Parts for your 2016 Nissan Serena-Struts

2016 Nissan Serena struts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources, including the Nissan Serena factory service manuals for the C26 (2010–2016) and early C27 (from 2016) generations, and Nissan’s model technical briefs for the 2016 redesign, specify a front MacPherson strut suspension with a rear torsion beam setup. That means struts are absolutely fitted to the front of the 2016 Nissan Serena, while the rear uses separate shocks and coils.

On a Serena, the front struts do double duty: they control bumps and body movement, and they’re a structural part of the front suspension that supports vehicle weight and locates the steering knuckle. That’s why good struts make such a difference to ride comfort, braking stability and steering feel, especially in a taller people-mover that regularly carries family, mates and gear.

While the struts are sealed and not serviceable internally, they should be checked at regular service intervals. A quick visual inspection for oil seepage, torn dust boots and cracked top mounts, plus a road test for damping performance, is smart every 20,000 km or annually. Many Serena owners see solid life from OE struts, but road conditions and load matter, replacement commonly falls somewhere around 80,000–120,000 km. Always replace in pairs and follow up with a wheel alignment to keep tyre wear tidy.

Tell-tale signs they’re on the way out include:

• A floaty or bouncy ride, or the bonnet nodding under brakes
• Knocking over sharp bumps, especially at low speed
• Uneven or scalloped tyre wear on the front
• Greasy, oil-wet strut bodies or cracked top mounts/bearings

When fitting new units, it’s worth doing the strut mounts/top bearings, bump stops and dust boots at the same time. The upper mount bearing is what lets the strut turn smoothly with the steering, once worn, it can groan or bind. Quality complete assemblies can save time, but if transferring springs, use proper compressors and torque everything to spec at ride height. After installation, an alignment is a must for straight tracking and even tyres.

For everyday Aussie and Kiwi roads, sticking close to OE ride height and spring rates keeps the Serena settled in crosswinds and when fully loaded. Keeping tyres correctly inflated and rotating them on schedule will help the new struts do their best work and keep the family hauls comfy and safe.

FAQs

Does the 2016 Nissan Serena have struts front and rear?

No. It uses MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam rear with separate shock absorbers and coil springs. The front struts handle both damping and structural support for the steering knuckle, while the rear shocks focus on ride control.

How often should front struts be replaced on a 2016 Serena?

There’s no fixed interval, condition rules. Many drivers replace between 80,000–120,000 km depending on loads and road quality. Have them inspected annually or every 20,000 km, and always replace in pairs followed by a wheel alignment.

Can worn struts cause a WOF or roadworthy failure?

Yes. Leaking dampers, loose or noisy top mounts, and severely reduced damping can lead to a failed WOF in NZ or a defect at an Australian roadworthy check. They can also accelerate tyre wear and increase stopping distances, so it’s worth addressing early.