[rwobnh]

Hi,

I have a 2001 King Cab, 4 cylinder, rear wheel drive, 154K miles. In recent years I've noticed the ride seems rough. Specifically on things like small potholes, which in another car might give a softer "thump", in my truck it hits hard and really rattles the truck. Seems like something is wrong in the suspension. I replaced all 4 shocks - not much difference. I've also replaced the sway/stabilizer bars in the front (mechanic recommended for another reason). Whatever it is it seems like it's more in the front.

I may take it to Nissan dealer this week, but it will be $120 or so just to diagnose things, so wondering if anyone has suggestions on other parts to look into.

One thing I did was measure the height of my truck. It was about 61'', whereas the spec I saw said height was 63''. I wonder if something has settled too much over the years, or if that's normal.

 

[rwobnh]

I forgot, here's a photo of my truck.

 

[Roader]

Any good alignment shops around? Instead of paying a dealer $120 you may want to find a good suspension/alignment shop to take a look. In any case, the first gen Frontier isn't known for its smooth ride. I always go to Consumer Reports before I buy a used car just to read their opinion. They're not always right but I think they are in the case of the 2001 they reviewed new:

The Frontier's ride is harsh and bouncy. Bumps transmit hard shocks, and passengers are tossed and jiggled constantly.

 

[The other Sean]

After enough years, the springs could have sagged enough where you are hitting the bump stops more often then you should.

Also, how old are your tires? I noticed a difference on my current beater car when I replaced two of the oldest tires. Noticeably softer ride. Old tires hard as hockey pucks?

With that said, don't bother going to the dealer, they won't tell you anything a much cheaper independent shop will.