Nissan Note Common Problems and Solutions
Excessive Vibrations When Driving
Problem:
The engine appears to vibrate excessively when you're driving.
Solution:
This isn't a common issue with the Nissan Note, but it can occur. The cause is the engine support bracket, which may have broken. Simply browse our spare parts for the Note, find an affordable engine support, remove the faulty one, and replace it.
Difficulty level
Whistling Noise When Driving
Problem:
There is a high-pitched whistling noise when you reach a certain speed.
Solution:
In nearly every case, it will just be a worn alternator belt, which you can buy very cheaply and easily from our store and replace yourself. It's a very straightforward task that should take less than ten minutes, even if you've never done it before.
Difficulty level
Temperature Light Keeps Turning On
Problem:
The dashboard warning light that indicates a high temperature keeps turning on at random times even if your water levels are fine.
Solution:
This could be an issue with your radiator electric fan, so you should check our list of available parts to find a replacement. However, it might also be a wiring fault with the thermal switch, especially if you've recently carried out work or had repairs on your Note. Inspect the wiring, and if no obvious problems are found, then the issue is likely with the electric fan itself.
Difficulty level
Radiator Fan Electric
Awkward Rear Seats
Problem:
The rear seats don't appear to be aligned as much as you would expect.
Solution:
This can be a very serious issue, even if it doesn't seem like one. In notes from January to March 2016, a faulty rear seat ISOFIX bracket was installed. As a result, these seats will not perform as well as they should in a side-impact, increasing the risk to passengers. The only solution is to purchase one of our seat brackets and replace the faulty ones.
Difficulty level
Air-Con Has Stopped Working
Problem:
The air conditioning unit in your Note has stopped working.
Solution:
This can be a frustrating issue if you've recently purchased your Nissan Note. You'll need to re-gas your air conditioning, but it's not as simple as it seems. In recent years, Nissan has switched to a more environmentally friendly refrigerant for their air-con systems, which is much more costly than before. In some cases, it may be cheaper to buy a new air con unit from us and install it yourself rather than paying high prices just to re-gas an empty one.
Difficulty level
Windscreen Wipers Turning On Themselves
Problem:
Your windscreen wipers activate at random times. Sometimes this occurs while you're driving.
Solution:
This is a common issue reported with the Note, and it is very likely due to an ECU fault. In many cases, a mechanic can reprogram the ECU for you. In some instances, this won't resolve the problem, and you'll need to browse our store for a new unit. However, replacing the ECU isn't as complicated as it may seem.
Difficulty level
ECU Engine
Gear changing problems
Problem:
It is common for gears to slip when changing on the Note. This issue arises from a fault with the torque converter in the gearbox. It can be an expensive repair.
Solution:
You will need a replacement torque converter fitted. Have an experienced professional do this for you. Check for the replacement part with us, and feel free to call the seller who will have technical knowledge.
Difficulty level
Torque Converter
Clicking noise from steering area
Problem:
If you notice a clicking noise coming from the steering when turning corners at slow to medium speed, it is caused by a faulty locating clip on the steering shaft.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement locating clip will resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Poor engine idling
Problem:
If you find that the engine is idling very poorly, this is usually caused by a fault with the ignition coils. The idling will be very rough or irregular instead of smooth and constant.
Solution:
It is recommended that you replace all four ignition coils simultaneously for optimal performance. Watch the video below for guidance on how to change the ignition coils:
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil
Third brake light failure
Problem:
It is common for the third brake light (above the rear hatch) on the Nissan Note to fail. This issue occurs because water leaks into this area above the rear hatch, damaging the bulb in the light.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement bulb to fix the issue.
Difficulty level
Fog lights staying on
Problem:
If you are having problems with the fog lights staying on even when they are not switched on, or when the ignition is turned off, there is a known issue with the multi-function control module.
Solution:
You will need to install a replacement multi-function control module to resolve the issue. If the car remains under warranty, Nissan will repair it at no cost.
Difficulty level
Squealing From Front of Car
Problem:
A high-pitched squealing noise is coming from the front of the car when you're driving.
Solution:
The issue is caused by your fan belt slipping. It is a common problem, and Nissan's solution has been to create an electronic belt tensioner that you can purchase from our store and fit onto your fan belt. If the issue has persisted for some time, you might also need to replace the fan belt itself.
Difficulty level
Fan Belt
Rear Passenger Door Makes a Cracking Noise When Opening
Problem:
The rear passenger door makes a loud cracking noise when opened.
Solution:
This is a minor design flaw in some versions of the Note, but it's a very simple fix. There are probably two nuts missing from the detent, which means you’ll need to remove the door trim and fit two spare nuts into place. It's an easy job that should only take a few minutes.
Difficulty level
Child Lock Malfunction
Problem:
The child lock on the rear doors feels loose and too simple to press.
Solution:
The cause of a recall for Nissan Notes built between September 2015 and August 2016 is a significantly reduced retention force in the rear door child lock switch. Although it still works, it could pose a risk for younger passengers. You will need to install a countermeasure part into the switch aperture, which is available at very low cost from our store.
Difficulty level
Stalling
Problem:
The car stalls randomly and won't restart until the engine has cooled down.
Solution:
This caused a recall by Nissan and tends to affect Notes built between July 2015 and January 2016. The issue is caused by a faulty ignition coil. However, this is a simple fix to do yourself. Browse our store to find the Note's ignition coil, remove the faulty one, and fit your new one.
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil