Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander-Control arms

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander control arms — what they do and when to service them

Control arms are absolutely used on the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Outlander Workshop Manual (Front Suspension Group 33A, Rear Suspension Group 34), the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, and major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., MOOG and SuperPro) confirm this model runs MacPherson struts with lower control arms at the front, and a multi‑link rear suspension that employs control arms/links and bushes.

On this Outlander, the control arms locate each wheel hub precisely, letting the suspension move up and down while holding camber and caster angles steady. The rubber bushes isolate noise and vibration, while the ball joint (front lower arm) allows smooth steering articulation. Get them right and the Outlander feels planted, tracks straight, and treats tyres kindly. Let them wear out and it can wander, clunk over bumps, shimmy under brakes, or chew out tyres.

For everyday servicing, it’s smart to have the control arm bushes and ball joint boots inspected at each service interval. Look for cracked or perished bushes, split dust boots, or any free play. If the Outlander sees corrugations, towing, or heavy urban kerb strikes, expect faster wear. Many owners find front lower arm bushes or ball joints needing attention somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 kilometres, though use and climate matter.

• Common signs they’re due: clunks over speed bumps, vague steering, uneven tyre wear, steering pull, or instability under braking.
• Best practice when replacing:
  • Consider complete arms (with pre‑installed bushes and ball joint) for a tidy, time‑saving fix.
  • If fitting bushes only, use quality components and a press, align the voids/orientation as specified in the workshop manual.
  • Torque fasteners at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload and premature failure.
  • Book a full wheel alignment immediately after—camber/caster/toe can all shift.
  • Replace any single‑use (stretch) bolts and self‑locking nuts, check sway bar links and strut mounts while you’re there.

A fresh set of control arms restores the Outlander’s composure and protects tyres—handy for long Aussie and Kiwi road trips. Keep up routine checks, jump on symptoms early, and the suspension will stay quiet, safe, and predictable.

Popular questions about 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander control arms

Does a 2013 Outlander have control arms front and rear?
Yes. The front uses MacPherson struts with lower control arms and a ball joint. The rear is a multi‑link layout with multiple control arms/links and bushes. This applies to both 2WD and AWD variants.

How long do the control arm bushes last?
Many see 80,000–150,000 km, but harsher roads, towing, and frequent kerb knocks can shorten that. Regular inspections during servicing are the best guide—replace at the first sign of cracks, tearing, or excess movement.

Do I need an alignment after replacing control arms?
Absolutely. Changing arms or bushes can shift geometry, so a proper four‑wheel alignment helps steering feel, tyre wear, and stability.