Nissan Note
Renault-Nissan 1.5 dCi diesel engine — fitted in millions of vehicles. Fundamentally solid, but EGR valve and injectors are weak points.
68 hp diesel in a family shoebox
Economical yes, enjoyable no — the diesel in the Note is pure utility.
Engine Weaknesses 6
The K9K high-pressure pump can generate metal swarf that contaminates the entire fuel system. Pump, all four injectors, fuel lines, and tank must all be replaced.
Symptoms: Engine failure, starting difficulties, black smoke, metal particles visible in fuel filter.
The K9K timing belt can break prematurely if the injection pump is not correctly aligned. Misalignment causes the belt to fray at the edge and snap well before the replacement interval. Engine damage as it is an interference engine.
Symptoms: Belt noise, visible edge wear on timing belt, sudden engine shutdown
The K9K EGR valve clogs with soot deposits, especially during frequent short-trip driving. A stuck valve causes power loss and increased consumption.
Symptoms: Power loss, rough running, increased fuel consumption, check engine light with EGR fault code.
The K9K DPF does not regenerate sufficiently during frequent short-trip driving and clogs up. First problems often arise between 50,000 and 80,000 km.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, power loss, black smoke, regeneration cycles fail, vehicle enters limp mode.
The K9K charge air hose splits frequently, especially on older build years (FE0C version). Newer FE1C versions are more robust. The hose often tears at clamps or pinch points.
Symptoms: Sudden severe power loss, hissing noise under load, increased fuel consumption, check engine light.
The K9K camshaft sensor fails repeatedly from around 100,000 km. Sporadic starting problems and rough running are the result. Aftermarket sensors often last only a short time.
Symptoms: Sporadic starting problems, engine misfires, check engine light, occasional stalling
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.