Replacing worn struts is one of the fastest ways to make an older Nissan Maxima feel safer, smoother, and more controlled. If your car bounces over bumps, dives during braking, wanders on the highway, or wears tires unevenly, the struts and related suspension parts should be high on your checklist.
In this guide, you’ll find replacement struts and suspension kits for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima models, with special attention to common 2012 Maxima needs. The goal is simple: help you choose between a full suspension refresh, a front strut pair, or a quick-install kit that fits your repair plan and budget.
This roundup is reader-supported. When you click through Amazon links, we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.
Quick Verdict
Best overall: The Detroit Axle 8pc Strut & Shock Kit is the strongest pick if you want to refresh the front struts, rear shocks, and sway bar links in one purchase.
Best value front pair: The KUIPERAUTO Front Pair Struts are a practical choice if your main issue is a tired front end and you want complete, pre-assembled units.
Best quick-install set: The PM Auto Quick Complete Strut Set is a good fit if you want front and rear coverage with ready-to-install assemblies.
Top Picks
|
Category |
Product |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
|
🏆 Best Overall |
Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit (2009-2014 Nissan Maxima) |
Full suspension refresh |
|
💰 Best Value Front Pair |
KUIPERAUTO Pair Front Complete Struts Assembly (2009-2014 Maxima) |
Front-end repair |
|
⚡ Best 2009-2012 Front Pair |
A-Premium Front Complete Strut & Coil Spring Assembly (Front 2-PC Set) |
Earlier 7th-gen Maxima fitment |
|
🎯 Best for Quick Install |
Front and rear coverage |
|
|
🔧 Best Budget Front Pair |
OREDY Front Struts & Sway Bar End Links (Front Pair w/Coil Springs) |
Affordable front refresh |
|
🛠️ Best Front-End Kit |
Front struts plus links |
How I Picked These Struts
The strongest picks match the 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima fitment range, include clear front or rear coverage, and help solve common symptoms like bounce, sagging, vague steering, body roll, and uneven tire wear.
I favored complete strut assemblies because they arrive with key parts already installed, which can reduce installation time and help you avoid spring-compressor work. I also looked for useful kit coverage, such as front struts with rear shocks or sway bar links, because replacing related worn parts together often gives a more complete ride-quality improvement.
Because aftermarket listings can change, always confirm your year, trim, engine, drivetrain, and OEM part numbers before ordering. For a 2012 Nissan Maxima, many options in this guide fit well, but some products cover a narrower year range than others.
Fitment Note Before You Buy
- Confirm the product fits your exact Maxima year, trim, and FWD configuration.
- Check whether the kit includes front struts only, rear shocks only, front and rear parts, or sway bar links.
- Replace struts in pairs when possible so left and right damping stays balanced.
- Inspect brake-line brackets, ABS wire tabs, springs, mounts, and packaging as soon as parts arrive.
- Plan for a wheel alignment after strut replacement to protect handling and tire wear.
Detroit Axle 8pc Strut & Shock Kit
This Detroit Axle kit is the best match if your Maxima needs more than a front-end touch-up. It refreshes the front struts, rear shocks, and sway bar links, so you are not pairing new front parts with worn rear or link components.
For daily driving, this type of kit can help reduce bounce, steering shimmy, body roll, and that loose highway feel that often appears as suspension parts age. It is also a practical choice before a longer road trip if you want the car to feel more planted.
Who should buy this: Maxima owners who want the broadest repair in one box.
Who should avoid this: Drivers who only need a front strut pair and do not want to replace rear shocks or sway links right now.
What Owners Say
Owners commonly mention better ride quality, more confident steering, and a complete set of parts for the job. A few buyers have reported weaker link components or defects, so inspect everything before installation.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ AirCactus
Perfect fit for Front Struts and sway bars and rear shocks and sway bars. All nuts and bolts are easily accessed for R&R. Great Price and vehicle now drives like new with no shimmy or road feedback to the steering wheel.
🗣️ Kindle Customer
The product came on time in a compact box with no damages. Every thing needed to install the product was included. My car floats like a dream.
Key Benefits
- Full kit includes front struts, rear shocks, and sway bar links
- Good choice when the whole suspension feels tired
- Can help reduce bounce, shimmy, road harshness, and body roll
- Ready-to-install front assemblies reduce extra spring work
- Useful for DIY installs or a single shop visit
Check Product Details on Amazon
Detroit Axle Complete Strut & Shock Kit
This Detroit Axle kit makes sense if you want front struts and rear shocks but do not need sway bar links. That gives you broad ride-quality coverage while keeping the parts list simpler than the 8-piece kit.
