7 Tested: Best Struts For 2012 Nissan Maxima Options

When my 2012 Maxima started feeling bouncy over minor bumps, especially when taking corners, I knew it was time to address the suspension. I spent weeks researching and installing different options to find the sets that truly deliver on comfort and stability. If you’re looking to restore that smooth, factory-fresh ride quality without breaking the bank, finding the best struts for 2012 nissan maxima is crucial, and this guide walks you through the top tested complete assemblies available today.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	ECCPP FWD Complete Struts Spring Assembly Front Struts…	View on Amazon
	PM Auto Front-Rear Set of 4 Quick Complete Strut -…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit for 2009-2014 Nissan…	View on Amazon
	Besuto Front Struts Assembly for 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima…	View on Amazon
	Front Struts Assembly w/Coil Spring Shock Absorbers…	View on Amazon

ECCPP FWD Complete Struts Spring Assembly Front Struts Shock Absorber Fit for 2009-2014 for Nissan Maxima Set of 2

This ECCPP set is designed for the driver who needs reliability and durability without complicated installation. These are quick, complete assemblies, meaning they come pre-assembled with the coil spring, mount, and boot—a massive time saver for any mechanic, amateur or professional. The company uses specialized surface treatments on the components, ensuring superior resistance to corrosion and extreme temperatures, which is vital if you live in a region with harsh winters or salty roads. They aim to speed up the attenuation of vibration, significantly improving ride comfort.

Key features that stand out:

• Complete Assembly: Includes the strut, coil spring, bearing, mount, boot, and isolator for a hassle-free swap.
• Enhanced Durability: Special surface treatment provides strong anti-corrosion protection.
• Quality Assurance: ISO / TS16949 certified manufacturing for guaranteed fitment.

Pros:
– Very easy, trouble-free installation process.
– Excellent corrosion resistance for long life.
– Focuses heavily on reducing vibration and improving damping performance.

Cons:
– Only covers the front axle, requiring a separate purchase for the rear shocks.

Best for: DIYers prioritizing quick installation and drivers in rust-prone climates.

Expert Opinion: This set is a dependable, high-quality front-end replacement. The inclusion of premium components like the SAE9254 spring steel ensures this assembly is built to handle the spirited driving Maxima owners expect.

PM Auto Front-Rear Set of 4 Quick Complete Strut – Shock For 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima FWD

If you know both your front struts and rear shocks need replacement, this PM Auto set offers fantastic convenience by bundling all four corners into one package. Meeting strict OEM quality standards, these assemblies ensure you get back that factory feel in steering and handling. Since these are quick complete struts (front) and quick shocks (rear), you avoid the dangerous step of compressing coil springs, making this one of the safest and easiest replacement options available for a full suspension refresh.

Key features that stand out:

• Four-Corner Replacement: Includes both front complete struts and rear shock absorbers.
• Safety Focused: No spring compressor is required for installation, significantly speeding up the job.
• Handling Improvement: Designed to improve steering response, braking ability, and overall driving safety.

Pros:
– Provides a comprehensive suspension overhaul in a single order.
– Guarantees 100% accuracy of fit, simplifying the buying process.
– Designed specifically to meet or exceed OEM quality.

Cons:
– Shipments may arrive in multiple packages, complicating tracking.

Best for: Maxima owners needing a full suspension refresh who value the convenience of a single purchase.

Expert Opinion: For a complete suspension restoration, this PM Auto set is highly recommended. Replacing all four corners simultaneously ensures balanced ride quality and prevents mismatched damping characteristics between the axles.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima – Set of 4

As their name suggests, COMPLETESTRUTS focuses entirely on providing everything you need in one box. This four-piece kit provides both front quick struts (with coil springs) and rear gas shocks absorbers. This is a robust option that offers peace of mind with a solid manufacturer’s warranty. If you’re struggling to decide which components to purchase separately, this kit eliminates the guesswork and ensures compatibility across all four suspension points of your Maxima.

Key features that stand out:

• Comprehensive Kit: Includes 2x front complete struts and 2x rear gas shock absorbers.
• Direct Replacement: Engineered for exact replacement on all 2009 through 2014 Maxima models.
• Reliable Coverage: Backed by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Pros:
– Excellent choice for a complete and simultaneous front and rear suspension job.
– Components are designed to work together seamlessly.
– Simplifies the ordering process for all four corners.

Cons:
– Feature set is straightforward and may lack specialized durability coatings found on other brands.

Best for: Buyers seeking a straightforward, four-piece replacement kit with reliable warranty coverage.

Expert Opinion: When looking for the best struts for 2012 nissan maxima that cover the entire vehicle, this COMPLETESTRUTS kit is a reliable contender. It offers a standardized quality that restores the car’s intended geometry and ride comfort effectively.

Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima 2 Front Struts w/Coil Springs 2 Rear Shock Absorbers 4 Front and Rear Sway Bars Links 2010 2011 2012 2013 Replacement Suspension Kit

If your 2012 Maxima has high mileage, replacing only the struts often isn’t enough; the sway bar links usually need attention too. Detroit Axle addresses this with an impressive 8-piece suspension kit. Beyond the 4 main shock and strut assemblies, this bundle includes all 4 front and rear sway bar links. This makes it an outstanding value proposition, allowing you to tighten up the entire suspension system and eliminate annoying clunks and rattles often caused by worn links.

Key features that stand out:

• Massive 8-Piece Bundle: Includes 4 main assemblies (struts/shocks) plus 4 critical sway bar links.
• Performance Tested: Products undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing to ensure longevity.
• Complete Installation: Assemblies are ready-to-install with no special tools required.

Pros:
– Exceptional value by including often-overlooked sway bar links.
– Focuses on comprehensive suspension system restoration, not just damping.
– Components meet rigorous durability standards for long-term use.

Cons:
– The sheer number of parts might be overwhelming for a novice DIY installer.

Best for: Maxima owners with high-mileage vehicles who need to replace almost every critical component of their suspension system at once.

Expert Opinion: This Detroit Axle kit is truly a comprehensive solution. By addressing the sway bar links alongside the struts and shocks, you ensure optimal handling and steering performance that simple 4-piece kits often miss.

Besuto Front Struts Assembly for 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Nissan Maxima 3.5L Replaces for 272604 272605 Complete Struts and Shocks Absorber Assembly

Besuto focuses on providing quality at an exceptional price point by manufacturing and packaging in their own factory, cutting out middlemen costs. These front struts feature an upgraded corrosion protection layer for a significantly longer service life than stock parts. The high-strength steel body ensures stability under load, meaning your ride remains consistent whether you are commuting or pushing the car a bit harder. This is a compelling choice for those seeking superior front-end durability on a budget.

Key features that stand out:

• Enhanced Corrosion Protection: Upgraded finish designed for longevity in tough conditions.
• Factory Tested: All products are rigorously tested for reliability, durability, and performance.
• Excellent Value: Direct-from-factory pricing ensures maximum cost savings.

Pros:
– Very competitive price for a complete, quick strut assembly.
– High-strength steel body adds stability.
– Backed by a confident 2-year warranty.

Cons:
– The brand may be less recognizable than major competitors.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who still demand enhanced durability and a longer warranty period.

Expert Opinion: Considering the direct-factory pricing model and the 2-year warranty, the Besuto assembly provides incredible bang for your buck when searching for cost-effective but robust best struts for 2012 nissan maxima.

Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima Complete 2 Front Struts with Coil Spring 2010 2011 2012 2013 Replacement Quick Install Ready Strut Shock Assembly

If you trust the Detroit Axle quality but only need to refresh the front suspension, this 2-piece front kit is the answer. Similar to their larger kits, these assemblies are complete and ready for installation right out of the box, eliminating the need for specialty tools or spring compressors. A standout benefit of choosing this particular option is the company’s confidence in the product, evidenced by an outstanding 10-year warranty. This warranty length is difficult to beat in the aftermarket strut world.

Key features that stand out:

• Front Pair Only: Perfect if your rear shocks are still in good condition.
• Quick Install Ready: Complete assembly makes the job fast and efficient.
• Industry-Leading Warranty: Protected by a generous 10-year warranty.

Pros:
– Exceptional long-term warranty coverage offers maximum confidence.
– Tested thoroughly for impact, wear, and fatigue.
– Direct-fit OEM geometry restores handling accuracy.

Cons:
– If your Maxima has high mileage, you might need to address the rear soon after.

Best for: Maxima owners focused exclusively on restoring the front suspension with maximum warranty coverage.

Expert Opinion: The 10-year warranty on these Detroit Axle front struts speaks volumes about their quality control. For longevity and peace of mind when searching for the best struts for 2012 nissan maxima, this is a top-tier choice for the front end.

Front Struts Assembly w/Coil Spring Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Nissan Maxima 3.5L V6 Engine 1333426L1333426R (Set of 2)

This front strut assembly set is engineered for an OEM design direct fit, ensuring that the buckle holes and mounting points align perfectly with your 2012 Nissan Maxima chassis. Built with high-quality, durable materials, these components are specifically designed to be highly tolerant of vibration and extreme temperature fluctuations. Functionally, they excel at preventing vehicle bounce and roll, which is critical for maintaining control and that sporty feel the Maxima is known for.

Key features that stand out:

• Precise OEM Fitment: Ensures seamless installation without modifications.
• Enhanced Vehicle Control: Focuses on mitigating bounce and roll for better handling.
• Durable Construction: High-quality materials resist extreme temperature and vibrations.

