Nissan Note
1.4L four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine with decent refinement. Solid everyday engine.
Refreshed pragmatist
Facelift without character change — still the most sensible car in the room.
Engine Weaknesses 3
Like the smaller CR engines, the CR14DE in pre-facelift models (up to 2005) is also affected by premature timing chain stretch. Catastrophic engine failure is at risk if ignored too long. Significantly less common from the 2005 facelift onwards.
Symptoms: Rattling and knocking on cold start, check engine light (P0011/P0340), power loss
CR14DE ignition coils fail at higher mileage causing misfires. Reported multiple times in the Note E11. Aftermarket coils are often adequate. Individual replacement is straightforward.
Symptoms: Engine runs rough, jerks on acceleration, check engine light, increased fuel consumption, misfires under load
Crankshaft seals and valve cover gasket leak with age. Oil loss often only noticeable after 100,000 km. Repair is straightforward and should not be ignored to avoid clutch damage.
Symptoms: Oil drops under the engine, oil smell, dropping oil level, oil traces in bell housing
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
The Note E11-FL front coil springs also break from around 90,000 km. Same design as the pre-facelift, same problem.
The cables in the tailgate transition also break on the Note E11-FL from constant flexing. Number plate light, rear window heater, or reversing camera stop working.
The blower resistor also burns out on the Note E11-FL. Fan only works on high speeds. Same issue as the predecessor; easy replacement.
Water also enters the E11-FL boot through the porous third brake light seal. Slightly improved over the pre-facelift, but not fully resolved.
The standard radio display in the Note E11-FL becomes unreadable or goes completely dark at temperatures above 25°C. A facelift-specific issue. Replacement display (SA1245) available as a DIY solution for around €50.