Parts for your 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander-Strut mounts

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Strut mounts are relevant and used on the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Outlander service manual (Front Suspension, Group 33A) specify a MacPherson strut front end with a strut mounting insulator and bearing at the top of each front strut. Parts catalogues from major suppliers (e.g., KYB and Monroe) also list front strut-mount kits for the 2007–2012 Outlander (CW series). At the rear, the Outlander runs a multi-link setup with separate shocks and springs, so there are no rear strut mounts.

On the front of the 2011 Outlander, the strut mount does two big jobs: it secures the strut assembly to the body, and it isolates noise and vibration with a rubber insulator. There’s also an integrated bearing that lets the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. When these components wear, steering can feel notchy or vague, and you can cop clunks over bumps or a dull thud at low speeds.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to have the front strut mounts inspected whenever the front end is apart or during a suspension/steering check. Many workshops in Australia and New Zealand will recommend replacing the mounts when fitting new front struts or springs because the labour overlaps and fresh mounts protect the new gear. Expect inspection at around 40,000–50,000 km intervals, with replacement commonly falling somewhere in the 100,000–150,000 km range depending on road conditions and load use.

• Common signs they’re tired: creaks on steering lock, a clunk over speed humps, steering that doesn’t self-centre cleanly, or feathered front tyres.
• Best practice on replacement: do both fronts as a pair, fit new bearings/insulators, and get a wheel alignment straight after.
• Tech tips: use a quality spring compressor, mark the top plate orientation, torque the top nut and strut-to-knuckle bolts to spec, and inspect the dust boot and bump stop while you’re there.

Ignoring a failing strut mount can lead to harsher ride quality, faster tyre wear, and extra stress on other suspension bits like sway bar links and tie-rod ends. Fitted with decent aftermarket or genuine-spec mounts, the Outlander’s front end stays quiet, steers smoothly, and feels planted on dodgy chipseal or corrugations common on local roads.

Popular questions about 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander strut mounts

Do both front and rear of a 2011 Outlander use strut mounts?
Only the front uses strut mounts. The 2011 Outlander has MacPherson struts at the front (which need top mounts with bearings) and a multi-link rear with separate shocks and springs, so no rear strut mounts there.

This layout is confirmed by Mitsubishi’s service documentation for the CW-series Outlander and widely reflected in reputable parts catalogues.

How long do front strut mounts last on an Outlander?
Many last 100,000–150,000 km, but road quality and loads make a difference. If you hear clunks over bumps, feel notchy steering, or notice uneven front tyre wear, get them checked sooner.

Regular inspections during suspension or brake work help catch wear early and save the tyres.

Should strut mounts be replaced with the struts?
Yes, it’s a smart move. The labour overlaps, and new mounts protect your new struts and restore steering feel. Always replace in pairs and book in a wheel alignment afterwards.

While you’re there, have the dust boots, bump stops, and sway bar links inspected so everything up front works as a team.