Cooling radiator in Nissan Note - a critical component on which the stability of the engine depends. Its failure can lead to engine overheating, deformation of the cylinder head and major repairs. Owners Note first (E11, 2004–2012) and second (E12, 2012–2020) generations are often faced with corrosion of aluminum tubes, leaks at the seams of a plastic tank, or clogging of honeycombs after 100–150 thousand kilometers.

Replacing the radiator yourself Nissan Note will cost 3–5 times less than the service (the price of work in a car service is from 8 to 15 thousand rubles), but requires care. In this article we will analyze signs of trouble, which radiator to choose (original vs analogues), step-by-step instructions for draining antifreeze And typical errorsthat beginners admit. We also provide a table of compatibility of spare parts for different engines (HR15DE, HR16DE, K9K diesel) and answers to frequently asked questions about flushing the system and choosing coolant.

Signs of a radiator malfunction Nissan Note: when is it time to change

The first symptoms of problems with the radiator are often ignored, chalking them up to “little things.” However, even a small leak or clogged honeycomb impairs heat transfer by 20–30%, which leads to chronic engine overheating and reducing its resource. Pay attention to the following signals:

  • 🔥 Engine overheating: The temperature gauge on the dashboard rises above the midpoint (90–95°C) during traffic jams or while idling. On Note with HR16DE this is especially critical - the aluminum block is sensitive to overheating.
  • 💧 Antifreeze puddles under the car: if, after parking, colored (green, red, blue) spots remain under the front of the car, this is a leak in the radiator or pipes. You can check by placing a sheet of paper under the radiator overnight.
  • 🧊 Cold air from the stove when the engine is warm: indicates an air lock or clogging of the heater core, but often accompanies problems with the main radiator.
  • 🔧 Extraneous noise: gurgling or “boiling” in the expansion tank is a sign of a clogged or malfunctioning radiator cap valve (on E11 this is a weak point).

On Nissan Note with diesel engine K9K (1.5 dCi) the radiator fails more often due to increased loads on the cooling system. Models from 2008–2012 are especially vulnerable - their plastic radiator tanks crack from vibrations already at 80–100 thousand km. If you notice at least one of the listed symptoms, do not delay diagnosis.

⚠️ Attention: On Note E12 (2012–2020) with engine HR12DE (1.2 L) radiator is integrated with the air conditioning condenser. When replacing, you will have to remove it, so prepare it in advance vacuum pump for refilling freon or contact service.

Which radiator to choose: original vs analogues for Nissan Note

Original radiator for Nissan Note supplied under article number 21460-4M000 (for E11) or 21460-4M00A (for E12). Its average price is 12–18 thousand rubles, which seems overpriced to many. However, the original is guaranteed to fit the mounts and has optimal heat dissipation. Alternative options:

Brand Article Price, ₽ Features Suitable for
Nissan (original) 21460-4M00A 15 000–18 000 Aluminum with plastic tanks, precise fit E11, E12 (all engines)
Denso DRC0109 8 500–10 000 High quality soldering, compatible with HR15DE/HR16DE E11 (2004–2012)
Behr Hella 8K0 121 251 7 000–9 000 Reinforced tanks, but fixings may require modification E12 (2012–2020)
Nissens 64151 6 500–8 000 Budget option, but there are frequent complaints about leaks after 1–2 years E11, E12 (except diesel)

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to tank material: plastic ones are cheaper, but crack from vibrations, aluminum ones are more expensive, but more durable. For Note with an air conditioner, check for the presence of mounts for the condenser - some analogues do not have them. Also note that on E12 with engine HR12DE the radiator is narrower than E11, so interchangeability is limited.

📊 Which radiator would you prefer to replace?
  • Original Nissan
  • Denso
  • Behr Hella
  • Nissens
  • Other brand

Tools and consumables: what you need for replacement

To replace the radiator yourself with Nissan Note Prepare the following set of tools and materials. Without some items (for example, special wrench for drain plug) it won't work:

  • 🔧 Tools:
    • 10, 12, 14 mm wrenches (preferably heads with a ratchet).
    • Screwdriver with Phillips and flat head bit.
    • Pliers for pipe clamps.
    • A special key for the radiator drain plug (or a 6 mm hexagon).
    • Jack and stops (if you need to remove the engine protection).
  • 🛢️ Consumables:
    • Antifreeze Nissan Coolant L255N (or equivalent CoolStream A-110) - 5–6 liters.
    • Distilled water for rinsing (10–15 liters).
    • New clamps for pipes (4–6 pieces).
    • Cooling system sealant (eg Loctite 577).
    • New drain plug (part no. 21430-4M000).

If on your Note air conditioning is installed, additionally you will need:

  • Keys for air conditioner service ports (for pumping out freon).
  • Vacuum pump and pressure gauge station (for refilling after replacement).
  • Freon R134a (400–500 grams) + oil PAG-46 (30–50 ml).
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note E12 with engine HR12DE The radiator is attached to the air conditioner condenser with Torx bolts T20. You won't be able to remove it without the appropriate cue ball!

Drain the old antifreeze into a clean container|Disconnect the battery terminal|Remove the air filter and pipes|Unscrew the radiator mountings|Prepare a new radiator and clamps-->

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove and install a radiator

The process of replacing the radiator with Nissan Note takes 3–5 hours depending on experience. The main thing is completely drain the antifreeze and do not damage the pipes during dismantling. Follow the algorithm:

Step 1: Drain the antifreeze

Place the car on a flat surface and let the engine cool (antifreeze temperature should not exceed 40°C). Next:

  1. Remove the expansion tank cap (slowly to relieve pressure!).
  2. Place a container with a volume of at least 6 liters under the radiator drain hole (located in the lower left corner).
  3. Unscrew the drain plug with a 6 mm wrench or hexagon. On E12 The stopper is plastic - do not use excessive force!
  4. Open the stove tap (turn the temperature regulator to maximum) and remove the hose from the throttle assembly to speed up the drainage.

Step 2: Removing the radiator

After draining the antifreeze:

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal.
  2. Remove the air filter (unscrew the 4 10mm bolts and disconnect the mass air flow sensor).
  3. Loosen the clamps and remove the pipes from the radiator (upper, lower and steam outlet). If the hoses are stuck, use WD-40.
  4. Unscrew the radiator mountings:
    • On E11: 2 bolts on top (12 mm) and 2 nuts on bottom (10 mm).
    • On E12: 4 Torx bolts T20 (2 on top, 2 on bottom) + disconnect the fan connector.
  • Carefully remove the radiator along with the fan (on some models they are attached separately).

    • If the radiator is “stuck” to the air conditioner condenser, do not try to tear it off - use plastic spatulas to separate the elements.

    Step 3: Installing a New Radiator

    Before installing a new radiator:

    1. Rinse the cooling system with distilled water (fill through the expansion tank, run the engine for 5–10 minutes, drain). Repeat 2-3 times.
    2. Check the condition of the pipes - if they are hardened or cracked, replace them.
    3. Apply a thin layer of sealant to the rubber seals on the new radiator.
    4. Install the radiator in reverse order, tightening the fasteners criss-crossto avoid distortions.
    5. Connect the pipes and tighten the clamps (do not overtighten to avoid damaging the hoses!).

    Step 4: Refilling the Cooling System

    Use only original antifreeze Nissan Coolant L255N (blue) or its analogues (CoolStream A-110, Sintec Unlimited). Refueling:

    1. Close the drain plug (don't forget to change the O-ring!).
    2. Fill antifreeze through the expansion tank to the mark MAX.
    3. Start the engine and let it idle for 10-15 minutes (turn the heater on high).
    4. Add antifreeze to the level (the system will “bleed” and the level will drop).
    5. Check for leaks and air pockets (the pipes should be hot to the touch).
    💡

    If after replacing the radiator the heater blows cold air, check air lock. To remove it, lift the front of the car on a jack (the expansion tank should be higher than the rest of the system) and repeat bleeding with the engine running.

