Parts for your 2020 Nissan Serena-Struts

2020 Nissan Serena Struts — What They Do and When To Replace Them

Technical sources confirm the 2020 Nissan Serena (C27) runs MacPherson struts at the front, with a torsion beam axle and separate rear dampers. This is documented in the Nissan C27 Serena Service Manual (Suspension section), seen in the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue as a front strut assembly, and supported by major damper makers’ catalogues (e.g., KYB and Monroe list front struts for C27/HFC27). So yes — struts are relevant to this model.

On a 2020 Serena, the front struts do two big jobs: they support the vehicle’s weight as part of the suspension geometry, and they dampen bumps and body movement to keep the van settled and the tyres in contact with the road. That mix of structure and damping is why MacPherson struts are so common — they’re compact, cost‑effective, and deliver tidy steering feel for a family MPV.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the front struts every 20,000 km or 12 months. Look for oil seepage down the strut body, damaged dust boots, perished bump stops, torn upper mounts, or uneven tyre wear. A Serena that feels floaty, takes ages to settle after bumps, or clunks over speed humps may be asking for new struts or top mounts.

When it’s time to replace, do them in pairs (both fronts) to keep handling balanced. Always include new strut mounts/bearings and consider new boots and bump stops while it’s apart. After any strut work, a wheel alignment is essential — that’s how you protect tyres and keep steering true. A quality workshop will torque the strut hardware at normal ride height, road test for noises, and recheck alignment specs.

Life expectancy varies with roads and loads, but many Serena owners see 80,000–150,000 km from factory struts. If the vehicle tows, carries a full crew most days, or spends time on coarse chip, expect the lower end of that range. For DIYers, coil springs are under serious tension — use a proper spring compressor and safety gear, or leave it to a pro. Choosing reputable brands matched to OE specs keeps the ride comfortable and the kids happy in the back.

• Common signs it’s time: nose-diving under brakes, steering shimmy, cupped tyre wear, oily strut tubes, knocking over bumps.
• Post-replacement must-do: four-wheel alignment and a quick re-torque check after a few hundred kilometres.

Popular questions about 2020 Nissan Serena struts

Does the 2020 Serena use struts or shocks?
The front of the 2020 Nissan Serena uses MacPherson struts. The rear is a torsion beam with separate shock absorbers and coil springs. That split setup delivers tidy steering up front and space efficiency down the back.

How often should Serena struts be replaced?
There’s no fixed time limit, but many will need attention somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km. Inspect yearly or every 20,000 km, and replace if you see leaks, poor ride control, or uneven tyre wear.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing front struts?
Absolutely. Strut removal disturbs camber and sometimes toe. An alignment right after fitting protects tyre life and restores safe, predictable handling.