Front Suspension: Section
Front Suspension: Section
Front Suspension: Section
FSU
A
B
SECTION
FRONT SUSPENSION C
FSU
CONTENTS
PRECAUTION ............................................... 2 Removal and Installation .........................................11 F
Disposal ...................................................................13
PRECAUTIONS ................................................... 2
Precaution for Supplemental Restraint System LOWER LINK .................................................... 14
G
(SRS) "AIR BAG" and "SEAT BELT PRE-TEN- Exploded View .........................................................14
SIONER" ................................................................... 2 Removal and Installation - 2WD ..............................14
Precaution Necessary for Steering Wheel Rota- Removal and Installation - 4WD ..............................16
H
tion After Battery Disconnect ..................................... 2
Precaution for Procedure without Cowl Top Cover...... 3
UPPER LINK ..................................................... 19
Exploded View .........................................................19
Precautions for Suspension ...................................... 3
Removal and Installation .........................................19 I
PREPARATION ............................................ 4
FRONT STABILIZER ........................................ 22
PREPARATION ................................................... 4 Exploded View .........................................................22
Special Service Tools ................................................ 4 Removal and Installation .........................................22 J
Commercial Service Tools ........................................ 4
STEERING KNUCKLE ...................................... 24
SYMPTOM DIAGNOSIS ............................... 6 Exploded View .........................................................24
K
Removal and Installation .........................................24
NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS
(NVH) TROUBLESHOOTING ............................. 6 UNIT DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY ... 26
L
NVH Troubleshooting Chart ...................................... 6 FRONT COIL SPRING AND SHOCK AB-
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE .......................... 7 SORBER ........................................................... 26
Exploded View .........................................................26 M
FRONT SUSPENSION ASSEMBLY ................... 7 Disassembly and Assembly .....................................26
Inspection .................................................................. 7
SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS
WHEEL ALIGNMENT .......................................... 8 (SDS) ............................................................ 30 N
Inspection .................................................................. 8
Adjustment ................................................................ 9 SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS
(SDS) ................................................................. 30 O
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ............... 11 Wheel Alignment (Unladen*1) .................................30
Ball Joint ..................................................................31
FRONT COIL SPRING AND SHOCK AB- Wheelarch Height (Unladen*) ..................................31
SORBER .............................................................11 P
Exploded View ........................................................ 11
The Supplemental Restraint System such as “AIR BAG” and “SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER”, used along
with a front seat belt, helps to reduce the risk or severity of injury to the driver and front passenger for certain
types of collision. Information necessary to service the system safely is included in the SR and SB section of
this Service Manual.
WARNING:
• To avoid rendering the SRS inoperative, which could increase the risk of personal injury or death in
the event of a collision which would result in air bag inflation, it is recommended that all mainte-
nance and repair be performed by an authorized NISSAN/INFINITI dealer.
• Improper repair, including incorrect removal and installation of the SRS, can lead to personal injury
caused by unintentional activation of the system. For removal of Spiral Cable and Air Bag Module,
see the SR section.
• Do not use electrical test equipment on any circuit related to the SRS unless instructed to in this
Service Manual. SRS wiring harnesses can be identified by yellow and/or orange harnesses or har-
ness connectors.
PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING POWER TOOLS (AIR OR ELECTRIC) AND HAMMERS
WARNING:
• When working near the Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit or other Air Bag System sensors with the
Ignition ON or engine running, DO NOT use air or electric power tools or strike near the sensor(s)
with a hammer. Heavy vibration could activate the sensor(s) and deploy the air bag(s), possibly
causing serious injury.
• When using air or electric power tools or hammers, always switch the Ignition OFF, disconnect the
battery or batteries, and wait at least three minutes before performing any service.
Precaution Necessary for Steering Wheel Rotation After Battery Disconnect
INFOID:0000000014265165
NOTE:
• Before removing and installing any control units, first turn the push-button ignition switch to the LOCK posi-
tion, then disconnect both battery cables.
