Nissan Repair: 2000 Maxima SE strut replacements, strut bearings, gas leaks

Question
I noted that you own(ed) a 2000 Maxima SE.  I have one, too, with
almost 60K miles.  There is frequent but not constant chirping going
over bumps, when you close the doors, etc. (but not when the
mechanic is listening, of course).  The firm sporty handling still seems
okay, but bumps might feel a little more jarring than before, and the
front jiggles just a little after I bounce it up and down by hand (the
rear has virtually no jiggle).  My mechanic suspects the struts and/or
bushings.  Sound reasonable?  What replacements do you
recommend?  I wouldn't mind spending a little extra for a modest
upgrade from the originals, but I certainly don't want anything less.  
On our 1992 Maxima SE, a dealer mistakenly put non-SE struts on
during a collision repair -- what a difference!  Thanks.

Answer
Jeff,

I still have the Maxima SE and have 160,000 miles on the clock.  You could check out courtesyparts.com and get the exact replacement.  Remember that it is age as well as miles.  I dropped a set of Eibach springs in when I did the strut replacement.  Also, be sure to get the strut bearings for the front when you replace them.  The back is a pain since the rear seat and metal brace has to come out to get to the top of the back struts.  The nitrogen gas leaks out of the struts over the years and that is what causes the ride condition.  The oil foams since there is no nitrogen in the strut.  SE struts are a little firmer than the regular ones.