The front suspension uses MacPherson struts, while the rear uses independent suspension with separate shock absorbers.
For the 2015 Sentra, Nissan typically pairs a MacPherson strut design at the front with an independent rear suspension. This means there are front struts (the combination of a shock absorber and coil spring in one assembly) and rear shocks, rather than a full rear strut assembly. When shopping for parts or performing maintenance, you’ll be looking for front struts and rear shocks.
Suspension configuration by location
Understanding where struts and shocks sit helps with maintenance and part shopping.
- Front suspension: MacPherson struts (the strut assembly includes the coil spring and shock absorber) mounted on each front wheel.
- Rear suspension: Independent suspension with coil springs and separate shock absorbers (no rear strut assembly spanning the axle).
In this configuration, the front carries a strut assembly, while the rear relies on separate dampers. This distinction matters when replacing components and sourcing parts.
Summary
The 2015 Nissan Sentra has front MacPherson struts and a rear independent suspension with separate shocks, so you should buy front struts and rear shocks when replacing worn components.