Replacing rear shock absorbers on a Nissan Note E11: a detailed guide with nuances

Rear shock absorbers Nissan Note E11 (first generation, 2006–2013) - a consumable that requires replacement every 80–120 thousand km or when signs of wear appear. Unlike the front struts, the rear shock absorbers on this model are easier to change, but have their own design features: they are integrated into the spring block and are attached to the body through the upper support with a rubber buffer. If you notice that the car has begun to “squat” on bumps, a knock has appeared in the rear suspension, or handling has deteriorated on uneven surfaces, it’s time to get diagnosed.

In this article we will look at step by step replacement process rear shock absorbers on Note E11 Taking into account typical mistakes, we will select analogues of the original parts and tell you how to check their condition without a lift. We will pay special attention nuances of dismantling: for example, why you can’t just “cut off” the mounting bolts and how to tighten the spring correctly so as not to damage the support bearing. You will also find a comparison table of original spare parts and their analogues, and at the end - answers to frequently asked questions on the topic.

Signs of wear on the rear shock absorbers on a Nissan Note E11

Rear shock absorbers Nissan Note wear out gradually, and many owners ignore the first symptoms, attributing them to “suspension features.” However there is 5 Key Signs, which directly indicate the need for replacement:

• 🔧 Knock in rear suspension when driving over uneven surfaces (even on small bumps). Most often caused by destruction of bushings or oil leakage from the shock absorber.
• 🌊 "Sagging" of the body during sudden braking or acceleration, the car “squats” more than usual, and then sways for more than 1-2 vibrations.
• 🛣️ Deterioration in handling at speeds above 80 km/h: the car begins to “float” along the lane, reacting to gusts of wind.
• 💧 Oil leaks on the shock absorber body (visible during visual inspection). Even a small leak means that the part has lost its seal.
• 🔄 Uneven rear tire wear (especially along the inner edge). Associated with a violation of the suspension geometry due to “tired” shock absorbers.

If you notice at least 2-3 of these symptoms, it's time to get diagnosed. To check shock absorbers for Note E11 it is not necessary to go to the service station: it is enough rock the car behind the rear bumper and watch how quickly it returns to its original position. Normally there should be no more than 1–2 fluctuations. If the body continues to sway, the shock absorbers are not doing their job.

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Note E11 with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, not only shock absorbers often wear out, but also support bearings, stabilizer bushings, as well as silent blocks of levers. If you ignore these problems, replacing shock absorbers alone may not give the expected effect.

Which shock absorbers to choose: original vs analogues

Original rear shock absorbers for Nissan Note E11 are produced under catalog numbers 54500-4M000 (right) and 54501-4M000 (left). The cost of one shock absorber in official dealers starts from 8–10 thousand rubles, which makes the original not the most budget option. Fortunately, there are worthy analogues on the market from trusted brands.

Type	Brand	Article	Price (per piece), ₽	Features
Original	Nissan	54500-4M000 / 54501-4M000	8 000–10 000	Guaranteed quality, but high price. Suitable for all modifications Note E11.
Analogue	Kayaba (KYB)	343337 / 343338	4 500–5 500	One of the best analogues in terms of price/quality ratio. 10–15% stiffer than the original.
Analogue	Monroe	E3446 / E3447	5 000–6 000	Softer than the original, suitable for a relaxed riding style. Resource - up to 100 thousand km.
Budget	Sachs	315 514 / 315 515	3 500–4 000	Low price, but below average resource. Counterfeits are common.
Premium	Bilstein	B4 22-186644 / B4 22-186645	7 000–8 000	The most durable option (up to 150 thousand km). Rigid, improves handling.

When choosing shock absorbers, pay attention to gas type: for Note E11 fit as oil (softer and cheaper), and gas-oil (more durable, better road holding). If you drive mainly around the city, you can stick to oil (for example, Monroe). For active driving or frequent trips on the highway, it is better to choose gas-oil (KYB or Bilstein).

