2005 Nissan Pathfinder SE Offroad Edition and am Soooo Conf

FORESTTHRUTREES

MEMBER
2005 NISSAN PATHFINDER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
87,000 MILES

Well, it is time for a 3rd set of tires. Without going into much detail.2nd set had problems after problems and pretty much attribute to installation. One of the problems I posted here so thanks for making it so I could actually talk without being looked at like I speak a foreign language.

Anyway: Husband--who is not a mechanic, is telling me I need to replace shocks as well. Other than mileage on car, I have no idea why he thinks this. When Purchased OE, hubby made a big deal that it came standard with "Ranchero Performance Shocks."

When called local shop to order tires/shocks (differing company but recommended BTW). They basically tell me Nissan never installed Ranchero. Now--obviously I did not make this up and my knowledge of shocks and struts is less than my husbands. So I pulled out all the inventory list from when purchased brand new, did an internet search--yep Ranchero. I have no idea if the Monroe Reflex they want to put on are compatible, but they spent at least 4 phone calls this afternoon trying to prove me wrong about Ranchero--so I am questioning this installer as well.

So please help unconfuse me: 1) Should I need new shocks at 87000? What would some symptoms I should see to indicate that they should be looked at first and foremost? 2) Is it true that if shocks are questionable that they should be replaced before set of tires. 3) I've been extremely happy with my Pathfinders suspension and performance--what shocks and tires would you most recommend. I am more concerned with Road Noise but do have to negotiate some ill maintained long, twisty and mountainous gravel driveways (but not in snow). Thanks in advance for trying to help me understand.

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,916 POSTS

Hi ForestThruTrees. Welcome to the forum. It is not necessary to use shock absorbers and struts from the same manufacturer any more than you must stay with the same brand of shoes. They can be tailored to specific characteristics of your vehicle's suspension system, and they can be designed to enhance the desired ride quality which could include smooth ride on rough roads, increased road feel, (harshness), for off-road use, and faster response to input to the steering wheel from you. That would provide "better handling" if you plan driving at high speeds on twisting and turning roads. For most people, the lowest quality shock absorbers meet their needs just fine. You can buy a $500.00 pair of shoes, but the less expensive ones will do what shoes are supposed to do quite satisfactorily.

The shock absorbers on your vehicle could have been specified by the manufacturer as part of a handling package, but other manufacturers will reproduce the same characteristics in their products. Every aftermarket manufacturer has a line of shock absorbers that are roughly equivalent to original equipment, and they have "improved" versions that cost more. "Original equivalent" are usually the least expensive replacement parts.

If you are happy with your vehicle's ride quality right now, there is no reason to replace parts due only to mileage. The two main things to look for are oil seeping from the end of the tube where the shaft extends from and if the vehicle bounces excessively. The bounce test should be performed after a long drive of a couple of hours. The constant bouncing heats up and thins the oil which reduces its ability to dampen the bouncing.

It IS possible for worn shock absorbers to cause a cupping pattern of tire wear but you will likely also notice excessive bouncing while driving. This is best diagnosed by an alignment specialist. As a specialist myself, I was NOT real familiar with the different ride quality, road noise, and handling characteristics of new tires. That was the job of the tire sales people. You may need to consult the people at a tire store for their recommendation on which tire is best for your driving preferences. They will explain the advantages of each of the tires they sell.

Some vehicles are very hard on tires. Older Ford Escorts, for example, could not possibly get more than about 15,000 miles on the front tires due to the design of the suspension system, but the cars rode real smoothly compared to other small cars. There is no such history for your vehicle. When you're shopping for tires, be sure to mention that this will be your fourth set. Even cheap tires should last 40,000 miles. They will inspect your old tires for evidence of misalignment problems, and they will inspect the steering and suspension systems for worn components that would prevent the wheels from staying in alignment.

Caradiodoc