Parts for your 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander-Struts

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander struts — what they do and when to replace

Yes, the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander runs front MacPherson struts. Technical sources including Mitsubishi Motors Australia’s 2020 Outlander specifications, the Mitsubishi service manual (Group 33 – Front Suspension), and major suspension catalogues (KYB, Monroe) all list a MacPherson strut front suspension and a separate multi-link rear with shock absorbers (not rear struts). So “struts” are relevant to the front axle on this model.

On the Outlander, the front strut is a structural suspension unit that combines a shock absorber with a coil spring and the steering knuckle. It supports vehicle weight, controls body motion, and keeps the tyre in proper contact with the road. When the struts are healthy, steering feels tidy, braking is stable, and tyre wear stays even.

As part of servicing, it’s smart to inspect the front struts every service or at least every 20,000 km. There’s no fixed change interval, but many owners see replacement fall somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km depending on road conditions, load, and driving style common in Australia and New Zealand. Look for oil seepage, dented housings, split dust boots, cracked top mounts, or noisy bearings, and note changes in ride or handling.

• Common symptoms: clunks over bumps, floaty or bouncy ride, nose-dive under brakes, steering wander, uneven or cupped front tyre wear, or longer stopping distances.
• Best practice: replace struts in axle pairs, fit new top mounts/bearings and bump stops, and carry out a four-wheel alignment straight after.
• Quality matters: OE-equivalent or recognised aftermarket brands maintain factory ride height and damping—handy for keeping ADR/WOF compliance and predictable handling.

DIY-savvy owners can do the job with proper spring compressors, but most will prefer a workshop to safely handle the loaded coil spring and torque everything to spec. After fitment, a short bedding-in period is normal as the new mounts settle. If the Outlander still pulls, bounces, or wears tyres oddly after replacement and alignment, have the technician recheck bushings, control arms, and rear shocks, as those also affect road feel.

Technical references consulted: Mitsubishi Motors Australia 2020 Outlander Specifications, Mitsubishi Outlander Service Manual (Front Suspension, MacPherson Strut), KYB and Monroe application catalogues listing front strut assemblies and separate rear shock absorbers for 2020 Outlander.

• Does the 2020 Outlander have rear struts?
  No. The rear is a multi-link setup with separate shock absorbers. Only the front uses MacPherson struts.
• How long do the front struts usually last?
  Typically 80,000–150,000 km, but road quality, loads, and driving style make a big difference. Inspect at each service.
• Do they need an alignment after new struts?
  Absolutely. Replacing struts alters geometry. A four-wheel alignment protects tyres and restores straight-line stability.

Popular questions about 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander struts

Are front and rear dampers the same on the 2020 Outlander?
The front uses MacPherson struts, while the rear uses separate shock absorbers. Parts aren’t interchangeable, and service procedures differ.

Should the strut top mounts be replaced at the same time?
It’s recommended. Fresh mounts and bearings help steering return-to-centre and keep noises at bay, saving on repeat labour.