Parts for your 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer-Strut mounts

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer strut-mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical sources, strut mounts are definitely fitted to the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. The Mitsubishi Lancer CJ/CF Workshop Manual specifies a MacPherson strut front suspension with an upper strut mount and bearing assembly. Mitsubishi’s electronic parts catalogue for CJ Lancer lists a dedicated front strut mounting and bearing, and major aftermarket catalogues (KYB and Monroe) supply front strut-mount kits for 2008–2017 Lancer models. The rear of this Lancer uses separate shock absorbers with top mounts, not rear strut mounts.

For the 2012 Lancer, the front strut mounts sit at the top of each front strut under the bonnet. They secure the strut to the body and act as a cushion to isolate road noise and vibration. An integrated bearing lets the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. In simple terms, they keep the front end quiet, tight, and pointed where it’s steered.

Over time, the rubber in the mount can harden or crack, and the bearing can wear. When that happens, drivers may hear clunks over bumps, creaks while turning the wheel, or notice vague steering and uneven tyre wear. In wet weather or on coarse-chip roads common across Australia and New Zealand, worn mounts can add a lot of harshness and shake through the cabin.

During regular servicing, it’s smart to have the front strut tops inspected for perishing, splits, and play. A mechanic can check for movement at the top hat, look for shiny metal witness marks, and feel for notchiness in the bearing with the strut unloaded. If the car’s past 120,000–160,000 kilometres, or the front shocks are due, it’s cost‑effective to replace the strut mounts at the same time. Replacing in pairs keeps steering feel consistent side to side.

Quality mount kits usually include the rubber insulator and the bearing. Fresh mounts can noticeably sharpen steering response, reduce road roar, and help tyres wear more evenly. After any front-end work like this, a wheel alignment is essential to get camber and toe back on spec and to keep the Lancer tracking straight.

Because the rear of the 2012 Lancer uses shocks, not rear struts, it relies on different upper mounts. Those can wear too, but they’re a separate part from the front strut mounts.

• Common signs of worn front strut mounts: clunks over bumps, creaks when turning, steering wander, cupped or feathered front tyres.
• Best practice: replace mounts with the struts, do both fronts together, and follow torque specs with the vehicle at normal ride height.

Popular questions about 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer strut-mounts

How long do Lancer strut mounts usually last?
In local conditions, many last 120,000–160,000 kilometres, but life varies with road quality and load. City kerbs, speed humps and coarse rural seal can shorten their lifespan. If the front struts are tired, it’s sensible to renew the mounts at the same visit.

What symptoms point to a bad strut mount on a 2012 Lancer?
Listen for a dull clunk over sharp bumps, a groan or creak while turning the wheel at low speed, and watch for wandering or tramlining. Uneven or cupped tyre wear on the front axle can also hint the mount or its bearing isn’t doing its job.

Should both front strut mounts be replaced together?
Yes. Replacing them as a pair keeps steering effort and noise levels even on both sides. It also saves on repeat labour because the same disassembly is required on each corner, and an alignment is only needed once.