Parts for your 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander-Strut mounts

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical fitment: Yes — the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander uses MacPherson-strut front suspension with independent multi-link at the rear. This layout is specified in Mitsubishi Motors workshop documentation for the GN Outlander generation and echoed by major road-test spec sheets from industry publications. Because the front suspension is MacPherson-strut, each front corner has a strut mount (also known as a top mount or strut top) that secures the strut to the body and allows the strut to rotate for steering.

On this Outlander, the strut mount’s job is two-fold: it’s a structural mounting point for the front strut assembly, and it isolates noise and vibration so the cabin stays quiet over rough chip seal and potholes. There’s also an integrated bearing plate on each side to let the strut turn smoothly as the driver steers. When the rubber in the mount hardens or cracks, or the bearing dries out, steering feel can go notchy and the car may develop clunks over speed bumps.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to have the front strut tops inspected around the 60,000–90,000 km mark, or sooner if the Outlander regularly tows or tackles corrugated roads. A technician will check for play in the bearing, perished rubber, and any metal-to-metal witness marks. If the front shocks/struts are being replaced, it’s good practice to renew the mounts at the same time — it saves labour later and keeps steering feel consistent left to right.

Owners might notice one or more of the following when mounts are tired:

• Clunk or thud from the top of the strut over bumps
• Steering that’s sticky or slow to self-centre
• Uneven tyre wear or vague front-end tracking
• Creaking while turning at low speed

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop with a spring compressor. New self-locking nuts are typically recommended, and a wheel alignment should be carried out afterwards to get camber and toe back on spec. Using quality OE or OE-equivalent mounts helps avoid steering shudder and premature bearing noise. Keeping the front suspension torqued to spec and the underbody free of road grime will also help the mounts and bearings go the distance.

Popular questions about 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander strut mounts

How long do the front strut mounts usually last?
For most Outlanders, the factory mounts comfortably see 80,000–120,000 km, but longevity depends on road conditions and load. Frequent gravel or heavily corrugated roads, plus big temperature swings, can shorten their life. If shocks are due, it’s efficient to renew the mounts at the same time.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Any time the strut assembly is removed, the alignment can shift. A post-repair alignment brings camber and toe back into spec, protects tyre life, and restores the Outlander’s on-centre feel.

What symptoms point to a failing strut mount bearing?
Common signs include a notchy feel when turning the wheel at parking speeds, creaks from the top of the strut, and a steering wheel that’s slow to return after a corner. If those show up, get the mounts inspected before they start chewing through tyres.