If you’ve upgraded from the older Nissan Note (E11) to the newer E12 model, you’ve likely noticed a difference in how the car sits and handles. The E12 is sleeker and more aerodynamic, but it also features a more “refined” suspension setup that is highly sensitive to the parts you use.

At Taleon Spares Kenya, we often see E12 owners trying to “fit” parts from other Nissans or the older Note model to save money. This is a mistake. The E12 was designed with specific weight distributions and geometry that require exact-match components.

Here is why your Nissan Note E12 needs specific suspension parts and what you should look for during your next service.

1. The Shock Absorber Difference: Part #332148

The front struts of the Nissan Note E12 are unique. While they may look similar to those on a Nissan Tiida or an older Note, the valving (the internal pressure) is specifically tuned for the E12’s lighter chassis.

• The Gold Standard: At Taleon Spares, we stock the KYB Excel-G (Part #332148 for Right / #332149 for Left). These are gas-pressured twin-tube shocks designed to handle the “floaty” feeling that E12s sometimes get at high speeds.
• Why it Matters: Using the wrong shock absorber can lead to “bottoming out” on Kenyan speed bumps, which eventually damages your strut mounts and even your engine mounts.

2. Lower Control Arms: The “Vibration” Trap

The E12 uses a lightweight lower control arm design. One of the most common complaints we hear from owners is a rattling noise near the pedals when driving on rough murram roads.

• The Culprit: This is almost always the rear bushing of the front lower control arm.
• The Fix: While you can buy just the bush, the E12’s ball joint is also prone to early wear. We highly recommend our Ex-Japan Complete Control Arms. Because they are factory-balanced, they eliminate the vibrations that “pressed-in” bushes often fail to solve.

3. Rear Coil Springs: Solving the “Sag”

If you look at many Nissan Notes on Kenyan roads, the rear often looks lower than the front—especially if there are passengers in the back. This “sagging” ruins your aerodynamics and causes the car to scrape on every estate bump.

• The Heavy-Duty Solution: We stock OBK Heavy-Duty Rear Coil Springs specifically for the E12. These are slightly thicker than the standard Japanese springs, allowing the car to maintain its height even when carrying a full load of shopping or family members.

4. Steering Rack: The EPS (Electric) Factor

Unlike older cars with hydraulic fluid, the Nissan Note E12 uses Electric Power Steering (EPS). This means the steering rack is connected to an electric motor.

• Specific Faults: If your steering feels “jerky” or you see a steering wheel light on the dashboard, it’s an electronic issue.
• Replacement Tip: If you need to replace the rack, you must ensure the part matches your E12’s specific ECU programming. At Taleon Spares, we provide Ex-Japan Electronic Steering Racks that are tested for electronic compatibility to ensure your “Lane Departure” and “Traction Control” systems keep working.

5. Wheel Hubs and the ABS Sensor

The E12 is packed with safety technology. Its wheel hub bearings come with an integrated magnetic sensor ring for the ABS.

• The Mistake: Many owners buy a “cheap” bearing that doesn’t have the magnetic ring. The result? Your ABS, Cruise Control, and Brake lights will all turn on, and your car might go into “limp mode.”
• The Taleon Promise: Our E12 hubs are guaranteed to be ABS-compatible, keeping your dashboard clear of warning lights.

Conclusion: Keep Your Note E12 “Note-Worthy”

The Nissan Note E12 is a fantastic, reliable car—if you treat its suspension with respect. Using specific, high-quality parts isn’t just about comfort; it’s about protecting the complex electronics and lightweight frame that make the E12 so efficient.