2ndMAX

How would I know when my shocks need to be replaced. I've noticed that my Maxima nose dives under braking and leans like a boat when cornering. Now I have a stock setup and this maybe the problem but is stock supposed to be this soft, yet harsh. Let me explain, on smooth roads the ride is fine but on the streets of NY I find that going over certain bumps can even cause my stock Bose CD player to skip. Any advice would be helpful.

MaxRX7

OK, sndmax.. First park your car on a level surface. On the outside of the car, press DOWN on each side of the trunk. If it pushes back up and settles down in a second the rear shocks are fine. If they keep oscillating (moving up and down, back & forth) they are worn. Do the same test on the hood above each wheel.