Parts for your 2003 Nissan Navara-Exhaust mount

2003 Nissan Navara exhaust mount — what it does and how to look after it

Exhaust mounts are absolutely used on the 2003 Nissan Navara (D22). This is documented in the Nissan Navara D22 Workshop Manual (2002–2006), section EX (Exhaust System), which shows the muffler and tailpipe supported by rubber insulators and brackets. The Nissan FAST parts catalogue for D22 also lists “Insulator – Exhaust” (rubber hangers) and associated brackets across diesel and petrol variants, and general repair guides such as the Haynes/Max Ellery manuals for Navara/Frontier of the same era instruct removal by unhooking the rubber hangers from their pins. So yes—exhaust mounts are a relevant, factory-fitted component on the 2003 Navara.

On this ute, the exhaust mounts (often called hangers or insulators) are the rubber bits that suspend the exhaust from the chassis. Their job is to isolate vibration, hold the pipework at the correct height, and let the system flex with engine movement and chassis twist on rough Kiwi and Aussie roads. When they’re tired or perished, the exhaust can sag, rattle on the underbody, or load up the flanges and welds, leading to cracks and leaks.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the mounts a once-over every 10,000–15,000 km, or sooner if the Navara tows, goes off-road, or sees corrugations. Look for cracked or glossy rubber, elongation of the holes, or a tailpipe that sits crooked. A fresh set of insulators is inexpensive insurance against NVH dramas and exhaust repairs later on.

Replacement is a straightforward driveway job if they’re accessible:

• Let the exhaust cool completely and safely support it with a stand.
• Spray silicone or penetrant on the hanger pins, dedicated exhaust-hanger pliers make life easier.
• Lever off the old rubber, check the bracketry for cracks, then push on the new insulator in the same orientation.
• If any metal hanger brackets are loose, tighten to the torque spec in the D22 service manual’s EX section.

Expect three to four rubber mounts along the system—typically around the front pipe/mid muffler and over the axle to the tail. Variations exist by body style and engine, but the principle’s the same. Sticking with OEM-style rubber or quality aftermarket equivalents keeps the ride civil, overly stiff poly can transmit drone. After fitting, make sure the pipe clears heat shields and the rear bumper by a decent margin, then recheck the mount condition at the next service—especially after beach work, water crossings, or oil contamination that can attack the rubber.

Popular questions

How many exhaust mounts does a 2003 Navara D22 have and where are they?
Most 2003 D22 setups use three to four rubber insulators: one near the front/mid section by the muffler, one around the centre, and one or two supporting the over-axle/tailpipe. Exact count can vary with cab/bed length and engine. If the tailpipe looks off-centre or the muffler sags, one of these mounts is usually the culprit.

What parts should be used when replacing the mounts?
Use OEM-style “Insulator – Exhaust” rubber hangers specified for the D22. Nissan’s parts listings include several superseded numbers, and aftermarket options match by pin size and spacing. Taking an old insulator to the counter (or checking pin diameter/centre spacing) helps ensure the right fit, and avoids drone caused by overly hard compounds.

Can this be done at home or does it need a workshop?
It’s a doable home job with stands, basic hand tools, silicone spray, and preferably hanger pliers. Support the exhaust, work on one mount at a time, and refit in the same orientation. If any brackets are cracked, or if the exhaust has stress fractures from prolonged sagging, it’s best to let a workshop handle repairs and alignment.