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Nissan Note Problems & Known Issues

The most common Nissan Note problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

E11 — First Generation Note
2006–2013
1.4L 16v, 1.6L 16v, 1.5L dCi, 1.5L 16v
E12 — Second Generation Note
2013–2021
1.2L DIG-S, 1.5L dCi, 1.2L, 1.2L

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Nissan Note problems ranked by severity. We track 11 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Major
Timing chain tensioner failure (E11)
E11CR14DE, HR16DE2006–201360k–120k miles
The hydraulic timing chain tensioner on E11 1.4L and 1.6L engines fails due to worn internal components, allowing the timing chain to rattle and potentially jump teeth. This is a widespread issue on these engines, with failure typically occurring between 60,000-120,000 miles. The rattling noise is most pronounced on cold starts when oil pressure is low. If left unaddressed, the chain can skip timing and cause severe internal engine damage including bent valves and piston contact.
What happens if ignoredComplete tensioner failure allows the timing chain to jump teeth, causing catastrophic engine damage including bent valves and potential piston-to-valve contact. Engine rebuild costs £2,000-£4,000. Tensioner replacement is significantly less expensive if caught early.
Independent garage
£400–£700
Specialist
£600–£900
Main dealer
£800–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
High oil consumption (E12)
E12HR12DE2013–202130k–80k miles
The HR12DE 1.2L DIG-S supercharged engine suffers from excessive oil consumption due to poor piston ring sealing and oil control ring design. Consumption rates of 1 litre per 1,000 miles are commonly reported, far exceeding normal levels. This issue affects both naturally aspirated and supercharged variants but is more severe on DIG-S models due to higher combustion pressures. The problem typically manifests between 30,000-80,000 miles and progressively worsens.
What happens if ignoredContinued high oil consumption can lead to engine seizure if oil level drops critically low. Running costs increase significantly due to frequent oil top-ups. Blue smoke emissions can cause MOT failure. Engine rebuild may be required in severe cases.
Independent garage
£0–£200
Specialist
£0–£300
Main dealer
£0–£500
Parts only
£0–£100
Major
Timing chain wear (E12)
E12HR12DE2013–202150k–100k miles
The HR12DE 1.2L engine timing chain stretches prematurely due to the combination of high oil consumption, extended service intervals, and lightweight chain construction. DIG-S supercharged variants are particularly affected due to higher combustion loads. Chain stretch causes timing retardation, rough running, and eventual chain jump. The problem is accelerated by poor oil maintenance and affects engines from 50,000 miles onwards.
What happens if ignoredSevere chain stretch leads to timing errors, rough running, and eventual chain jump causing catastrophic engine damage. Complete engine rebuild typically required if chain fails, costing £3,000-£5,000. Early intervention with chain replacement prevents major damage.
Independent garage
£500–£800
Specialist
£700–£1,000
Main dealer
£900–£1,400
Parts only
£200–£400
Major
Ignition coil failure and stalling (recall) (E12)
E12HR12DE2013–2021
Defective ignition coils on 2015-2016 HR12DE engines cause engine stalling without warning, creating a significant safety hazard. The coils fail internally due to poor insulation design, leading to misfires, rough running, and complete engine shutdown. Nissan issued recall NTB15-012 to replace faulty coils with improved versions. This affects all mileages and can occur on very low-mileage vehicles.
What happens if ignoredEngine stalling without warning creates serious safety risks, particularly in traffic or at junctions. Complete loss of power steering and braking assistance occurs when engine stops. Recall work must be completed to ensure safety.
Independent garage
£100–£200
Specialist
£150–£250
Main dealer
£200–£350
Parts only
£80–£150
NTB15-012

7 more known issues tracked

Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.

MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Nissan Note fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

Subframe bushes or mounts worn
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 77x the fleet average
Sample: 21,031 tests
Rear registration plate lamp throwing direct wh...
Lights & Electrics · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 48x the fleet average
Sample: 999 tests
Front or rear fog lamp switch inoperative or no...
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 36x the fleet average
Sample: 10,315 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 27x the fleet average
Sample: 1,931 tests
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 66,466 tests
Stop lamp missing, inoperative or in the case o...
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 6,280 tests

Looking at a specific Nissan Note?

Check its dealer service history to see if the maintenance that prevents these problems was actually done.

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Technical service bulletins & recalls

Official manufacturer notices issued to dealerships. If a car hasn't had recall work done, it needs doing — check with the dealer network.

NTB15-012
Ignition Coil Defect - Engine Stall
Defective ignition coils on 2015-2016 HR12DE engines causing engine stalling. Recall issued to replace faulty coils with improved design. Check if recall work completed and request proof of completion.
E12 · HR12DE · Issued: 2015-03

Related

Nissan Note reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the Nissan Note?

The Nissan Note has 11 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Timing chain tensioner failure (E11) and High oil consumption (E12).

Is the Nissan Note reliable?

The Nissan Note has 0 dangerous and 4 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.

How much does it cost to fix Nissan Note problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Timing chain tensioner failure (E11)) costs £400–£700 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.

Which Nissan Note generation is most reliable?

The E11 (2006–2013) has the fewest dangerous issues (0). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.