Parts for your 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer-Bump stops

2007 Mitsubishi Lancer bump-stops: purpose, care and replacement

Yes, bump-stops are fitted to the 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer. Technical sources that confirm this include: Mitsubishi Motors Lancer CH/CS/CT Workshop Manual (Group 33A Front Suspension and Group 33B Rear Suspension), which lists a “bump stopper/jounce bumper” as part of the strut and shock assemblies, the Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), which shows “Stopper, shock absorber” for front and rear, and aftermarket catalogues from KYB and Monroe that supply boot-and-bump-stop service kits for 2002–2007 Lancer models commonly sold in Australia and New Zealand. Whether the car is a late CH run-out or early CJ, the front MacPherson struts and rear dampers use jounce bumpers.

On a 2007 Lancer, bump-stops (also called jounce bumpers) are the dense foam or polyurethane cushions that sit on the strut/shock shaft under the dust boot. Their job is to prevent the suspension from bottoming out on big hits, protect the damper internals, and give a progressive, controlled feel at the end of travel. They also help keep the tyres in contact with the road by smoothing out those last few millimetres of compression, which is especially handy on rough Kiwi back roads or Aussie corrugations.

• Why they matter: Without healthy bump-stops, the Lancer can “bang” into the end of travel, risking bent strut rods, damaged mounts, torn top hats, and even tyre-to-guard contact.
• When to inspect: Check them at every service or at least every 20,000 km. They live under the boot, so a quick look when the strut is out (e.g., during brake, spring, or damper work) is best.
• Typical wear: Perishing, cracking, or crumbling foam, torn or missing dust boots, harsh bottoming, clunks over speed humps, or a jittery ride even on moderate bumps.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: the strut/shock comes out, the spring is compressed, and the bump-stop and boot are swapped. It’s smart to replace them whenever new shocks/struts go in, or if they’re perished. Do both sides of an axle together to keep handling even. After front strut work, a wheel alignment is recommended to keep it tracking straight and protect your tyres. Choose quality parts that match OE dimensions so the bump engagement point remains correct, the Lancer’s suspension tuning assumes that specific length and stiffness. Keeping bump-stops in shape helps the car feel settled, protects expensive components, and makes daily driving that bit quieter and comfier.

Do 2007 Mitsubishi Lancers have bump-stops?
They do. Both the front MacPherson struts and the rear dampers use jounce bumpers as part of the suspension’s end-of-travel control. They sit under the dust boots on the damper shafts.

How often should bump-stops be replaced?
There’s no strict interval, but it’s good practice to inspect them at each service and replace them when they’re perished, missing, or whenever you fit new shocks/struts. Many owners see them last 80,000–150,000 km depending on climate and road use.

What are the signs of worn bump-stops on a Lancer?
Harsh bottoming or a “thud” over big bumps, clunks on speed humps, and a more nervous ride. Visual checks may show cracked or crumbled foam and torn dust boots, often with oil or road grime baked in.