Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Control arms

Control Arms on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer: What They Do and Maintenance Tips

The 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer, a popular choice among Aussie drivers, relies on a traditional suspension setup that includes control arms. These components play a crucial role in how the vehicle handles, steers, and maintains stability on the road. Control arms are definitely relevant and used on this model, so understanding their purpose and knowing when to maintain or replace them is key for keeping a Lancer running smoothly.

Control arms are an essential part of the suspension system on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. They act as the link between the car's chassis and the wheel hub, essentially allowing for controlled and flexible movement of the wheels. Specifically, the Lancer uses both upper and lower control arms in its front suspension, while the rear suspension usually includes trailing arms or multi-link setups that also incorporate control arm functions.

The control arms help manage the alignment of the wheels, ensuring they stay in the optimal position as the car moves over bumps, corners, or uneven surfaces. This makes your ride smoother and helps with better handling. When you corner or brake, the control arms keep the wheels stable and prevent unwanted movement like excessive wobbling or sway. For a sporty yet practical car like the Lancer, good control arms are vital for maintaining that balance between comfort and control.

One of the key features of control arms is their bushings - rubber or polyurethane mounts that cushion the connection between the arm and the vehicle's frame. These bushings absorb vibrations and allow the arms to pivot without excessive metal-on-metal contact, which helps reduce noise and wear. Over time, these bushings can degrade due to exposure to dirt, water, and road salt that is common in Australian conditions.

When it comes to servicing or replacing control arms on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Regular inspections during servicing are essential because worn control arms or bushings can lead to several issues. Drivers might notice uneven tyre wear, steering vibrations, or a general decrease in steering responsiveness. If left unchecked, the wear on control arms can lead to alignment problems which not only affect handling but can also cause premature tyre damage.

Replacing control arms is usually straightforward, but the exact approach depends on whether it's the arm itself or just the bushings that need attention. Sometimes, a professional mechanic may suggest replacing the entire control arm assembly if the wear is too extensive or if there's any damage to the metal parts. Other times, simply swapping out the bushings can restore proper function at a lower cost.

When replacing control arms or their bushings, it's a good idea to check the wheel alignment afterwards. Since control arms help maintain precise wheel positioning, any work on them can affect alignment settings. Most workshops will handle this as part of the replacement service to ensure the Lancer drives straight and handles predictably.

Maintenance tips for keeping the control arms in good shape on a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer include regular cleaning during servicing, especially if the vehicle sees a lot of off-road or coastal driving which can accelerate corrosion or bush deterioration. Routine checkups should focus on bushings for cracks or excessive play, and the control arms themselves for any bending, corrosion, or damage.

It's also worth noting that control arms are designed to last, often running close to 150,000 kilometres or more under normal driving conditions. However, rough roads, aggressive driving, or accidents can reduce their lifespan significantly. If a driver notices a clunking sound when going over bumps, persistent pulling to one side, or a loose feeling in the steering, it's time to get the control arms checked out.

Since the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is often appreciated for its reliability and sporty handling, keeping its suspension components like control arms in tip-top shape is essential. Regular servicing that includes inspections of these parts can save money down the track by preventing uneven tyre wear or more serious suspension failures.

Overall, the control arms on a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer are integral to ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. They help keep the wheels properly aligned and connected to the vehicle's frame while allowing the suspension to absorb shocks. When maintained correctly and replaced as needed, they help the Lancer maintain its responsive driving characteristics that many Aussies love.