Parts for your 2009 Nissan Navara-Strut mounts

Strut Mounts on the 2009 Nissan Navara: What You Need to Know

The 2009 Nissan Navara is a popular ute known for its toughness and reliability, especially when it comes to handling rough terrains and heavy-duty tasks. When it comes to suspension components like strut mounts, it's important to understand whether this particular model actually uses them, and if so, what they do and how to look after them.

After reviewing technical data and Nissan's factory specifications for the 2009 Navara, it turns out that strut mounts are not typically part of the suspension setup on this vehicle. The Navara, especially from this model year, generally uses a double wishbone front suspension combined with coil springs and shock absorbers. This type of suspension does not employ struts in the same way a MacPherson strut system does, and therefore, it does not have strut mounts.

Strut mounts are primarily found on vehicles fitted with MacPherson strut suspension systems where the strut acts as both a shock absorber and a structural suspension component. In such systems, the strut mount serves as the connecting point between the strut assembly and the vehicle's chassis, providing not only mechanical attachment but also cushioning and noise isolation. However, the 2009 Nissan Navara's front suspension does not rely on struts for its structural suspension duties, instead, the shocks and springs work separately with the control arms, so there is no need for strut mounts.

Why doesn't the Navara use strut mounts? Simply put, the suspension design. The double wishbone setup is well-suited for vehicles like the Navara that require robust, off-road capability and stable load handling. It provides more precise control over wheel movement, better ride comfort, and improved durability. Since the shock absorbers are separate from the suspension arms and the chassis, the idea of a strut mount as a part does not come into play.

For those familiar with sedans or smaller SUVs that have MacPherson strut systems, understanding that the Navara does not share this architecture can help clarify why maintenance and replacement procedures differ between vehicle types. Instead of strut mounts, the Navara focuses on components such as bushings, control arms, ball joints, and the shock absorber mounts.

So, what should owners keep an eye on when servicing the suspension of their 2009 Nissan Navara? A good place to start is the shock absorbers themselves and the components that hold them in place. These parts take the brunt of any off-road abuse or heavy loads and over time can wear or become damaged. On this ute, the shocks mount separately, and their mounting points use standard rubber or polyurethane bushings, which do need checking for degradation.

Maintaining the suspension on a 2009 Nissan Navara means regularly inspecting all the moving parts between the chassis and the wheels. Although there are no strut mounts to think about, replacing shock absorber mounts, checking ball joints, and examining bushings is essential. Keeping these parts in good nick preserves the driving comfort, safety, and handling features the Navara is known for.

Careful inspection during routine servicing includes:

• Checking the shock absorber mounts and bushings for cracks or excessive play
• Looking for leaking or worn shock absorbers that might compromise ride quality
• Examining control arm bushings and ball joints for any damage or wear
• Testing suspension travel and wheel alignment for optimal handling

If any suspension component shows signs of wear, it's best to replace it promptly to avoid further damage or unsafe driving conditions. While the Navara doesn't have strut mounts, treating the suspension with regular care and servicing ensures it remains tough and reliable for years.

In essence, for those searching for strut mount replacement advice specific to the 2009 Nissan Navara, understanding the underlying suspension design clears up any confusion. The ute's double wishbone setup means no strut mounts exist, but other suspension components play the critical role of maintaining a smooth and controlled ride. Maintaining those parts and inspecting them regularly is the best way to keep the Navara's suspension in top shape.