It is a strong option when your Maxima feels floaty over highway dips, bouncy over potholes, or unsettled during lane changes. Since the front assemblies come ready to install, you can reduce the extra work that comes with rebuilding old struts.
Who should buy this: Drivers who want front and rear damping parts in one kit.
Who should avoid this: Buyers who already know their sway bar links are worn and want links included.
What Owners Say
Owners commonly mention bolt-on fit and a smoother, firmer ride. Some buyers have reported noise or early issues, so check parts carefully before your install appointment.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Michael
Lasted 3 years for me. Now in the need to replace but very good price. Easy to install and smooth ride. Would recommend
🗣️ Chris
Good set to renew your ride quality
Key Benefits
- Includes 2 front ready-to-install strut assemblies and 2 rear shocks
- Good middle ground between a front-only pair and a full 8-piece kit
- Helps reduce bounce and float from worn damping parts
- Front assemblies arrive pre-built for easier installation
- Vehicle-specific fitment for 2009-2014 Maxima sedans should still be confirmed before purchase
Check Product Details on Amazon
PM Auto Quick Complete Strut Set (4-Pack)
The PM Auto set is built for shoppers who want a simple, broad replacement path. Instead of buying front and rear parts separately, you get a matched set aimed at restoring ride height, damping, and control in one repair.
It is especially useful if your Maxima has both front-end bounce and rear-end looseness. For daily driving, it can help the car feel more settled over potholes and less floaty on the highway.
Who should buy this: DIYers or shop customers who want a ready-to-install front and rear set.
Who should avoid this: Buyers who only need front struts or who prefer a kit with sway bar links included.
What Owners Say
People mention true fitment and easy installation. Some feedback suggests the damping is more value-oriented than premium, so this is best viewed as a practical daily-driver refresh.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Clinton, MS
I like that they arrived on time. Easy to install!
🗣️ txfishncwings
Product fit as described, the shock component of the strut is not the best but for the price I am happy overall.
Key Benefits
- Front and rear coverage in one set
- Complete assemblies can simplify installation
- Helpful for restoring a tired daily-driver ride
- Can improve steering response and highway stability when old parts are worn
- Good option when you want broad coverage without a larger sway-link kit
Check Product Details on Amazon
KUIPERAUTO Front Pair Struts
The KUIPERAUTO front pair is a practical pick if your main complaint is a worn front end. Since the assemblies come pre-built with springs and mounts, the repair is simpler than rebuilding old struts piece by piece.
For commuting, these front struts are aimed at reducing bounce, restoring front ride height, and tightening steering feel. They are also a good option if your rear shocks still feel acceptable and you do not want to buy a larger kit.
Who should buy this: Maxima owners who want a value-focused complete front pair.
Who should avoid this: Drivers who need rear shocks, sway bar links, or a full suspension kit.
What Owners Say
Owners often mention easy bolt-in installation and a noticeable improvement over old struts. A few buyers mentioned bent brackets or questions about long-term durability, so inspect the assemblies before installation.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Vincent L.
They feel alright especially considering the price. Bracket holding the brake line was bent on the front passenger strut but overall they performed better than my twenty-year-old originals and improved ride quality.
🗣️ CentralCoastPeep
It fit perfectly and restored the ride of my car to original condition. I knocked it down a star only because longevity is still unknown, but early results are very promising.
Key Benefits
- Complete front assemblies with springs and mounts
- Good choice for a front-only repair
- Designed for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima Sedan FWD 3.5L fitment
- Helps restore ride height, reduce bounce, and firm up steering feel
- Pre-assembled design helps simplify the job
Check Product Details on Amazon
OREDY Front Pair Struts
The OREDY front pair is a solid fit if you want an affordable way to restore the front suspension without buying rear parts. It is best for a Maxima that feels harsh, bouncy, or loose up front but does not need a full four-corner repair yet.
Because the assemblies include coil springs, you avoid the extra work of compressing and transferring old springs. That can save time for a capable DIYer and may reduce labor for a shop install.
Who should buy this: Budget-focused buyers who need a complete front pair.
Who should avoid this: Drivers who want rear shocks, premium damping, or a full kit.
What Owners Say
People commonly point to bolt-on convenience and better ride quality after installation. A few mention noise or stiffness on arrival, so inspect the parts and keep seller support details handy.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Griffin Briscoe
Fixed my front end on my 2013 Maxima with 190k miles. Easy direct install swap and the car rides and handles bumps perfectly now.
