Parts for your 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero-Suspension bushes

2002 Mitsubishi Pajero suspension bushes

Based on the Mitsubishi Pajero NM/NP (2000–2006) workshop manual, Mitsubishi’s ASA electronic parts catalogue, and common aftermarket catalogues for this model, suspension bushes are absolutely fitted to the 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero and are a core part of its chassis setup. The Pajero runs independent suspension front and rear, with rubber or elastomer bushes pressed into control arms, trailing/lateral links, anti-roll bar (sway bar) mounts and links, plus various crossmember mounts. Mitsubishi’s service schedules for this era also call for regular inspection of suspension arms and bushes for wear or free play, which confirms their relevance on this vehicle.

On this Pajero, the bushes isolate vibration, allow controlled arm movement, and keep wheel alignment steady under braking, cornering, and off-road articulation. Good bushes mean sharper steering feel, quieter running, even tyre wear, and fewer knocks over corrugations. When they’re tired, expect vague steering, clunks, wandering on the highway, and feathered tyres.

Typical spots include front upper and lower control arm bushes, rear multi-link (trailing and lateral link) bushes, sway bar D-bushes and link bushes, and subframe/crossmember mounts. Factory bushes are rubber for comfort, many owners choose polyurethane in high-wear locations for better longevity and a firmer feel, especially if the Pajero tows or sees rough tracks.

As part of servicing, it’s smart to inspect bush condition every 20,000 km or annually. Look for cracking, perishing, torn sleeves, or oily contamination from a leaking shock. If replacing, do both sides on the same axle to keep handling balanced. Always torque arm bolts at normal ride height, not with the suspension hanging—this prevents pre-loading and premature failure. After any control arm or link bush work, book a wheel alignment (camber/caster on the front, toe front and rear on IRS). Rubber bushes don’t want petroleum lubricants, polyurethane kits usually include the correct grease—use that sparingly. In mixed Aussie and Kiwi driving, original rubber bushes can last anywhere from 120,000 to 200,000 km, but heavy loads, corrugations, or lifted suspension can shorten that.

• Tell-tale signs: clunks over bumps, steering wander, harshness, uneven tyre wear, braking instability.
• Good practice: replace in pairs, check sway bar links while you’re there, and re-torque after a short shakedown drive.

Popular questions about 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero suspension bushes

How do you tell if the Pajero’s suspension bushes are worn?
Listen for clunks over speed humps, feel for vague or wandering steering on the motorway, and watch for uneven or feathered tyre wear. A pry-bar check during a service will show excessive arm movement or cracking in the bush. Any play at the arm mounts is a red flag.

How often should they be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval—condition and use decide it. Inspect yearly or every 20,000 km. Many Pajeros on mixed road/off-road use see bush replacements somewhere between 120,000 and 200,000 km, sooner if they tow, run heavier tyres, or tackle corrugations regularly.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s better on a 2002 Pajero?
Rubber keeps the factory comfort and is quiet. Polyurethane generally lasts longer and tightens up steering feel, great for touring and towing, but it can transmit a touch more vibration. Plenty of owners mix and match—poly for sway bars and high-wear arms, rubber where maximum refinement is preferred.