Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is a popular compact sedan known for its balanced mix of style, performance, and everyday practicality. When it comes to the suspension system on this vehicle, strut mounts play a crucial role that often gets overlooked. If you've been poking around under the bonnet or planning some suspension work, it helps to know whether your Lancer actually uses strut mounts and what purpose they serve.

Good news for Lancer owners: the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer does indeed feature strut mounts as part of its front suspension setup. This model utilises a MacPherson strut assembly at the front, which typically includes a coil spring, shock absorber, and a strut mount. The strut mount is a small but important component that sits at the very top of the strut assembly where it connects to the vehicle body.

So, what exactly do strut mounts do? They might seem like a simple piece of rubber and metal, but these little mounts have a big job to help keep the ride comfortable and the steering precise.

Firstly, strut mounts provide a secure connection point between the strut and the vehicle chassis. They essentially hold the suspension assembly in place while allowing it to pivot slightly when the wheels turn. This pivot function helps with steering responsiveness and overall handling on the road.

Secondly, strut mounts act as vibration dampers. They isolate road vibrations and bumps before they reach the cabin, making the ride quieter and more comfortable for everyone inside. Without good strut mounts, you'd likely notice more harshness and noise filtered into the car, especially over rough roads or potholes.

Another important function is to accommodate the load from the suspension. The mounts endure significant forces as the suspension works to absorb shocks and keep the tyres in contact with the road. High-quality mounts help maintain alignment and prevent excessive wear on other suspension parts.

For the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer owner, maintaining healthy strut mounts is a key part of ensuring the suspension system performs well. Over time, strut mounts can degrade from constant stress, exposure to the elements, and general wear and tear. Rubber components may crack, harden, or become loose, leading to symptoms like clunking noises when driving over bumps, uneven tyre wear, or a general feeling of looseness in the steering.

When servicing or replacing struts on the Lancer, it is highly recommended to inspect the strut mounts as part of the process. If the mounts are worn or damaged, they should be replaced along with the struts. Replacing strut mounts can restore the smoothness of the ride and improve handling responsiveness, sometimes making a noticeable difference in the vehicle's performance.

Here are some rough pointers for maintaining strut mounts on a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer:

• Have the suspension inspected every 40,000 to 50,000 kilometres or if you notice any abnormal noises or driving issues.
• Look out for clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension when going over bumps, which is often a sign of worn mounts.
• Check for any visible signs of cracking or damage to rubber components around the strut tops during routine maintenance.
• If you're replacing the struts, always consider changing the strut mounts at the same time to maximise longevity and performance.
• Make sure to use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or quality aftermarket parts to ensure proper fitment and durability.

Replacing strut mounts isn't typically complicated, but it usually requires a bit of mechanical know-how and special tools to safely compress the coil springs during disassembly. If you're not confident with DIY repairs, it's worthwhile seeking a trusted mechanic to handle the job.

In the end, strut mounts might not be the flashiest part of the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer, but they are definitely one of those essential suspension components that quietly work together to give drivers a comfortable and controlled ride. Looking after them will keep the Lancer handling smoothly and ensure your daily drives remain enjoyable for years to come.