A Guide to the Automatic Transmission Mount for the 2008-2014 Nissan Altima
If your Altima is vibrating or making clunking noises, the transmission mount could be the reason.
- Vibrations at idle and clunking noises when shifting are the most common symptoms of a failed transmission mount on this Altima.
- Replacement is a manageable DIY job for those with experience, requiring the engine/transmission to be supported by a jack.
- While budget aftermarket brands are available, they may increase cabin vibration; higher-quality or OEM mounts are recommended for ride comfort.
- There are no specific recalls for this part, but it is a very common failure item on the 2008-2014 Altima.
Is Your Altima Shaking? It Could Be the Transmission Mount
A failed automatic transmission mount is a very common issue for the 2008-2014 Nissan Altima. When this part wears out, it can no longer absorb vibrations or hold the transmission steady. 🎬 Watch a 2011 Altima with a clearly failing transmission mount. This leads to several noticeable problems that can affect your driving comfort.
Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Mount
The signs of a bad transmission mount are often easy to spot. The most common symptom is a significant increase in vibration felt inside the car, especially through the steering wheel and floor when the car is stopped but in gear ('Drive' or 'Reverse'). You might also hear a distinct "clunk" or banging noise when you accelerate, brake hard, or shift gears. In some cases, you might even notice the engine and transmission moving more than they should if you look under the hood while a helper shifts the car between gears.
🎬 See common symptoms and how to fix a bad mount.Don't Ignore the Signs
While you can technically drive with a bad transmission mount, it's not recommended for long. The excessive movement can put stress on other components like hoses, exhaust pipes, and electrical wiring, potentially leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
When replacing the transmission mount, you have a choice between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket parts. For the Altima, the quality of the replacement part makes a big difference. Many owners and mechanics report that cheaper, solid rubber aftermarket mounts can cause more cabin vibration than the original fluid-filled (hydraulic) OEM mounts. However, some aftermarket brands offer a good balance of quality and price.
- Value Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar): These are widely available and very affordable. However, their quality can be inconsistent. Some users report they are too hard, leading to increased vibration, or that they fail much sooner than OEM parts. They can be a budget-friendly choice, but be prepared for a potential compromise in ride comfort.
- Mid-Tier Brands (Pioneer): Brands like Pioneer are sometimes seen as a step up, with some users noting their construction is closer to the original factory mounts.
Pro Tip: The 2008-2014 Altima has four mounts in total holding the engine and transmission. When one fails, the others are often worn as well. A new, stiff mount can put extra stress on the old ones, causing them to fail sooner. Mechanics often recommend replacing the mounts in a set to ensure a lasting repair.
Cost of Replacing an Altima Transmission Mount
The cost can vary based on your location and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional shop.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $56.24 - $77.70 |
| New OEM Part | $130 - $230 |
| Shop Labor | $213 - $313 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $338 - $539 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a DIY-friendly repair?
For an experienced DIYer, yes. The job requires safely supporting the engine and transmission from below with a jack and a block of wood. You will need to remove the air filter box to access the mount. The mount itself is typically held by three 16mm bolts and one 18mm center nut. 🎬 Follow this step-by-step guide to replace the mount yourself. Sometimes the old mount can be difficult to remove and may require a puller tool.
Are there any recalls for the transmission mount on the 2008-2014 Altima?
No, there are no specific safety recalls from the NHTSA for the engine or transmission mounts on the 2008-2014 Nissan Altima. There have been recalls for other transmission-related issues, but not the mounts themselves.
What is a TSB and are there any for this part?
A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) is a notice from the manufacturer to dealers about a known issue and a recommended repair. Nissan issued TSB NTB14-060c for some Altimas (V6 models from 2013-2018) noting that a single "thunk" noise on the first few accelerations of the day can be normal for the front engine mount and is not a reason for replacement. While this doesn't directly apply to the transmission mount on all models, it shows that some drivetrain noises can be considered normal by the manufacturer.
Will a new mount fix all my car's vibrations?
It will fix vibrations caused by a failed mount. However, the 2008-2014 Altima is also known for transmission issues with its CVT that can cause shuddering or jerking, so it's important to correctly diagnose the problem. If you use a lower-quality solid rubber aftermarket mount, you might even introduce a new, different type of vibration at idle.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 11220-JA000 11220-JN01D 11220-3NT0A 11220-4RA0A
The transmission mount is located on the driver's side of the engine bay, under the air filter box. It is secured by three 16mm bolts and one 18mm center nut.
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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.
- Nissan Altima: