Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a popular compact SUV that's earned its spot on the roads, thanks to its sleek design and solid performance. When it comes to suspension components like bump-stops, it's natural to wonder if this particular vehicle uses them, and what role those bump-stops might play. After diving into technical sources and service manuals for the 2017 Eclipse Cross, it turns out that bump-stops are indeed part of this vehicle's suspension system.

Bump-stops are small but mighty components. Their main job is to prevent the suspension from compressing too far, protecting both the suspension system and the chassis from damage. On the Eclipse Cross, you'll find them fitted front and rear to ensure that when you hit a particularly rough patch of road or drive over speed humps, the suspension has a built-in safety limit. Without bump-stops, the suspension components could slam into each other or metal parts of the vehicle, leading to costly repairs and a harsh, uncomfortable ride.

For a compact SUV like the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, bump-stops are essential. The Eclipse Cross doesn't have an overly stiff suspension, nor is it designed to be an off-road beast that requires extreme suspension travel. Rather, it balances comfort and function for everyday driving, making bump-stops a critical bit of kit to smooth out the experience and protect the vehicle.

To understand bump-stops a little better, imagine them as the cushioning at the end of your suspension's travel. They stop the shock absorbers and springs from bottoming out, which could otherwise cause metal-on-metal contact, damage suspension mounts, or even bend control arms. They're usually made from a durable rubber or polyurethane material that gradually compresses to absorb energy. This helps maintain ride quality even during sharp manoeuvres or when carrying heavy loads.

When servicing the suspension on the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, bump-stops often fly under the radar but shouldn't be overlooked. Over time, these components can wear out. Exposure to the elements, repeated compression, and ageing can cause bump-stops to crack, split, or become compressed permanently. When that happens, they lose their shock-absorbing ability and leave the suspension vulnerable to damage.

Replacing bump-stops during a suspension service is a smart idea, especially if the vehicle has clocked up significant kilometres or been driven on rough terrain. Signs that bump-stops might need attention include a noticeable knock or clunk when going over bumps, a harsher ride than usual, or visible damage on inspection. Mechanics will usually inspect bump-stops by compressing the suspension and checking for damage or missing components.

Servicing the bump-stops is quite straightforward. If the bump-stops are showing wear or damage, they should be swapped out for new ones. It's important to replace bump-stops with OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or high-quality aftermarket equivalents, to ensure the right fit and durability specific for the Eclipse Cross suspension design.

Installing new bump-stops helps in several ways:

• Protects the suspension system from damage caused by excessive compression
• Improves ride comfort by softly damping heavy bumps and harsh impacts
• Helps maintain proper vehicle handling and stability
• Extends the lifespan of shocks, struts, and other suspension components

Keeping bump-stops in good shape is part of overall suspension maintenance. Regular suspension checks, particularly if the Eclipse Cross is used frequently on uneven surfaces or carries heavy loads, should include a bump-stop inspection. This ensures the components remain effective, contributing to safer and more comfortable drives.

In some cases, the bump-stops might need some additional maintenance - for example, cleaning off dirt or debris around the area to prevent premature wear. However, they don't have moving parts to grease or service per se. Most of the time, replacement is necessary if they're compromised.

To wrap it up, the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross does come equipped with bump-stops on its suspension system. These little parts play a vital role in protecting the vehicle's suspension and improving ride quality. If you're having your Eclipse Cross serviced, it's worth asking the mechanic to check the bump-stops. Replacing worn ones is a cost-effective way to avoid more expensive repairs down the track and keep the SUV riding smooth and steady.