Parts for your 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer-Struts

Understanding Struts on the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer does indeed use struts as part of its suspension system, primarily in the front suspension setup. Struts play a crucial role in the overall handling, ride quality, and safety of the vehicle. For anyone driving or servicing a 2015 Lancer, understanding what struts do and when to replace or maintain them is important for keeping the car running smoothly and safely on Australian roads.

So, what exactly are struts? Struts are a major suspension component that serve a dual purpose. They act like shock absorbers, providing damping to control the bounce of the vehicle after hitting bumps, and at the same time, they provide structural support to the suspension system. Unlike a simple shock absorber that only dampens, struts carry the weight of the vehicle and are integral to the alignment of the wheels. On the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer, the front suspension uses a MacPherson strut design which is common in many passenger cars. This design is popular because it saves space and lowers production costs while providing solid handling characteristics.

Replacing or servicing the struts on a 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer is a good idea whenever certain signs appear or as part of routine maintenance. Struts wear out gradually and usually last somewhere between 80,000 to 160,000 kilometres depending largely on road conditions and driving habits. In Australia, especially on rough or unsealed roads, struts might wear quicker due to harsher impacts and vibration loads.

Some common indicators that the struts may need attention include:

• Excessive bouncing or swaying when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces
• A noticeable drop in ride comfort
• Uneven tyre wear, especially on the front tyres
• Leaking fluid or visible damage on the strut body
• The front of the car dipping noticeably under braking

If the Lancer's struts are worn out, it not only affects comfort but also vehicle safety. Worn struts can reduce wheel contact with the road which seriously impacts braking, cornering stability, and overall control. Uneven tyre wear caused by bad struts can also lead to premature tyre replacement, adding to ongoing costs.

When servicing the struts, it is usually recommended that both front struts be replaced as a pair to maintain balanced suspension characteristics. While it may be tempting to replace one strut at a time, having one old and one new strut on the same axle can cause handling inconsistencies. Also, it's wise to inspect other suspension parts like coil springs, bushings, and mounts during replacement since these components work closely together.

For 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer owners, a good approach is to have the struts inspected during regular service intervals. A qualified mechanic will typically check for signs of damping loss, structural damage, and leaks during a routine suspension check. Given Australia's diverse driving environments, catching wear early helps avoid larger suspension or safety issues down the track.

There are a few types of strut replacements available - from OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts to aftermarket options. OEM parts guarantee the closest fit and performance match to the original Lancer specification. Aftermarket struts can range widely, some may offer improved performance or longevity but always ensure they are compatible with the 2015 Lancer's suspension setup.

Installing new struts is not just about installing a shock absorber. It typically involves compressing the coil spring for safe removal and fitting, checking and adjusting the wheel alignment post-installation, and inspecting the strut mounts and hardware. For this reason, it is generally recommended to have a professional mechanic carry out the replacement rather than a DIY approach.

Maintaining the struts over the lifespan of the vehicle also means keeping an eye on other suspension components and tyres. Tyres inflated to the correct pressure and in good condition work better with struts to provide a stable, safe ride. Steering and suspension components that are tight and free of excessive play help keep the strut performing as intended.

At the end of the day, the struts on the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer play a vital role in how the car handles the bumps and scrapes of daily driving. Treating strut maintenance seriously helps keep the vehicle feeling sharp, safe, and comfortable whether tackling city streets or more rugged terrain out in the bush. Regular checks and timely replacement mean this important part of the suspension system continues to do its job well, protecting both the car and its passengers.