Parts for your 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero-Struts

1996 Mitsubishi Pajero: Do they have struts?

Short answer: no, the 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero doesn’t use MacPherson struts in its suspension. Technical references confirm it runs separate shock absorbers rather than strut assemblies. The Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Workshop Manual (covering early to mid-1990s models, see Group 33 – Suspension) details a double-wishbone, torsion-bar independent front suspension with separate shocks, and a coil-sprung live rear axle with separate shocks. The Haynes Repair Manual for Mitsubishi Montero (1983–1999) and Gregory’s Pajero manuals echo the same setup: no MacPherson strut architecture on this model.

Why no struts? Pajero’s engineering favours serious off-road ability and durability. A double-wishbone front end with torsion bars allows generous wheel travel, strong control of camber under load, and robust packaging around the front diff and CVs. Pairing that layout with separate shock absorbers (rather than structural struts) improves serviceability and heat management on corrugations. At the rear, the live axle with coils and separate shocks offers strength, articulation, and predictable load carrying — ideal for towing and rough tracks. MacPherson struts are brilliant for packaging in passenger cars, but they’re not the first pick for a heavy-duty 4x4 of this era.

It’s common to see “struts” listed online for this Pajero, but that’s usually a naming mix-up. For suspension, you want shock absorbers. The vehicle does, however, use gas lift supports (often called tailgate or bonnet struts) for the rear door and bonnet — but those aren’t part of the suspension.

Shopping or servicing tips for a 1996 Pajero when people say “struts,” read it as “shocks.” Replace shocks in axle pairs (both fronts or both rears) for balanced handling. Inspect for oil seepage, dented bodies, or faded damping (excessive bouncing, nose-dive under brakes, or a choppy ride). Off-road use, towing, and corrugations can shorten service life — many owners see best results replacing shocks around the 80,000–120,000 km mark, earlier if heavily worked. Always check and, if needed, reset front torsion-bar ride height after shock work, then get a wheel alignment. While you’re there, look over:

• Front upper/lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Sway bar links and bushes
• Rear trailing arm and panhard rod bushes

Use quality components suited to Aussie and Kiwi conditions, follow torque specs from the factory manual, and support the vehicle safely on stands. That’ll keep the Pajero riding sure-footed on road and out bush.

Popular questions about 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero “struts”

Does a 1996 Pajero actually have suspension struts?
No — it uses separate shock absorbers with a double-wishbone torsion-bar front and a coil-sprung live rear axle. Multiple technical sources, including Mitsubishi’s own workshop manuals and the Haynes Montero guide, show no MacPherson struts fitted to this model. If a parts listing calls them “struts,” they’re almost certainly referring to shocks.

What should be replaced instead of struts on a 1996 Pajero?
Front and rear shock absorbers. It’s smart to do them in pairs, and to check related wear items while you’re there: front ball joints and control arm bushes, sway bar links and bushes, and rear trailing arm/panhard bushes. After front-end work or torsion-bar adjustment, book a proper wheel alignment.

Can MacPherson struts be retrofitted to a 1996 Pajero?
Not practically. The chassis doesn’t have strut towers or the geometry to support a MacPherson layout. If you want an upgrade, look at heavy-duty shocks, quality bushes, and appropriate springs/torsion bars rather than trying to convert the architecture.