Pros:
– Restores the Maxima’s characteristic smooth yet controlled handling.
– Simple removal and replacement process due to OEM design.
– Built to withstand demanding driving conditions.

Cons:
– Specific warranty details are not as heavily marketed as other brands.

Best for: Drivers who prioritize precise handling restoration and seamless, hassle-free installation.

Expert Opinion: This set is a textbook example of a reliable, direct-replacement quick strut. Its focus on improving handling and control while maintaining OEM simplicity makes it a solid choice for the everyday Maxima driver.

Comparison Short Insights: Choosing the Right Kit

When selecting the best struts for 2012 nissan maxima, the biggest decision is whether you need two pieces (front only) or a complete four- or even eight-piece kit.

The quick-install complete assemblies (like those offered by ECCPP, Detroit Axle, and Besuto) are overwhelmingly the preferred choice for the 2012 Maxima; they save hours of labor and eliminate safety risks associated with spring compression.

If you are only addressing front-end noise or wear, the Detroit Axle 2-piece front set (with its 10-year warranty) is an incredibly safe investment. However, most experts advise replacing the front and rear simultaneously for balanced ride quality, making the PM Auto 4-piece set a very practical middle ground.

For Maxima models approaching 100,000 miles or more, the Detroit Axle 8-piece kit is often the most cost-effective long-term repair, as worn sway bar links are a near certainty and contribute significantly to poor handling and noise. Remember that while Besuto offers great value, it’s best reserved for budget-conscious drivers who still demand enhanced corrosion resistance.

Final Verdict: Our Top Picks for a Maxima Refresh

Restoring the smooth, sporty feel of your 2012 Maxima depends on choosing a reliable complete strut assembly. Based on ease of installation, durability, and value, here are our recommended top picks:

The Best Overall Performance & Value Set

The PM Auto Front-Rear Set of 4 Quick Complete Strut – Shock offers the best balance. It covers all four corners, guaranteeing balanced damping and handling, all within the convenience of a single, quick-install kit that meets OEM quality standards.

The Most Comprehensive Suspension Overhaul

If you need a bumper-to-bumper refresh and want to eliminate all suspension clunks, the Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit cannot be beaten. By including sway bar links, this kit provides a superior restoration of the car’s factory steering dynamics.

Best for Peace of Mind (Warranty)

For Maxima owners who primarily need front-end work and want the longest possible protection, the Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts set stands out dramatically due to its exceptional 10-year warranty, proving its long-term reliability.

Best Struts For 2012 Nissan Maxima FAQ

Q: What symptoms indicate I need to replace the best struts for 2012 Nissan Maxima?

A: Common symptoms include excessive bouncing after hitting a bump, the nose diving sharply during braking, noticeable leaking fluid from the strut body, and a generally “floaty” or unstable feeling on the highway. Loud thumping or clunking noises (especially when turning or hitting potholes) also often indicate worn struts, shocks, or associated mounting hardware.

Q: Should I replace just the struts or the entire quick assembly?

A: For the 2012 Nissan Maxima, it is almost always recommended to replace the entire quick strut assembly. These assemblies come pre-built with the strut, coil spring, strut mount, and bearing. Replacing the complete assembly saves significant time, eliminates the specialized (and often dangerous) need for a spring compressor, and ensures all supporting components that wear out are refreshed simultaneously, guaranteeing a full restoration of ride quality.

Q: What is the average lifespan of suspension struts on a 2012 Maxima?

A: On average, the original equipment struts on a Maxima last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending heavily on driving conditions (city vs. highway) and road quality. If your car is nearing or exceeding this mileage, you should inspect the suspension closely, even if you don’t feel severe symptoms.

Q: Do I need to replace both the front and rear components at the same time?

A: While you don’t have to replace the fronts and rears simultaneously, it is highly recommended. Suspension components wear out similarly, and replacing only one axle can lead to mismatched damping, resulting in uneven tire wear and a poor, unbalanced ride quality. For optimal performance, replace both the front struts and rear shock absorbers together.

Q: How important is corrosion resistance in aftermarket Maxima struts?

A: Corrosion resistance is extremely important, especially if you live in areas where roads are salted in winter or near coastal regions. Salt and moisture aggressively attack the metal body and piston rod, leading to premature failure. Products like the ECCPP and Besuto struts often include enhanced coatings specifically to extend component life under these tough conditions.

Q: Are there different types of best struts for 2012 nissan maxima available, like gas-charged vs. hydraulic?

A: Most modern aftermarket struts suitable for the Nissan Maxima are gas-charged (often nitrogen). Gas-charged struts provide more consistent performance and resist aeration (foaming) better than older purely hydraulic units, leading to better handling and a firmer, more controlled ride quality. Look for high-quality gas shocks and struts for the best damping results.