Parts for your 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Control arms

Control Arms on the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: What You Need to Know

The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a popular compact SUV that balances sporty design with practical features, making it a favourite for Aussie drivers. When it comes to the vehicle's suspension components, control arms play an important role. So, does the 2022 Eclipse Cross use control arms? The short answer is yes. Like many modern SUVs, the Eclipse Cross employs control arms as part of its front and rear suspension systems.

Control arms are essential components in vehicles with independent suspension setups, which the Eclipse Cross features. Specifically, this model utilises a MacPherson strut independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. Both of these setups use control arms to provide stability, handle road irregularities, and improve the overall driving experience.

But what exactly do control arms do? In a nutshell, control arms connect the vehicle's chassis to the wheels and allow them to move up and down independently. This movement is crucial for absorbing bumps, maintaining better tyre contact with the road, and ensuring smoother handling. By allowing this independent wheel movement, control arms help keep the ride comfortable and the vehicle stable, particularly on rough or uneven surfaces - something Australian drivers often encounter.

Control arms are typically paired with bushings and ball joints. The bushings provide cushioning and reduce metal-to-metal contact, which prevents noise and vibration, while the ball joints allow the control arms to pivot as the wheels turn and move. Together, they play a big part in the vehicle's suspension geometry and alignment.

For Eclipse Cross owners, ensuring the control arms are in good condition is important for several reasons:

• Steering and handling - Worn or damaged control arms can cause the vehicle to wander on the road, feel unstable in corners, or have a loose steering feel.
• Tyre wear - If the control arm bushings or ball joints degrade, it can result in improper wheel alignment, leading to uneven or premature tyre wear.
• Ride comfort - Damaged control arms negatively impact the vehicle's ability to absorb shocks, making rides bumpier and less comfortable.
• Safety - A failing control arm or its components could compromise the suspension's integrity, which can affect overall vehicle safety.

Replacement and maintenance of control arms on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross should be done with care and preferably by a qualified technician. If you notice symptoms like clunking noises from the suspension, difficulty steering, uneven tyre wear, or a rough ride, it is worth having the control arms checked during your next service.

Routine suspension inspections are usually recommended every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres or during regular vehicle servicing. It's important to keep an eye on the condition of rubber bushings and ball joints linked to the control arms, as these parts tend to wear out faster than the control arms themselves.

The replacement process involves removing the old control arm and installing a new one, while also checking that the suspension geometry is restored correctly through wheel alignment. Proper alignment after installing new control arms is critical for ensuring handling performance and tyre longevity.

Opting for genuine Mitsubishi parts or quality aftermarket control arms that meet the original specifications is advisable. Using sub-standard parts may lead to faster wear or compromised safety. Also, some control arms come pre-fitted with new bushings and ball joints, which can save time and improve reliability.

In short, the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross definitely utilises control arms in its suspension system, and they are crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance, comfort, and safety. Being proactive with suspension maintenance ensures that control arms and their components continue to function as intended. This makes driving the Eclipse Cross a safe and enjoyable experience, whether cruising through the city or tackling rough Aussie backroads.