Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer-Strut mounts

1998 Mitsubishi Lancer strut mounts

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant on the 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. Factory technical references including the Mitsubishi CE/CK Lancer Workshop Manual (Front Suspension – Group 33A) and the Mitsubishi ASA/EPC parts catalogue list a front MacPherson strut assembly with an upper insulator/mount and bearing. Aftermarket catalogues (e.g., KYB, Monroe mounting kits) also specify front strut mounts for 1996–2003 Lancer models. The rear on most 1998 Lancers uses separate shock absorbers, not MacPherson struts, so there are no rear strut mounts to worry about—front only.

On the front end, the strut mount ties the strut to the bodyshell, cushions vibration, and—via an integrated bearing—lets the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. That rubber-and-bearing combo keeps noise, vibration and harshness out of the cabin while helping the car track true. When the mount or bearing wears, steering feel and tyre wear can go off, and odd noises creep in over bumps and while turning.

Typical signs a 1998 Lancer’s front strut mounts are due include a dull clunk on rough roads, a creak or graunch when winding on lock, notchy steering return-to-centre, or feathered/uneven tyre wear despite correct pressures. Owners on corrugated or potholed roads, or with higher kilometres, will usually see symptoms sooner as the rubber hardens and the bearing loses its smoothness.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech but needs proper spring compressors and the right torque settings from the workshop manual. Best practice is to replace strut mounts in pairs, check the strut bearing, and finish with a wheel alignment. While it’s apart, it pays to inspect these related bits and refresh as needed:

• Upper bearing/insulator and dust boots
• Bump stops and spring seats
• Struts and top nut if showing wear

As a rule of thumb, many Lancers benefit from new mounts somewhere between 100,000 and 160,000 kilometres, earlier if there’s noise or vague steering. During routine servicing, a quick check for play at the top of the strut, perished rubber, or rust around the mount tower can save headaches later. Fitted correctly with quality parts, fresh strut mounts bring back that tidy steering feel and quieter ride Lancer owners appreciate.

Do 1998 Lancers have rear strut mounts?

No. Technical manuals and parts catalogues show the rear uses separate shocks and springs on this generation, so there are no rear strut mounts—only the front has strut mounts with bearings.

How often should front strut mounts be replaced?

There’s no strict interval, but many need replacement between 100,000–160,000 km. Replace sooner if there are clunks, steering notchiness, or uneven tyre wear. Always replace mounts in pairs and get an alignment.

Do strut mounts affect wheel alignment?

Yes. Worn mounts can shift camber/caster slightly and upset steering feel. After replacing mounts (and any struts), a professional alignment is recommended to keep tyre wear and handling on point.