The Fundamentals of Control Arm For Mitsubishi Proton: Characteristics, Standards, and Performance

Types of Control Arms for Mitsubishi Proton

A control arm for Mitsubishi Proton is a vital suspension component engineered to maintain proper wheel alignment, ensure ride stability, and absorb road shocks. These arms are specifically designed to match the suspension architecture of Mitsubishi and Proton vehicles, balancing comfort, durability, and performance. Understanding the different types of control arms—by position, material, and bushing type—helps in selecting the right part for maintenance, repair, or performance upgrades.

Upper Control Arms

Upper control arms are typically found in double-wishbone or multi-link suspension systems, positioned above the spindle or hub assembly. In many older Mitsubishi models and select modern Proton vehicles, these arms play a critical role in maintaining camber and caster angles as the wheel moves through its suspension travel. They help ensure precise steering response and even tire wear by keeping the wheel aligned vertically and laterally during compression and rebound.

Maintenance Tip: Inspect upper control arms regularly for bushing wear or ball joint looseness, especially if you notice uneven tire wear or steering wander.

Lower Control Arms

Lower control arms are a fundamental part of nearly every vehicle’s front suspension system, including all Mitsubishi and Proton models equipped with independent suspension. These arms connect the wheel carrier to the vehicle’s subframe and bear the majority of the vehicle’s weight during dynamic driving. In the Proton suspension setup, lower arms are designed to allow smooth vertical movement of the wheels while minimizing lateral and longitudinal play, contributing to ride stability and handling precision.

In addition to supporting the vehicle’s weight, lower control arms work in tandem with anti-roll bars and shock absorbers to dampen road impacts and reduce body roll during cornering.

Material-Based Control Arms: Steel vs. Aluminum Alloy

Steel (Metal-Based) Control Arms

Constructed from high-strength steel, these arms are known for their robustness and resistance to deformation under heavy loads.

Advantages

• High tensile strength and impact resistance
• Resists bending and warping under stress
• Cost-effective manufacturing and replacement
• Widely available for most Mitsubishi/Proton models

Limitations

• Heavier than aluminum, increasing unsprung mass
• Prone to rust without proper coating
• Higher weight can affect fuel efficiency and handling responsiveness

Best for: Daily drivers, budget-conscious repairs, off-road or heavy-load applications

Aluminum Alloy Control Arms

Modern performance and efficiency-focused vehicles often use lightweight aluminum alloy arms to reduce overall vehicle mass.

Advantages

• Significantly lighter, improving fuel economy
• Naturally corrosion-resistant, reducing maintenance needs
• Enhances suspension responsiveness and ride comfort
• Reduces unsprung weight for better tire contact

Limitations

• Lower fatigue resistance over time
• More expensive to produce and replace
• Potential for cracking under extreme stress

Best for: Performance tuning, fuel-efficient driving, modern Proton models with lightweight design goals

Bushing Type: Rubber vs. Synthetic

Rubber Bushing Control Arms

These control arms use natural or synthetic rubber bushings to connect the arm to the vehicle frame, offering a balance of flexibility and damping.

Advantages

• Excellent vibration and noise isolation
• Smooth, comfortable ride quality
• Affordable and widely used in OEM applications
• Easy to install and replace

Limitations

• Degrades faster when exposed to oil, heat, or UV light
• May crack or harden over time, leading to clunking noises
• Limited lifespan in harsh driving conditions

Best for: Stock replacements, city driving, comfort-oriented setups

Synthetic (Polyurethane) Bushing Control Arms

Made from advanced synthetic polymers, these bushings offer enhanced durability and performance over traditional rubber.

