Parts for your 2018 Mitsubishi Asx-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the suspension system on the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX, many owners wonder whether bump-stops are part of the setup and if they need attention during servicing. After diving into technical sources and vehicle specs, it's clear that bump-stops are indeed fitted on the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX. So, what are bump-stops all about? Why are they important? And how should you go about maintaining or replacing them? Let's explore these points so that anyone driving a 2018 ASX can have a better understanding of this crucial but often overlooked suspension part.

Bump-stops, sometimes called jounce bumpers, are small components made from rubber or a similar elastomeric material. They're fitted within the suspension system to act as cushions when the suspension travel reaches its limit. Think of them as safety buffers that stop metal parts from slamming into each other when you hit a bump hard or when the suspension compresses fully. Without bump-stops, the suspension can bottom out harshly, which risks damaging the shocks, springs, control arms, or even the chassis itself.

On the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX, bump-stops are located on both the front and rear suspension setups. They engage after the suspension has compressed through its normal range and prevent any metal-to-metal contact during extreme conditions. For city driving, they may rarely come into play, but when cruising over rough terrain or hitting potholes, bump-stops ensure that suspension components aren't subjected to sudden shocks that can shorten their lifespan.

Properly functioning bump-stops contribute to a smoother ride and protect suspension components from premature wear. Additionally, they help maintain vehicle stability and safety. In a nutshell, they act as the final line of defence against suspension damage. Because bump-stops themselves experience impact and compressive forces, they do wear down and degrade over time, especially if the vehicle is regularly driven on rough roads.

When it comes to servicing the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX, inspecting the bump-stops is an important but sometimes overlooked step. Because these parts are made from rubber, they can crack, deform or become brittle with age and exposure to heat, dust, dirt and oil. If bump-stops deteriorate or break, the suspension could bottom out more harshly, which may lead to noise, a harsh ride, or even damage to major suspension parts.

Regular inspections should be carried out ideally every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres, or at least during routine suspension servicing intervals. A trained technician will look for signs such as:

• Cracks, splits or chunks missing from the bump-stops
• Noticeable flattening or deformation compared to new parts
• Signs of oil saturation that degrade rubber quality
• Unusual noises under compression suggesting bottoming out

If any of these indicators are present, replacement bump-stops should be fitted promptly. Fortunately, bump-stops are relatively inexpensive and simple to replace, but leaving damaged ones unattended can lead to costly repairs down the track.

For DIY enthusiasts, replacing bump-stops on the 2018 ASX typically involves removing the wheel and possibly accessing the suspension strut or control arm where the bump-stop resides. However, due to the safety aspects and the need to correctly position suspension components during reassembly, it's often better left to professional mechanics unless you have the right tools and experience.

Maintaining bump-stops plays into the broader picture of maintaining suspension health. Alongside regular checks of shocks and struts, springs, and bushings, bump-stop inspection ensures the whole system works harmoniously. Neglecting this tiny, unglamorous part can lead to more noticeable suspension problems, poor ride quality and increased repair costs.

For ASX owners, an important tip is to be mindful of how and where the vehicle is driven. Frequent rough roads, off-road tracks and heavy loads will accelerate bump-stop wear. If that's part of the ASX lifestyle, bump-stop checks should be even more regular. Conversely, if the vehicle is used mostly on smooth tarmac and suburban streets, bump-stops may last longer but still deserve a look every service interval.

Overall, bump-stops are small but mighty players in the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX suspension. They protect the vehicle from suspension bottoming and preserve comfort by cushioning harsh impacts. Checking their condition during service and replacing them when worn is a smart move to avoid bigger issues and keep that trusty ASX riding smoothly for years to come.