Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander-Struts

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander struts: what they do, and when to replace them

Based on technical references including the Mitsubishi Outlander (GF/GG) 2013 Service Manual – Chassis/Front Suspension, KYB and Monroe catalogues for 2013 Outlander (ANZ), and Autodata/Aldata front suspension specs, the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander runs MacPherson struts on the front axle and separate shock absorbers on the rear multi-link. So “struts” absolutely apply to the front of this model, while the rear uses conventional shocks rather than strut assemblies.

Up front, the strut is a structural part of the suspension that combines a shock absorber with a coil spring seat and mounts. On the Outlander, the strut controls body motion over bumps, keeps the tyre planted through corners, and helps hold alignment angles steady for predictable steering and even tyre wear. Good struts mean better grip on wet chipseal, less nosedive under braking, and a calmer ride over corrugations or speed humps.

As part of regular servicing, front struts are worth a look from about 80,000–120,000 km, sooner if the Outlander tows, sees rough rural roads, or carries the whanau plus gear most weekends. They usually fade gradually, so drivers often adapt without noticing. Replacing tired struts restores control and shortens stopping distances on bumpy roads. Best practice is to replace in pairs, fit new upper mounts/bearings and dust boots/bump stops, and follow with a four-wheel alignment.

• Tell-tales of worn struts on an Outlander: extra bounce after speed humps, front-end clunking over potholes, steering shimmy, uneven or feathered tyre wear, longer stopping on rough surfaces, or oil misting on the strut body.
• When replacing: use quality struts matched to the Outlander’s trim (2WD/AWD, engine), torque all fasteners to spec, and never undo the top nut without a proper spring compressor.
• While in there: inspect sway-bar links, control arm bushes, and tie-rod ends, swap any tired bits to avoid doing the job twice.
• After fitment: get an alignment to protect your tyres and restore crisp steering, then recheck wheel-nut torque after a few short trips.

For owners chasing a tighter feel without harshness, OE-equivalent gas struts are a great pick for Aussie and Kiwi roads, delivering a nice blend of comfort and control.

Popular questions about 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander struts

Do both front struts need replacing together?
Yes, it’s strongly recommended. Struts age at roughly the same rate, changing just one can leave the Outlander with uneven damping and braking stability. Replacing in pairs keeps handling balanced and tyre wear consistent, then an alignment locks in the gains.

How long do the front struts usually last?
On mixed AU/NZ driving, many see 100,000–150,000 km, but heavy loads, corrugated or rural roads, and lots of stop-start work can shorten that. If there’s bounce, clunking, oil weep, or odd tyre wear, it’s time for testing and likely replacement.

Are the rear dampers on a 2013 Outlander struts as well?
No. Technical sources list a multi-link rear with separate shock absorbers and springs. Only the front uses MacPherson struts, the rear units are shocks, which are simpler to swap and don’t carry alignment like a strut does.