Parts for your 2012 Nissan Navara-Exhaust mount

2012 Nissan Navara exhaust mount — purpose, upkeep, and when to replace

Exhaust mounts are absolutely used on the 2012 Nissan Navara (D40). Technical references like the Nissan D40 service manual (Exhaust System section), the Nissan FAST parts catalogue, and common AU/NZ aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Mackay Rubber, Kelpro, Walker) all show multiple exhaust hangers and brackets along the system. These rubber-and-bracket mounts support the pipework and mufflers from the transmission crossmember through to the tailpipe, so this part is 100% relevant to the vehicle.

On a 2012 Navara—whether it’s the 2.5 diesel, the V6 diesel, or the petrol V6—the exhaust mounts do three main jobs: they carry the weight of the exhaust, keep everything aligned under the ute, and isolate vibration so the cabin stays quiet and free from droning. By allowing a bit of movement in the rubber, they also protect welds, flanges, and the turbo/downpipe area from stress when the engine rocks on its mounts or the chassis flexes off-road.

They’re small parts, but when an exhaust mount perishes or stretches, the symptoms are hard to ignore: clunks over bumps, a rattly tailpipe, or the exhaust sitting off-centre in the bumper cut-out. Left too long, a sagging system can crack a weld, stress a flange, or melt nearby components.

As part of regular servicing on a 2012 Navara, it’s worth casting an eye over the exhaust from front to back every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. Look for cracked or oil-soaked rubber, elongated holes, torn hangers, or rusty brackets. If any mount looks tired, replace it—ideally in pairs or as a set in that section—so the system sits square.

• Support the exhaust with a stand or jack pad before removing mounts.
• A dab of silicone spray helps slide rubbers off and on without a fight.
• Check clearances to heat shields, spare wheel, towbar, and rear bumper once fitted.
• Re-tighten any bracket fasteners and recheck after a short drive.

Most 2012 Navaras run several mounts: typically one near the front pipe/crossmember, one around the centre/resonator area, and one or two at the rear muffler/tailpipe. Using quality OEM-style rubber with the correct hardness keeps vibration in check and avoids that tinny rattle that cheap universal pieces can cause. Quick job, low cost, big win for comfort and reliability.

Popular questions about 2012 Nissan Navara exhaust mounts

How many exhaust mounts does a 2012 Navara have?
Most D40 Navaras use three to five mounts depending on engine, cab style, and muffler layout. Expect at least one at the front/centre and two at the rear section. A quick visual under the ute will confirm the exact count.

What are the signs of a failing exhaust mount?
Common giveaways include rattles over bumps, a clunk on start-up or shut-down, the tailpipe sitting low or off-centre, and a rubbery or burning smell if the system shifts and touches heat shields. Visible cracks or stretched holes in the rubber mean it’s due.

Is it safe to drive with a broken exhaust mount?
It might drive, but it’s not a great idea. A dangling or sagging exhaust can stress joints, crack welds, or contact the bodywork. Short trips to a workshop are usually fine if the system is supported, but prompt replacement is the smart move.