yellow in 2–3 years)
Price for 1 glass (2026)	5 000–7 500 ₽	3 500–5 000 ₽	1 200–2 500 ₽

Important: On Nissan Note Since 2016, headlights with anti-reflective coating on the glass have been installed (marking AL in the article). When replacing, be sure to check the presence of this coating - otherwise the light will blind oncoming drivers.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing headlight glass Nissan Note

To work you will need:

• 🔧 Screwdriver set (phillips, flat)
• 🔥 Construction hair dryer (to soften the sealant)
• 🧴 Sealant for headlights (ABRO, Permatex)
• 🛠 Stationery or shoe knife
• 🧤 Gloves (sealant is toxic!)

Step 1. Removing the headlight

Disconnect the battery (remove the negative terminal). Next:

1. Remove the bumper (unscrew the 4 bolts at the bottom and 2 screws in the arches).
2. Disconnect the headlight power connector (press the latch).
3. Unscrew the 3 headlight mounting bolts (two on top, one on bottom).

Step 2: Removing old glass

Gently heat the edge of the glass around the perimeter with a hairdryer (temperature 100–120°C). When the sealant softens, pry the glass with a knife. Don't make any effort - on Nissan Note The plastic latches inside the headlight often break.

Check the article number of the new glass|Disconnect the battery|Prepare a hairdryer and knife|Buy sealant (at least 30 ml)|Take a photo of the location of the lamps-->

Step 3. Installing new glass

Apply a thin layer of sealant to the headlight groove, install the glass and press. It will take 12–24 hours for polymerization. Do not turn on the headlights at this time! After assembly, check the tightness by pouring water over the headlight - if condensation appears inside, repeat the procedure.

What to do if the glass does not fit into the groove?

If the new glass does not fit into place, check:

1) Correctness of the article (they are different for left/right glass!).

2) Remains of old sealant in the groove - they must be completely removed with a solvent.

3) Deformation of the plastic headlight housing (often found after an accident).

How much does it cost to replace a headlight glass at a service center (prices 2026)

The cost of work depends on the region and type of headlight. In Moscow and St. Petersburg, average prices are as follows:

Type of work	Cost (₽)	Time (hours)
Glass replacement (1 headlight, original)	3 500–5 000	2–3
Glass replacement (1 headlight, analogue)	2 500–3 500	1,5–2
Glass polishing (without removing headlights)	1 500–2 000	1
Removing condensation (drying + sealing)	2 000–3 000	2

In the regions, prices are 20–30% lower. For example, in Yekaterinburg or Novosibirsk, replacing glass with an original part will cost 3,000–4,000 rubles. Important: some services charge an additional fee for working with xenon headlights (+1,000 ₽) due to the risk of damage to the ignition units.

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note with the system AFS (adaptive light) Replacing the glass yourself may result in calibration failure. In this case, computer diagnostics will be required (cost - from 1,500 ₽).

Common mistakes when replacing headlight glass and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes that lead to repeated repairs. Here are the most common:

• 🔧 Using the wrong sealant — silicone sealants (for example, for plumbing) are destroyed by temperature. You need to take specialized ones, for example, Permatex 81730.
• 🌡 Hair dryer overheating headlights — if the temperature is above 150°C, the plastic of the case is deformed. Keep the hair dryer at a distance of 10–15 cm.
• 🔄 Failure to comply with the polymerization time — if you turn on the headlights earlier than 12 hours, the sealant will not set and moisture will get inside.
• 🔦 Forget to adjust the light — after replacing the glass, the angle of the headlights is lost. Check the adjustment on a stand or in the dark.

Where to buy glasses for headlights Nissan Note: verified stores

It is better to order original glass from official dealers Nissan or in specialized online stores:

• 🛒 Nissan Parts - official catalog with a guarantee of original parts.
• 🛒 EXIST — a large selection of analogues, there are reviews for each article.
• 🛒 Autodoc — convenient selection by VIN code, frequent discounts.
• 🛒 Local showdowns — you can find used glass in good condition for 500–1,500 ₽.

When purchasing, check:

1. The presence of a hologram or manufacturer's markings on the glass.
2. The article matches your modification Nissan Note (check by VIN).
3. Complete set - the box must contain rubber seals (if provided for by the design).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about headlight lenses Nissan Note

Is it possible to drive with a cracked headlight glass?

Technically yes, but it's dangerous. The crack breaks the seal, causing condensation to accumulate inside the headlight. This leads to corrosion of the reflector and failure of the lamp. In addition, according to the traffic regulations (clause 3.3 of the List of faults), cracks in the headlight glasses are grounds for a fine or prohibition of operation.

How to distinguish original glass from a fake?

Original glass Nissan have:

• Logo Stanley or Valeo in the bottom corner.
• Laser engraved article number (not paint!).
• Smooth edges without burrs.
• Packaging with a hologram and certificate.

Fakes are often 0.5–1 mm thinner and have a greenish tint.

Is it possible to polish cloudy glass instead of replacing it?

Polishing only helps with surface scratches. If the glass has turned yellow or is covered with microcracks, polishing will give a temporary effect (1-2 months). Use paste for deep cleaning 3M 09374 and a polishing machine with a soft wheel. After polishing, be sure to apply a protective coating (for example, Ceramic Pro).

What should I do if condensation appears inside the headlight after replacing the glass?

This means that the sealing was not done correctly. Actions:

1. Remove the glass and remove the old sealant.
2. Dry the headlight with a hairdryer (temperature 50–60°C, 10–15 minutes).
3. Apply new sealant and reassemble the headlight.
4. Leave the car in a dry place for 24 hours.

If condensation remains, check the headlight ventilation valves (they may be clogged with dirt).

Do I need to adjust the headlights after replacing the glass?

Yes, definitely. Even if the glass is installed perfectly, the angle of the light beam may change. You can make the adjustment yourself (following the instructions in the manual Nissan Note) or at a service station using a special stand. The cost of adjustment is from 500 ₽.