Parts for your 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer-Control arms

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer control arms — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer is fitted with control arms. Technical sources confirm this: the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ/CF Workshop Manual (Group 33A: Front Suspension, Group 34: Rear Suspension) details a MacPherson strut front end with a lower control arm (A‑arm) and an independent multi‑link rear that uses lateral and trailing control arms. This layout is also reflected in common OE parts catalogues and the Haynes Repair Manual for Lancer 2007–2015.

On a 2015 Lancer, the control arms keep the wheels properly located under the car, set key alignment angles (camber and caster at the front), and let the suspension move smoothly via rubber bushes and ball joints. They carry braking and cornering loads, help the tyres stay planted, and soak up vibration so the cabin doesn’t cop every bump on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

They’re not a scheduled “replace at X km” item, but they do wear. A good rule is to inspect them at service time, especially every 20,000 km, or sooner if the car drives on rough roads. Look for perished or cracked bushes, torn ball joint dust boots, rust on the arm, or any signs of impact damage. If the Lancer clunks over speed bumps, wanders on the motorway, pulls under brakes, or chews out the inside edges of the front tyres, the front lower arm bushes or ball joint could be on the way out. At the rear, excess play in lateral or trailing arm bushes can cause a floaty feel and uneven tyre wear.

When replacement’s due, it’s smart to:

• Use quality arms or OE‑spec bushes and ball joints.
• Torque bush bolts with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading the rubber.
• Renew any single‑use hardware as specified in the workshop manual.
• Book a full four‑wheel alignment straight after the job.

Plenty of owners replace control arms in pairs across the same axle to keep handling consistent. If the car’s done big kilometres, consider fresh sway bar links and tie‑rod ends at the same time while access is easy. Always follow the Mitsubishi workshop manual for correct procedures and torque specs.

Popular questions about 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer control arms

How do I know if my Lancer’s control arm bushes are worn?

Typical signs include clunks over bumps, a shudder or knock when braking, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear. A visual check under the car may show cracked, oil‑soaked, or torn bushes. Any free play found during a lever test at the arm or hub means it’s time to replace.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?

Yes. Changing arms or bushes alters alignment, especially camber and toe. A four‑wheel alignment will protect your tyres and make the Lancer track straight and feel settled again.

Is it safe to drive with a worn control arm ball joint?

Not recommended. A loose ball joint can separate without much warning, which risks loss of steering control. If there’s play or a torn boot, park it until it’s repaired.