Parts for your 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer-Brake hose

1997 Mitsubishi Lancer Brake Hose — What It Does and When to Replace It

Based on technical sources including the Mitsubishi CE Lancer factory service manual (1996–2003) and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, the 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer is fitted with flexible brake hoses. The Lancer uses hoses at each front caliper and, depending on variant, a centre rear axle hose (drum rear) or individual rear caliper hoses (rear disc models).

The brake hose’s job is simple but critical: carry high‑pressure brake fluid from the body’s hard lines to the moving bits — steering knuckles and suspension — without kinking or leaking. On this Lancer, hoses manage steering lock-to-lock up front and suspension travel at the rear, all while keeping pedal feel firm and response consistent. They’re multi-layer rubber (or braided alternatives) designed to resist swelling, road grime and heat.

Hoses age with time, heat, UV, and moisture in the fluid. That’s why they should be checked at every service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. Many techs in Australia and New Zealand treat hoses as consumables around the 6–10 year mark, sooner if the car sees coastal conditions or spirited driving. If the Lancer runs rear drums, pay attention to the centre rear hose on the axle, on rear-disc models, inspect each rear hose as well.

• Signs it’s time: surface cracks, bulges, chafe marks, rusted fittings, wetness from brake fluid, a spongy pedal, pulling under brakes, or uneven pad/shoe wear.

When replacing, stick with ADR/DOT-compliant parts. Many owners choose braided stainless hoses for a slightly firmer pedal, but quality rubber hoses are perfectly fine for daily use. Always replace hoses in axle pairs. Use a flare-nut spanner to avoid rounding the fittings, support the caliper so it never hangs off the hose, and fit new copper washers where applicable. Route the hose exactly as per the brackets and clips, check there’s no twist, and confirm clearance at full lock and full bump/rebound. Finish with a proper bleed using fresh DOT 4 fluid, ABS-equipped Lancers need the correct bleed sequence to avoid trapped air.

Afterwards, road test on a quiet street, then recheck for seepage. A tidy brake hose job will keep the Lancer stopping straight and true — and make that next WOF or roadworthy a breeze.

Popular questions about 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer brake hoses

How often should brake hoses be replaced on a 1997 Lancer?
There’s no strict mileage rule, but inspection every service is smart. In local conditions, many workshops suggest proactive replacement around 6–10 years, or immediately if there’s any cracking, bulging, corrosion, or fluid weep. If one hose fails, replace both on the same axle.

What brake fluid should be used after hose replacement?
DOT 4 is typically specified for the 1997 Lancer. Always use fresh fluid from a sealed container and bleed until clear, bubble‑free fluid appears at each corner. If the car has ABS, follow the correct bleed order to keep air out of the modulator.

Is it safe to drive if a hose is damp or weeping?
No. A damp or weeping hose can fail suddenly, leading to a long pedal or loss of braking on one circuit. Park it, sort the hose, then bleed the system before returning to the road.