Parts for your 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero-Suspension bushes

1996 Mitsubishi Pajero suspension bushes – what they do and when to replace them

Suspension bushes are absolutely fitted to the 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero. Technical sources such as the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero/Shogun 1991–1999 Factory Service Manual (Chassis – Front and Rear Suspension), the Mitsubishi Electronic Parts Catalogue (ASA/CAPS), and general repair guides like the Haynes Mitsubishi Montero 1983–1999 manual detail rubber bushes at the front upper and lower control arms, anti-roll bar (stabiliser) mounts and links, rear trailing arms, panhard rod, and shock absorber eyes. They’re fundamental to how the Pajero rides, steers, and handles on- and off-road.

On this generation Pajero, the bushes isolate noise and vibration while keeping suspension arms located so wheel alignment stays true. Good bushes help the big Mitsubishi track straight on corrugations, turn in predictably on wet bitumen, and stop those annoying clunks over speed bumps. When they age, perish, or get oil-soaked, you’ll often notice vague steering, wandering, knocks over bumps, rear-axle side-shift (from panhard bushes), and uneven tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect all bushes every 20,000 km or annually. Look for cracking, tears, excessive movement with a pry bar, or separated bonded rubber. For vehicles used off-road, towing, or seeing coastal exposure, shorten the inspection interval. Replace bushes in axle sets (both sides) to keep handling balanced.

When choosing replacements, OE-style rubber keeps the classic Pajero comfort and noise control, while polyurethane offers sharper response and longevity but can transmit more vibration. If mixing materials, keep like-for-like on each axle. Use proper assembly lube on polyurethane bushes and always final-torque all pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bush. After any control arm, trailing arm, or panhard rod bush replacement, book a professional wheel alignment.

Practical workshop tips: support the vehicle securely on stands, mark bush/arm orientation, and use a press for bonded control arm bushes. While you’re there, check ball joints, sway-bar links, and shock mounts. A fresh set of bushes can transform steering feel and stability, making long Kiwi and Aussie road trips and weekend tracks far more relaxed.

• Common symptoms: clunks, steering wander, brake shimmy, rear steer, and cupping tyre wear.
• Priority bushes: front lower control arm, rear panhard rod, trailing arms, and sway-bar mounts/links.

Popular questions about 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero suspension bushes

How often should Pajero suspension bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed kilometre limit because use and climate matter. Many last 100,000–200,000 km, but touring, corrugations, oil leaks, and UV can shorten life. Inspect annually or every 20,000 km and replace on condition—cracks, excessive play, noise, or alignment issues are your cues.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes—what suits a 1996 Pajero best?
Rubber keeps OE comfort and low NVH, ideal for daily and touring use. Polyurethane adds precision and durability, great for towing or off-road articulation, but can raise cabin vibration slightly. Plenty of owners mix: rubber in control arms for comfort, poly in sway-bar mounts for sharper roll control.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing bushes?
Yes—any time control arm, trailing arm, or panhard bushes are changed, alignment can shift. A post-repair alignment ensures correct camber, caster, and toe, protecting tyres and restoring stable steering.