Parts for your 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer-Struts

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer struts — what they do and when to replace

Technical sources confirm the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer is fitted with MacPherson struts on the front axle, while the rear uses a multi-link layout with separate shock absorbers. This is documented in the Mitsubishi Motors service manual for the model year (front suspension section), and mirrored by major fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe that list front struts and rear shocks for the 2014 Lancer. So, struts are absolutely relevant to the front of this vehicle.

On a 2014 Lancer, the front struts do double duty: they dampen bumps and also form a key structural part of the suspension, locating the wheel and holding the alignment steady. That helps keep the car tracking straight, the steering feel tidy, and the tyres wearing nice and even. Because the strut carries a coil spring and is part of the steering axis, any wear shows up as vague steering, clunks over rough roads, or that pogo-stick bounce on undulations.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but many Lancers benefit from new front struts somewhere around 80,000–120,000 kilometres, sooner if they’ve lived on coarse chip or corrugated roads. Regular servicing should include a visual check for oil seepage, torn dust boots, cracked bump stops, and play in the strut top mount/bearing. Uneven tyre wear, nose-diving under brakes, longer stopping distances, or increased body roll are all common prompts to act.

When it’s time, replacing struts in pairs (both fronts) keeps handling balanced. It’s smart to renew the strut mounts, bearings, boots and bump stops while it’s apart. Many owners opt for complete, pre-assembled strut units to save time and avoid compressing springs. If reusing springs, a quality spring compressor and proper safety practice are non-negotiable — this job bites. After any front strut work, a four-wheel alignment is essential to protect tyres and restore the Lancer’s on-centre feel.

For local conditions in Australia and New Zealand, consider quality gas-pressurised struts, they cope better with heat and rougher surfaces. Keeping suspension bushes and sway bar links healthy will let new struts shine, giving the Lancer that crisp, confidence-inspiring behaviour owners expect.

• Inspect at each service or every 20,000 km.
• Replace in pairs, add a wheel alignment.
• Watch for leaks, top-mount noise, bounce, and uneven tyre wear.

Popular questions about 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer struts

Does a 2014 Lancer have struts front and rear?
Yes at the front, no at the rear. The front suspension is MacPherson strut, while the rear is multi-link with separate shocks and springs. That’s why parts catalogues list front struts and rear shock absorbers for this model.

How long do front struts usually last on a Lancer?
Driving style and roads matter, but many last 80,000–120,000 km. Frequent gravel, harsh potholes, or heavy loads can shorten that. If there’s oil seepage, clunking, bounce, or uneven tyres, plan a replacement rather than waiting for a WOF/roadworthy fail.

Is a wheel alignment needed after changing front struts?
Yes. The strut forms part of the steering axis, so removal and refit can nudge camber and toe. An alignment protects tyres and brings back straight-line stability and sharp turn-in.