Parts for your 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer-Strut mounts

2004 Mitsubishi Lancer strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant to the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. Technical references such as the Mitsubishi Lancer 2004 Service Manual (Front Suspension section), the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, and Australian KYB/Monroe parts catalogues all list a front MacPherson strut assembly with an upper insulator and bearing — that’s the strut mount. The rear on most 2004 Lancer variants in AU/NZ uses a multi-link setup with a separate shock and coil, so the “strut mount” with a steering bearing primarily applies to the front.

On the front of a Lancer, the strut mount sits at the top of the strut under the bonnet. It cushions the body from bumps and road harshness, locates the strut securely in the tower, and allows the whole strut to swivel smoothly as you steer via its integrated bearing.

• Isolates vibration and road noise so the cabin stays quieter.
• Provides a pivot point for steering, preventing spring bind and “memory steer”.
• Helps keep alignment stable, so tyres wear evenly.

When they age, the rubber can crack or collapse, and the bearing can get notchy. Common signs on a 2004 Lancer include:

• Clunks or knocks over speed bumps or potholes.
• Heavier, jerky, or “returns-to-centre poorly” steering.
• Uneven tyre wear or a tendency to tramline and wander.
• Visible perishing at the mount or a gap change at the strut tower.

Best practice is to inspect the front strut mounts whenever the front struts or springs are serviced, or around the 80,000–120,000 km mark depending on use. If one side is shot, replace both sides together to keep the front end balanced. It’s smart to renew associated parts at the same time — the bearing, upper insulator, dust boot, and bump stop — and follow the Lancer factory torque specs during reassembly. A wheel alignment afterwards is a must.

Because compressing springs can be hazardous, most owners leave this to a qualified technician with the right compressors and torque tools. If the Lancer is showing the symptoms above, or you’re already swapping struts, fresh mounts will sharpen the steering feel, quieten the front end, and protect your new suspension from premature wear.

Do 2004 Lancers have rear strut mounts?

The front uses MacPherson struts with proper strut mounts and bearings. The rear on most AU/NZ 2004 Lancer models is multi-link with a separate shock and coil, so there’s a rear upper shock mount/insulator rather than a steering-type strut mount with a bearing.

Should strut mounts be replaced when fitting new front struts?

Yes, that’s generally recommended. Old mounts can transfer noise and cause notchy steering even with new struts. Replacing mounts, bearings, boots and bump stops together saves labour and helps the new gear last.

How long do front strut mounts usually last on a Lancer?

Many last 100,000–150,000 kilometres, but rough roads, heavy loads, or past shock wear can shorten that. Go by condition: noise, steering feel, visible rubber cracking, or alignment issues are all good prompts to replace.