Nissan Note Radio Code — Unlock It Online
Battery replaced in your Nissan Note and now the radio is stubbornly silent, asking for a code? You are in the right place. The Note E11 (2004–2013) and E12 (2012–2016) both use Clarion-supplied OEM head units that require a standard serial-based unlock code — a process that takes minutes once you know where to look for the serial number.
Why Is Your Nissan Note Radio Locked?
Clarion-built Nissan OEM radios store an anti-theft PIN that is activated the moment the unit loses power. Jump-starting, a flat battery, or disconnecting the 12V supply even briefly during a service will trigger the lock. This is entirely intentional — a head unit that locks in the absence of power is far less valuable to a thief. For you as the owner, a four or five-digit code is the simple solution.
How to Find the Serial Number on a Nissan Note
The serial number is printed on a sticker on the radio's chassis and can often also be retrieved without removing the unit:
- Button combination method: Turn the ignition to position II. The display will show CODE or a series of dashes. Press and hold preset buttons 1 and 6 together for two to three seconds. On most Clarion-sourced Nissan units the serial number will appear and scroll across the display. Write down every character.
- Physical label: If the button combination produces no result, insert DIN extraction keys into the slots around the radio fascia and pull the unit out. The Clarion serial sticker is typically on the top surface of the unit. The serial is usually eight to twelve characters and may begin with letters specific to the Clarion manufacturing code.
With the serial secured, get your Nissan Note radio code online here — it will be in your inbox within minutes.
Entering the Code in Your Nissan Note
- Ignition on (position II), display shows CODE or dashes.
- Press preset button 1 to cycle the first digit to the correct number.
- Press button 2, 3, and 4 in the same way for the remaining digits.
- Press and hold the OK or ►I (seek) button to confirm.
- The display shows a brief confirmation message before resuming normal radio operation.
Nissan Note Generation Comparison
| Generation | Years | Head Unit | OEM Supplier | Serial Retrieval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note I (E11) | 2004–2013 | OEM CD / AM/FM (Clarion) | Clarion | Button combo or label |
| Note II (E12) | 2012–2016 | OEM CD / MP3 / NissanConnect | Clarion / Bosch | Button combo or label |
The E12 generation introduced the optional NissanConnect touchscreen on higher trims. If your E12 has the touchscreen NissanConnect unit, it operates differently — the PIN entry is made via the touchscreen rather than preset buttons, and some NissanConnect variants are VIN-paired. Standard non-touchscreen E12 head units follow the same process as the E11.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- CODE displayed: Normal locked state — proceed with code entry.
- WAIT or timer shown: Incorrect code entered previously. Wait the specified time (typically 30–60 minutes) with the ignition on before attempting again.
- ERR: Wrong code. The unit may have a limited number of remaining attempts. Confirm your code is correct before proceeding.
- Code accepted but no sound: Check the volume, mute setting, and aerial connection. A loose aerial connector on the back of the unit is a common cause of a post-service no-sound issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Nissan Note share its radio system with the Micra or Juke?
Yes — the E11 Note shares the same Clarion OEM head unit architecture used across many Nissan models of that period, including the K12 Micra and early F15 Juke. The code systems are the same, but codes are specific to each unit's individual serial number. You cannot transfer codes between cars.
The button combination shows nothing — is the serial different on the E12?
The E12's later Clarion units sometimes require holding buttons 2 and 5 simultaneously rather than 1 and 6. Try both combinations. If neither works, remove the head unit and read the sticker directly.
How many wrong codes can I enter before the lockout?
Clarion units fitted to the Note typically allow ten attempts before imposing a temporary lockout. The lockout is not permanent — after the waiting period (shown as a countdown on the display or given in the manual as 30–60 minutes) the unit will accept further attempts.
My E12 Note has a touchscreen — can I still get a code online?
If the touchscreen NissanConnect system requests a PIN, check the serial number via the system settings menu (Settings > About). Submit this serial through the usual code lookup service. Some NissanConnect units are VIN-paired and may require dealer intervention; however, the majority of E12 Notes with the standard non-touchscreen radio follow the standard process.
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