Parts for your 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer-Struts

Understanding Struts on the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer: Purpose and Maintenance Tips

The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is a popular compact sedan that balances sporty styling with everyday practicality. When it comes to its suspension system, many owners and enthusiasts want to know if struts are part of the package and how they impact the car's ride and handling. Good news - the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer does indeed use struts as a key component of its front suspension setup.

Struts might not be the flashiest part of a vehicle, but they play a crucial role in how a car behaves on the road. On the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, the front suspension features a MacPherson strut system. This design integrates the shock absorber and coil spring into one compact unit, which helps reduce overall weight and size, letting engineers pack more into the front end of the car without sacrificing comfort or control.

So, why are struts important on the 2012 Lancer? Well, struts serve a dual purpose. Firstly, they provide structural support to the suspension system by connecting the wheels to the vehicle's chassis. Think of them as the backbone of the front suspension. Secondly, they act as the damping mechanism, absorbing bumps and vibrations from the road. This ensures a smoother ride and better handling, especially when cornering, braking or cruising over uneven surfaces.

One of the advantages of this strut-based setup is that it allows the suspension to be relatively simple and cost-effective while still delivering good performance. The MacPherson struts are also easier to service or replace compared to more complex suspension types, making maintenance a bit more straightforward for owners of the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.

When it comes to servicing the struts, regular maintenance is key. Struts don't usually need routine oil changes or adjustments like some other car parts, but they do wear out over time because they encounter constant stress from the road. Worn struts can lead to issues like excessive bouncing, poor handling, increased braking distances, and uneven tyre wear, all of which can compromise safety and comfort.

Typical signs that the struts might need attention include:

• The car feels excessively bouncy or shaky on rough roads.
• Unusual noises like knocking or rattling when driving over bumps.
• Noticeable sagging or uneven ride height on one corner.
• Increased tyre wear, especially on the edges.
• Longer stopping distances or unstable braking.

If any of these symptoms pop up on a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, it's wise to get the struts inspected promptly. Most mechanics will perform a bounce test and visual inspection to check for leaking fluid, damaged mounts, or worn bushings.

In terms of lifespan, the struts on a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer usually last between 80,000 to 120,000 kilometres, depending on driving conditions and habits. More aggressive driving or poor road surfaces can shorten their lifespan. Keeping an eye on how the car handles and having struts checked during regular servicing can help catch issues early before they snowball into bigger problems.

When it's time to replace struts, it's generally recommended to replace them in pairs - that means both fronts or both rears at once. This ensures balanced handling and consistent performance from the suspension. While it's tempting to swap just one strut to save money, mismatched units can make the car feel unsettled or unpredictable.

Owners should choose high-quality replacement struts that meet or exceed the manufacturer's specifications. Whether using OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or reputable aftermarket brands, proper fitment and installation are vital. Installation involves compressing the coil spring and carefully positioning the new strut, so it's a job best left to trained technicians with the right tools.

Once new struts are fitted, it's a good idea to get the car's alignment checked and adjusted if needed. This step helps maintain tyre longevity and ensures the vehicle drives straight and handles well.

Struts may not be the star attraction, but they are absolutely essential to how the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer drives day to day. Paying attention to their condition and maintaining them properly not only keeps the ride comfortable but also helps keep the car safe on Australian roads full of potholes, bumps, and surprises. So, for anyone driving a 2012 Lancer, understanding struts and knowing when to service or replace them is a smart move for longevity and peace of mind behind the wheel.