2002 Q45 suspension

[DM5132000]

Hey guys, new to the club. I bought a 2002 Q45 about 2 years ago and I'm noticing a few issues and hoped I could get some recommendations. First, when going over bumps of any kind over 34 or 40 mph, especially through a turn, the car seems to jump side to side. I also get too much feedback from the road in the steering wheel, almost like the road is grabbing the tires and pulling the steering side to side. The steering feels very tight, no play in the wheel at all. I'm guessing that it may be the shocks/struts or maybe some stabilizing parts. Any recommendations? Also, if I need to replace the shocks/struts, are there any aftermarket options or Nissan branded alternative?

Second, every few times when starting and shifting into drive, when first accelerating, the transmission seems to hesitate or almost slip out of gear and then quickly re-engage. I accelerate very slowly from a stop to avoid a harsh jolt. It only happens when first engaging drive, never again. Low transmission fluid possibly or symptoms of something greater?

Thanks for the help!

[seldomseen]

Sounds likes your struts are bad...you should also replace the suspension endlinks along with your struts to provide maximum rigidity of your suspension. I don't believe anyone makes aftermarket struts for the F50/Q45, and as you know the OEM struts are quite $$$.

Regarding the transmission, the problem you described is quite common -- and should not cause any problems. How many miles does your car have? Check your transmission fluid level, and top it off with OEM fluid if it's low. A complete drain and fill could be life or death for your car's transmission at this point.

[94Q45Beast]

pm me if your looking for shocks

[PalmettoQ]

At a minimum, you should get an alignment from an Infiniti dealer and have the trans. fluid/filter changed. After an alignment by my local dealer ($89), my '02 w. base suspension was noticeably more settled on the road.

[dorkside]

Agree with Palmetto - start with an alignment at a reputable shop. They should also be able to identify any issues with suspension( too loose, too much play, leaks).

At 206k miles, I too was feeling the road a little too much. Alignment shop found both front control arms leaked oil. The power steering rack was leaking and too much play on the end links.

Rebuilt power steering racks are available. Control arms and struts are dealer only parts. ocinfiniti.com discounts all of there dealer parts.

Good Luck. Great car and it rides sooooo smooth and quiet after the repairs.

P.s. I also replaced the front and rear hubs at around 160k miles. They too get loose.