Parts for your 2012 Nissan Navara-Struts

Understanding Struts on the 2012 Nissan Navara

The 2012 Nissan Navara is a popular choice among utes in Australia, known for its toughness and versatility. When it comes to suspension components, many people wonder if struts are part of this vehicle's setup, especially when servicing or considering repairs. So, does the 2012 Nissan Navara use struts? The short answer is no, not in the traditional sense used by many passenger cars.

The 2012 Navara employs a suspension system that differs slightly from typical sedans and hatchbacks, which commonly use struts. Instead, the Navara features a front suspension with independent double wishbones and coil springs, paired with shock absorbers, and a rear suspension with leaf springs and shock absorbers. The absence of struts is primarily because the Navara is designed as a rugged ute with off-road capabilities and a load-carrying rear tray, which requires a more robust and specialised suspension setup.

Struts generally combine a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit, and they provide structural support to the front suspension by holding the tyre and wheel assembly in place. They are common in smaller and lighter vehicles mainly because this design simplifies the suspension and saves space. However, in heavier, off-road or load-bearing vehicles like the Navara, the suspension demands are different. The double wishbone design up front offers better wheel control and durability under tough conditions. At the rear, the leaf spring setup is a no-nonsense choice for carrying heavier loads and towing, which are key uses for a ute like the Navara.

So why is a strut not used? It all comes back to function and durability. Struts, while efficient and compact, tend not to cope as well under heavy loads and the kind of off-road stress utes regularly endure. The wishbone and leaf spring arrangement provides greater strength and flexibly adapts to the Navara's dual role as both a workhorse and a recreational vehicle. This setup also tends to be easier and more cost-effective to repair or replace in the working field, which is a big bonus for tradies and rural users.

Now that we know struts are not part of the 2012 Navara's suspension, it's worth understanding how the shock absorbers work since they play a similar role in absorbing bumps and improving ride comfort. Maintaining the shocks is essential for ensuring the Navara rides smoothly, handles well, and stays safe on the road.

The shock absorbers in the Navara dampen the impact from rough surfaces, reduce bounce after hitting bumps, and help keep the tyres in contact with the road. This results in better control, especially on uneven terrain or when carrying a heavy load. If the shocks wear out, drivers may notice excessive bouncing, a nose-diving effect under braking, or prolonged stopping distances, all signs it's time for a replacement.

When servicing the 2012 Nissan Navara's suspension, it's important to inspect the shocks and coil springs regularly. Checking for signs of leaks, dents, or corrosion on the shocks can prevent bigger issues down the line. Worn or damaged suspension components can also cause uneven tyre wear or instability when cornering, so early detection is key.

Replacing shocks on a Navara is best done in pairs, either front or rear, to maintain balanced handling. It's recommended that owners stick with quality parts designed to handle the Navara's specific load and driving conditions. Some may consider upgrading to heavy-duty or performance shocks if they frequently tackle rough trails or use the vehicle for serious towing.

Along with shocks, the coil springs up front and the leaf springs at the rear should be checked for sagging, cracks or rust. While springs don't require regular maintenance, misery from a worn spring structure can mimic bad shocks, affecting ride height and stability.

Overall, although the 2012 Nissan Navara does not have struts as seen in many smaller vehicles, understanding and maintaining its suspension parts like shocks and springs can go a long way in preserving the ute's performance and comfort. Whether you're a tradie hauling gear every day or an adventurer exploring outback tracks, keeping these suspension components in tip top shape ensures the Navara stays reliable and ready for whatever the road ahead brings.