Parts for your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer-Sway bars & links

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer sway bars & links

Yes, sway bars and links are fitted to the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Lancer (CJ/CF) Workshop Manual (Group 33 Front Suspension and Group 34 Rear Suspension), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and general repair guides (e.g., Haynes coverage for 2007–2017 Lancer) all specify a front MacPherson strut with a stabiliser (sway) bar and drop links, plus a rear multi-link setup that also uses a stabiliser bar and links on 2011 models. That makes sway-bars-&-links directly relevant for servicing this Lancer.

On the road, the Lancer’s sway bars do the quiet heavy lifting. They tie the left and right suspension together via a torsion bar, cutting body roll so the tyres stay flatter in corners, steering feels crisper, and stability improves when changing lanes or dodging potholes. The links (often called drop links) connect the bar to the strut or control arm, while D-bushes clamp the bar to the subframe. If any of these bits wear, the driver may notice clunks over speed humps, vague turn-in, or a shudder through the wheel on bumpy bends.

For servicing, there’s no strict replacement interval. A good rule in Australia and New Zealand is to inspect the sway bar links and D-bushes at each scheduled service (every 10,000–20,000 km). Many Lancers will see links and bushes last 60,000–120,000 km, but rough roads, gravel, and coastal climates can shorten that. Look for torn link boots, looseness when levered, and flattened or cracked rubber bushes. If there’s play or noise, replacement is the fix—lubrication won’t revive worn components.

When replacing, do both links on the same axle, use quality parts, and torque fasteners with the suspension at ride height to avoid preloading the bushes. OE rubber bushes are not designed to be greased, if squeaks persist and the rubber checks out, consider quality polyurethane bushes that are grease-friendly. A wheel alignment isn’t usually required for links or D-bushes alone, but it’s smart to check alignment if other suspension work was done. Note that Ralliart and Evolution variants run different, thicker bars and unique links—match parts to the VIN.

• Common symptoms: knocking over bumps, excessive body roll, steering wander, uneven tyre wear at the edges.
• Driving with a failed link: the car will roll more and feel less planted, it’s generally passable short-term but not ideal—get it sorted promptly.

Popular questions about 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer sway bars & links

Does a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer have front and rear sway bars?
Yes. The Mitsubishi workshop manual for the CJ/CF series details a front stabiliser bar with drop links and a rear multi-link suspension with a stabiliser bar and links on 2011 models. Parts catalogues list the corresponding bars, links, and bushes across the range, with variations for Ralliart and Evo.

How often should sway bar links and bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval. Inspect them at each service, many last 60,000–120,000 km. Replace when there’s play, torn boots, clunks over bumps, or excessive roll. Harsh roads and salty coastal air can bring that timeline forward.

Do you need a wheel alignment after changing sway bar links?
Usually no, because links and D-bushes don’t set alignment angles. Still, an alignment check is a good idea if other suspension components were disturbed or if tyres show uneven wear.