🗣️ Phantasm
Installed on a 2012 Maxima. They went in pretty easy, one unit was noisy but the seller sent a replacement and the new pair are much better. Great customer support.
Key Benefits
- Complete front assemblies with coil springs
- Good lower-cost choice for front suspension repair
- Vehicle-specific fitment for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima models should still be confirmed before ordering
- Can reduce bounce and sharpen steering feel when old struts are worn
- Useful for driveway repairs or shop installation
Check Product Details on Amazon
Detroit Axle Front Strut & Sway Bar Kit
This Detroit Axle front kit is a smart choice when your front struts and sway bar links both need attention. If you hear clunks, feel steering looseness, or notice extra body roll, replacing the front assemblies and links together can make more sense than doing only one part of the repair.
It does not cover the rear shocks, so it is best for a focused front-end repair rather than a full vehicle suspension refresh.
Who should buy this: Drivers with front-end bounce, clunks, or steering looseness.
Who should avoid this: Buyers who need rear shocks included.
What Owners Say
Owners often report smooth ride quality and easy bolt-on fitment. Some buyers mention defective parts or support issues, so inspect the kit on arrival and keep your order records.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Henry Limpit
They were easy to install and fit perfect. Very nice product. I hope they last a long time.
🗣️ T.Rich
Haven’t installed these yet. However, I put the rear on my wife car and they worked. Have a nice smooth ride. I’ll be installing these this week.
Key Benefits
- Includes 2 front strut assemblies and 2 sway bar links
- Good option when front suspension noise and looseness appear together
- Ready-to-install front assemblies reduce spring work
- Can help tighten steering feel and reduce front-end float
- More complete than a basic front strut pair
Check Product Details on Amazon
Detroit Axle Front Pair Struts
This front pair is best when you want Detroit Axle coverage but do not need sway bar links or rear shocks. It targets the common front-end symptoms: sagging, excess bounce, vague steering, and a rougher ride over potholes.
Because the units are complete assemblies, the install path is simpler than rebuilding the original struts. It is a good middle choice between a low-cost front pair and a larger multi-part kit.
Who should buy this: Drivers who need a front pair from a recognizable aftermarket suspension brand.
Who should avoid this: Buyers who want rear shocks or links included in the same box.
What Owners Say
Many owners praise the bolt-on convenience and improved ride feel. A smaller group reports noisy or defective units, so inspect the parts before installation.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Bob Bradley
Boxed well . Arrived in great condition , fit properly , Was an easy install for me . Ride is similar / same to brand new Old ones had 125000+ miles . I have driven about 2000 miles on these and still veryhappy
🗣️ andy
I was a bit hesitant at first but I went ahead and ordered them. My 2014 maxima drives really smooth. Highly recommend them
Key Benefits
- Complete front strut pair with coil springs
- Simple choice for front-only replacement
- Designed for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima models
- Can improve front-end control when old struts are worn
- Does not force you to buy rear shocks or sway links if you do not need them
Check Product Details on Amazon
A-Premium Front Complete Strut & Coil Spring Assembly (2-Pack)
The A-Premium 2-pack is a front-only option for Maxima owners who want complete strut and coil spring assemblies. It is especially relevant if you are shopping for a 2012 Maxima and want a ready-to-install front pair.
The main caution is fitment range. Because this listing is narrower than many 2009-2014 options, confirm your exact model year and part numbers before ordering, especially if you own a 2013 or 2014 Maxima.
Who should buy this: 2009-2012 Maxima owners who want a complete front pair.
Who should avoid this: 2013-2014 Maxima owners unless Amazon’s fitment checker and part numbers confirm compatibility.
What Owners Say
Buyers mention straightforward installation and a better ride feel. Because feedback volume can be limited on some listings, treat this as a fitment-specific option and verify details before purchase.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Saul
Great product. I have been buying from this company lately and the product seems to be of lasting qualify. Perfect fit on maxima and they feel great.
🗣️ Dan HVAC guy
The struts were as described. The installation was without any problems. Well worth the money. Would recommend to my family and friends.
Key Benefits
- Complete front strut and coil spring assemblies
- Useful for 2009-2012 Maxima front-end repair
- Good option for 2012 Maxima shoppers who confirm fitment
- Can help reduce bounce, sagging, and loose steering feel
- Front-only design keeps the repair focused and simpler
Check Product Details on Amazon
How to Choose the Right Struts for a 2012 Nissan Maxima
Start with the repair scope. If your whole car feels loose, a kit with front struts and rear shocks may be worth it. If the problem is mainly front-end bounce, nose dive, or steering vagueness, a complete front pair may be enough.
