Nissan Note
Proven 1.6L naturally aspirated engine with timing chain. Robust and low-maintenance, but underpowered for heavier models.
Practical package, no pulse
110 hp in a space machine — the Note is the most sensible car in the world, not a fun car.
Engine Weaknesses 6
The timing chain can stretch prematurely when oil level is low. The chain tensioner loses oil pressure and can no longer maintain chain tension. Result: chain skip and possible engine damage.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling from the engine on cold start that may or may not subside after warm-up. Check engine light may illuminate.
The HR16DE is prone to elevated oil consumption at higher mileage due to worn piston rings or failed valve stem seals. Regular top-ups become necessary.
Symptoms: Blue smoke from exhaust, dropping oil level between change intervals, oil top-up required.
The HR16DE does not have hydraulic tappets. Valve clearances must be adjusted manually every 60,000 km. If neglected, wear occurs on camshaft and rocker arms.
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from the valve train, especially at idle and on a cold engine.
The crankcase ventilation valve (PCV) can harden or clog, leading to elevated oil consumption and oil mist in the intake system. Also promotes timing chain stretch.
Symptoms: Oil film in air filter housing and intake hose, elevated oil consumption, idle fluctuations.
The HR16DE EVAP purge valve sticks from around 80,000 km causing lean running at idle and misfires on overrun. Multiple cases are documented in forums.
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires on overrun, check engine light, occasional stalling
The HR16DE throttle body carbons up from around 90,000 km causing idle fluctuations. Cleaning with throttle body cleaner followed by ECU relearn resolves the issue.
Symptoms: Fluctuating idle, occasional stumbling on pull-away, elevated idle speed
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
The Note E11 front coil springs break from around 90,000 km, sometimes repeatedly on an annual cycle. Weak OEM shock absorbers accelerate wear.
The cables in the Note E11 tailgate transition break from constant flexing from around 80,000 km. Reversing camera, number plate light, or rear window heater stop working. Virtually all E11s are affected.
Water enters the Note E11 boot through the porous foam seal of the third brake light. Silicone repair only holds temporarily.
The Note E11 blower resistor burns out — the fan only works on speed 3 and 4. The component sits behind the glovebox; replacement takes 5 minutes.
The driver's side electric window regulator fails on the Note E11. Motor or electronic control fails; the window stays put or moves only in jerks.
The Note E11 underbody and rear axle subframe rust due to poor factory cavity protection. MOT deficiencies from around 10 years of vehicle age.
The Note E11 rear wheel bearings wear from around 100,000 km. A speed-dependent droning noise is audible, especially in corners.
A relay behind the glovebox of the Note E11 oxidises in damp conditions causing sporadic starting problems. Cleaning or replacement resolves the issue.