Tools and materials for replacement

To replace the rear shock absorbers yourself Nissan Note E11 you will need special tool, since a standard set of keys will not be enough. Here's the full list:

• 🔧 Jack and stops (or lift). Be sure to secure the front wheels, as the rear suspension Note may “play” when removing the shock absorber.
• 🔩 Socket heads at 10, 12, 14 and 17 mm (deep and standard). The bolts securing the shock absorber to the body often “stick.”
• 🔧 Ratchet wrench with extension cord. Without it, it will be difficult to unscrew the upper shock absorber mounting nut.
• 🌀 Spring ties (minimum 2 pieces). On the Note E11, the spring is under high tension - removing it without ties is dangerous!
• 🔨 Hammer and chisel (in case the bolts are rusty). WD-40 or a similar penetrating lubricant will also come in handy.
• 🛠️ Torque wrench (optional, but recommended). Upper nut tightening torque - 40–50 Nm, lower bolt - 80–100 Nm.
• 🧤 Gloves and safety glasses. A live spring can injure your hands, and rust and dirt can get into your eyes.

Also prepare new consumables:

• 🔄 Shock absorber bushings (article 54525-4M000) - even if the old ones look normal, it is better to replace them.
• 🛡️ Anthers and bumpers (article 54526-4M000). They often come complete with shock absorbers.
• 🔩 Fastening nuts and bolts (optional). If the old bolts are rusty, it is better to install new ones (08915-6040A).

Remove the trunk plugs to access the upper supports|

Treat the fastening bolts with WD-40 the day before replacement |

Check the condition of the spring ties|

Prepare a place to work (flat surface, good lighting)|

Disconnect the battery (optional, but recommended for safety) -->

Step-by-step instructions for replacing rear shock absorbers

Replacement process Nissan Note E11 takes 2–3 hours (for both shock absorbers) if you have experience. If you are doing this for the first time, be patient - it can be especially difficult removing the spring and unscrewing stuck bolts. Below are detailed instructions taking into account all the nuances.

Step 1: Preparing the car

1. Place the machine on flat surface, secure the front wheels with chocks and engage first gear (or “P” on automatic transmission).

2. Remove plugs in the trunk (under the trim) to access the upper shock absorber nuts. They are attached to plastic clips - pry them off with a screwdriver.

3. Loosen (but don't remove!) wheel nuts and jack up the rear of the car. Install stops under the thresholds for insurance.

Step 2: Removing the old shock absorber

1. Remove the wheel. You now have access to lower shock absorber mount (17 mm bolt). Treat it with WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.

2. Unscrew bottom bolt (You may need to hold the nut from the back with a 14mm wrench). If the bolt does not budge, use a hammer and chisel, but be careful not to damage the threads.

3. Go to the trunk and unscrew top nut (12 mm wrench). This is where a ratchet wrench with extension comes in handy as access is limited.

4. Carefully remove the shock absorber and spring assembly. Do not try to disassemble it by weight! Place the part on a flat surface and secure with ties.

What to do if the shock absorber bolt breaks?

If the shock absorber mounting bolt breaks off, do not try to drill it out yourself - the risk of damaging the threads in the body is too high. Better to use extractor or contact a service station. As a last resort, you can weld a nut to the piece and unscrew it, but this requires welding skills.

Step 3: Disassembly and Installation of New Shock Absorber

1. Install spring ties and squeeze it evenly until the top support is released. Check the spring tension! If the zip ties come off, it may cause injury.

2. Remove the upper support, bump stop and boot. Inspect support bearing - if it plays or creaks, it also needs to be replaced (part number 54520-4M000).

3. Transfer all parts (except worn ones) to new shock absorber. Make sure the rubber bushings are installed correctly - their grooves should line up with the grooves on the shock absorber.

4. Reassemble the assembly in reverse order, evenly tightening the spring ties. After assembly, check that the spring is level and not skewed.

Step 4: Installation and Testing

1. Install the shock absorber in place, starting with top mount. Tighten the nut pre-tighten, but not completely.

2. Align the lower mount with the arm and screw in the bolt. Tighten it firmly 80–100 Nm (use a torque wrench).

3. Tighten top nut (moment 40–50 Nm) and install the wheel. Lower the vehicle and check the suspension travel.

⚠️ Attention: After replacing the shock absorbers with Nissan Note E11 be sure to check wheel alignment rear wheels. Although the suspension geometry is rarely changed here, a new shock absorber can affect the mounting angles.

