Parts for your 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer-Bump stops

2006 Mitsubishi Lancer bump-stops

Technical sources confirm the 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer (CS/CH series) is fitted with bump-stops (also called jounce bumpers) front and rear. The Mitsubishi workshop manual for CS/CH Lancer shows a “bump stopper” integrated on the front MacPherson strut piston rod beneath the dust boot, and a rear shock absorber “bump stopper”. This is backed up by OEM parts catalogues (Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS) listing front and rear bumpers/bump rubbers for the 2006 VIN range, and by suspension catalogues from major damper manufacturers used in Australia and New Zealand that specify dust boot and bump-stop kits for 2002–2007 Lancer models.

On this Lancer, the bump-stops act as compact, progressive cushions that catch the last portion of suspension travel. They protect the struts and shocks from metal-to-metal bottoming, help the car stay composed over big hits, and quietly add a bit of spring rate near full compression for better control when loaded or cornering hard. They’re small, but they save tyres, wheel bearings and strut internals from a hiding when roads get lumpy or when the car’s carrying mates and luggage up the coast.

They’re usually a micro‑cellular polyurethane or rubber piece tucked under the dust boot, so they can perish with age, heat, oil mist from a weeping strut, or rough roads. On a 2006 car, it’s common to find them cracked, shortened, or missing altogether. Telltales include a sharp thud over big bumps, harsher ride than usual, split strut boots, or witness marks where the suspension has been bottoming.

• Inspection: Ask for a look whenever the front struts or rear shocks are out, or at major services around every 40,000–60,000 km. The dust boot often needs to be gently lifted to see the bumper.
• Replacement: Swap bump-stops in pairs on the same axle. Many quality kits bundle a new dust boot and bumper together—ideal for the Lancer. Stick with OEM‑equivalent or reputable aftermarket parts, avoid trimming unless specifically instructed by the manufacturer.
• Lowered cars: If the Lancer’s on shorter springs, consider a shorter, progressive bump-stop matched to the reduced travel to avoid constant contact.
• Workshop tips: Use proper spring compressors on the front MacPherson struts, renew the upper mount bearing if it’s notchy, and get a wheel alignment after front strut work. Torque fasteners to the workshop manual specs.

Treat bump-stops as inexpensive insurance. Fresh bump-stops and boots help the Lancer ride quietly, protect new shocks, and keep handling tidy on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

Does a 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer have bump-stops front and rear?
Yes. The CS/CH Lancer uses a front MacPherson strut with a bump-stop under the dust boot, and the rear shocks also use bump-stops. They’re factory-fitted components shown in the service manual and parts catalogue.

What are the signs the Lancer’s bump-stops need replacing?
Look out for harsh thuds on big bumps, perished or missing dust boots, visible cracks in the bump-stop, or signs the suspension has been bottoming. If a strut is leaking, assume the bump-stop and boot need doing at the same time.

Is it safe to drive with damaged bump-stops?
For short trips you might get by, but it’s not ideal. Without a good bump-stop, the suspension can bottom out, risking damage to struts, mounts and even wheels. It also makes the ride harsher and can upset handling when loaded.