Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Struts

2017 Nissan Serena Struts — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Struts are relevant to the 2017 Nissan Serena. Technical sources including the Nissan Serena C27 Service Manual (Front Suspension section, 2016–2019), the Nissan Japan C27 launch brochure/spec sheet, and workshop databases such as Autodata list the suspension as front: MacPherson strut, rear: torsion beam with separate shock absorbers. That means the Serena uses struts at the front, while the rear runs conventional shocks rather than struts.

On the 2017 Serena, the front MacPherson strut does two jobs at once: it supports the vehicle’s weight and locates the wheel, while also damping bumps. Because the strut forms part of the steering and alignment geometry, any wear can show up as vague steering, clunks over rough roads, or uneven tyre wear. Keeping the front struts in good nick makes the big Nissan ride comfortably and track straight, whether it’s doing the school run or heading off for a long weekend.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but many Serena owners will see front strut performance taper off somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km, depending on road quality and load. During regular servicing, it’s smart to check for oil misting on the strut body, torn dust boots, perished bump stops, cracked upper mounts, or any top-mount bearing notchiness when turning lock-to-lock. If replacement’s on the cards, both fronts should be done as a pair to keep the handling balanced.

When fitting new struts, always plan on a wheel alignment straight after. Fresh struts can shift camber and toe slightly, and aligning it right away protects tyres and restores tidy steering feel. It’s also a good time to renew related consumables—top mounts, bearings, boots, and spring seats—so the job doesn’t need revisiting. Because the coil spring is under serious tension, a proper spring compressor and workshop know‑how are essential, it’s not a DIY to take lightly.

Signs the Serena’s front struts may be tired:

• Knocking or rattling over corrugations
• Nose-diving under brakes or floating at motorway speeds
• Uneven or scalloped tyre wear on the front
• Oil seepage on the strut body or torn dust boots

Sort those issues promptly and the Serena will keep riding quietly, cornering predictably, and looking after its tyres—no dramas.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Serena struts

How long do the front struts usually last?
For many drivers, front struts on a 2017 Serena are serviceable for 80,000–150,000 km. Life varies with loads, road conditions, and tyre quality. If the van tows or often carries a full family and gear, expect the earlier end of that range.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing struts?
Yes. Struts affect camber and toe, so an alignment right after installation is the best way to protect tyres and get the steering feel spot on.

What are the tell-tale signs my Serena’s front struts are worn?
Look for oil misting on the strut, clunks over bumps, floaty or bouncy ride, and front tyres wearing unevenly or feathering. Any of these are a nudge to get the suspension inspected.