Parts for your 2015 Nissan Navara-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2015 Nissan Navara

The 2015 Nissan Navara is a popular ute well-known for its ruggedness and reliability, especially in off-road or tough work environments. When it comes to suspension components like strut mounts, it's important to understand whether this part plays a role in the vehicle's suspension system and what that means for maintenance and servicing.

So, does the 2015 Nissan Navara use strut mounts? To put it simply, the answer is no. This model of the Navara, like most solid axle 4x4 vehicles, is not fitted with strut mounts because it does not have a strut-type suspension setup. Instead, the Navara uses a different front suspension design that eliminates the need for strut mounts altogether.

Here is why strut mounts are not part of the Navara's suspension:

• Suspension Design - The 2015 Navara typically uses a double wishbone front suspension system rather than a MacPherson strut. A MacPherson strut system combines the shock absorber and coil spring into a single unit that also acts as part of the steering system. This setup requires a strut mount to attach the strut assembly to the vehicle chassis while allowing it to pivot for steering input.
• Solid Front Axle and Double Wishbone Setup - The Navara utilises upper and lower control arms with coil springs and separate shock absorbers. This design does not require a strut mounting point since the shocks and springs are separate components and attach at fixed points without the need for rotational movement at the top.
• Function and Load Distribution - Strut mounts serve both as a structural mounting point and a noise/vibration isolator in vehicles with struts. Since the Navara's suspension parts are mounted using bushings and ball joints in the control arms, these mounts provide similar isolation and flexibility without the need for a traditional strut mount.

Because there are no strut mounts on the 2015 Nissan Navara, maintenance and servicing focus on other suspension parts instead. This includes checking and replacing shock absorbers, coil springs, control arm bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings. Each of these components plays a vital role in ride quality, handling, and safety, similar to what strut mounts would do in cars equipped with MacPherson strut systems.

For vehicles that do have strut mounts, the part serves a few important purposes. Strut mounts act as the crucial connection between a vehicle's chassis and its suspension components. They hold the top of the strut assembly in place and often contain a bearing or rubber insulator that allows the strut to rotate when steering and helps isolate the cabin from road noise and vibrations. Worn or damaged strut mounts can cause clunking or rattling noises when driving, uneven tyre wear, poor steering response, or a harsh ride.

While the Navara does not use strut mounts, understanding their function can help owners recognise why its suspension performs differently compared to passenger cars with struts. In general, if a strut mount were to need replacement, it is recommended to do so along with the strut assembly for the best results. Mechanics will look out for signs like excessive noise from the suspension, steering issues, or visible wear when the strut is removed during repairs.

When servicing a 2015 Navara's suspension, the focus should be on regularly inspecting and maintaining shocks, coil springs, and control arm components. Suspension bushings and ball joints often experience wear from harsh driving conditions, so timely replacement not only prolongs vehicle life but improves comfort and handling. Unlike strut mounts, these components are more common to inspect and replace on a Navara and have a large impact on the overall suspension performance.

In short, the 2015 Nissan Navara does not have or require strut mounts because of its double wishbone suspension design featuring separate shock absorbers and springs. Instead of strut mounts, the Navara relies on bushings, bearings, and ball joints for suspension movement and noise isolation. Owners servicing their Navara should prioritise these components to maintain optimal ride quality and handling, keeping the ute tough and ready for work or play.