Owners Nissan Note E11 (2006–2013 model years) are often faced with the need to improve the sound in the cabin - be it replacing worn-out stock speakers or full-fledged audio tuning. However, before purchasing new acoustics, it is critically important to know exact dimensions of seatsto avoid installation problems. In this article we will analyze not only the dimensions of factory speakers, but also the nuances of their dismantling, compatible models from other brands, as well as typical mistakes when upgrading.
Standard audio system Note E11 (depending on the configuration) includes from 4 to 6 speakers, but their quality leaves much to be desired - especially on the basic versions with single-element wideband speakers. If you are planning to replace them with component acoustics or premium coaxial speakers, please note: the mounting diameters in the front doors and the rear parcel shelf are different. Below you will find a detailed breakdown of sizes, connection diagrams and recommendations for choosing alternatives.
Standard sizes of Nissan Note E11 speakers by trim level
B Nissan Note E11 Speaker sizes vary depending on year of manufacture and equipment level. Basic versions (eg Visia or Acenta) are usually equipped with 4 speakers: two in the front doors and two on the rear parcel shelf. More expensive modifications (Tekna) may have additional tweeters in the A-pillars. Below is a table with exact parameters:
| Location | Diameter (inches/cm) | Seat depth (mm) | Speaker type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front doors | 16.5 cm (6.5") | 60–65 mm | Wideband (coaxial) | 4-screw mounting, M5 bolt holes |
| Rear shelf | 13 cm (5.25") | 50–55 mm | Broadband | Some versions have 6x9" oval speakers (rare) |
| Front struts (tweeters) | 2.5–3.5 cm (1–1.38") | 20–30 mm | High frequency | Only in top trim levels |
Important: in models with a factory system Bose (available for the European market) the sizes of the front speakers may differ - instead of the standard 6.5" 6x9" oval speakers were installed. Before purchasing be sure to check the VIN or visually check the seat.
⚠️ Attention: In cars with climate control or additional sound insulation, the seat depth in the doors can be reduced to 50 mm. Before purchasing speakers that are deeper than 60mm, make sure that they will not interfere with the window lifter.
How to remove stock speakers: step-by-step instructions
Dismantling of factory acoustics in Nissan Note E11 does not require special tools, but will require care - especially when working with door cards. You will need:
- 🔧 Screwdriver with Phillips bit (PH2)
- 🔨 Plastic clip remover (or flathead screwdriver wrapped in electrical tape)
- 📏 Ruler or caliper for measuring depth
- 🔌 Soldering iron or terminal connectors (if you plan to change wires)
Front speaker removal process:
- Remove the two screws at the bottom of the door panel (under the door handle and next to the speaker).
- Carefully pry the clips around the perimeter of the card, starting from the corners. Don't use force - plastic is fragile!
- Disconnect the speaker power connector. If the clip is tight, pry it off with a thin screwdriver.
- Remove the 4 screws securing the speaker to the metal door panel.
Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery|Take a photo of the wire location|Check for hidden screws under the decorative caps|Prepare a new speaker and mounting adapter (if needed)-->
The rear speakers are easier to remove: just remove the trunk trim (it is attached with Velcro and clips) and unscrew 4 screws. However, there is a nuance here: in some versions, the wires go through a rubber seal in the body - do not pull them by force, so as not to tear them.
What to do if the speaker mounting screws are rusty?
If the screws do not come out, use a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. If the screw head is “slipped”, try unscrewing it with pliers or drilling it out (as a last resort). After dismantling, replace the rusty screws with new ones (recommended size: M5x16 mm).
Compatible replacement speakers: which one to choose?
When choosing new acoustics for Nissan Note E11 focus not only on size, but also on sensitivity (dB) and power (RMS). The stock radio produces up to 20–25 W per channel, so speakers with RMS above 50 W will not work efficiently. Optimal parameters:
- 🔊 Front: 6.5" coaxial or component (sensitivity 88–92 dB, depth up to 65 mm).
- 🔊 Rear: 5.25" coaxial (if space is limited) or 6x9" oval (if shelf allows).
- 🔊 Tweeters: 1" or 1.38" with external crossover (if installing a component system).
Proven models from famous brands:
| Manufacturer | Model | Type/Size | Sensitivity (dB) | RMS (W) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pioneer | TS-A1670F | 6.5" coaxial | 90 | 30 |
| JBL | GTO629 | 6.5" coaxial | 92 | 60 |
| Alpine | SPS-610C | 6.5" component | 88 | 80 |
| Hertz | DCX 165.3 | 6.5" coaxial | 93 | 100 |
Critical point: if you have a radio without an external amplifier, do not use speakers with a resistance lower than 4 ohms - this will lead to overheating of the standard unit. For component systems, the wiring will need to be modified (laying new cables from the radio to the crossovers).
