Parts for your 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer-Strut mounts

2006 Mitsubishi Lancer strut-mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Strut-mounts are fitted to the 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Lancer Workshop Manual for the CS/CT series (2002–2007) specify a front MacPherson strut suspension with an upper insulator/top mount and bearing. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists a front strut top mount for 2006 Lancer variants, and major aftermarket catalogues from KYB and Monroe also supply dedicated front strut-mounts for this model. That confirms strut-mounts are relevant for the front suspension of the 2006 Lancer.

On this Lancer, the front suspension uses MacPherson struts, and the strut-mounts sit at the top of each strut assembly. Their job is twofold: cushion road impacts through a rubber insulator to keep the cabin quiet and composed, and allow the strut to rotate smoothly when steering via an integrated bearing. When the strut-mounts are in good nick, the car tracks straight, turns cleanly, and rides without clunks or creaks.

As they age, the rubber can harden or crack and the bearing can bind. Common signs include a knock over bumps, a groan or spring “twang” when turning the wheel, vague steering feel, or a slight pull after cornering. If there’s visible cracking around the mount, or rust and play at the top of the strut, it’s time to act. Because the mounts carry load and affect alignment and steering return, they’re more than just comfort parts—they’re safety critical.

Good workshop practice is to replace strut-mounts whenever front struts are being replaced, or proactively around high kilometres. Many owners consider fresh mounts somewhere after 100,000 km, earlier if the car sees rough roads. Always do them in axle pairs to keep steering feel even left to right. Choose quality OE-equivalent mounts with new bearings to avoid rework.

• Ask for a strut-mount inspection at each service—look for torn rubber, seized or gritty bearings, and top-hat play.
• If the steering feels notchy or you hear a clunk on take-off or over speed humps, get the fronts checked promptly.
• After mount or strut work, a proper wheel alignment is essential to protect tyres and restore correct steering feel.

A competent workshop will support the knuckle, compress the spring safely, and torque fasteners with the suspension at ride height. Done right, fresh strut-mounts give the Lancer a tighter front end, quieter cabin, and more confident turn-in—well worth it for everyday driving across Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer strut-mounts

What are the symptoms of worn strut-mounts on a 2006 Lancer?
Owners often notice a dull clunk over driveways or potholes, a creak or twang when turning the wheel at low speed, and slightly vague or notchy steering. Visual clues include cracked rubber around the top mount and movement at the strut top when rocked. Uneven tyre wear and a steering wheel that doesn’t self-centre smoothly can also point to tired mounts.

How often should strut-mounts be replaced?
There’s no hard interval, but many workshops recommend inspecting them at every service and planning replacement alongside new front struts—commonly somewhere after 100,000 km, sooner on rough roads. If there’s noise, binding, or visible damage, replace immediately and do both front mounts together.

Can worn strut-mounts affect alignment and tyre wear?
Yes. Because the mount locates the top of the strut, excess play or a collapsed rubber insulator can upset camber and caster, leading to feathered or uneven tyre wear. After fitting new strut-mounts or struts, a full wheel alignment is recommended to protect tyres and restore sharp steering.