Parts for your 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero-Control arms

2000 Mitsubishi Pajero Control Arms

Control arms are absolutely used on the 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/Gen 3). Technical documentation including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1999–2006 Workshop Manual (Group 33A: Front Suspension, Group 33B: Rear Suspension) specifies a front double-wishbone layout with upper and lower control arms and an independent rear suspension using multiple control arms/links. The Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue for NM/NP models, as well as common aftermarket parts catalogues, also list front upper and lower control arms and rear suspension arms for this vehicle.

On a 2000 Pajero, the control arms (also called wishbones or A-arms) locate each wheel and let the suspension move up and down while keeping the tyre tracking true. They carry the bushes and ball joints that isolate vibration, set geometry, and allow the hub to pivot for steering. Up front, the upper and lower arms work together to maintain the correct camber and caster as the suspension cycles. At the rear, the independent setup uses multiple arms to manage toe and camber so the big wagon stays planted on-road and composed off the beaten track.

With age, bush rubber hardens and cracks, and ball joints develop play. Tell-tales include clunks over bumps, wandering or tram-tracking, uneven tyre wear, vague steering, and a knock when braking or taking off. A visual check under the vehicle for torn bushes, leaking hydraulic bushes (if fitted), or split ball joint boots is worthwhile, especially if it sees corrugations and off-road work.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro and a doable driveway job for the keen home mechanic with the right gear. A few tips for the Pajero:

• Always support the chassis safely and unload the suspension before removing arms.
• Torque pivot bolts with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading new bushes.
• Some arms have serviceable ball joints, others are supplied as complete assemblies—check the design before ordering parts.
• Book a wheel alignment after any arm or bush replacement, camber/caster/toe will shift.

For most Aussie and Kiwi use, quality OE-style rubber bushes keep NVH civilised. Polyurethane can sharpen response, but expect a firmer ride and more feedback. As a rule of thumb, many Pajeros start needing front lower arm bushes and ball joints somewhere between 120,000–200,000 km, sooner if they’ve lived a hard touring life. Inspect annually or every 20,000 km during servicing and replace at the first sign of play—fresh control arms restore steering feel, braking stability, and tyre life on a 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero.

Popular questions about 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero control arms

How do I know the control arm bushes or ball joints are worn on a 2000 Pajero?
Common signs are clunks over speed bumps, a knock when braking or taking off, steering that won’t self-centre cleanly, and feathered or uneven tyre wear. Under the vehicle, look for cracked or torn bushes, shiny witness marks from movement, and split or leaking ball joint boots. Any play felt when levering the arm or rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o’clock means it’s time for parts.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing Pajero control arms or bushes?
Yes. Changing arms or even just bushes alters camber, caster, and toe. A proper four-wheel alignment brings the Pajero back to spec, prevents rapid tyre wear, and makes the steering feel right again. Ask the shop to check ride height and bush pre-load at the same time.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for a 2000 Pajero—what’s better?
For touring, commuting, and towing, quality OE-style rubber bushes are usually best—they’re quiet and compliant. Poly bushes can sharpen steering and resist deformation, which some drivers like for off-road control, but they can add noise and harshness. Choose based on how the Pajero is used and the ride you prefer.