Coaxial speakers|Component system|Oval 6×9"|I don’t know, I’m still choosing-->
Acoustics tuning: installing 6x9" speakers on the rear shelf
Many owners Note E11 want to install 6x9" oval speakers instead of the standard 5.25", but there are several pitfalls here. Firstly, the seat on the rear shelf is not designed for this size - you will need cut a hole or use adapter rings. Secondly, the depth of 6x9" speakers often exceeds 70 mm, which can interfere with closing the trunk.
If you decide to upgrade, follow this algorithm:
- Remove the rear shelf (it is secured with 4 clips and 2 screws under plastic plugs).
- Place the 6x9" speaker template onto the metal and trace with a marker. Leave 2–3 mm from the edges for extra space.
- Cut the hole with a hacksaw or jigsaw. File the edges.
- Install the speaker onto the adapter ring (for example, from Metra 82-8132) and secure with self-tapping screws.
⚠️ Attention: After installing 6x9" speakers, check whether the magnet is touching the trunk lock mechanism. If so, you will have to modify the mount or choose a model with a shallower depth (for example, Pioneer TS-A6990F with a depth of 60 mm).
To improve the sound we recommend:
- 🔧 Seal the rear shelf with vibroplast (for example, StP Gold) to reduce resonance.
- 🔧 Install sound insulation on the door (materials: Bitoplast or Accent Premium).
- 🔧 Connect the speakers through capacitors (if the radio does not have a built-in crossover).
Common mistakes when replacing speakers and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that spoil the sound or damage new acoustics. Here are the most common mistakes:
- Wrong polarity. If you mix up “+” and “–” when connecting, the speakers will work out of phase - the bass will disappear and the sound will become “flat”. Always check the polarity with a tester or by the color of the wires (usually red is “+”, black is “–”).
- Ignoring resistance. 2 Ohm speakers connected to a standard radio (designed for 4 Ohms) will lead to its overheating. Use 4 ohm models only.
- Lack of sealing. If you do not close the holes between the speaker and the door panel, the sound will leak and the bass will become weak. Use O-rings or sealant.
- Poor fixation. A speaker attached to 2 of the 4 screws will rattle at high frequencies. All fastening points must be securely tightened.
Another common problem is incompatibility of connectors. Standard connectors Nissan often do not fit speakers from other brands. Solutions:
- 🔌 Buy adapters (for example, Nissan to ISO).
- 🔌 Crimp the new terminals onto the wires (use crimping pliers).
- 🔌 Solder the wires directly (the most reliable option).
Before final assembly of the door, play music and test the speakers at different frequencies. If you hear a creaking or rattling sound, it means there is a play somewhere in the fastening or the body is touching the metal.
How to improve sound without replacing speakers?
If the budget is limited, and the standard acoustics are still more or less lively, you can improve the sound without buying new speakers. Here are some proven methods:
- 🔊 Equalizer settings. In the radio menu (if any), disable all sound “improvers” (Bass Boost, Loudness) - they only distort the signal. Set the manual EQ with a boost of 80–120 Hz (for bass) and 10–12 kHz (for treble).
- 🔊 Soundproofing. Cover the inner panels of the doors and the rear shelf with vibroplast (2–4 mm thick). This will reduce resonance and improve bass.
- 🔊 Replacing wires. Standard wiring often has high resistance. Replace it with an acoustic cable with a cross-section of 1.5–2.5 mm² (for example, Belden or OFC).
- 🔊 Subwoofer installation. Even a budget active subwoofer (for example, Pioneer TS-WX120A) will add bass without loading the stock speakers.
If your radio does not support equalizer adjustment, you can use an external sound processor (for example, Rockford Fosgate RF-3Sixty.3), but this will require professional installation.
The most effective way to improve sound without replacing speakers is a combination of soundproofing and EQ adjustments. This will give an increase in clarity by 30–40% even with standard acoustics.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about speakers in Nissan Note E11
Is it possible to install 6.75" speakers instead of the standard 6.5" ones?
Yes, the difference of 0.25 inches (6.35 mm) is not critical. The main thing is to make sure that the depth of the new speaker does not exceed 65 mm. Many models (eg Focal Access 165 A1) have a diameter of 6.75", but successfully replace the standard ones.
Do I need to change the radio when upgrading the acoustics?
Not necessarily, but if you're installing a component system or speakers with RMS above 50W, the stock radio won't reach their potential. The best option is a radio with a 4-channel output (for example, Pioneer DEH-S7200BHS) + external amplifier.
How to check if the speaker is working without removing the door card?
Connect the tester in ohmmeter mode to the speaker connector contacts. The resistance should be within 3–4 ohms. If the tester shows “1” (open) or “0” (short circuit), the speaker is faulty.
Is it possible to connect tweeters to the standard radio?
Technically yes, but without an external crossover the high frequencies will hurt your ears. It is better to use a component system with passive filters or purchase an additional active crossover (for example, Alpine HCE-C100).
Which speakers are better for bass: coaxial or component?
For bass, component systems are preferable, since they have a separate woofer responsible for low frequencies. However, they require proper crossover settings. If your budget is limited, choose quality coaxial speakers with a large cone (for example, JBL Club 6520).