Parts for your 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero-Suspension bushes

2004 Mitsubishi Pajero Suspension Bushes — What They Do and When to Replace

Suspension bushes are absolutely fitted to the 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero. The Mitsubishi NM/NP (2000–2006) workshop manual details rubber mounting bushes across the front double‑wishbone and rear multi‑link independent suspension, and leading aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro and Nolathane) list multiple bush kits for this exact model. That means suspension bushes are relevant parts on any 2004 Pajero, whether it’s a city runabout or a touring rig.

On this Pajero, bushes sit at the control arms, sway bar saddles and links, rear lateral and trailing arms, and at shock eyes and subframe mounts. Their job is to cushion metal-to-metal contact, keep alignment steady (caster, camber and toe), and soak up harshness so the cabin stays quiet and composed. Good bushes help the Pajero track straight, brake confidently, and wear tyres evenly — especially important on a heavier 4x4 that tows or tackles corrugations.

Typical signs they’re tired include clunks over speed bumps, vague steering, wandering on the motorway, shudder under brakes, and uneven tyre wear. Visual giveaways are cracked, split or oil‑soaked rubber. Given many 2004 vehicles are now two decades old, age hardening alone can put bushes on the to‑do list even if kilometres are modest.

As part of regular servicing, a tech should inspect all suspension bushes every 20,000–40,000 km, and after serious off‑road trips. When replacing, it’s smart to:

• Change bushes in axle pairs to keep handling balanced
• Torque bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading
• Book a wheel alignment straight after

Choosing materials comes down to use. OE‑style rubber keeps the Pajero quiet and comfy. Quality polyurethane can sharpen steering feel and hold alignment better under load, great for towing and rough tracks, though it may add a touch of NVH and needs the correct grease. Don’t use petroleum products on rubber bushes, and only lubricate poly bushes with the supplied grease. Pressed‑in bushes often need workshop tools, so DIYers should be ready with proper gear.

Common Pajero bush locations:

• Front upper and lower control arm bushes, sway bar D‑bushes and link bushes
• Rear trailing and lateral arm bushes, subframe mounts, sway bar bushes
• Shock absorber eye bushes (where applicable)

Popular questions about 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero suspension bushes

How often should Pajero suspension bushes be replaced?

There’s no fixed kilometre count, because use and environment matter. With regular road use, many last 80,000–150,000 km. Heavy loads, outback heat, mud and corrugations can shorten that. For a 2004 model, age alone can justify replacement if the rubber is perished or cracking. Inspect at each service.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes — what’s better for a 2004 Pajero?

Rubber is quiet and comfy, ideal for daily driving. Polyurethane is tougher, resists deflection and can sharpen steering and alignment retention under towing or off‑road use. Expect a little more road feel with poly, and make sure it’s greased correctly to avoid squeaks.

Is it safe to drive with worn suspension bushes?

Short term, you might get by, but it’s not ideal. Worn bushes can knock, let the alignment drift, increase braking instability and chew tyres. If a bush is split or the inner sleeve has separated, prioritise repairs to keep the Pajero safe and predictable.