Parts for your 2016 Nissan Navara-Shock absorbers

2016 Nissan Navara Shock Absorbers

Based on the Nissan Navara D23/NP300 Service Manual (Suspension sections FSU and RAX), the 2016 Navara Owner’s Manual, and the Nissan Genuine Parts Catalogue for D23, this model is absolutely fitted with shock absorbers front and rear. Up front it runs an independent double-wishbone setup with coil-over shock assemblies, while the rear uses separate shocks paired with either a five-link coil-spring arrangement (most dual-cab ute models) or leaf springs on cab-chassis and some workhorse trims. So yes—shock absorbers are very much relevant on a 2016 Navara.

Shock absorbers do the heavy lifting when it comes to control. They damp the spring’s movement, keeping the tyres planted on corrugations, taming body bounce after speed humps, and curbing nose-dive under brakes. On the Navara, good shocks help it track straight with a load on the tray and keep the rear settled when towing across uneven Kiwi backroads or Aussie outback tracks.

Tell-tale signs they’re tired include oily misting or leaks on the shock body, cupped or uneven tyre wear, a floaty feel, longer stopping distances, or the ute pogoing after bumps. If the rear feels skittish when unladen, or the front bounces more than once after a shove, it’s time for a closer look.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect shock absorbers every 10,000–15,000 km. Check bushings, top mounts, and dust boots, look for dents from stones and any fluid seepage. After heavy towing, beach work, or long stretches of corrugations, give them an extra check. Keeping them clean helps spot issues early.

When replacement’s due, swap them in axle pairs to maintain balanced handling. Choose a spec that matches how the Navara is used—heavy-duty or monotube options are popular for towing and off-road touring, while quality twin-tubes suit daily driving. If fitting lift springs, match shocks to the new ride height and get a wheel alignment. Torque the mounts at normal ride height and consider renewing top mounts, bump stops, and bushes at the same time.

Lifespan varies with use, but many Navara shocks are ready for replacement somewhere between 80,000 and 120,000 km on sealed roads, and sooner with loads, towing, or rough tracks. Staying on top of them keeps ride comfort, braking stability, and tyre life in good nick.

• Inspect at each service, look for leaks and worn bushes
• Replace in axle pairs, align after front shock/strut work
• Match shock choice to payload, towing, and terrain

Popular questions about 2016 Nissan Navara shock absorbers

Do 2016 Navaras use struts or shocks up front?
The 2016 Navara uses a double-wishbone front end with coil-over shock assemblies, not a traditional MacPherson strut. The rear has separate shocks paired with either coil springs (five-link) or leaf springs, depending on the variant.

How often should the shocks be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, but many owners see the best results replacing between 80,000 and 120,000 km on mainly sealed roads. If the vehicle tows frequently, carries heavy loads, or lives on corrugations, inspections should be more frequent and replacement may come sooner.

Can the shocks be upgraded for towing or a lift?
Yes. Heavy-duty or monotube shocks can improve fade resistance and control with loads. If lifting the Navara, use shocks matched to the new height and consider pairing them with appropriate springs. Always get a wheel alignment after front-end work and keep within local certification requirements.