Problems with the cigarette lighter Nissan Note - one of the most common malfunctions encountered by owners of this compact hatchback. Most often, a blown fuse is to blame, but replacing it does not always solve the problem forever. In this article we will look at where the cigarette lighter fuse is located in Note first (J10, 2004–2013) and second (J11, 2013–2020) generations, how to properly check and replace it, and why it can burn out again and again.

Feature Nissan Note — non-standard arrangement of fuse boxes depending on the year of manufacture and configuration. For example, models for the European market may have a different layout than the Japanese or American versions. We have collected current data for all modifications, including gasoline (HR15DE, HR16DE) and diesel (K9K) engines. You will also learn how to avoid common diagnostic mistakes and not burn out the car’s on-board network.

Where is the cigarette lighter fuse located? Nissan Note

B Nissan Note The cigarette lighter fuse is located in interior fuse box, but its exact location depends on the generation of the car. In the first generation (J10) the block is usually located to the left of the steering column, under a plastic cover. In the second generation (J11) it was moved closer to the center console, under the glove compartment.

To get to the block, follow these steps:

  • 🔧 Open the driver's door and find the plastic cover with the inscription FUSE (or kanji on Japanese versions).
  • 🔄 Carefully pry the lid off with a flat screwdriver or a fingernail - it is attached to the latches.
  • 🔍 On the back of the cover there should be a diagram indicating the fuses. We are looking for an inscription CIGAR or PWR OUTLET (depending on the market).
  • 📌 B Note J10 this is a fuse №15 (15A), in J11№20 (20A).

If there is no diagram on the cover (for example, on early Japanese versions), use the universal table below. Please note: on some trim levels Note with additional 12V sockets it can be separate fuse for each of them.

📊 What Nissan Note do you have?
  • J10 (2004–2013)
  • J11 (2013–2020)
  • I don't know the generation
  • Other

Fuse box diagram and ratings

Below is a current diagram of the location of fuses for the cigarette lighter in Nissan Note both generations. Please note that denominations may differ depending on the market (Europe, Japan, USA) and year of manufacture.

Generation Fuse number Denomination (A) Description Notes
J10 (2004–2013) 15 15A Cigarette lighter/socket 12V On some versions - 20A
J10 (restyling 2008+) 18 20A Additional power outlet in the trunk Only for configurations with the option
J11 (2013–2020) 20 20A Cigarette lighter/front socket There may be a backup fuse №21
J11 (European version) 25 15A Rear 12V socket Not available in basic configurations

⚠️ Attention: If in your Note fuse installed 15A, under no circumstances replace it with 20A or even more so on a “bug”. This may lead to melting wiring or fire due to exceeding the permissible load. The fuse rating is calculated based on the cross-section of the wires in the circuit!

If you don't find the fuse number listed, check the auxiliary unit under the hood (usually next to the battery). In some versions Note For the Japanese market, the cigarette lighter is protected via a relay rather than a standard fuse.

Causes of cigarette lighter fuse blown

The cigarette lighter fuse blows for a reason - it is a signal of a problem in the electrical circuit. Here are the main reasons why this happens in Nissan Note:

  • Short circuit in the cigarette lighter circuit. Most often caused by metal objects (coins, paper clips) getting into the socket or damaged wire insulation.
  • 🔌 Overload due to the connection of powerful devices (compressors, inverters, refrigerators). For example, if you connected a tire pump to 180W, and the fuse is designed for 15A (maximum 180W), it will burn at the slightest excess.
  • 🔥 Malfunction of the cigarette lighter itself. Over time, the contacts oxidize or burn, which leads to increased resistance and overheating.
  • 📉 Power surges in the on-board network. For example, if the generator is faulty or the battery is dead.
  • 🔧 Incorrect fuse replacement. Installing a fuse with an overrated rating or using "bugs" leads to repeated short circuits.

🔍 How to determine the cause? If the fuse burns out immediately after replacement, the problem is a short circuit. If after some time (for example, when connecting a load), the culprit is an overload or a malfunction of the cigarette lighter.

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Before replacing the fuse, unplug all devices from the 12V outlet and check the socket for foreign objects. Sometimes just shaking out the trash is enough to make the problem go away.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the fuse

Replacing the cigarette lighter fuse in Nissan Note takes no more than 5 minutes, but it is important to do it correctly. Follow the instructions:

  1. Turn off the ignition and make sure all electrical appliances are turned off. This will prevent voltage surges.
  2. Remove the fuse box cover (as described above).
  3. Find the cigarette lighter fuse by diagram or number (15 for J10, 20 for J11).
  4. Remove the old fuse special forceps (usually attached to the block cover) or tweezers. If you don't have pliers, you can carefully pry the fuse out with a screwdriver.
  5. Check the fuse for continuity. A blown fuse will have a broken thread inside or blackened contacts.
  6. Install a new fuse the same denomination. Insert it until it clicks.
  7. Check the operation of the cigarette lighterby connecting a known working device (for example, a phone charger).

⚠️ Attention: If after replacement the fuse burns out again, do not repeat replacement - this may indicate a short circuit. In this case, you need to check the circuit with a multimeter or contact an auto electrician.