Advantages

• Superior resistance to wear, oil, and weathering
• Stiffer construction improves steering precision
• Longer service life than rubber bushings
• Ideal for high-stress or performance environments

Limitations

• Transmits more road noise and vibration
• Requires proper lubrication to prevent squeaking
• Higher initial cost and installation complexity

Best for: Performance upgrades, track use, drivers seeking improved handling

Type	Material/Bushing	Durability	Ride Comfort	Performance	Ideal Use Case
Upper Control Arm	Steel or Aluminum	High	Good	High	Precise alignment, handling stability
Lower Control Arm	Steel (common), Aluminum (performance)	Very High	Good to Fair	Excellent	Weight support, suspension articulation
Steel Arms	Metal (Steel)	Excellent	Fair	Good	Durability-focused applications
Aluminum Arms	Aluminum Alloy	Good	Excellent	Very Good	Fuel efficiency, performance tuning
Rubber Bushings	Rubber	Medium	Excellent	Fair	Comfort, daily driving
Synthetic Bushings	Polyurethane	Very Good	Fair	Excellent	Performance, durability

Expert Tip: When replacing control arms on your Mitsubishi Proton, consider upgrading to polyurethane bushings or aluminum arms if you prioritize handling and longevity. Always inspect associated components like ball joints and bushings during replacement to ensure optimal suspension performance.

Material & Durability of Control Arm for Mitsubishi Proton

The material used in a Mitsubishi control arm plays a crucial role in determining its durability, performance, and overall impact on vehicle dynamics. Manufacturers carefully select materials based on strength, weight, corrosion resistance, and cost to ensure optimal ride comfort, handling precision, and long-term reliability—especially under the demanding conditions faced by vehicles like the Mitsubishi Proton.

Steel Alloys: High Strength and Fatigue Resistance

Steel alloys are among the most widely used materials for control arms due to their exceptional mechanical properties. Known for high tensile strength, toughness, and resistance to deformation, steel alloy control arms can endure heavy loads, repeated stress cycles, and rough road conditions without failure.

Most OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) control arms are fabricated from quenched and tempered steel, a heat treatment process that significantly enhances hardness, wear resistance, and structural integrity. This makes steel ideal for critical suspension components that must maintain precise geometry over time. Additionally, steel’s ability to absorb vibrations contributes to improved ride quality and reduced component fatigue.

Corrosion-Resistant Aluminum Alloys: Lightweight and Efficient

Aluminum alloys are increasingly favored in modern suspension systems for their lightweight nature and excellent corrosion resistance. Using aluminum reduces unsprung mass, which improves fuel efficiency, handling responsiveness, and braking performance.

While pure aluminum lacks the strength of steel, high-strength aluminum alloys (such as 6061-T6 or 7075-T6) offer a favorable strength-to-weight ratio suitable for automotive applications. These alloys are often enhanced with surface treatments like anodizing or powder coating, which further protect against oxidation, chipping, and environmental degradation.

Aluminum control arms are particularly beneficial in regions with high humidity, coastal exposure, or frequent use of road salts, where rust can severely compromise steel components. However, they require precise engineering to prevent cracking under extreme stress due to lower ductility compared to steel.

Cast Iron Control Arms: Rigid and Durable

In certain Mitsubishi models, especially older or heavy-duty variants, cast iron is used for control arms. Cast iron offers high compressive strength and excellent damping characteristics, making it resistant to deflection under load.

While heavier than both steel and aluminum, cast iron provides exceptional rigidity, which helps maintain consistent suspension geometry during aggressive driving or when carrying heavy loads. Its natural vibration-damping properties also contribute to a smoother ride over uneven surfaces.

However, cast iron is more brittle than other materials and prone to cracking under sudden impact or excessive flexing. It also lacks inherent corrosion resistance unless properly coated, requiring additional protective finishes to prevent rust in wet environments.

High-Quality Bushings and Ball Joints: Enhancing Longevity and Comfort

The durability of a control arm isn't solely dependent on its main structural material—equally important are the integrated bushings and ball joints. These components are typically made from high-grade rubber, polyurethane, or thermoplastic elastomers, designed to absorb shocks, isolate vibrations, and allow controlled movement within the suspension system.

Modern OEM bushings often feature a layered construction with steel sleeves and advanced rubber compounds that resist hardening, cracking, and oil degradation over time. Similarly, ball joints use sealed bearings with lubricated interiors to minimize friction and wear.

Using high-quality bushings and joints significantly reduces stress transfer to the control arm itself, preventing premature fatigue and maintaining alignment accuracy. This not only extends the lifespan of the control arm but also ensures consistent steering response, reduced noise, and enhanced driving comfort.

