Parts for your 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero-Coil springs

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero coil springs — what they do and when to replace them

Referencing technical sources: the 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM series, third generation V60) is fitted with coil springs front and rear. Mitsubishi’s own service manuals for NM/NP Pajero (Front Suspension Group 33A, Rear Suspension Group 33B) specify independent double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs and an independent multi-link/double-wishbone rear with coil springs. This configuration is also described in Mitsubishi Motors’ third‑generation Pajero press information and Australian workshop literature (e.g., Gregory’s Manual NM/NP). So coil springs are absolutely relevant to the 2001 Pajero.

On the 2001 Pajero, the coil springs carry the vehicle’s weight, maintain ride height, and keep the tyres planted over corrugations, potholes and sand tracks. Working with the shock absorbers, they soak up bumps so the body doesn’t pogo or bottom out. Because the NM moved to independent suspension at both ends, healthy coils are key to stability, braking confidence and proper Super Select 4WD manners on bitumen and off-road.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to visually check the coils every 20,000 km or yearly—especially if it tows, carries touring gear, or sees beach work. Look for cracked or broken coils, flaking paint with deep rust, polished “shiny” spots where coils are contacting, and any obvious sag (lower ride height one side). Listen for clunks over speed bumps and watch for a nose‑down or tail‑low stance.

Replacement is best done in axle pairs (both fronts or both rears) to keep the Pajero sitting level and behaving predictably. Choose springs rated for the actual setup—bar work, dual batteries, tow kit or rear drawers will all affect the required rate. Genuine‑equivalent coils keep factory comfort, heavy‑duty or +25–50 mm “touring” coils can help with constant loads. Match them with appropriate dampers, and always get a wheel alignment afterwards, front camber/caster will shift on the NM’s double wishbones. During fitment, torque control‑arm and shock fasteners at normal ride height to avoid bush bind.

Coil springs hold a lot of stored energy, so proper spring compressors and safety practices are non‑negotiable—this job is often best left to a qualified mechanic. After beach or outback trips, rinse the underbody to slow corrosion, and replace worn isolators, seats and bump stops when you’re in there. Look after the coils and the big Mitsi will ride flat, track straight and chew through the kilometres without rattling your fillings loose.

• Signs they’re tired: uneven ride height, repeated bottoming, harshness, vague steering, or new tyre wear patterns.
• Typical lifespan varies with use, frequent towing or corrugations accelerate wear.

FAQs

Does a 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero have coil springs front and rear?
Yes. The NM-series Pajero runs independent double-wishbone suspension with coil springs at the front and an independent multi-link/double-wishbone setup with coil springs at the rear. It’s a coil-sprung Pajero all round, not leaf or torsion-bar sprung.

How often should coil springs be replaced on a 2001 Pajero?
There’s no fixed interval. Replace when they’re cracked, sagged, or no longer holding ride height. With mixed Aussie/Kiwi driving, many coils last well past 150,000–250,000 km, but heavy towing, corrugations and salt exposure can shorten that. Inspect annually and after hard trips.

Can heavier-duty or lift coils be fitted, and what else needs changing?
Yes—many owners fit constant‑load or +25–50 mm lift coils. Match them with suitable shocks, get an alignment, and keep CV angles sensible. In NZ and some AU states, larger lifts may need certification/compliance, so check local regs.