Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer-Struts

1998 Mitsubishi Lancer Struts — What They Do and When to Replace Them

Technical sources confirm the 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer runs MacPherson struts on the front and conventional shock absorbers on the rear. The Mitsubishi workshop manual for the CK/CE series (1996–2003), the Haynes Lancer/Mirage manual (late 1990s to early 2000s), and application catalogues from KYB and Monroe all list front “struts” and rear “shocks” for this model. So yes—struts are relevant to this Lancer, but only at the front.

On the front end, the strut isn’t just a shock absorber, it’s a structural part of the suspension that supports the hub, locates the wheel, and carries the coil spring. It keeps the tyre’s contact patch planted, manages body roll, and helps steering feel sharp. The strut top mount and bearing let the assembly turn smoothly with the steering, so a crook top mount can feel like a notchy or squeaky steering wheel.

Owners of a 1998 Lancer should keep an eye on a few tell-tales: oil misting down the strut body, clunks over speed bumps, a floaty or bouncy ride, nose-diving under brakes, or feathered/cupped tyres. If any of that sounds familiar, the struts may be past their best. Many see 100,000–150,000 km in Aussie and Kiwi conditions, but it’s really condition-based—city potholes and corrugations can knock them off earlier.

When replacing, it’s smart to do both fronts together and budget for new strut mounts, bearings, bump stops, and dust boots. Re-using tired mounts can leave noises or play that feel like a dud new strut. Because the spring is transferred over, a proper spring compressor and safe workshop practices are a must. After fitment, a wheel alignment is highly recommended—camber and toe can shift when the strut comes out, and nobody wants scrubbing tyres.

Quality OE-equivalent units from reputable brands suit this Lancer well. Fresh front struts restore ride control, shorten braking distances on rough roads, and take the sting out of mid-corner bumps. Paired with healthy rear shocks and good tyres, the little Lancer feels tidy, predictable, and easy to live with for daily duties.

• Check for leaks, uneven tyre wear, and knocking noises every service.
• Replace front struts in pairs, add mounts/boots as needed.
• Book a wheel alignment straight after strut work.

Does a 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer have struts front and rear?
The 1998 Lancer uses MacPherson struts on the front and standard shock absorbers on the rear. This layout is shown in the Mitsubishi CK/CE workshop manual and echoed by KYB/Monroe catalogues, which list front struts and rear shocks for this model.

How often should front struts be replaced on a 1998 Lancer?
There’s no fixed interval, it’s condition-based. Many last 100,000–150,000 km, but rough roads, speed humps, and loads can shorten that. If there’s leaking, knocking, bounce, or uneven tyre wear, it’s time to test and likely replace both fronts together.

Do you need a wheel alignment after changing front struts?
Yes. Removing and refitting the strut can alter camber and toe. A proper alignment right after the job protects tyres and ensures the Lancer tracks straight and steers cleanly.