Parts for your 2020 Nissan Pathfinder-Coil springs

2020 Nissan Pathfinder Coil Springs — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Coil springs are absolutely used on the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder (R52 series). Technical sources, including the Nissan R52 Service Manual (Front Suspension “FS” and Rear Suspension “RSU” sections) and Nissan’s product specifications for 2019–2020 models, specify a MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an independent multi-link rear suspension with coil springs and separate dampers. There’s no factory air suspension on this model, ride height and load support are managed by steel coil springs at all four corners.

On a Pathfinder, the coil springs carry the vehicle’s weight, keep tyres planted on rough roads, and work with the shocks/struts to control body movement. They help the big seven-seater feel composed over corrugations, reduce body roll in corners, and maintain the correct ride height when loaded up with kids, camping gear, or the boat on the back. Good springs mean better comfort, surer handling, and more even tyre wear.

While coil springs don’t have a fixed replacement interval, they do age. For Aussie and Kiwi conditions—coastal air, gravel roads, and towing—regular inspection is smart. At each service or every 20,000 km, a tech should check for:

• Sagging ride height side-to-side or front-to-rear
• Cracked, chipped, or broken coils, heavy rust or flaking paint
• Knocking, bottoming-out, or a bouncy, floaty feel over bumps
• Uneven tyre wear and nose-diving under brakes

If replacement’s needed, best practice is to change springs in axle pairs to keep balance. Use the correct spring rate for the exact trim, drivetrain, and tow package—Pathfinder variants can differ in weight and load rating. It’s also wise to replace related parts like upper mounts, bearings, insulators, and spring seats while you’re in there. After any front strut work, get a wheel alignment. All final torques should be set with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload.

DIYers should only use a quality spring compressor and follow workshop procedures—coil energy is no joke. For frequent towing or heavy touring, consider heavy-duty or towing-rated springs matched to appropriate dampers to restore ride height and control. With the right care, many Pathfinder coil springs will comfortably last well beyond 150,000 km, especially away from harsh corrosion.

FAQs

Does the 2020 Pathfinder use coil springs or air suspension?
It uses steel coil springs: MacPherson struts with coils up front and a multi-link rear with separate coil springs and shock absorbers. There’s no factory air suspension on the R52-platform Pathfinder.

How long do Pathfinder coil springs typically last?
There’s no set interval, but many last 150,000 km or more. Lifespan depends on load, roads, and corrosion. Regular inspections can catch sagging, cracks, or heavy rust before it affects handling or tyre wear.

Should shocks/struts be replaced when doing springs?
It’s not mandatory, but if shocks or struts are worn or leaking—or if the vehicle has high kilometres—it’s cost-effective to do them at the same time. Matching fresh dampers to new springs restores ride comfort and control.