    Typical mistakes when replacing a radiator and how to avoid them

    Even experienced car owners make mistakes that lead to repeated leaks or overheating of the engine. Here are the most common:

    • 🔧 Incomplete drainage of antifreeze: if old fluid remains in the system, it mixes with the new one, reducing its properties. Solution: Flush the system with distilled water until the drained liquid becomes clear.
    • 🛠️ Re-stretching clamps: This leads to cracks in the pipes or radiator. Solution: tighten the clamps with a screwdriver until they stop, but without fanaticism (maximum force - 2-3 Nm).
    • ❄️ Ignoring the airlock: if you do not bleed the system, the engine will overheat and the heater will blow cold air. Solution: After refilling the antifreeze, squeeze the upper radiator hose several times with your hand (with the engine running).
    • 🔥 Using incompatible antifreeze: mixing different types (for example, G11 And G12) causes the formation of sediment. Solution: use only Nissan Coolant L255N or its certified analogues.
    • 🚗 They forget about electronics: on E12 When removing the radiator, they disconnect the fan connector, but forget to connect it back. Solution: Check all electrical connections before assembly.
    ⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note with diesel engine K9K After replacing the radiator, be sure to check the operation thermostat! Its jamming in the closed position is a common cause of overheating. To check, touch the lower radiator hose after starting the engine: it should warm up in 5-10 minutes.
    💡

    On Note E11 with engine HR15DE When replacing the radiator, be sure to check the condition pumps (water pump). Its service life is 100–120 thousand km, and if it fails soon, it is better to replace it immediately so as not to drain the antifreeze again.

    Flushing the cooling system: when and how to do it

    If the radiator has failed due to clogging, before installing a new one be sure to flush the cooling system. On Nissan Note this is especially true after 100 thousand kilometers, when scale and antifreeze decomposition products accumulate in the pipes and engine block.

    For rinsing use:

    • 🧼 Special means: Liqui Moly Kuhler-Reiniger or Hi-Gear Radiator Flush. They dissolve deposits without harming rubber parts.
    • 💧 Distilled water: for final rinsing after chemicals.
    • 🍋 Citric acid (100 g per 5 liters of water) is a budget option, but requires careful rinsing.

    Washing algorithm:

    1. Pour flushing agent into the system (following the instructions on the package).
    2. Start the engine and let it run for 15–30 minutes (depending on the product).
    3. Drain the liquid and rinse the system with distilled water 3-4 times.
    4. Make sure that the drained water is clean (no flakes or turbidity).

    On Note with aluminum block (HR16DE) do not use aggressive alkali-based washes - they can damage the metal. Also avoid products with abrasive particles that scratch the internal surfaces of the radiator.

    What happens if you don't flush the system before replacing the radiator?

    If deposits are not removed from the old system, they will quickly clog the new radiator, reduce its heat output and lead to re-overheating. In addition, particles of rust and scale can clog the thermostat or pump, which will entail additional repair costs.

    Frequently asked questions about replacing a radiator with Nissan Note

    Is it possible to drive with a small radiator leak if you constantly add antifreeze?

    No, it's dangerous! Even a small leak leads to gradual decrease in antifreeze level, which increases the risk of overheating. In addition, air entering the system impairs the operation of the stove and can cause corrosion of aluminum parts. If the leak is visible to the naked eye, the radiator needs to be changed in the coming days.

    What kind of antifreeze to pour into Nissan Note E12 after replacing the radiator?

    For E12 (2012–2020) antifreeze officially recommended Nissan Coolant L255N (blue, type Type D). Its analogues: CoolStream A-110, Sintec Unlimited, Ravenol HJC Hybrid Japanese Coolant. Do not use red or green antifreeze - they are incompatible with aluminum engine parts HR12DE/HR16DE.

    Do I need to remove the air conditioner condenser when replacing the radiator with Note E12?

    On most E12 The radiator and capacitor are mounted together, so the capacitor will have to be removed. However, it is not necessary to disconnect the air conditioner lines - just unscrew the fasteners and carefully move the condenser to the side. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact a freon pumping service.

    How much does it cost to replace a radiator at a service center?

    The cost of work in a car service depends on the region and complexity:

    • E11 (without air conditioning): 5,000–8,000 rubles.
    • E11 (with air conditioning): 8,000–12,000 rubles.
    • E12: 10,000–15,000 rubles (due to the complexity of the fastenings and the need to work with air conditioning).

    Plus the cost of spare parts (6,000–18,000 rubles) and antifreeze (1,500–2,500 rubles). Total: from 12,000 to 30,000 rubles.

    Is it possible to install a radiator from Nissan Micra on Note E11?

    No, radiators are not interchangeable. U Micra K13 (2010–2017) different size and mountings, although they look similar. For Note E11 Only radiators with article numbers are suitable 21460-4M000 or their analogues from Denso/Behr Hella.