• After finishing work, confirm that all control unit connectors are connected properly, then re-connect both
battery cables.
• Always use CONSULT to perform self-diagnosis as a part of each function inspection after finishing work. If
a DTC is detected, perform trouble diagnosis according to self-diagnosis results.
This vehicle is equipped with a push-button ignition switch and a steering lock unit.
If the battery is disconnected or discharged, the steering wheel will lock and cannot be turned.
If turning the steering wheel is required with the battery disconnected or discharged, follow the procedure
below before starting the repair operation.
OPERATION PROCEDURE
1. Connect both battery cables.
NOTE:
Supply power using jumper cables if battery is discharged.
2. Carry the Intelligent Key or insert it to the key slot and turn the push-button ignition switch to ACC position.
(At this time, the steering lock will be released.)
3. Disconnect both battery cables. The steering lock will remain released with both battery cables discon-
nected and the steering wheel can be turned.
4. Perform the necessary repair operation.
5. When the repair work is completed, re-connect both battery cables. With the brake pedal released, turn
the push-button ignition switch from ACC position to ON position, then to LOCK position. (The steering
wheel will lock when the push-button ignition switch is turned to LOCK position.)
6. Perform self-diagnosis check of all control units using CONSULT.
A
When performing the procedure after removing cowl top cover, cover
the lower end of windshield with urethane, etc to prevent damage to
windshield. B
D
PIIB3706J
The actual shape of the tools may differ from those illustrated here.
Tool number
(TechMate No.) Description
Tool name
— Measuring drift and pull
(J-49286)
Drift and pull gauge
AWEIA0156ZZ
ZZA0807D
LST024
NT694
C
NT717
FSU
NT146
PIIB1407E
H
Use chart below to find the cause of the symptom. If necessary, repair or replace these parts.
DLN-146, DLN-156
FAX-5, FAX-14
DLN-213
FAX-14
FSU-7
FSU-8
FSU-7
ST-15
WT-5
BR-7
Reference page
—
Shock absorber deformation, damage or deflection
Improper installation, looseness
DIFFERENTIAL (4WD)
FRONT SUSPENSION
Suspension looseness
Stabilizer fatigue
DRIVE SHAFT
FRONT AXLE
Spring fatigue
STEERING
Noise × × × × × × × × × × × × BRAKE
× ×
Shake × × × × × × × × × × × ×
Vibration × × × × × × × × × × ×
Symptom FRONT SUSPENSION Shimmy × × × × × × × × × ×
Shudder × × × × × × × ×
Poor quality ride or
× × × × × × × × × ×
handling
×: Applicable
ON-VEHICLE SERVICE
• Check the suspension parts for excessive play, cracks, wear or damage. Shake each front wheel to check C
for excessive play.
• Retighten all nuts and bolts to the specified torque.
• Make sure that each cotter pin is installed.
• Check the wheelarch height. Refer to FSU-31, "Wheelarch Height (Unladen*)". D
INSPECTION
Check the conditions (looseness, backlash) of each component. Verify that component conditions (wear, dam-
FSU
age) are normal.
FRONT COIL SPRING AND SHOCK ABSORBER
Check for oil leakage and damage. Replace parts if necessary. F
SMA113 I
LOWER AND UPPER LINK
• Check the lower and upper links for damage, cracks, deformation and replace if necessary.
• Check the rubber bushings for damage, cracks and deformation. Replace lower or upper link if necessary. J
• Check the suspension ball joint for grease leaks and the ball joint dust cover for cracks or other damage.
Replace the applicable lower link or upper link if the ball joint is worn or hard to swing.
FRONT STABILIZER K
• Check the front stabilizer and clamps for any deformation, cracks or damage and replace if necessary.
• Check the rubber bushings for deterioration or cracks and replace if necessary.
STEERING KNUCKLE L
Check the steering knuckle for any deformation, cracks, or other damage and replace if necessary.
PRELIMINARY INSPECTION
WARNING:
Always adjust wheel alignment with vehicle on a flat surface.
