How to Check Shock Absorbers or Macpherson Struts in a Nissan Altima
- 1). Perform the bounce test. The easiest and most straightforward way to test your shocks and struts is to simply stand next to the front of your parked vehicle, grab the body, and then pull up and push down to get some momentum going.
- 2). Let go and observe how long it takes your Altima to stop bouncing up and down. If the shocks and struts are in good working order, the car should bounce once or twice and then return to its original position. If it keeps bouncing up and down, then it's time to replace the shocks and struts.
- 3). Check your shocks more thoroughly. Jack up your Altima using car jacks as well as axle stands to keep your vehicle supported and the wheels hanging free.
- 4). Remove the front end wheel assembly. Use a socket wrench or an air ratchet to remove the lug nuts. Above the hub you should be able to detect the coil spring with the damper above it. Look for signs of major corrosion, dents or rust on the assembly. If you notice oil leaking from the shock absorber, this is a clear sign that it needs to be replaced.
- 5). Inspect the mounting bolts and the assembly for movement. Avoid the coil spring, but try to move the other parts. If there's any give, then the assembly needs to be replaced. Changing the shocks and struts on your Nissan is best left to a mechanic as it requires some skill and special tools.
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