Parts for your 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander-Strut mounts

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Strut Mounts

Strut mounts are relevant and fitted to the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Motors service manual for the GF/GG-series Outlander (front suspension: MacPherson strut), OEM parts catalogues listing a “front suspension upper insulator/strut mount,” and aftermarket catalogues from major suppliers (e.g., KYB and Monroe) confirm the vehicle uses front strut mounts with an integrated bearing. The rear is a multi-link layout and does not use a strut-type top mount.

On the 2018 Outlander, the front strut mount does two important jobs: it’s the upper attachment point for the MacPherson strut assembly, and it isolates vibration and road harshness so the cabin stays quiet and comfy. The mount’s integrated bearing lets the strut and spring turn smoothly with the steering, so the wheel returns to centre without a fight. When that bearing dries out or the rubber insulator perishes, owners may notice creaks, knocks, or vague steering—especially at low speeds and over speed bumps.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the strut tops checked whenever the front end is inspected—say every 20,000–30,000 km or at each tyre rotation. A technician will look for cracked rubber, separated bonding, rusty or notchy bearing feel, and any movement at the top of the strut. If the Outlander’s done big kilometres, tows, or sees plenty of rough roads, those mounts can age faster.

When replacing front struts or springs, it’s good practice to fit new mounts at the same time. Fresh mounts prevent transferring old noise or steering grittiness onto new dampers, and they’re relatively affordable insurance. Always choose quality, vehicle-specific mounts with the correct bearing. Orientation matters—there’s a right way to seat the bearing and spring. After the job, a four-wheel alignment is essential to keep steering true and protect tyre life.

• Common symptoms of worn strut mounts:
  • Clunking or knocking over bumps
  • Creaks when turning the wheel at parking speeds
  • Steering that won’t smoothly return to centre (“memory steer”)
  • Uneven or feathered front tyre wear
• Service tips:
  • Replace mounts in pairs on the front axle
  • Torque fasteners to spec and recheck after settling
  • Inspect the upper spring seat and dust boots while in there
  • Book an alignment immediately after any strut/mount work

Treated well, genuine or premium aftermarket strut mounts can last well past 100,000 km, but once noise or steering roughness shows up, sorting them early keeps the Outlander driving tight and quiet.

Popular questions about 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander strut mounts

Do all 2018 Outlanders have strut mounts front and rear?

No. The 2018 Outlander uses MacPherson struts at the front, so it has strut mounts with bearings there. The rear is a multi-link setup, so it uses separate shock and spring (or a non-strut damper), which doesn’t require a strut top mount in the same way.

When should the front strut mounts be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval. Replace them when symptoms show—noise over bumps, creaking while steering, or vague/“sticky” steering feel—or proactively when fitting new front struts or springs. Many drivers see service life anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 km, depending on roads and load.

What happens if worn mounts aren’t replaced?

Expect increasing noise, harsher ride, and steering that doesn’t return to centre cleanly. Left too long, they can contribute to uneven tyre wear and accelerate wear on the new struts if those were fitted without fresh mounts.