☑️ What to check before replacing a fuse

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How to check the cigarette lighter circuit with a multimeter

If the fuse blows repeatedly, check the circuit for a short circuit or open circuit. To do this, you will need a multimeter in continuity or resistance measurement mode. Follow the algorithm:

  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal (required!). This will prevent damage to the multimeter.
  2. Remove the cigarette lighter fuse and check the resistance between its contacts in the block:
    • 🔋 If resistance 0 ohm - in a chain short circuit.
    • 🔋 If resistance ∞ (infinity) - chain open (cigarette lighter breakage or malfunction).
  3. Check the voltage at the cigarette lighter contacts (with ignition on):
    • 🔌 Between the central contact and ground there must be 12V.
    • 🔌 Between side contact and ground - 0V.
  • Ring the wiring from the fuse box to the cigarette lighter. To do this, you will have to remove the center console trim.
  • 📌 Advice: If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to contact an auto electrician. Incorrect continuity of the circuit can damage the on-board computer or other systems.

    What to do if you don’t have a multimeter?

    If you don’t have a multimeter at hand, you can use a test lamp (12V) with wires. Connect one wire to ground, and touch the fuse contacts with the other one in turn. If the lamp lights up brightly, the circuit is working. If it does not light or lights dimly, there is a break or short circuit.

    Typical mistakes when replacing a fuse

    Many owners Nissan Note make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns or even damage to electronics. Here are the most common of them:

    • 🔥 Use of "bugs" (homemade fuses made from wire or foil). This may lead to fire due to lack of overload protection.
    • 🔄 Replacing with a fuse of a higher rating. For example, instead of 15A put 20A or 25A. This will temporarily solve the problem, but in the long run it will burn out the wiring.
    • 🔧 Ignoring the cause of burnout. If you simply replace the fuse without eliminating the short circuit, it will burn out again.
    • 📌 Incorrect fuse installation. It should fit tightly, without play. Otherwise, poor contact and heating may occur.
    • 🔍 Fuse confusion. B Note There are several fuses with the same rating, but different purposes (for example, for a radio or lighting). Always check the diagram!

    💡 How to avoid mistakes? Always use original fuses or high-quality replacements (for example, Littlefuse or Bussmann). If a fuse blows more than twice in a row, be sure to have the circuit diagnosed.

    💡

    If the cigarette lighter fuse in a Nissan Note blows repeatedly, the problem lies not in it, but in the circuit. Don't replace it again - look for the reason!

    What to do if replacing the fuse does not help

    If the cigarette lighter still does not work after replacing the fuse, the problem may lie in the following:

    1. The cigarette lighter itself is faulty. Over time, its contacts oxidize or burn. The solution is to disassemble and clean the cigarette lighter or replace it.
    2. Broken wire from the fuse box to the cigarette lighter. Often the wires fray under the center console trim.
    3. Relay faulty (in some versions Note The cigarette lighter is protected via a relay, not a fuse).
    4. Weight problems. Check that the negative wire is securely attached to the body.
    5. Fuse box is faulty. In rare cases, contacts inside the unit fail.

    🔧 Diagnostics: If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact the service. For example, checking the cigarette lighter circuit in a car electrician will cost 500–1000 rubles, but you will be confident in the result.

    ⚠️ Attention: If the fuse burns instantly when you connect the device to the cigarette lighter, don't try to connect it again - this may indicate a malfunction of the device itself (for example, a short circuit in the compressor or inverter).

    Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

    Is it possible to install a fuse of a higher rating if the standard one constantly burns out?

    No, it's dangerous! The fuse is rated for the maximum load that the wiring can withstand. If you put a fuse on 20A instead of 15A, if overloaded, the wires will burn out, not the fuse. In the worst case, this may cause a fire.

    If the standard fuse blows, look for the cause: a short circuit, a faulty cigarette lighter or connected devices.

    Where to buy a fuse for the cigarette lighter Nissan Note?

    Fuses of standard ratings (15A or 20A) are sold in any auto store (for example, Littlefuse, Bussmann, Hella). Cost - from 10 to 50 rubles per piece. They can also be found in the auto parts department of hypermarkets (Leroy Merlin, Obi) or order at Wildberries/Ozon.

    For Nissan Note Suitable fuses: ATO (miniature knife ones). The main thing is that the denomination matches.

    How to disassemble the cigarette lighter Nissan Note for cleaning?

    To clean or replace the cigarette lighter, follow these steps:

    1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
    2. Remove the center console trim (carefully prying up the clips with a plastic spatula).
    3. Disconnect the power connector from the cigarette lighter.
    4. Unscrew the cigarette lighter from the socket (it is attached to a thread or latches).
    5. Disassemble the cigarette lighter housing and clean the contacts with alcohol or fine sandpaper.

    💡 Advice: Before assembly, lubricate the contacts contact lubricant (For example, Liqui Moly Kontaktreiniger).

    Why does the cigarette lighter work but not heat?

    If the cigarette lighter supplies voltage (for example, the phone is charging), but does not heat up, the problem is the following:

    • The heating element coil has burnt out.
    • The contacts inside the cigarette lighter have oxidized.
    • The thermal fuse is faulty (if installed).

    The solution is to disassemble the cigarette lighter and replace the spiral or the entire mechanism.

    Is it possible to connect an additional 12V socket in Nissan Note?

    Yes, but it's important to do it right:

    1. Connect in parallel standard outlet, and not directly to the battery.
    2. Use a wire with a cross section of at least 1.5 mm².
    3. Install a separate fuse on 15–20A into the circuit of the new socket.
    4. Secure the outlet in a safe place (for example, in the trunk or under the dashboard).

    ⚠️ Attention: Do not connect an additional socket to the cigarette lighter circuit if it is already protected by a fuse on the 15A - this will lead to overload.