Parts for your 2016 Nissan Serena-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2016 Nissan Serena

The 2016 Nissan Serena is a popular people mover known for its spacious interior and smooth ride. When it comes to suspension components, the term "strut mounts" often pops up, leaving many owners wondering if this particular part is relevant to their vehicle. In the case of the 2016 Nissan Serena, it's important to first understand what strut mounts are, and whether this vehicle actually uses them.

The 2016 Nissan Serena features a front suspension system that does not use struts in the traditional sense. Instead, it employs a more conventional setup with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. Because of this, the front suspension does incorporate struts, and consequently, strut mounts are indeed fitted. These strut mounts play a vital role in the overall function and comfort of the vehicle's suspension system.

So what exactly are strut mounts, and why do they matter for a car like the 2016 Nissan Serena? Strut mounts serve as the interface between the suspension strut assembly and the vehicle's chassis. Essentially, they bolt the strut to the vehicle while providing a cushioned connection point that helps absorb road shocks and vibrations. This way, passengers experience a smoother ride, and the handling characteristics of the car remain stable and predictable.

There are a few key purposes that strut mounts serve:

• They hold the suspension struts securely in place on the chassis.
• They act as vibration dampers, preventing harsh road impacts from reaching the cabin.
• Some strut mounts also incorporate a bearing, allowing the strut to rotate when the steering wheel is turned, which is essential for vehicles with MacPherson strut front suspension - like the Nissan Serena.

For the 2016 Nissan Serena, the strut mounts will usually be fitted with a rubber insert and a bearing. Over time, this rubber can degrade, and the bearing can wear out, resulting in a few annoying issues such as clunking noises when driving over bumps, increased steering effort, uneven tyre wear, or a rougher ride. Drivers might also feel more vibrations through the steering wheel or hear knocking sounds from the front suspension area.

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of strut mounts are essential to keep the Serena running smoothly. When servicing the suspension system on your 2016 Serena, technicians will typically inspect the condition of the strut mounts along with shocks or struts themselves. If signs of wear or damage are found, replacement is recommended to restore proper function and maintain safety.

Replacing the strut mounts on a Nissan Serena usually involves removing the strut assembly from the vehicle, safely compressing the coil spring, and replacing the worn mount with a new one. This kind of job is best left to professionals due to the specialised tools and safety risks involved with handling compressed springs.

Here are a few practical tips about strut mounts for Serena owners:

• If you hear unusual noises when driving over rough surfaces or experience a less smooth steering feel, have the suspension checked, including the strut mounts.
• Strut mounts tend to wear out after around 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres depending on driving conditions, so regular inspections as part of scheduled servicing are wise.
• Refrain from delaying replacement if a damaged mount is detected as it can compromise ride comfort and eventually affect other suspension parts.

In essence, while strut mounts might not be the most talked-about component under the bonnet, they are a small but mighty part of the Nissan Serena's suspension system. Keeping them in good condition ensures the vehicle maintains its smooth ride quality and predictable handling, which are key reasons why the 2016 Serena is a trusted family favourite on Aussie roads.