NOTE:
If wheel alignment is out of specification, inspect and replace any damaged or worn suspension parts before
making any adjustments.
Check the following:
• Check and adjust wheel alignment with vehicle under unladen conditions. “Unladen conditions” means that
fuel, engine coolant, and lubricants are full; spare tire, jack, hand tools and mats are in designated positions.
• Check tires for incorrect air pressure and excessive wear. Refer to WT-11, "Tire Air Pressure".
• Check wheels for deformation, cracks, and other damage. Remove wheel and check wheel runout. Refer to
WT-6, "Inspection".
• Check wheel bearing axial end play. Refer to FAX-15, "Inspection".
• Check shock absorber for leaks or damage.
• Check each fastener for looseness or damage.
• Check each suspension component and the frame for damage.
• Check wheelarch height in unladen conditions. Refer to FSU-31, "Wheelarch Height (Unladen*)".
GENERAL INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
1. A four-wheel thrust alignment should be performed.
• This type of alignment is recommended for any NISSAN/INFINITI vehicle.
• The four-wheel “thrust” process helps ensure that the vehicle is properly aligned and the steering wheel
is centered.
• The alignment machine itself should be capable of accepting any NISSAN/INFINITI vehicle.
• The alignment machine should be checked to ensure that it is level.
2. Make sure the machine is properly calibrated.
• Your alignment equipment should be regularly calibrated in order to give correct information.
• Check with the manufacturer of your specific alignment machine for their recommended Service/Cali-
bration Schedule.
ALIGNMENT PROCESS
IMPORTANT:
Use only the alignment specifications listed in this Service Manual. Refer to FSU-30, "Wheel Alignment
(Unladen*1)".
1. When displaying the alignment settings, many alignment machines use “indicators”: (Green/red, plus or
minus, Go/No Go.) Do not use these indicators.
• The alignment specifications programmed into your alignment machine that operate these indicators
may not be correct.
• This may result in an ERROR.
2. Most camera-type alignment machines are equipped with both a “Rolling Compensation” method and an
optional “Jacking Compensation” method to compensate the alignment targets or head units. “Rolling
Compensation” is the preferred method.
• If using the “Rolling Compensation” method, after installing the alignment targets or head units, push or
pull on the rear wheel to move the vehicle. Do not push or pull on the vehicle body.
• If using the “Jacking Compensation” method, after installing the alignment targets or head units, raise
the vehicle and rotate the wheels 1/2 turn both ways.
NOTE:
Do not use the “Rolling Compensation” method if you are using sensor-type alignment equipment.
• Follow all instructions for the alignment machine you are using for more information.
CAMBER, CASTER AND KINGPIN INCLINATION ANGLES INSPECTION
Before inspection, set the front wheels onto a turning radius gauge. Set the rear wheels onto a pad that has
the same height so the vehicle will remain horizontal.
1. Measure camber and caster of both the right and left wheels and adjust as necessary to specification.
JPEIA0014ZZ
H
4. Measure the distance (A) from the rear side.
I
: Front
5. Push on the rear wheel to move the vehicle slowly ahead and to
rotate the wheels 180 degrees (1/2 turn). J
CAUTION:
If the wheels have rotated more than 180 degrees (1/2 turn),
try the above procedure again from the beginning. Do not
push vehicle backward. K
6. Measure the distance (B) from the front side. JPEIA0015ZZ
: Front
ALEIA0246ZZ
FSU
AWEIA0396ZZ
H
1. Piston rod lock nut 2. Washer 3. Bushing
4. Shock absorber bracket 5. Tube 6. Rubber seat
7. Front coil spring 8. Shock absorber 9. Lower link I
J
REMOVAL
1. Remove wheel and tire using power tool. Refer to WT-10, "Removal and Installation".
2. Support the lower link using a suitable jack. K
CAUTION:
• Place the jack in the center of the lower link.
• Do not to damage the lower link with the jack. L
• Check for stable conditions when using the jack.
