Parts for your 2012 Nissan Pathfinder-Strut mounts

2012 Nissan Pathfinder strut mounts — are they used?

Based on factory documentation and reputable catalogues, a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (R51) does not use MacPherson strut mounts. The Nissan Pathfinder (R51) Model Series Service Manual (2012), Front Suspension (FSU) section, specifies an independent double‑wishbone front suspension with a coil‑over shock absorber. Steering loads are carried by the upper and lower ball joints, not a strut bearing plate. The Rear Suspension (RSU) section outlines a multi‑link rear with separate spring and shock (no strut there either). Factory parts listings (Nissan FAST/parts catalogues) show front shock absorbers with insulators/bushes and hardware, but no strut‑top bearing assembly. Major aftermarket catalogues for this model year list front shock absorbers rather than strut mount kits. That’s why “strut mounts” aren’t applicable on this vehicle.

In plain terms, the Pathfinder’s front suspension isn’t a MacPherson strut setup. There’s a shock and coil spring working together, but the unit doesn’t turn with the wheels and doesn’t need a rotating strut‑top bearing. So there’s no traditional strut mount to replace. Instead, the upper shock insulator (a rubber mount/bush and washers) isolates noise and vibration, while the control arms and ball joints handle the steering and load paths.

If there’s a knock over bumps or vague steering, the usual suspects to check on a 2012 Pathfinder are:

• Front shock absorber upper insulators/bushes and the top nut torque
• Front lower and upper control arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser (sway) bar links and D‑bushes
• Rear shock upper bushes and lower mounts

Good practice for Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to inspect these items at regular services, especially from about 80,000–120,000 km, or sooner if the vehicle tows, sees corrugations, or carries loads. Tyre wear, clunks, or a shimmy under braking can point to tired bushes or joints rather than any “strut mount” issue. When replacing front shocks, it’s smart to fit fresh upper insulators and hardware so the coil‑over assembly is quiet and tight once reinstalled.

Popular questions about 2012 Nissan Pathfinder strut mounts

Does a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder have strut mounts?
No. The R51 Pathfinder uses a double‑wishbone front end with a coil‑over shock, and a multi‑link rear. There’s no MacPherson strut, so there’s no strut‑top bearing/mount to replace. Look for shock insulators and control arm components instead.

What should be replaced if there’s a front‑end clunk on my 2012 Pathfinder?
Common fixes include front shock upper insulators, stabiliser links/bushes, and worn control arm bushes or ball joints. A proper inspection will pinpoint the culprit before parts are ordered.

Can MacPherson struts be retrofitted to a 2012 Pathfinder?
Not practically. It would require major structural and geometry changes. Sticking with the OE double‑wishbone design and servicing shocks, bushes, and joints delivers the intended ride and handling.