Parts for your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer-Suspension bushes

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer suspension-bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Suspension-bushes are absolutely used on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (CJ series). Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual for the CJ Lancer (Front Suspension – Group 33A, Rear Suspension – Group 34) and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue list multiple rubber bushes for the front lower control arms, rear multi-link arms, front and rear stabiliser (sway) bars, and the front crossmember. Aftermarket catalogues from AU/NZ brands like Nolathane, SuperPro, and Whiteline also specify direct-fit bush kits for this model, confirming their relevance and fitment.

On a 2009 Lancer, these bushes isolate vibration, keep alignment steady, and let the arms pivot smoothly without metal-to-metal contact. Over time, heat, road grime, UV and loads cause the rubber to harden, crack, or separate from the sleeve. When they’re tired, the car can feel vague, tramline, or clunk over bumps, and it may chew out tyres quicker than it should.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect suspension-bushes every 20,000 km or 12 months. Look for torn rubber, missing chunks, fluid seep (on hydro-filled styles), shiny witness marks from movement, and perished sway bar D-bushes. Any excessive arm movement on a pry-bar check is a red flag.

• Typical symptoms: clunks on take-off or braking, steering shimmy, uneven tyre wear, wandering on the motorway, and instability under hard braking.
• Common wear points on the CJ: front lower control arm rear (compliance) bush, front sway bar D-bushes, and rear multi-link inner bushes.

When replacement time rolls around, there are two main paths. OEM-style rubber keeps it quiet and comfy for daily use. Polyurethane options sharpen response and resist deflection, great for spirited driving, though they can add a touch more NVH. Replacing arms complete with bushes can save press time, but pressing in new bushes is fine if the arms are sound.

Best practice: replace bushes in axle pairs, torque all pivot bolts at normal ride height, and book a full four-wheel alignment straight after. Follow the Mitsubishi service manual procedures and replace any single-use or prevailing-torque fasteners as specified. A quality bush refresh can transform a Lancer’s steering feel, braking stability, and tyre life, making the car feel crisp and predictable again on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

How long do suspension-bushes last on a 2009 Lancer?

With normal commuting, many factory rubber bushes last 100,000–160,000 km. Harsh roads, heat, heavy loads, and performance driving can shorten that. Regular inspections help catch minor wear before it affects alignment or tyres.

Should they choose rubber or polyurethane bushes?

For quiet comfort and OE feel, rubber is the go. For sharper turn-in and better durability under hard use, polyurethane works well, accepting a small increase in vibration and road feel. Mixing options is common—rubber in high-NVH spots, poly in sway bar or control arm locations that benefit most.

Is a wheel alignment needed after bush replacement?

Yes. Any time control arms or key bushes are disturbed, alignment angles change. A four-wheel alignment after installation protects tyres and ensures the Lancer tracks straight and feels consistent.