3. Remove nuts and separate stabilizer connecting rods (RH/LH)
from stabilizer. Refer to FSU-22, "Exploded View".
NOTE: M
Swing stabilizer down, repositioning it out of the way to access
shock absorber lower mount.
4. Disconnect harness connector from front wheel sensor (if JSEIA0546ZZ N
equipped).
CAUTION:
Do not pull on wheel sensor harness. O
5. Separate front wheel sensor harness (if equipped) from bracket on steering knuckle.
6. Separate front wheel sensor harness (if equipped) from bracket on frame.
P
JSEIA0836ZZ
: Front
JSEIA0837ZZ
JPFIC0209ZZ
JSEIA0838ZZ
D
• Perform final tightening of bolts and nuts at the shock absorber lower side (rubber bushing), under unladen
conditions with tires on level ground.
• Check wheel alignment. Refer to FSU-8, "Inspection". FSU
• For models with VDC, adjust neutral position of steering angle sensor. Refer to BRC-187, "Description" (with
VDC).
• After replacing the shock absorber, always follow the disposal procedure to discard the shock
absorber.Refer to FSU-13, "Disposal". F
Disposal INFOID:0000000014265176
G
1. Set shock absorber horizontally with the piston rod fully extended.
2. Drill 2 – 3 mm (0.08 – 0.12 in) hole at the position ( ) from top
as shown to release gas gradually. H
CAUTION:
• Wear eye protection (safety glasses).
• Wear gloves.
• Be careful with metal chips or oil blown out by the com- I
pressed gas.
NOTE:
• Drill vertically in this direction ( ) directly to outer tube avoid- J
ing brackets.
• The gas is clear, colorless, odorless, and harmless. JPEIA0161ZZ
K
A : 20 – 30 mm (0.79 – 1.18 in)
3. Position the drilled hole downward and drain oil by moving the piston rod several times.
CAUTION: L
Dispose of drained oil according to the law and local regulations.
JSEIA0861GB
REMOVAL
1. Remove wheel and tire using power tool. Refer to WT-10, "Removal and Installation".
2. Separate front wheel sensor harness (if equipped) from bracket on steering knuckle.
CAUTION:
Do not pull on wheel sensor harness.
3. Remove nuts and separate stabilizer connecting rods (RH/LH) from lower link. Refer to FSU-22,
"Exploded View".
NOTE:
Swing stabilizer down, repositioning it out of the way to access shock absorber lower mount.
4. Remove shock absorber lower bolt (A) from lower link (1). Refer
to FSU-11, "Exploded View".
JSEIA0836ZZ
JSEIA0842ZZ
D
6. Remove lower link adjusting bolt (1), nut, and eccentric disc
from lower link (2), and then remove lower link.
FSU
G
JSEIA0886ZZ
7. Remove nut and bound bumper from lower link. Refer to FSU-14, "Exploded View". H
JPEIA0005ZZ
O
3. If swinging torque exceeds standard range, replace lower link.
Rotating Torque Inspection
1. Move ball joint at least ten times by hand to check for smooth movement. P
2. Confirm measurement value is within specifications when ball joint begins rotating.
JSEIA1032ZZ
CAUTION:
• Do not reuse lower link nuts at the frame or at the bound bumper.
• Do not tap on the ball joint cap of the stabilizer connecting rod with a hammer or a similar item
when inserting the stabilizer connecting rod into the lower link.
• Do not twist the front sensor harness when installing the
front wheel sensor. Check that the grommet (2) is fully
inserted to the bracket (1). Check that the front wheel sensor
harness is not twisted after installation.
JPFIC0209ZZ
JSEIA0882ZZ
• Perform final tightening of bolts and nuts at the frame and shock absorber lower side (rubber bushing) under
unladen conditions with tires on level ground.
• Check wheel alignment. Refer to FSU-8, "Inspection".
• For models with VDC, adjust neutral position of steering angle sensor. Refer to BRC-187, "Description".
