Parts for your 2020 Nissan Pathfinder-Shock absorbers

2020 Nissan Pathfinder shock absorbers — what they do and when to replace them

Shock absorbers are absolutely relevant on the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. Technical sources including the Nissan R52 Pathfinder Service Manual (Suspension – Front/Rear) confirm a MacPherson strut front end and a multi‑link rear with separate coil springs and rear shock absorbers. Genuine parts catalogues list “rear shock absorber” for 2020 Pathfinder, while aftermarket fitment guides from major brands specify front strut assemblies and rear shocks for this exact model year.

On the road, the shocks keep the big family SUV planted and comfy by controlling spring movement. They help the tyres stay in contact with the bitumen or gravel, reduce body roll, tame brake dive, and smooth out corrugations and potholes. Whether it’s school runs, towing the boat, or touring the High Country, healthy shocks make the Pathfinder feel predictable, cut down on cabin shudder, and can even help trim stopping distances by keeping the tyres gripping evenly.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the shocks and front struts inspected every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for oil seepage on the bodies, damaged dust boots, perished bushings, and uneven tyre wear (cupping/feathering). Typical replacement windows are around 80,000–120,000 km in normal Aussie and Kiwi use, earlier if the vehicle tows frequently, carries heavy loads, or sees rough roads. Telltale signs it’s time: a floaty or bouncy ride, extra body roll in corners, clunks over bumps, the tail stepping out on ripples, or the bonnet nodding under brakes.

When replacement rolls around, best practice is to do them in matched pairs per axle. Front units are strut assemblies, so a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. It’s a good opportunity to refresh strut mounts, bump stops and dust boots, and check sway‑bar links. For owners who tow or load up the back, consider heavy‑duty or monotube options that handle heat and weight better. Torque bushes with the vehicle at normal ride height, then road‑test to confirm the Pathfinder tracks straight, brakes cleanly, and feels settled over sharp edges.

• Inspect shocks/struts at each service for leaks and bush wear
• Replace in axle pairs, align after front strut work
• Upgrade spec if towing or frequent gravel use is expected

Popular questions about 2020 Nissan Pathfinder shock absorbers

How long do the factory shocks and struts usually last?

Most owners see 80,000–120,000 km before performance tails off, but life varies with load, roads, and towing. Lots of corrugations, boat ramps, or caravans will shorten that window. If the ride feels floaty, the rear hops over bumps, or tyres show cupping, it’s worth testing and measuring damping rather than waiting for a leak.

Are the front and rear units the same on a 2020 Pathfinder?

No. The front is a MacPherson strut assembly that integrates the damper with the spring and mount. The rear uses separate coil springs with stand‑alone shock absorbers. That means different parts and procedures front to rear, and an alignment is recommended after front strut replacement.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing shocks?

After front strut replacement, yes—camber and toe can shift when the strut is disturbed. After rear shock replacement only, an alignment usually isn’t necessary on the Pathfinder, but it’s sensible to check tyre wear and steering feel and align if there’s any drift or uneven wear.