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? 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?

Rockauto has KYB assemblies for $142, or $284 for a set,
A total difference of: $60 from the MacPherson brand, assuming that $113 is for each?

KYB (Japan) is the manufacturer that made your OEM struts. It's not even close in quality IMHO.

Replacing the assembly, as a whole, cuts the labour time tremendously.

As for just a strut replacement: your Mechanic, will most likely take apart your old strut and the mount and bushings will have to be replaced. So you will most likely have to order a top strut mount to go along with your new strut.

Then there is the strut mount plate. If it's shoddy and rotted, it must be replaced as well.
And the best kit for replacement strut mount and plate? The KYB one, LOL.

Then the springs. I'm not too worried about front springs.

I'm not a mechanic, but I've taken apart my struts three times, and it's far far easier to simply unbolt the old unit and plop in, a replacement. If I had to do this over again - I would choose the all in one strut kit.

It's piece of mind, really, the whole kit:
New strut. Improved springs. New strut mount, strut mount plate, new new mount bolts, new bushings.

TooMuchControl wrote: ↑

Thu Jan 02, 2025 11:13 pm

I'm not a mechanic, but I've taken apart my struts three times, and it's far far easier to simply unbolt the old unit and plop in, a replacement. If I had to do this over again - I would choose the all in one strut kit.

Big +1. I am a mechanic (master tech, in fact), and when ready-struts are available they're always the best choice. They don't just save labor, they also eliminate common assembly mistakes.

I did the struts on mine a couple times. When you order a complete strut/srping/hat kit, it takes about 5 tools (a jack, a jack stand, some wrenches or sockets, thread locker, and a torque wrench) and an hour on the first side and 30 mins on the second (for your first time). It really is an easy fairly quick job. I did mine in the garage but would have been comfortable dong it in a parking lot. I can't say what brands are better but if you can change brake pads, you can order the strut kit and do your front struts.

I have Rancho's on mine and have loved them. The first set only lasted about 40k miles. When one started to leak I bought a new one, pulled the old one off, and sent the old one back and they (I think Rock Auto) refunded me for the new one. That is how their warranty process worked. 3K miles later the other side did the same (The Ranchos have a lifetime warranty). Rancho may not work for you, though becuase it provides a little lift.