Removal and Installation - 4WD INFOID:0000000014265179
REMOVAL
1. Remove steering knuckle. Refer to FSU-24, "Removal and Installation".
JSEIA0836ZZ
D
3. Remove lower link adjusting bolt, nut, and eccentric disc from lower link, and then remove lower link.
4. Remove nut and bound bumper from lower link. Refer to FSU-14, "Exploded View".
INSPECTION AFTER REMOVAL FSU
Check the following items, and replace the components as necessary.
Lower Link Inspection
F
Check lower link for deformation, cracks, or damage.
Ball Joint Inspection
• Manually move ball joint to confirm it moves smoothly with no binding. G
• Check ball joint boot for cracks, grease leaks, or other damage.
Swinging Torque Inspection
1. Move ball joint at least ten times by hand to check for smooth movement. H
2. Hook Tool (A) on ball joint at pinch bolt location. Confirm mea-
surement value is within specifications when ball joint begins
moving.
I
Tool number : – (J-44372)
Swinging torque : Refer to FSU-31, "Ball Joint".
J
- If swinging torque exceeds standard range, replace lower link.
K
JPEIA0005ZZ
JSEIA1032ZZ
CAUTION:
• Do not reuse lower link nuts at the frame or at the bound bumper.
• Do not tap on the ball joint cap of the stabilizer connecting rod with a hammer or a similar item
when inserting the stabilizer connecting rod into the lower link.
• Do not twist the front wheel sensor harness when installing
the front wheel sensor. Check that the grommet (2) is fully
inserted to the bracket (1). Check that the front wheel sensor
harness is not twisted after installation.
JPFIC0209ZZ
JSEIA0882ZZ
• Perform final tightening of bolts and nuts at the frame and shock absorber lower side (rubber bushing) under
unladen conditions with tires on level ground.
• Check wheel alignment. Refer to FSU-8, "Inspection".
• For models with VDC, adjust neutral position of steering angle sensor. Refer to BRC-187, "Description".
FSU
G
JSEIA0861GB
I
REMOVAL
1. Remove wheel and tire using power tool. Refer to WT-10, "Removal and Installation".
2. Support the lower link using a suitable jack. J
CAUTION:
• Place the jack in the center of the lower link.
• Do not to damage the lower link with the jack. K
• Check for stable conditions when using the jack.
M
JSEIA0546ZZ
JSEIA0869ZZ
JSEIA0870ZZ
8. Remove bolt and separate lower joint from steering gear. Refer to ST-30, "Exploded View".
CAUTION:
With steering linkage disconnected, spiral cable may snap by turning steering wheel beyond the
limited number of turns. Secure steering wheel during removal of upper link.
9. Remove upper link.
INSPECTION AFTER REMOVAL
Check the following items, and replace the components as necessary.
Upper Link Inspection
Check upper link for deformation, cracks, or damage.
Ball Joint Inspection
• Manually move ball joint to confirm it moves smoothly with no binding.
• Check ball joint for cracks, grease leaks, or other damage.
Swinging Torque Inspection
1. Move ball joint at least ten times by hand to check for smooth movement.
2. Hook Tool (A) on ball joint at cotter pin hole. Confirm measure-
ment value is within specifications when ball joint begins mov-
ing.
JPEIA0005ZZ
FSU
AWEIA0397ZZ
REMOVAL
1. Remove front air spoiler (center.) Refer to EXT-16, "Exploded View".
2. Remove front under cover. Refer to EXT-30, "FRONT UNDER COVER : Removal and Installation".
3. Remove connecting rod nuts (RH/LH) (A) from lower link (RH/
LH) (1) and stabilizer (2).
JSEIA0871ZZ
JSEIA0872ZZ
D
JSEIA0881ZZ
FSU
AWDIA1270ZZ
REMOVAL
1. Remove front wheel hub and bearing. Refer to FAX-7, "Removal and Installation" (2WD) or FAX-17,
"Removal and Installation" (4WD).
