Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer-Exhaust mount

1998 Mitsubishi Lancer Exhaust Mount: What it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer uses exhaust mounts (rubber hangers/insulators). This is confirmed by the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ/CK factory service manual exhaust section, the Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS parts catalogue, and common repair guides such as the Haynes Lancer/Mirage manual, all of which show multiple rubber hangers supporting the front pipe, centre section, and rear muffler on this model.

On a ’98 Lancer, the exhaust mounts are the small but mighty rubber isolators that hold the exhaust up while letting it move a touch as the engine rocks and the pipe heats and cools. Their job is to keep the system aligned under the car, stop knocks and rattles against the body, and protect hard parts like the manifold, flex joint, and catalytic converter from stress. When the rubber perishes, the exhaust can sag, hit crossmembers or the rear beam, and drone or thump over bumps—annoying on any commute across town.

For servicing, it’s smart to check the mounts at every service interval (around 10,000–15,000 km or yearly). Look for cracked or split rubber, stretched holes, shiny contact marks on the pipe or floorpan, and a tailpipe that’s sitting off-centre. Common symptoms include a muffler that wobbles more than a centimetre by hand, clonks on take-off, and rattles at idle with the A/C on.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools:

• Let the exhaust cool and support it with a jack and wood block.
• Spray the old hangers and pegs with silicone spray or soapy water.
• Lever the old rubbers off with exhaust-hanger pliers or a flat screwdriver.
• Fit quality OEM-style rubbers, avoid solid mounts as they transfer vibration.
• Inspect brackets and heat shields, replace corroded hardware and use anti-seize on bolts.
• Settle the system so there’s consistent clearance (about a finger’s width) to the body all around, then tighten bracket fasteners to the workshop-manual spec.

Most 1998 Lancers run two to three mounts: one near the front/centre pipe and one or two at the rear muffler. If one has failed, the rest are often close behind, so replacing them as a set saves grief. Aftermarket exhausts may need an extra hanger or slightly firmer rubber to keep the tip centred. A quick road test over speed humps will confirm there are no knocks or buzzes.

Popular questions about 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer exhaust mounts

How many exhaust mounts does a 1998 Lancer have and where are they?
Most have three: one around the front/centre section and two at the rear muffler, though some trims may use two. Exact placement can vary with body style and whether the system is OEM or aftermarket.

How often should the exhaust mounts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Inspect them at each service. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, they commonly last 5–10 years, but heat, oil contamination, and rough roads can shorten that. Replace at the first sign of sagging, splits, or rattles.

What should be used to lubricate hangers during fitting?
Silicone spray or a dab of soapy water works well and won’t harm the rubber. Avoid petroleum-based greases as they can degrade the rubber over time.