The front suspension uses MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension relies on conventional shock absorbers (dampers) as part of a multi-link independent setup.
In the 2014 Altima, the term “struts” applies to the front suspension, where the shock absorber is integrated with the coil spring in a single unit. The rear suspension uses separate shocks and springs in an independent layout, which is common for mid-size sedans of this era. Below is a breakdown of how each end of the car is typically configured.
Front suspension: MacPherson struts
Key details about the front suspension configuration and components for the 2014 Altima:
- Configuration: MacPherson strut type, with a coil spring and shock absorber combined into a single front suspension unit.
- Function: Provides steering pivot and helps absorb road imperfections while keeping the front wheels aligned with the steering axis.
- Notes: This setup is commonly described as having “struts” in the front, contributing to a simpler and lighter front-end design.
In summary, the front of the 2014 Altima uses struts as the primary damper-and-spring assembly.
Rear suspension: independent multi-link with shocks
Key details about the rear suspension configuration and components for the 2014 Altima:
- Configuration: Independent rear suspension, typically described as multi-link, with coil springs supported by separate dampers (shock absorbers).
- Function: Maintains wheel independence and improves ride quality and handling over uneven surfaces by using separate shocks and springs.
- Notes: Unlike the front, the rear does not use a strut assembly; the shocks are separate from the springs within a multi-link layout.
In summary, the rear of the 2014 Altima uses separate shocks rather than struts, in an independent multi-link setup.
Summary
For a 2014 Nissan Altima, expect front MacPherson struts and rear independent multi-link suspension with separate shock absorbers. This means the car has struts at the front and shocks at the rear, a common arrangement for mid-size sedans of that era.