I own a 2000 SE and recently noticed a strange noise. The noise appears to be coming from the intake area. It sounds like an electric motor running. It occurs when the the key is turned on, randomly when the car is running, and shortly after car is turned off.
I recognize these noises are sometimes normal but I have never noticed this noise until recently...and it happens too often.
I recently changed all my ignition coils and plugs...I'm not sure if this could be related.
The noise actually sounds similar to an electric fuel pump...but in wrong location and happens when car is running as well as when key is first turned on.
This topic may have already been covered on the site, but I currently do not have access to the search function.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

 

Sounds like your motor mounts. I had the exact same symptoms about a month ago and had to replace two of them. Cost me about $800 at the dealer.

 

Ouch!!! How much of that was labor?

 

The sound I am hearing is some sort of electric motor running.
I assume it is making some sort of adjustment...just not sure what kind and why it has started now.
Once again, along with happening when the car is running, it also makes the noise right after the ignition is turned off.
I am relatively sure it is not my motor mounts (Although anything is possible).

 

the motor mount are electronically controlled and certain 2k-2k1 do exhibit a buzzing almost after the ignition is turned. i noticed it early with mine and took it to the dealer. they replaced all of the motor mounts and still the noise was there. ive heard it on a few other 2k-2k1s so i figured it was normal. i only have the noise right after the ignition is turned off and is most prominent underneath the intake side. if you hear it while it is running then you might want to have them checked out, perhaps one or more is failed/failing.

 

halcyon, sloppymax...I have done a little research on the subject. Sorry for doubting you. I should of read the TSB's more carefully. I had no idea Maximas had electronic engine mounts.
So...does anybody have any idea on diagnosing which specific mount is going bad and if it is difficult to change on your own (part prices don't look bad, $100 range).
If anybody has any experiences to share, it would be helpful.
I won't go to the dealer...I'd rather ride a bike.
Thank you again for the help.

Chris

 

It could be your second cooling fan turning on and off. It cycles with the AC compressor, but will also turn on with the key in the "on" position,

 

I noticed my rear mount was going bad by having someone sit in my car and reproduce the symptoms while I listened to where the noise came from. Beyond that, unless there's a code being thrown, I don't think there is a way of telling.

Parts were less than 50% of the cost, as I recall. They pretty much have to suspend your engine to change the parts, so most of it is labor. I only had my rear mount go bad but the dealer insisted they had to replace the front and rear mounts together.

Hope that helps.