Typical replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when replacing rear shock absorbers with Nissan Note E11. Here 5 most common mistakes and their consequences:

• 🔧 Incorrect bolt tightening. If you overtighten the bottom bolt (more than 100 Nm), you can break the thread in the lever. If you don't tighten it enough, the shock absorber will play.
• 🌀 Ignoring Spring Ties. Spring on Note E11 is under high voltage. Attempting to disassemble the shock absorber without zip ties may result in injury.
• 🛠️ Using old bushings. Rubber bushings “harden” over time and lose their elasticity. Their repeated use will lead to knocking after 10–20 thousand km.
• 🔩 Failure to follow the assembly order. For example, if you tighten the bottom bolt first and then try to align the top mount, the shock absorber will end up crooked.
• 💧 No leak testing. Even a new shock absorber can be defective. After installation, check it for oil leaks.

Another common mistake is replacing only one shock absorber. If both are worn out, they need to be replaced in pairs, otherwise the car will “steer” to the side and the suspension will wear unevenly. An exception is if the second shock absorber is practically new (mileage less than 20 thousand km).

When to contact a service station: 3 cases when amateur activity is dangerous

Although replacing the rear shock absorbers with Nissan Note E11 considered a relatively simple procedure, there are situations when it is better to trust professionals:

1. Fastening bolts are stuck or broken. If you cannot remove the bolts even after treating them with WD-40 and using Liquid Wrench, the risk of stripping the threads or damaging the lever is too great. Service stations use special heaters And extractors.
2. The spring is deformed or cracked. Spring replacement required special puller and skills in working with stressed metal parts. A mistake could result in injury.
3. The support bearing is worn out. Its replacement requires pressings, which cannot be done efficiently in a garage. An incorrectly installed bearing will creak and play.

It is also worth contacting a service station if, after self-replacement, the following appears:

• 🔊 Extraneous noise (creaks, knocks) when the suspension operates.
• 🛣️ Uneven tire wear after the first 500 km.
• 🌀 Spontaneous change in trajectory (the car is “pulled” to the side).

Average cost of replacing rear shock absorbers Nissan Note E11 in the service - 3,000–5,000 rubles (for both) excluding the cost of spare parts. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to overpay for the work than to risk safety.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing shock absorbers on Nissan Note E11

Is it possible to drive if the shock absorber is leaking, but it still holds?

Theoretically yes, but undesirable. An oil leak means that the shock absorber has lost its seal and is not working at 100%. This leads to:

• Deterioration in handling (especially at high speed).
• Accelerated wear of other suspension elements (silent blocks, balls).
• Increased risk of hydroplaning on wet roads.

If the shock absorber "flows" but does not knock yet, you have 1–2 months for replacement. But there is no point in delaying.

Is it necessary to do a wheel alignment after replacing shock absorbers?

On Nissan Note E11 the rear wheels have slight negative camber (about -1°). In most cases, replacing shock absorbers does not affect the installation angles, but:

• If you changed springs or levers, wheel alignment necessarily.
• If after replacement the car “pulls” to the side, check the tire pressure and, if necessary, perform an alignment.

The cost of adjusting the rear axle is approx. 1,000 rubles.

Which shock absorbers are better for a comfortable ride: KYB or Monroe?

It depends on your driving style:

• KYB (Kayaba) — 10–15% stiffer than the original, better road holding at high speeds, but may seem too “hard” for city driving.
• Monroe - softer, absorbs small bumps better, but on the highway the car can “float” a little.

If you drive mostly around the city - choose Monroe. For a mixed cycle (city + highway) optimal KYB.

Is it possible to replace only the springs, leaving the old shock absorbers?

Technically - yes, but this not recommended. Springs and shock absorbers work in pairs, and if the shock absorbers are worn out, new springs will not give the expected effect. Moreover:

• Old shock absorbers will not be able to effectively dampen vibrations of hard springs (if you install reinforced).
• Possible imbalance suspension, which will lead to accelerated wear of the silent blocks.

If the budget is limited, it is better to replace shock absorbers only, leaving the old springs (if they have not sagged).

How long do the shock absorbers on the Note E11 last when driving quietly?

Service life depends on several factors:

• Road quality: when driving over bumps, the resource is reduced by 30–40%.
• Driving style: Sharp braking and acceleration accelerate wear.
• Quality of parts: original or KYB/Bilstein serve up to 120 thousand km, budget analogues (Sachs) - 60–80 thousand km.

When quiet ride on good roads shock absorbers can last up to 150 thousand km, but after 100 thousand km their efficiency noticeably drops.