Parts for your 1998 Nissan Navara-Shock absorbers

1998 Nissan Navara Shock Absorbers

Based on technical sources such as Nissan’s D22 Navara factory service information (1997–2004) and OE parts catalogues, the 1998 Navara is fitted with telescopic shock absorbers front and rear. The front runs independent suspension with torsion bars and separate shocks, while the rear uses leaf springs with separate shocks. So shock absorbers are absolutely relevant on this ute.

On a ’98 Navara, shocks don’t hold the ute up—that’s the job of the springs. Their role is to control suspension movement, keep tyres planted on the road, and calm down bounce after bumps, corrugations, and braking. Good shocks improve steering feel, shorten stopping distances on rough roads, and reduce body roll when cornering or towing. Whether it’s a 2WD runabout or a 4WD workhorse, healthy dampers make the Navara safer and more comfortable across Aussie and Kiwi roads.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the shock bodies for oil leaks, dents, or stone damage, check bushes and mounts for cracks or play, and look for uneven or cupped tyre wear. A quick bounce test at each corner can hint at fading, but a proper road test over ripples and speed bumps tells the real story—excessive bobbing, nose-diving under brakes, or rear-end hop under load means the dampers are tired.

There’s no fixed-kilometre rule, but many Navaras benefit from replacement around 80,000–120,000 km, sooner if they’ve done heavy towing, frequent gravel, or beach work. Always replace shocks in axle pairs to keep the ute balanced. When fitting fronts, a wheel alignment is recommended to protect tyres and restore sharp steering. Re-torque mounts with the vehicle at normal ride height, and renew worn bushes or hardware at the same time.

Choosing replacements comes down to use: OE-style twin-tube gas shocks suit daily duties, while heavy-duty monotube or foam-cell options handle corrugations, loads, and accessories like bull bars or canopies. Match the shock to the Navara’s configuration (2WD/4WD, cab style, and ride height), and if the ute’s lifted, select units built for the extra travel.

• Watch for: oil weeping, clunks over bumps, steering shimmy, cupped tyres, longer braking on rough roads.
• Service tip: inspect shocks every service interval, especially after off-road trips or salt exposure.

Popular questions about 1998 Nissan Navara shock absorbers

Do all 1998 Navaras have front and rear shocks?
Yes. Both 2WD and 4WD D22 models use separate telescopic shock absorbers at the front and rear. The front has torsion bars for springing and a dedicated shock for damping, the rear runs leaf springs with a separate shock.

How often should the shocks be replaced?
There’s no hard rule, but many owners see best results replacing them somewhere around 80,000–120,000 km, or sooner with towing, corrugations, or lifted setups. Inspect at each service and replace if they’re leaking, noisy, or no longer controlling bounce.

What type of replacement shock is best?
For mixed on-road use, OE-style gas-charged twin-tube shocks work well. For frequent off-road, towing, or loads, consider heavy-duty monotube or foam-cell units. Always replace in pairs per axle and get an alignment after front shock work.