2005 Maxima 3.5 SE

[MaxieGirl_3.5]

I need some assistance. I purchased my used 05 Maxima in March 2008. Soon after I the car was in my possesion I heard a knocking noise coming from the passenger side front end. I immediately took the car back to the original dealer who said there was no problem and sent me on my way. A week later I took it to another Nissan service center who advised the sterring rack, strut and bearing was in need of replacement. This was a car that so called, went through an inspection. Anywho, the everything was replaced in April of 08. Here we are less than a year later and I beginning to here the same noise. My question is what is the best type of strut should be used to prevent OR can there be something else wrong with the suspension that can be causing this to become a recurring issue.

I've done my research and in fact have been rewarded by Nissan however, the problem is back. I don't want to be taken advantage of because I'm a female and I do have more than average knowledge of cars. So, I want to be prepared when the mechanic tries to tell me something other what I need to know. I've read a previous blog regarding the engine mounts and etc...I've made note of that as well.

With all that said is there a recommended strut mount and bearing for the 2005 Nissan Maxima SE????

[lightsout]

1st...WELCOME TO NICO

when you say bearing do you mean the strut top "plastic" bearing, or do you mean the hub bearing that's pressed into the spindle?

it's probably your engine mount just inside your passenger wheel well...check that before you replace anything else. if it's cracked or gewy(looks like it's melting away) it's bad. can a passenger feel the knocking in the floorboard with their feet, and is it quite predominate? If so, I'd say its the motor mount. If you have access to a hydraulic jack and jack stands, crawl under the car and take a look at the motor mount under the car at the back of the engine too.

If you MUST get new struts already get the 5 way adjustable TOKICO ILLUMINAS...i like mine!!

[MaxieGirl_3.5]

Thanks for the welcoming....

I took the car back to Nissan and it was the right front strut again. This is the 3rd repair in a little over 11,000 miles. I live in the suburbs of NY and the roads are in pretty good shape. I'm not sure why the strut keeps giving out. I don't hear the knock at the moment although sometimes I think I still do (may be in my head).

Thanks for the recommendation. I'm just going to have to pay for perfection next time. I read some blogs about suspension complaints on the SE, I sure hope this is my last one.

Thanks again!!!

[MinisterofDOOM]

If you MUST get new struts already get the 5 way adjustable TOKICO ILLUMINAS...i like mine!!

If you don't have a need for adjustable shocks, Tokico's "blue" standard shock is also a great option.

[MaxieGirl_3.5]

Not sure the recommended brands are made for the 2005 Maxima....I just did a little research. It seems the standard stops at 03-04. I could be wrong.

[Atomik X]

Wow, exact same issue with my 2004 SE. I now have a lead to go on.