Parts for your 2015 Nissan Serena-Exhaust gasket

2015 Nissan Serena Exhaust Gasket

Yes, the 2015 Nissan Serena uses exhaust gaskets. This is shown in Nissan’s technical documentation for the C26 generation, where the Exhaust System and Engine Mechanical sections identify a cylinder head–to–exhaust manifold gasket and a flanged front pipe connection that uses a crush/ring “Gasket–Exhaust” between spring-bolted flanges. These are also listed in the Nissan FAST parts catalogue for C26 Serena variants (manifold gasket family 14036-xxxx and ring gasket family 20692-xxxx). Together, those sources confirm the Serena relies on exhaust gaskets to keep the system sealed.

On a 2015 Serena, the exhaust gasket’s job is simple but critical: seal hot gases so they flow through the catalytic converter and mufflers without leaking. A healthy gasket helps keep the cabin free from fumes, reduces that raspy “blow” on acceleration, and protects oxygen sensor readings so fuel trims stay tidy. Typical locations include the exhaust manifold gasket at the cylinder head and the donut/ring gasket at the manifold–front pipe or catalyst–front pipe joint, depending on trim.

When servicing the exhaust, it’s smart to replace any gasket that’s disturbed. These gaskets are designed to crush once, re-using them risks leaks that can trigger a WOF fail in NZ or just make the Serena sound rough and smell of exhaust. If there’s ticking on cold start, a sooty mark at a flange, a whiff of exhaust near the engine bay or underbody, or a change in fuel economy, a leaking gasket could be the culprit.

Good workshop practice on the Serena is to check flange faces for flatness, clean old gasket material, and use new spring bolts/nuts where specified. After fitting, warm the engine and re-check for seepage. Keep an eye on rubber hangers and the flex joint too, excess movement can stress a fresh gasket. If an oxygen sensor is nearby, avoid contaminating it with sealants—most exhaust joints on this model are gasketed and don’t need paste.

For torque values and any model-specific notes (there are a few Serena engine variants), follow the Nissan Electronic Service Manual. That way the new gasket beds in properly and the system stays quiet, safe, and compliant on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

• Common symptoms of a failing exhaust gasket: ticking on start-up, raspy note under load, soot around a flange, exhaust odour near the front of the car, or an emission fault code.
• Replacement tips: always use a new gasket, clean mating faces, fit new spring hardware if corroded, and verify no leaks after a heat cycle.

FAQs

Where is the exhaust gasket on a 2015 Nissan Serena?
There’s a multi-layer steel gasket between the cylinder head and exhaust manifold, and a crush ring at the flanged joint where the front pipe meets the manifold/catalyst assembly. Some trims may have another ring gasket further downstream at a mid-pipe or muffler flange.

What are the signs my Serena’s exhaust gasket needs replacing?
Cold-start ticking that settles as it warms, a sharper exhaust note, soot at a flange, or exhaust smell around the engine bay or underbody. In some cases, fuel economy dips or the ECU logs oxygen sensor or mixture codes due to false readings caused by leaks.

Can the exhaust gasket be reused?
Best practice is no. The ring/donut style is designed to crush once, and manifold gaskets lose their sealing integrity after removal. Fit a new gasket whenever the joint is undone to avoid leaks and hassles at WOF/RWC time.