Nissan Altima Engine Mount Guide: 2015-2019 Problems and Replacement
Experiencing vibrations or clunking noises in your Altima? A failing engine mount is the likely cause.
- The most common symptom of a bad mount is excessive vibration at idle and a clunking noise when accelerating.
- The passenger-side mount is the most frequent failure point on 2015-2019 Altimas.
- OEM mounts are highly recommended for a smooth, vibration-free ride; budget aftermarket brands often increase cabin vibration.
- Driving with a bad mount can strain other components like exhaust pipes and hoses, so prompt replacement is advised.
Is Your Altima Shaking? Recognizing a Bad Engine Mount
When an engine mount fails on a 2015-2019 Nissan Altima, the symptoms are hard to ignore. The passenger-side mount is a common failure point and often the main source of problems. Look for these tell-tale signs:
🎬 Watch: See and hear these common engine mount failure symptoms.- Excessive Vibration: You'll feel a strong vibration through the steering wheel, floor, or seats, especially when the car is idling in Drive.
- Clunking or Thumping Noises: Loud clunks or thuds from the engine bay when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift gears (like from Park to Reverse) are a classic symptom. This is the sound of the engine moving too much and hitting its limits.
- Visible Engine Movement: If you have a helper, you can see the engine lurch or jump excessively when shifting between Drive and Reverse with the brakes applied. An engine should not move more than an inch or two.
Known Issues & Service Bulletins
While there are no specific recalls for engine mounts on 2015-2018 models, Nissan has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for related issues:
- For 2019 Altima (2.5L Engine): TSB NTB19-041 addresses a creaking or popping noise from the left-hand engine mount when turning while accelerating or decelerating. This requires replacing the mount with an updated part.
- For V6 Models (2013-2018): TSB NTB14-060c notes that a single "thunk" noise during the first few accelerations of the day is a normal characteristic of the front engine mount and is not a reason for replacement.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Mounts: An Honest Comparison
When replacing an engine mount, you have a choice between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket parts. For the Nissan Altima, the difference is significant. Forum discussions and mechanic opinions strongly suggest that OEM mounts provide the best performance for ride quality. Aftermarket mounts, especially budget options, are often made of solid, harder rubber instead of being fluid-filled like the original. This leads to a noticeable increase in cabin vibration.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brand
If an OEM part isn't in your budget, aftermarket brands can be a viable option, but it's important to know what you're buying.
- Premium Aftermarket (Better): Brands like Beck Arnley focus on matching OE specifications. They are known for better fitment and using the correct materials (like hydraulic fluid) to dampen vibration, making them a good compromise between cost and quality.
- Standard/Economy Aftermarket (Good): Brands like Anchor, Westar, and DEA are widely available and very affordable. However, be aware that these are often the cause of vibration complaints. They will secure your engine, but you may sacrifice the smooth, quiet ride your Altima had from the factory.
Engine Mount Replacement Cost for 2015-2019 Nissan Altima
The total cost depends on whether you do it yourself or use a repair shop, and which parts you choose. The passenger-side mount is the most commonly replaced and typically the most labor-intensive.
🎬 Follow this step-by-step guide to replace the passenger-side mount.| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Mount (Single) | $110 - $300 |
| New Aftermarket Mount (Single) | $51 - $187 |
| Shop Labor Cost (per mount) | $100 - $250 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket) | $150 - $440 |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM) | $210 - $550 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which engine mount fails most often on the Altima?
The passenger-side hydraulic mount is the most common point of failure for the 2015-2019 Nissan Altima. It supports a significant amount of the engine's weight and torque, causing its internal fluid to leak or the rubber to collapse over time.
Why do cheap aftermarket mounts cause more vibration?
Many budget aftermarket mounts are just solid blocks of rubber, unlike the fluid-filled (hydraulic) OEM mounts. The fluid in an OEM mount is crucial for absorbing a wide range of engine vibrations. Without it, more of that shaking is transferred directly to the car's frame and into the cabin.
Can I replace just one bad engine mount?
Yes, you can replace just the one failed mount. However, mounts tend to wear at a similar rate. If one has failed, the others are likely weakened. Replacing them as a set can save you from having to do the job again in the near future and ensures the engine is properly balanced.
Is replacing an Altima engine mount a DIY job?
It depends on the mount and your skill level. The upper torque strut (dog bone) is easy to replace. 🎬 See how to quickly install a new upper torque mount. The main passenger-side mount is more difficult. It requires safely supporting the engine with a jack and wood block, removing several components to gain access, and having the right tools (16mm and 18mm sockets are common). It is a manageable DIY for someone with mechanical experience, but a beginner may find it challenging.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 11350-JA00A (Front Upper Torque Strut, 2.5L) 11332-3TS0A (Rear Mount Bracket, 2.5L) 11220-6CA0B (LH Insulator for 2019 2.5L TSB) 11320-4RA0A (Rear Mount for 3.5L V6)
The 2015-2019 Altima uses a system of multiple mounts, with the primary right-hand (passenger side) and left-hand mounts being hydraulic (fluid-filled) for superior vibration damping. The system also includes solid rubber torque struts to control engine rocking during acceleration.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Nissan Altima:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Altima Shaking? Recognizing a Bad Engine Mount
- Known Issues & Service Bulletins
- OEM vs. Aftermarket Mounts: An Honest Comparison
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brand
- Engine Mount Replacement Cost for 2015-2019 Nissan Altima
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off