Parts for your 1990 Nissan Primera-Strut mounts

1990 Nissan Primera (P10) strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm strut mounts are used on the 1990 Nissan Primera’s front suspension and are relevant for servicing. Nissan’s factory service manual for the P10 (Chassis/Suspension), the Haynes Nissan Primera 1990–1999 manual, and aftermarket catalogues from KYB and Monroe all describe a Multi-Link Front (MLF) strut assembly with a top mount and integral thrust bearing. At the rear, the P10 uses a separate spring and shock arrangement (not a strut), so there’s no rear strut mount—just conventional shock mounts.

On the front of a 1990 Nissan Primera, the strut mount ties the strut to the body and isolates road noise and vibration. It also houses a bearing that lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When it’s in good nick, steering feels light and precise, and cabin NVH stays low. When it’s tired, owners might notice notchy steering, clunks over bumps, or a thump when turning into driveways—classic signs the rubber insulator or bearing has had its day.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check front strut mounts every 20,000–30,000 km, or any time the front end is apart. Look for perished rubber, separating layers, a collapsed top hat, or rusty, gritty bearings. Because the P10’s front is a strut-based setup, worn mounts can also nudge wheel alignment out of spec, so leaving them can lead to odd tyre wear and vague steering.

When replacing, most techs do both sides together to keep steering feel even. Pair new mounts with fresh bump stops and dust boots, if the struts are older or weeping, it’s cost-effective to sort them at the same time. After installation, a proper wheel alignment is essential.

• Symptoms to watch: steering creaks or notchiness when turning, front-end knocks over bumps, wandering or tramlining, and cracked or mushroomed rubber at the tower.
• Workshop tips: mark camber bolts, use a quality spring compressor, don’t rattle-gun the damper shaft nut (hold the shaft as specified), and torque suspension bushes at ride height.
• Parts choice: quality mounts with a sealed bearing last longer and keep steering feel consistent—ideal for Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Bottom line: for a tidy-driving P10, healthy front strut mounts are a must. If there’s noise up front or the steering’s gone a bit crook, a mount inspection belongs on the to-do list.

FAQs

Does the 1990 Nissan Primera have strut mounts front and rear?
It runs strut mounts on the front only. The rear uses a separate spring and shock, so there’s no rear strut top—just upper and lower shock mounts. If you’re hearing a rear knock, it’s more likely a worn shock bushing or link, not a strut mount.

How long do front strut mounts typically last on a P10?
In local conditions, many last 80,000–150,000 km, but age, road quality, and loads matter. If the car sees rough chipseal or speed humps daily, expect a shorter interval. Inspect regularly and replace at the first signs of bearing roughness or rubber cracking.

Should strut mounts be replaced with the struts?
It’s good practice. The mount’s bearing and rubber age with the damper, and labour overlaps heavily. Doing both together saves time, preserves steering feel, and means only one alignment session.