Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer-Control arms

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer control-arms: what they do and when to replace them

Control-arms are absolutely relevant to the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Motors Lancer CJ/CF Workshop Manual (Front Suspension – MacPherson strut, Rear Suspension – multi-link/torsion beam sections), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and common aftermarket catalogues for 2013 Lancer list complete front lower control-arm assemblies and rear suspension arms for applicable trims. That means every 2013 Lancer uses front lower control-arms, with additional rear control/lateral arms on models fitted with independent rear suspension.

On a 2013 Lancer, the control-arms form the solid link between the body and the wheel hub, letting the suspension move up and down while keeping steering geometry where it should be. Up front, they team up with the MacPherson struts, their bushings soak up vibration and noise, while the ball joint lets the hub steer and move smoothly. On models with multi-link rear ends, a set of rear arms manages toe and camber so the car tracks straight and looks after its tyres.

Keeping the control-arms in good nick pays off in braking stability, sharper steering feel, and even tyre wear. As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect them every 20,000–30,000 kilometres or annually—more often if the car sees rough roads. Look for cracked or oil-soaked bushes, torn ball-joint boots, rust around mounting points, and any play when the wheel is levered. If there’s a clunk over bumps, a shimmy under braking, wandering on the motorway, or inside-edge tyre wear that won’t align out, the arms or their bushes could be the culprit.

• Replace arms or bushes in pairs (left and right) to keep handling balanced.
• Use new hardware where specified and torque bushes with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading.
• Always get a full four-wheel alignment after control-arm work, on multi-link rears the toe/camber settings are critical.
• Consider doing sway-bar links at the same time—they often age out together.

Quality replacement options (OE-style rubber or reputable polyurethane for sharper response) will restore the Lancer’s tidy road manners. Done properly, fresh arms and a proper alignment bring back that planted, predictable behaviour owners expect, and help the tyres last their distance.

Technical references consulted: Mitsubishi Motors Lancer CJ/CF Workshop Manual (2013), Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2013 Lancer, and major aftermarket suspension catalogues listing front lower control-arms and rear suspension arms for 2013 Lancer models.

Popular questions about 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer control-arms

Does the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer have rear control-arms?
Many 2013 Lancers use a multi-link rear suspension with multiple arms that control toe and camber. Some entry trims use a torsion-beam rear, which doesn’t have traditional upper/lower control-arms but still uses front lower control-arms. Your VIN or build plate can confirm which rear setup you’ve got.

How long do control-arm bushes last on a Lancer?
In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, expect 80,000–150,000 kilometres, but heat, potholes, and fluid leaks can shorten that. If you hear knocking, feel vague steering, or see uneven tyre wear, it’s time for an inspection regardless of kilometres.

Do you need an alignment after replacing control-arms?
Yes—every time. Changing arms or bushes alters geometry. A proper four-wheel alignment locks in camber, caster, and toe so the Lancer drives straight and protects its tyres.