Parts for your 1998 Nissan Navara-Suspension bushes

1998 Nissan Navara (D22) Suspension Bushes

Suspension bushes absolutely apply to the 1998 Nissan Navara (D22). Technical sources such as the Nissan D22 Navara Factory Service Manual (Front and Rear Suspension sections), as well as common workshop manuals (Gregory’s/Ellery/Max Ellery), specify rubber bushings for the front upper and lower control arms, the front stabiliser (sway) bar, and the rear leaf spring eyes and shackles. These documents outline inspection and replacement procedures for those bushes, confirming they’re standard fitment on this model.

On a ’98 Navara, bushes are the quiet achievers: they isolate vibration, keep the ute tracking straight, and let the suspension move without metal-on-metal harshness. When they’re in good nick, steering feels sure and braking stays stable. When they’re worn or perished, owners might notice clunks over bumps, vague steering, shudder on take-off or braking, and uneven tyre wear.

Common bush locations on the D22 include:

• Front upper and lower control arm bushes
• Front stabiliser bar D-bushes and link bushes
• Rear leaf spring eye and shackle bushes

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect bushes every 10,000–20,000 km (or at each service). Look for cracks, splits, excessive movement, or oil-soaked rubber. Vehicles that tow, carry loads, or see corrugated roads and beach work in Australia and New Zealand will typically wear bushes faster. A practical lifespan ranges from 80,000 to 150,000 km depending on use.

Replacement tips that align with the factory guidance: always support the vehicle safely, mark cam bolts on the front arms before removal, and book a wheel alignment afterwards, because fresh bushes can change camber and caster. Torque all bush bolts at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading the rubber. If choosing polyurethane replacements, expect sharper steering and longer life, but potentially more NVH (noise, vibration, harshness), use the supplied grease to prevent squeaks. For rear leaf bushes, replace shackle pins and sleeves if worn, and check the condition of the shackles themselves.

Coastal and off-road use? Rinse the underbody after salt exposure, use penetrating fluid on stubborn fasteners, and consider anti-seize on sleeves during reassembly. Keeping on top of these small parts pays off with better ride quality, tyre life, and safer handling.

Popular questions about 1998 Nissan Navara suspension bushes

How can someone tell the bushes on a D22 Navara are worn?

Typical signs include clunks over bumps, wandering or tramlining on the highway, vibration under braking, steering that won’t centre cleanly, and uneven tyre wear on the front. A visual check may reveal cracked or split rubber, off-centre sleeves, or excessive play when levering the arm or spring.

Should they go with rubber or polyurethane bushes?

Rubber is closest to factory feel—quiet, compliant, great for daily driving and touring. Polyurethane often lasts longer and sharpens steering response, which suits heavy-duty and off-road use, but it can transmit more vibration. Many owners mix and match: rubber for control arms and poly for sway bar or rear shackle locations.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing bushes?

Yes. Fresh bushes can shift control arm and axle geometry, especially at the front. An alignment restores correct camber, caster, and toe, protecting tyres and ensuring the Navara tracks straight.