2018-2023 Nissan Maxima Battery Hold Down: Corrosion, Part Numbers, and Replacement
This guide covers the common failure points, inspection tips for used parts, and the simple replacement process for your Maxima's battery hold down.
- The biggest enemy of a battery hold down is corrosion from battery acid leaks or fumes; inspect it for rust or damage.
- Replacement is extremely easy, requiring only a 10mm socket and about 10-15 minutes.
- Do NOT overtighten the hold down, as this can crack the battery's plastic case, causing a leak and ruining the battery.
- Ensure you are buying the correct part; the top hold-down frame (24420-9DJ0A or 24420-ZX60A) is different from the battery tray (64160-JA000) it sits on.
Symptoms of a Failing Battery Hold Down
Failure of a battery hold down is typically due to physical damage or corrosion. Unlike complex electronic parts, the symptoms are usually straightforward and can be found with a visual inspection.
- Rattling or Thumping Noises: A loose or broken hold down will allow the battery to shift in its tray, especially during turns or on bumpy roads. You may hear a distinct thumping sound coming from the engine bay.
- Visible Corrosion: The most common issue is corrosion caused by battery acid fumes or leaks. The bracket may have a white, blue, or greenish crust, and the metal may be rusted or eaten away. Severe corrosion weakens the bracket and can cause it to fail.
- Loose or Missing Hardware: The hold down is secured by two long J-hooks and 10mm nuts. These can sometimes vibrate loose or get lost during a battery replacement. If the nuts are missing or the threads are stripped, the bracket cannot secure the battery.
- Poor Electrical Connection: While not a direct symptom of the hold down itself, a battery that is constantly vibrating can cause the terminal clamps to loosen over time. This can lead to flickering lights, difficulty starting the engine, and other random electrical issues.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of mid-2026, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Nissan related to the battery hold down assembly for the 2018-2023 Maxima. Problems with this part are generally isolated incidents of corrosion or damage rather than a manufacturing or design defect. While some Maxima models in this year range were recalled for issues with the ABS actuator, these are unrelated to the battery system.
Pro Tip: A Technical Service Bulletin (NTB22-027B) does exist for the 2021-2023 Maxima regarding a diagnostic code for the 'internal battery' of the Telematics Communication Unit (TCU), but this is a small, separate battery for the SOS system and is not related to the main 12-volt vehicle battery or its hold down.
Buying a Used Battery Hold Down: What to Inspect
A used OEM battery hold down is an excellent, cost-effective choice, as it guarantees a perfect fit compared to many universal aftermarket options. However, a careful inspection is essential before buying.
- Check for Cracks: If the part is plastic or has a plastic coating, inspect it carefully for cracks, especially around the mounting holes where the J-hooks pass through. Stress from over-tightening can cause fractures.
- Examine for Corrosion: Look for signs of rust or acid damage. Light surface rust can often be cleaned and painted, but avoid any bracket that is deeply pitted, flaking, or feels structurally weak.
- Verify Hardware is Included: Ensure the purchase includes the two J-hooks and the two 10mm nuts. Check that the threads on both the hooks and nuts are clean and not stripped. Sourcing this hardware separately can be an unnecessary hassle.
- Confirm the Correct Part: The 2018-2023 Maxima uses a specific top-mount bracket. Do not confuse it with the battery tray, which sits underneath the battery. Verify the part number if possible to ensure compatibility.
Cost of a 2018-2023 Nissan Maxima Battery Hold Down
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $20 - $65 |
| New Aftermarket | $10 - $30 |
| Used OEM | $15 - $40 |
| Shop Labor | $30 - $55 |
Replacement Guide (Difficulty: 1/5)
Replacing the battery hold down is a very simple task that most DIYers can complete in under 15 minutes. The process is nearly identical for the entire 2018-2023 generation.
Tools Needed:
- Ratchet with extension
- 10mm socket
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Locate the Hold Down: Open the hood and find the battery on the driver's side of the engine bay. The hold down is the bracket running across the top of the battery.
- Loosen the Nuts: Using a 10mm socket, loosen the two nuts on top of the hold-down bracket. You do not need to remove them completely at first. Loosen them enough to release tension on the J-hooks.
- Unhook the J-Hooks: Once loose, wiggle the long J-hooks to unlatch them from the slots in the battery tray or support structure below.
- Remove the Old Bracket: Lift the bracket and the attached J-hooks up and away from the battery.
- Install the New Bracket: Place the new hold-down bracket across the top of the battery. Latch the J-hooks into their mounting slots below.
- Tighten the Nuts: Hand-tighten the 10mm nuts first. Then, using your ratchet, tighten them alternately until the battery is snug and does not move when you try to wiggle it.
Warning: Do not overtighten the nuts. Excessive force can crack the plastic casing of the battery, leading to a dangerous acid leak and complete battery failure. The bracket only needs to be tight enough to prevent the battery from moving.
OEM Part Numbers and Components
It's important to distinguish between the hold-down bracket on top of the battery and the support tray underneath it. The initial data provided contained part numbers for both, as well as some incorrect numbers.
| Part Name | OEM Part Number | Fits Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Hold Down Frame | 24420-9DJ0A | 2019-2023 | The primary hold-down bracket for later models. |
| Battery Hold Down Frame | 24420-ZX60A | 2018 (and others) | Fits early 8th gen Maximas and other Nissan models. |
| Battery Tray Support Bracket | 64160-JA000 | 2018-2023 | This is the support structure the battery sits on, not the top clamp. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if I drive with a loose battery?
Driving with a loose battery is risky. The excessive vibration can damage the battery's internal components, leading to premature failure. More seriously, the battery could shift and the positive terminal could contact the hood or other metal, causing sparks, a short circuit, and potentially a fire.
Can I use a universal battery hold down from an auto parts store?
While universal hold downs exist, they often provide a poor fit. The OEM bracket is designed for the specific height and width of the correct battery group size for your Maxima. A universal clamp may not secure the battery properly or could put pressure on the wrong part of the battery case. Given the low cost of a used OEM part, it is the recommended solution.
How tight should the battery hold down be?
The hold down should be just tight enough so that you cannot move the battery by hand. Once you feel significant resistance with your wrench and the battery is stable, stop. Overtightening is a common mistake that can crack the battery's plastic case.
Why did my battery hold down corrode?
Corrosion on the hold down is almost always caused by sulfuric acid venting from the battery. This is more common with older, non-sealed (flooded lead-acid) batteries. If you see significant corrosion, it's a good idea to clean the area with a baking soda and water solution and inspect your battery to see if it is leaking or failing.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 24420-9DJ0A 24420-ZX60A 64160-JA000
Material: Coated Steel or Plastic Securing Method: Two 10mm nuts on J-hooks
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.
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- Symptoms of a Failing Battery Hold Down
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Buying a Used Battery Hold Down: What to Inspect
- Cost of a 2018-2023 Nissan Maxima Battery Hold Down
- Replacement Guide (Difficulty: 1/5)
- OEM Part Numbers and Components
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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