Parts for your 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero-Sway bars & links

2002 Mitsubishi Pajero sway-bars-&-links — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references, sway-bars-&-links are absolutely relevant to the 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP). The Mitsubishi Motors Workshop Manual for NM/NP (2000–2006, Suspension section) specifies front and rear stabiliser (sway) bars with link assemblies, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists corresponding bar, bush and link part numbers for this model. Haynes and Gregory’s manuals for Pajero/Montero of the same era also note stabiliser bars on both axles. So yes — this Pajero is fitted with sway bars and links from factory.

On the 2002 Pajero’s independent front and rear suspension, the sway bar (stabiliser bar) ties the left and right sides together to trim body roll. The links connect the bar to the control arms. On-road, that means flatter cornering and a calmer, more confident feel through sweeping bends. Off-road, the bar still helps keep things predictable at speed, while the Pajero’s suspension geometry handles articulation duties.

As part of servicing your 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero sway-bars-&-links, it’s smart to give them a once-over at each service or roughly every 15,000–20,000 km, especially if it works hard on corrugations or tows. Look for perished D-bushes on the chassis, torn link boots, loose or rusty hardware, and any witness marks where the bar may have been contacting nearby components.

• Common signs it’s time to replace: clunks over small bumps, increased body roll, vague steering on turn-in, uneven tyre wear at the shoulders, or visible play at a link.
• Best practice when replacing: renew the D-bushes with the bar out, replace links in pairs on the same axle, and torque fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height.
• Bush material tips: rubber bushes are quiet and maintenance-free, polyurethane can sharpen response but may need periodic silicone-based grease. Avoid petroleum grease on rubber.

If a link snaps, the Pajero can still be driven gently, but handling will be compromised — particularly in emergency manoeuvres or when towing — so it’s worth sorting promptly. For DIYers, penetrating oil on old nuts and a hex/torx insert to hold the link stud can save headaches. When in doubt, the workshop manual is the go for torque specs and assembly order.

Keep the sway-bars-&-links happy and the big Mitsi stays sure-footed, whether it’s the school run, the Hume, or a run up a rutted fire trail.

FAQs

Do 2002 Pajeros have front and rear sway bars?
Yes. The NM/NP Pajero uses stabiliser bars and links on both axles. This is detailed in the Mitsubishi Workshop Manual (Suspension section) and reflected in the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue for NM/NP models.

How often should sway bar bushes and links be replaced?
There’s no strict interval. Inspect every service or 15,000–20,000 km. Many last well past 100,000 km, but Aussie and Kiwi conditions (heat, corrugations, coastal air) can age rubber faster. Replace when play, noise, cracks, or excess roll appear.

Is it safe to drive with a broken sway bar link?
It’ll usually move under its own steam, but handling is dulled and body roll increases. It’s not recommended for spirited driving, towing, or rough tracks. Repair as soon as practical.