2. Remove nuts and separate stabilizer connecting rods (RH/LH) from lower link. Refer to FSU-22,
"Exploded View".
NOTE:
Swing stabilizer down, repositioning it out of the way to access shock absorber lower mount.
3. Remove shock absorber lower bolt (A) from lower link (1). Refer
to FSU-11, "Exploded View".
JSEIA0836ZZ
4. Remove bolt and front wheel sensor harness bracket from steering knuckle. Refer to BRC-282, "FRONT
WHEEL SENSOR : Exploded View".
F
JSEIA0869ZZ
J
JSEIA0842ZZ
P
JPFIC0209ZZ
AWEIA0396ZZ
DISASSEMBLY
CAUTION:
Do not damage piston rod when removing components from front coil spring and shock absorber.
1. Install Tool (A) to front coil spring and shock absorber.
CAUTION:
When installing Tool (A), wrap a shop cloth around front
coil spring and shock absorber to protect parts from dam-
age.
ALEIA0245ZZ
JPEIA0168ZZ
D
5. Make sure front coil spring is free between shock absorber bracket and spring lower seat.
6. Hold piston rod and remove piston rod lock nut (1).
FSU
JSEIA0584ZZ
H
7. Remove washer, bushings, shock absorber bracket, tube, and rubber seat, from shock absorber. Refer to
FSU-11, "Exploded View".
I
8. Gradually release suitable tool and remove front coil spring.
CAUTION:
Release suitable tool while making sure position of suitable tool on front coil spring does not
move. J
JSEIA1053ZZ
Angle a : 90°
• Check that the lower end of the front coil spring (B) is posi-
tioned at the spring lower seat step of the shock absorber. The
spring lower seat step is toward the outboard side of the vehi-
cle.
JSEIA1031ZZ
3. Install piston rod lock nut (1). Secure piston rod tip so that piston
rod does not turn, then tighten piston rod lock nut to the speci-
fied torque.
CAUTION:
Do not reuse piston rod lock nut.
JSEIA0584ZZ
4. Gradually release suitable tool (A) and remove suitable tool from
front coil spring.
CAUTION:
Release suitable tool while making sure position of suitable
tool on front coil spring does not move.
JPEIA0007ZZ
AWEIA0262ZZ
D
7. After replacing shock absorber, always follow disposal procedure to discard old shock absorber. Refer to
FSU-13, "Disposal".
FSU
MEXICO
Wheel diameter 15 in 16 in
Minimum −0°36′ (−0.60°)
SFA234AC
EXCEPT MEXICO
SFA234AC FSU
Minimum In 3.6 mm (0.14 in)
Distance (A-B) Nominal In 4.6 mm (0.18 in)
F
Maximum In 5.6 mm (0.22 in)
Total toe-in
Minimum In 0° 08′ (0.13°)
Angle (LH) and (RH) Degree
Nominal In 0° 10′ (0.17°) G
minute (Decimal degree)
Maximum In 0° 12′ (0.20°)
*1: Fuel, engine coolant and lubricants are full. Spare tire, jack, hand tools and mats are in designated positions.
*2: The difference when assuming the (LH) side is the standard. H
I
Item Standard
Upper ball joint 0.5 – 4.9 N·m (0.05 – 0.50 kg-m, 4 – 43 in-lb)*1 J
Swinging torque
Lower ball joint 0.5 – 6.4 N·m (0.05 – 0.65 kg-m, 4 – 57 in-lb)*2
Upper ball joint 0.5 – 4.9 N·m (0.05 – 0.50 kg-m, 4 – 43 in-lb)*1
Rotating torque K
Lower ball joint 0.5 – 6.4 N·m (0.05 – 0.65 kg-m, 4 – 57 in-lb)*2
Axial end play 0.1 mm (0.004 in)
*1: Measure at cotter pin hole L
*2: Measure at groove
MEXICO
N
LEIA0085E
EXCEPT MEXICO
LEIA0085E