Parts for your 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero-Control arms

2004 Mitsubishi Pajero Control Arms: What They Do and When to Replace

The 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero definitely uses control arms. Factory literature such as the Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP) Workshop Manual identifies a double-wishbone front suspension with upper and lower control arms (Group 33A – Front Suspension), and an independent rear multi-link layout with multiple control arms (Group 34 – Rear Suspension). This layout is also documented in Gregory’s Pajero Workshop Manual (1997–2009) and Haynes’ Montero/Pajero repair guides. So yes—control arms are absolutely relevant on a 2004 Pajero.

On this Pajero, the front upper and lower control arms locate the wheel hub and let the suspension move up and down while holding camber and caster where they should be. Out back, the multi-link arms keep toe and camber stable, helping the big wagon feel planted on-road and controlled off the beaten track. Good control arms, bushes and ball joints mean sharper steering, quieter ride, and even tyre wear—exactly what’s wanted for long Kiwi or Aussie road trips and corrugated fire trails alike.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the control arm bushes and ball joints every 10,000–15,000 km (or at each service). Look for perished rubber, torn boots, play in the joints, or rust around mounting points. If an arm is bent from off-road knocks, alignment won’t hold and tyres will scrub.

• Common symptoms: clunks over bumps, vague or wandering steering, uneven tyre wear, steering shake under braking, and visible bush cracking or oil-soaked bushes.
• Replacement tips: replace arms or bushes in axle pairs, torque bolts with the vehicle at ride height, and book a four-wheel alignment straight after.
• Hardware matters: use new cam bolts and nuts if corroded, many front lower arms have integrated ball joints—if the joint’s sloppy, a complete arm is often the tidy fix.
• Build choice: OE-quality rubber bushes ride quietly, heavy-duty or polyurethane options can sharpen response but may add a bit of NVH—choose to suit your driving.

For touring or towing, fresh control arm bushes and ball joints can transform stability and braking feel. Anyone running a lift or heavier accessories should keep an eye on bush life and alignment specs, as changed angles can accelerate wear. Always follow torque specs and procedures in the Pajero NM/NP workshop manual.

Popular questions about 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero control arms

How long do Pajero control arms and bushes last?
It varies with use. A city-driven Pajero might see 120,000–200,000 km from factory arms and bushes, while frequent off-road work, corrugations, or heavy towing can shorten that. The smart move is to inspect at every service and act on early signs—tiny cracks in bushes or slight joint play—before tyres and other components cop it.

Can the bushes be replaced without changing the whole control arm?
Yes, on many arms the bushes can be pressed out and replaced. It’s cost-effective if the arm itself is straight and the ball joint is healthy. If the ball joint is riveted or integrated, or the arm is bent or rusted, a complete arm assembly can save time and deliver a longer-lasting result.

Will a suspension lift affect the control arms?
A modest lift can alter operating angles and bushing load. That can speed up bush wear and make alignment trickier. After fitting a lift, get a proper alignment and consider upgraded bushes or adjustable arms if needed to bring camber and caster back into spec and keep tyre wear even.