Parts for your 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero-Struts

2000 Mitsubishi Pajero struts — are they actually used?

Short answer: no, the 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero doesn’t use MacPherson struts. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Pajero NM/NP Workshop Manual (2000–2006), the earlier V20 Workshop/Gregory’s manuals (1991–2000), and period technical reviews of the 2001 Montero/Pajero confirm the setup. Depending on exact build, the Pajero either runs a front double‑wishbone suspension (torsion bar on late V20s, coil-over shock on NM/NP) and at the rear a live axle with coils (V20) or an independent multi‑link rear with separate coil spring and shock (NM/NP). None of those architectures uses a load‑bearing MacPherson strut.

Why no struts? MacPherson struts are brilliant for compact cars, but a serious 4WD like Pajero is engineered for articulation, durability and load capacity. Double‑wishbone front ends and multi‑link rears manage camber better over long travel, keep ground clearance where it counts, and spread suspension loads through arms and subframes rather than a tall strut tower. That suits towing, corrugations, and off‑road hits without over‑stressing the body.

• Front: independent double‑wishbone with either torsion bars (earlier) or coil‑over shock/damper (NM/NP) — a shock absorber, not a structural strut.
• Rear: live axle with coils (V20) or independent multi‑link with separate coil spring and shock (NM/NP) — again, no struts.
• Service items owners actually replace: shock absorbers, control arm bushes, upper/lower ball joints, sway‑bar links/bushes, springs, and top shock mounts.

If a catalogue lists “struts” for a 2000 Pajero, it’s usually using the word loosely to mean shock absorbers. For this model, look for front and rear shocks to suit your exact series (V20 late model vs NM/NP), then pair them with quality bushes and ball joints. After any shock or bush replacement, a proper wheel alignment is a smart move. When fitting, tighten arm and bush hardware at normal ride height to avoid preloading the rubber, and keep an eye out for tell‑tales like oil‑misted shocks, floaty ride, nose‑dive under braking, or uneven tyre wear. That’s the Pajero’s way of asking for fresh dampers or bushes.

Popular questions

Does a 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero have front or rear struts?
No. It runs double‑wishbone front suspension and either a live‑axle coil rear (late V20) or independent multi‑link rear (NM/NP). Both ends use conventional shock absorbers, not MacPherson struts.

What should be replaced instead of struts on a 2000 Pajero?
Target the shocks, control arm bushes, ball joints, sway‑bar links/bushes, and springs. These parts restore ride control and keep tyre wear even. Choose components to suit your build code and intended load/ride height.

Why do some parts sites list “struts” for my Pajero?
Many sites use “strut” as a catch‑all for dampers. On a 2000 Pajero those listings generally refer to shock absorbers. Match parts by VIN/series and check the mounting style to be sure you’re ordering the right shocks.