Recommended Suspension Upgrade and Brake Controller for a 2020 Nissan Frontier

Updated 10/22/2025 | Published 04/07/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Curt MV Weight Distribution System - Round Bar - 6,000 lbs GTW, 600 lbs TW

(355)

$392.65

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

(3870)

$21.40

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 15,000 lbs

(3870)

$25.11

Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle

(3008)

$423.93

Firestone Air Command Standard Duty Air Compressor - Smartphone App Only - Single Path

(359)

$571.18

Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control - Trunnion - 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs TW

(169)

$568.42

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(2504)

$223.70

Question:

I need some advice. I own a 2020 Frontier SV double cab and I’m contemplating buying a TT that will have a GVW less than 5k lbs. What would you recommend for: 1. Upgrading rear shocks 2. Weight distribution hitch 3. Brake controller - my Frontier has the factory tow package and 7pin connection

asked by: Richard G

Expert Reply:

Hey Richard! Congrats on your new hobby! I've listed my recommendations below.

1. We don't carry shocks but to upgrade your rear suspension, you'll want the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs item # F2558. These air bags have a 5,000 lbs capacity that will level out the rear end of your Frontier when you are towing a travel trailer. All mounting brackets and hardware are included for installation.

I also recommend adding the Firestone Air Command item # F2610 to your truck. This onboard compressor will allow you to adjust the PSI in your air bags from your phone.

2. As far as a weight distribution hitch goes, I recommend the Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control item # FA92-00-0800. This system works with tongue weights with in the 400 lbs - 800 lbs range, which is right where you'd expect a 4,500 lbs - 5,000 lbs travel trailer to be. The built in sway control will keep your trailer in line with your Frontier when you're going down the highway and get passed by a semi or make a sudden move like a lane change.

This system does not include a hitch ball. Depending on your coupler size you will either need a 2" Hitch Ball item # A-90 or a 2-5/16" hitch ball item # C40030.

3. For a brake controller, I highly recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness item # RED53CR. This is a proportional brake controller that automatically adjusts your trailer's braking based on the deceleration of your Frontier. This is the safest and easiest on equipment way to stop or slow your trailer. The Liberty has a unique installation method where the main unit is concealed behind your dash and the only part visible is the control knob. Check out the picture I attached below. A customer did this install on a 2022 Frontier and it blends in well with the factory switches. The included custom wiring harness will give you a simple plug and play installation.

If you have any additional questions go ahead and throw them into the comment box below and I'll be happy to help you.

expert reply by: Jerred H

2020 Nissan Frontier
(click to enlarge)

Jerred H.

10/22/2025

Hey Richard, how did the setup with the Firestone air bags and Fastway e2 hitch work out on your Frontier? I’m curious if the ride and handling felt more stable when towing your travel trailer. Your update could make it easier for others planning a similar setup.