The other side dies next.

Here is a link that might be useful: nissanclub new struts

I see I'm not alone from reading that post. Actually Nissan said it's a big problem with some 05 Maxima's and Altima's.

I just don't know enough about cars to understand how a strut could go bad so soon? I looked at the new one, or from what I could see under the wheel well. Doesn't look like it does much or is breakable.

" Doesn't look like it does much or is breakable " Well
it just happends to stop your wheel from bouncing all over
he#@ll.When it leaks you have a steering control problem.
Bottom line. The strut and spring combo holds your car up.

" Doesn't look like it does much or is breakable "

well, all the internals are subject to engineering shortfalls, cost cutting measures, bad design etc. Bad seals, bad clearances, they can fail like anything else if not designed right.