2002 Infiniti QX4 Handling Issue - Worried is Dangerous

[qx44xq]

Just want to say off the bat I am not so mechanically inclined. I am hoping to get some general info about this, and maybe this is a common event to the QX4, like something previous with the A/C fan control amp that shop wanted $600 to fix but because of this site it was a $70/10min fix on my own. Probably not the case here, but I would really appreciate info.

OK, problem is, when I accelerate the car pulls right, when I let off gas, pulls left.

I have ALWAYS suspected a problem with this car, as when driving (especially at higher speeds) there is a general, and hard to put into words, feeling of something being off. It might just be me, but I have always felt that.

However, the pulling right when accelerating, left when letting off is obvious.

I have read a bit and a bunch of suggestions (but no real consensus) to suspect ball joints, roll/sway bar, strut rod bushings, bolts/bushings on control arm, etc. I can't say I am super familiar with all of these parts and I would appreciate any ELI5 explanation someone might want to offer. More so the reason I post here is that I'd like an idea of the most likely cause and what I will expect for cost of repair, so I don't get slammed by the shop when I have to make an on-the-spot decision..

Thank you.

[Hawairish]

Can't say I suspect anything you listed.

Do you feel any slop in the steering?
When was the last time you got an alignment?
Do you notice any swaying issues, chassis pops/clicks/noises?

Usually a pull in a direction is related to toe misalignment or uneven tire pressure on the front tires. Because yours is seemingly related to the application of torque, and occurs in opposite directions, I think you've got a bad rear suspension link that's allowing your axle to move more than it should. But this is unlikely without other symptoms which are usually more noticeable.

[barnaclebob]

First thing I would do is jack up each end and look for loose or worn suspension parts. It could be dangerous if a suspension component fails, especially one that seems to help with directional control...

The nissan repair manuals are available for free from this forum or another nissan forum. I suggest you download those to get familiar with the suspension. At the very least it will let you assess if the mechanic is trying to take you for a ride.

[saskapath]

I'd bet on the trailing arm bushings. I've got an '02 pathfinder that had that same "not quite right" feeling at highway speeds. I replaced the trailing arm bushings a couple of weeks ago and it now feels totally solid. Based on the threads I've seen here it seems like a very common issue with these vehicles from the early 2000s.

[rgk]

It is likely. If this is the issue you are facing, you're looking at 1-3 hrs labor and $200-300 in parts.

Don't hesitate to go to a couple of mechanics for second opinions. There are good guys out there who won't try to rip you off.

[fastpakr]

Regardless, the obvious first step is getting it up in the air (lifted by the frame) and giving all the suspension components a thorough going over. You may very well find multiple things that should be attended to on a 13 year old vehicle. Trailing arm bushings are certainly one of the likely contributors, but everything needs to be checked at this point.

[Buzzman]

99% sure it's the "death sway". Trailing arm bushings definitely.

[fueler]

Everybody here has it right...

Simple visual inspection may not be enough - you need to get underneath, have a friend shake the truck left and right, look at all 4 trailing arms & bushings on each end.