Next, check included parts. A front strut pair is not the same as a full kit. Some kits include sway bar links, while others include only front struts and rear shocks. If your mechanic says the links are worn, choose a kit that includes them or buy them separately.
Finally, think about installation. Complete strut assemblies are usually easier than bare struts because the spring and mount are already assembled. That can save time, but you still need safe tools, proper torque, and a wheel alignment after the job.
Before You Install New Struts
- Compare the product’s year range with your Maxima’s year and trim.
- Use Amazon’s vehicle fitment checker and compare OEM part numbers when available.
- Replace left and right struts together when possible.
- Check sway bar links, control arm bushings, tires, and alignment before blaming struts alone.
- Inspect all parts for bent brackets, damaged threads, missing hardware, or leaking shocks before installation.
- Schedule a professional alignment after replacing struts.
FAQ
Will New Struts Make My 2012 Nissan Maxima Feel Brand New?
New struts can make a worn Maxima feel much fresher, especially if the old parts are sagging, leaking, bouncing, or causing poor steering response. They can reduce nose dive, improve control over bumps, and help the car track better.
They will not fix every suspension issue. Worn control arm bushings, bad sway bar links, old tires, or poor alignment can still make the car feel loose. Inspect related parts before and after the strut replacement.
Should I Replace Front Struts in Pairs?
Yes, replacing front struts in pairs is usually the safer and more balanced approach. A new strut on one side and a worn strut on the other can create uneven damping, uneven ride height, and inconsistent handling.
Do I Need a Wheel Alignment After Replacing Struts?
Yes, plan on an alignment after strut replacement. Strut removal can affect suspension geometry, and an alignment helps protect tire wear, steering feel, and highway stability.
Are Complete Strut Assemblies Easier to Install?
Complete strut assemblies are usually easier because the spring, mount, and related pieces are already assembled. That can reduce installation time and help you avoid spring-compressor work. You still need proper tools, safe lifting practices, and torque specs.
Which Kit Should I Choose?
Choose the Detroit Axle 8pc kit if you want the most complete refresh. Choose the Detroit Axle Complete Strut & Shock Kit or PM Auto set if you want front and rear damping coverage. Choose KUIPERAUTO, OREDY, Detroit Axle Front Pair, or A-Premium if you only need front struts.
Buyers Top Picks
When choosing between these Maxima strut options, focus on coverage first. A front pair is cheaper and simpler, but a front-and-rear kit may solve more ride-quality problems. If your car also clunks or rolls more than it should, a kit with sway bar links may be the better long-term value.
Wrapping Up
The best struts for a 2012 Nissan Maxima depend on how much of the suspension you want to refresh. For most buyers who want the most complete repair, the Detroit Axle 8pc Strut & Shock Kit is the strongest overall pick because it covers front struts, rear shocks, and sway bar links.
If you want a value-focused front repair, the KUIPERAUTO Front Pair Struts or OREDY Front Pair Struts are easier choices. If you want front and rear damping without a larger link kit, consider the Detroit Axle Complete Strut & Shock Kit or PM Auto Quick Complete Strut Set.
Before you order, confirm fitment, inspect related suspension parts, and plan for an alignment after installation. That gives your Maxima the best chance of riding smoother, steering better, and wearing tires more evenly.
| Product | Image | Best For | Kit Type | Check Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit |
 |
Most complete refresh | Front struts, rear shocks, and sway links | Check on Amazon |
| Detroit Axle – Struts Shocks for Nissan Maxima |
 |
Front and rear damping | Front struts and rear shocks | Check on Amazon |
| PM Auto Front-Rear Set of 4 Quick Complete Strut |
 |
Quick-install front and rear set | Front and rear complete assemblies | Check on Amazon |
| KUIPERAUTO Front Pair Struts |
 |
Value front pair | Complete front strut assemblies | Check on Amazon |
| OREDY Front Struts & Sway Bar End Links |
 |
Budget front repair | Complete front strut pair | Check on Amazon |
| Detroit Axle – Front Struts Sway Bars |
 |
Front-end clunk and looseness | Front struts plus sway links | Check on Amazon |
| Detroit Axle Front Pair Struts |
 |
Simple front-pair replacement | Complete front strut pair | Check on Amazon |
| A-Premium Front Complete Strut & Coil Spring Assembly |
 |
2009-2012 front pair fitment | Complete front strut pair | Check on Amazon |
This roundup is reader-supported. When you click through links, we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.
