Need to replace struts on 08 PF... are MacPherson good?

[BuddyC]

The local shop I go to uses MasterPro typically, but I have the option of bringing my own parts. I would like to get KYB struts but they are a little pricey. Certainly don't want Monroe. I called around and ABC Auto parts in my town has MacPherson struts(part #MP1345557) for my 2008 PF LE 4x2 for $113 which seems a great price for a complete assembly springs and all. BTW, is it correct that a MacPherson complete strut assembly will completely replace the typical oem strut assembly just as if I was buying a KYB complete assembly? Just a little confused since the guy at ABC said MacPhersons have some sort of different integrated design of the strut and coil all in one(if I'm stating that right)... I'm supposing the "coil" serve that same as the "spring" in typical assemblies? Want to make sure that a Mac strut assembly will work on an 08 PF and there is not some sort of conflict if the PF has a double wishbone sytem or not. What are your opinions on MacPherson struts with a Pathfinder and how much better are they than Monroe/MasterPro or others, and how much worse that KYB? Budget considered for just average road/hwy driving, nothing too hard on a car, would you say that are very good for a PF?

Also considering buying just the KYB strut without the springs to save some money, but I might have to go back to the shop to verify the springs are ok too use. Would that likely increase the labor a lot as opposed to them just putting on a complete assembly?

[mdmellott]

It's a legendary name but those struts are not actually MacPherson style struts. It's good branding, because of the famous name of Earl MacPherson, who significantly contributed to the development of his namesake style of pivot steering strut system for GM, and then for Ford back in the '40s and '50s, but that's not the style that is used on your '08 PF. You would probably be just fine and not disappointed with the https://www.macphersonride.com/products purchase because it's too big a name to risk their reputation by putting out junky parts. However, check the warranty. I would be looking for Limited Lifetime as the warranty period, just like KYB offers.

The complete preassemble struts, with coil springs, bumpers, boots, and mount plates saves a bunch of time on installation. I imagine the money saved by just purchasing the strut would be lost savings because of the extra time the mechanic would have to charge to disassemble your old struts to salvage the springs and mount plates and then assemble them onto the new strut, plus you may still need new bumpers and boots.