How do you change the starter on a 2001 Nissan Altima?

Answer 1

These instructions are specific to a 2001 Nissan Altima GXE.

Open hood. Disconnect positive side of battery. Jack-up vehicle on driver side and place a jack-stand such as an extra measure of protection. Remove air filter, housing, and tube to throttle assembly. There are three 10mm bolts that secure the housing to the car body. There are two clamps to loosen such to temporarily move the housing tubing out of the way. The two bolts that secure the starter is located on the trans-axle. One of the two is the lower bolt and it is close to the fuel filter, while the second is the upper bolt and it is the first bolt to the left of the lower (it is not very easy to see). The bolts are 14 mm. Climb under vehicle from driver side, you will need to get close to center to see the starter. Disconnect ground connector by depressing plastic and sliding out from connection point. There is also one 12mm nut to deal with, it is the one under the rubber protective cover. I would suggest a small rachet and 12mm socket when removing it. The starter at this point is completely disconnected at the bottom. At the top side, under the hood, identify both 14mm starter bolts. Remove bolts rachet, extension, and socket. Go to bottom and retrieve starter. To put the starter back in will require a second person. Leaving the 14 mm bolts in place, with the socket and extension attached to the upper bolt without the rachet attached allows the person on top to simply start the bolt without much discussion. The person on the bottom will need to place the starter, align for the bolt, and hold the starter in place while the person on top starts the bolt. If properly rehearsed, the person on top may attach to the lower bolt and start second bolt. However, it is not necessary that the individual start the second bolt as the first bolt is more than enough to get the second bolt started. Secure bolts. Gain access to starter and install wire connector and 12mm nut. Place rubber boot over nut. Slip plastic ground connector clip into its mate. Verify the starter and its wiring is secure. Lower jack. Verify 14mm bolts are properly secured. Reinstall parts removed. Reinstall positive cable to battery. Easter