Parts for your 2008 Nissan Maxima-Engine mount

2008 Nissan Maxima engine mount — purpose, care and when to replace

Engine mounts are absolutely used on the 2008 Nissan Maxima (A34, VQ35DE). Nissan’s factory service manual for this model (Engine Mechanical, Engine Mounting section) details the right-hand engine mount, left-hand transaxle mount, and front and rear torque mounts on the subframe. The Nissan electronic parts catalogue (FAST) and common workshop manuals also list multiple hydraulic/rubber insulator mounts specific to the 2008 Maxima, confirming the system is very much part of the car’s design.

On this Maxima, the engine mounts secure the V6 to the body and subframe while isolating vibration so the cabin stays quiet and comfy. They manage engine movement under throttle and braking, protecting driveline components, exhaust joints and the CVs. Most are rubber or hydraulic-filled, tuned to keep harshness down at idle and during take-off.

As a wear item, mounts age from heat, oil exposure and repeated load. Owners often notice a dull thud on gear changes, a shimmy at idle in Drive, or extra movement under the bonnet when blipping the throttle. Left too long, a collapsed mount can stress exhaust flex joints and axles, and make the car feel rough around town.

Good servicing practice on a 2008 Maxima includes a visual check of all mounts every 20–30,000 km, or any time there’s new vibration or a knock on take-off. Look for split rubber, separated bonding, or oily residue from a hydraulic mount. If one mount has failed, it’s wise to assess the others, as fatigue is often progressive.

• Typical symptoms of a tired mount:
  • More vibration at idle, especially in gear
  • Clunk or bang on acceleration or when shifting between Reverse and Drive
  • Engine rocking noticeably with the bonnet up
  • Visible cracks, sagging, or fluid leaking from a mount
• Replacement tips for the Maxima:
  • Support the engine safely with a jack and timber block under the sump
  • Tighten mount fasteners to Nissan torque specs with the engine at normal ride height
  • Use quality OEM-equivalent mounts, mixing soft and firm mounts can add vibration
  • After fitment, recheck for contact points (exhaust, radiator hoses, shrouds)

There’s no set kilometre interval, but many see 120–200,000 km before replacement, depending on driving and heat. If the Maxima starts feeling a bit coarse or thumpy, a mount inspection is a smart shout before it snowballs into bigger bills.

Popular questions about 2008 Nissan Maxima engine mounts

How many engine mounts does a 2008 Nissan Maxima have?
Most 2008 Maxima A34 models use four mounts: a right-hand engine mount (timing side), a left-hand transaxle mount, plus front and rear torque mounts on the subframe. Some markets or trims may vary part numbers, but the layout and function remain the same.

Can you drive with a worn engine mount?
It’ll usually still drive, but it’s not ideal. Extra vibration, harsh shifts and knocking can quickly lead to damage of the exhaust flex, axles or even the radiator shroud. If there’s a heavy clunk or the engine is visibly rocking about, it’s best to park it and get a mount check done.

Do replacement mounts need any programming or resets?
No special coding is required on the 2008 Maxima. Fit the new mount, torque the hardware to spec at ride height, and road test. If idle quality has changed during other engine work, a basic idle learn may help, but it’s not a requirement just for a mount swap.