Front Suspension Parts

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Nissan Quest. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check the front axle and front suspension parts for any excessive play, cracks, wear, or other damage.

Raise the vehicle on a hoist and shake each front wheel to check for excessive play.
Make sure that the cotter pin is inserted in the lower ball joint.
Retighten all of the axle and suspension nuts and bolts to the specified torque.
- Tightening torque: Refer to " COMPONENTS ".
Fig 1: Checking Front Wheel For Excessive Play
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Check the strut (shock absorber) for any oil leakage or other damage.
Check the suspension ball joint for grease leakage and the ball joint dust cover for any cracks or other damage.
If the ball joint dust cover is cracked or damaged, replace the transverse link.

Fig 2: Checking Shock Absorber For Oil Leakage
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Check the wheelarch height "Hf" and "Hr" from the top of the wheelarch to the ground.
- For proper measurement of the wheelarch height, the vehicle must be unladen*, parked on a level surface, and tires checked for proper inflation and wear (the tread wear indicators must not be showing).
  *: Fuel, engine coolant and engine oil full. Spare tire, jack, hand tools and mats in designated positions.
- Bounce the vehicle up and down several times before measuring the height.
  - Wheelarch height: Refer to " WHEELARCH HEIGHT (UNLADEN*) ".
  Fig 3: Checking Wheelarch Height
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
- The wheelarch height is not adjustable. If the height is out of specification, check for worn springs or suspension parts.