Parts for your 2013 Nissan Serena-Struts

2013 Nissan Serena Struts: What They Do, When to Replace, and How to Look After Them

Struts are relevant and fitted to the 2013 Nissan Serena (C26). Technical references confirm the front suspension is a MacPherson strut design, with the rear using a torsion beam and separate dampers on most 2WD models (some 4WD variants use a different rear layout). This is documented in the Nissan Serena C26 Series Service Manual (Front Suspension—FSU), reflected in Nissan’s electronic parts catalogue (FAST) entries for “front strut assembly” and related components, and mirrored by independent workshop data services that list “front: MacPherson strut, rear: torsion beam” for the 2010–2016 Serena range.

On the Serena, the front struts carry a fair bit of the hard work: they locate the wheel hub, carry the coil spring, and damp bumps, all while keeping steering feel tidy. In everyday terms, good struts help the van track straight, keep tyre wear even, and make rough chip seal or corrugated gravel far less fatiguing for passengers.

There’s no fixed change interval, but in Aussie and Kiwi conditions most factory struts are past their best somewhere around 80,000–120,000 kilometres. City kerbs, rural roads, and regular loads all add up. A quick check at each service is smart: look for oil weeping down the strut body, damaged boots or bump stops, sagging ride height, or uneven tyre wear at the shoulders.

Common signs the Serena’s front struts are tired include a floaty or bouncy feel over dips, knocking on sharp bumps, longer braking distances, and the steering needing more small corrections. When replacement time comes, fit struts in pairs across the front. It’s also wise to renew the top mounts, bearings, dust boots and bump stops while it’s all apart—cheap parts that make a big difference to noise and longevity.

After any strut work, a proper wheel alignment is non-negotiable. Camber and toe can shift when a new strut goes in, so an alignment protects the tyres and restores straight-line stability. Quality components from reputable brands will usually ride better and last longer than rock-bottom options, and they’ll cope better with loaded family trips. A workshop familiar with the Serena can transfer springs safely, torque critical fasteners at ride height, and road test for clunks before handing it back.

• Inspect struts at least every 20,000 km or annually.
• Replace in pairs and include mounts/boots.
• Always get a wheel alignment afterwards.

Popular questions about 2013 Nissan Serena struts

How long do front struts last on a 2013 Nissan Serena?
Many owners see 80,000–150,000 km depending on road quality, loads, and driving style. Rural routes and speed humps speed up wear. If there’s oil leakage, knocking, or cupped tyre wear, they’re due—regardless of kilometres.

Do Serena struts need replacing in pairs?
Yes—always replace both fronts together. Mixing a fresh strut with a worn one can cause uneven braking feel, crooked steering effort, and odd tyre wear. It’s also best practice to renew the top mounts and bearings at the same time.

Is a wheel alignment required after strut replacement?
Absolutely. Swapping struts alters camber and toe. A post-repair alignment brings the geometry back into spec, protects tyres, and keeps the van tracking straight, especially important on open-road trips.