Parts for your 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero-Struts

Are “struts” used on the 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero (NP)?

Short answer: no. The 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero (NP, Gen 3) does not use MacPherson struts. Its suspension is all‑independent, with a double‑wishbone front end and a multi‑link independent rear, each using separate shock absorbers and coil springs (front is a coil‑over shock on wishbones, but it’s not a structural strut). That means any catalogue listing “struts” for this model is usually referring, loosely, to shock absorbers.

Technical sources that describe the Pajero’s suspension layout include:

• Mitsubishi Motors Workshop Manual for NM/NP Pajero (2000–2006), Suspension (Group 33)
• Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual: Mitsubishi Pajero 1997–2009 (AU/NZ editions)
• Autodata technical specifications for 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero (NP)

Why no struts on this Pajero? MacPherson struts act as a structural member and replace the upper control arm. The NP Pajero’s front end uses an upper and lower control arm (double wishbone), so there’s no need for a strut tower or a structural strut. This arrangement suits a heavy-duty 4WD that’s expected to tour, tow, and tackle rough tracks: it offers robust camber control, good wheel travel, and packaging that keeps loads out of the body structure. Out back, the independent multi‑link layout likewise uses separate shocks and coils rather than struts.

So, if someone’s shopping for “2003 Mitsubishi Pajero struts,” what they actually want is shock absorbers. Up front, they’re coil‑over shocks mounted to the wishbones, at the rear they’re standalone shocks beside the coils. When servicing, a mechanic will focus on:

• Shock absorbers (leaks, fade, dented bodies)
• Control arm bushes and ball joints (front), and multi‑link bushes (rear)
• Top mounts/insulators for the front coil‑over shocks
• Sway bar links and bushes, wheel alignment, and tyre wear patterns

If the ride’s bouncy, braking nose‑dives, or the tyres are cupping, it’s time to test the shocks. For mixed Kiwi and Aussie driving, many owners see best results replacing shocks around 60,000–100,000 km, sooner for heavy towing or corrugated outback roads. Quality aftermarket shocks (standard, heavy‑duty, or foam‑cell) can sharpen handling and comfort without changing the Paj’s fundamental suspension design.

Popular questions about 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero “struts”

Does a 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero have struts?
No. It uses double‑wishbone front and independent multi‑link rear suspension with shock absorbers and coil springs. Some parts catalogues use “struts” as a catch‑all, but on this model they’re shocks, not structural MacPherson struts.

What should be serviced instead of struts on a 2003 Pajero?
Focus on shock absorbers, front upper/lower control arm bushes and ball joints, rear multi‑link bushes, sway bar links/bushes, and the front shock top mounts. After any suspension work, get a proper wheel alignment and check tyre condition.

How often should shocks be replaced on a 2003 Pajero?
It depends on use. For mainly sealed roads, many owners refresh shocks around 60,000–100,000 km. Frequent 4WDing, towing, or corrugations can shorten that interval. Watch for oil seepage, poor damping, longer stopping distances, and uneven tyre wear.