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Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Sway bars & links
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2016 Mitsubishi Lancer sway-bars-&-links: what they do and when to replace them
Based on technical references including the Mitsubishi Motors Lancer (CJ/CF) 2015–2017 Service Manual (Front Suspension – Group 33, Rear Suspension – Group 34), and OEM parts catalogues (ASA/CAPS), the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is fitted with a front stabiliser (sway) bar and ball-jointed sway-bar links, and most trims also feature a rear stabiliser bar with links. Aftermarket fitment guides and workshop manuals (e.g., Haynes for 2008–2017 Lancer) also cover stabiliser link service on this model, confirming sway-bars-&-links are relevant to the vehicle.
On the Lancer, the sway-bar ties the left and right suspension together to trim body roll and keep the tyres flatter on the road through corners. The links are the small articulated arms that connect the bar to the strut or control arm. Together, they sharpen turn-in, improve stability in crosswinds, and help the car feel planted without making the ride too harsh.
Because sway-bar links use compact ball joints and sealed boots, they cop a tough life on Aussie and Kiwi roads. Over time the joints loosen or the boots split, letting grit in and grease out. Bushes that clamp the bar to the chassis can also harden or squeak. A tidy Lancer will benefit from periodic checks as part of routine servicing.
- Tell-tale signs: a light knocking over small bumps, extra body roll, vague steering on quick lane changes, or visible play/torn dust boots at a link.
- Inspection rhythm: have the links and bar bushes checked at each service or roughly every 20,000 km. A quick lever test with the wheels hanging can reveal play.
- Replacement tips: do them in pairs on an axle, torque the hardware with the suspension at normal ride height to avoid pre-load, and re-check after a short shakedown.
- Parts choice: quality OEM or reputable aftermarket links and rubber (or polyurethane) bushes. Expect lifespan anywhere from 60,000–120,000+ km depending on roads and loads.
- Workshop notes: stubborn link studs often have a hex/torx provision to hold them while you spin the nut, always follow the workshop manual torque specs. An alignment usually isn’t required for links alone, but if other front-end fasteners were loosened, book one.
Keeping the sway-bars-&-links in good nick lets a 2016 Lancer steer crisply and wear its tyres evenly, whether it’s a daily city runabout or tackling winding coastal highways.
Do all 2016 Mitsubishi Lancers have both front and rear sway-bars-&-links?
Every 2016 Lancer has a front stabiliser bar and links. Most trims also have a rear bar with links, though exact fitment can vary by market and specification. If unsure, a quick look under the rear of the car for a U-shaped bar spanning the suspension, or checking the VIN in an OEM parts catalogue, will confirm what’s fitted.
How often should sway-bar links and bushes be replaced on a 2016 Lancer?
There’s no fixed interval, it’s condition-based. Have them inspected at each service. Many owners see links and bushes last 60,000–120,000 km, but rough roads, heavy loads, or lowered suspension can shorten that. Replace at the first sign of play, torn boots, or persistent knocking.
Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing sway-bar links?
Typically, no. Link replacement doesn’t alter wheel angles. However, if other suspension hardware was loosened (like strut-to-knuckle bolts) or if the car feels different after the job, it’s smart to get an alignment check for peace of mind and even tyre wear.