Material Type	Strengths	Limitations	Best For
Steel Alloys	High strength, excellent fatigue resistance, durable under heavy loads	Heavier than aluminum, susceptible to rust without coating	Performance and heavy-duty applications
Aluminum Alloys	Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, improves fuel efficiency	Less ductile, higher cost, requires precision manufacturing	Modern vehicles, humid/salty environments
Cast Iron	Very rigid, good vibration damping, long service life	Brittle, heavy, prone to cracking under impact	Older or commercial Mitsubishi models
Rubber/Thermoplastic Bushings	Vibration absorption, flexibility, noise reduction	Can degrade over time due to heat, UV, or oil exposure	All suspension systems (critical for comfort)

Important: Regular inspection of control arms and associated components (bushings, ball joints) is essential for safety and performance. Signs of wear—such as uneven tire wear, clunking noises, or loose steering—may indicate material fatigue or joint failure. Always use OEM-spec or high-quality aftermarket replacements to maintain factory-level durability and handling characteristics.

Commercial Use Scenarios of Control Arm for Mitsubishi Proton

The control arm is a critical component in the suspension system of vehicles like the Mitsubishi Proton, playing a pivotal role in performance, safety, and durability across various commercial applications. Whether in urban commuting, heavy-duty transport, or off-road operations, the control arm ensures optimal handling, stability, and load management. Below are key commercial use cases where control arms significantly enhance vehicle functionality and reliability.

Maintaining Wheel Alignment

Control arms are fundamental to maintaining precise wheel alignment in the suspension system. By connecting the chassis to the steering knuckle, they ensure that wheels remain perpendicular to the road surface and parallel to each other during motion. This geometric stability is essential for:

• Preventing uneven tire wear, which extends tire life and reduces replacement costs
• Improving vehicle handling, especially during sudden maneuvers or emergency braking
• Enhancing fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance from misaligned wheels
• Supporting accurate steering response and reducing driver fatigue

Technical Insight: Worn or bent control arms can cause camber, caster, or toe misalignment—common issues diagnosed in automotive workshops. Replacing them with OEM-spec or upgraded arms restores factory alignment settings.

Truck Load Distribution

In commercial trucks and fleet vehicles based on the Mitsubishi Proton platform, control arms play a crucial role in managing weight distribution across the suspension system. They help absorb and transfer dynamic loads from the chassis to the wheels, ensuring:

• Even stress distribution across suspension components, minimizing premature wear
• Stable ride quality under full-load conditions, especially on uneven roads
• Reduced risk of component failure such as ball joints, bushings, or axle shafts
• Compliance with payload safety standards by maintaining structural integrity

Operational Benefit: Vehicles operating in logistics, delivery, or construction benefit from reinforced control arms designed to handle repeated heavy loading cycles without deformation.

Towing Capability Enhancement

For Mitsubishi Proton models adapted for towing applications—such as utility trailers, boat carriers, or mobile equipment—control arms contribute directly to towing stability. Upgraded or performance-tuned arms help:

• Prevent rear-end sag when hitching heavy loads, maintaining level vehicle posture
• Improve weight transfer dynamics during acceleration and braking
• Reduce sway and oscillation by stabilizing suspension geometry under load
• Support auxiliary suspension systems like air springs or helper coils

Industry Application: In agriculture and transportation sectors, vehicles equipped with heavy-duty control arms experience improved control and safety when hauling machinery or cargo over long distances.

Off-Roading Support

Off-road variants of the Mitsubishi Proton rely on robust control arms to maintain traction and suspension articulation over rough terrain. These arms are engineered to:

• Withstand extreme impacts from rocks, potholes, and uneven surfaces
• Allow greater wheel travel while maintaining alignment and steering precision
• Keep tires in consistent contact with the ground, improving grip and control
• Resist corrosion and fatigue in harsh environments (e.g., mud, water, salt)

Design Advantage: Aftermarket or OEM off-road control arms often feature reinforced steel, polyurethane bushings, and protective coatings to endure demanding conditions found in mining, forestry, and adventure tourism.

Handling Improvement

High-performance control arms significantly enhance vehicle dynamics, particularly in cornering, braking, and high-speed stability. For Mitsubishi Proton models used in performance driving or fleet operations requiring agile handling, upgraded arms offer:

• Reduced body roll through optimized suspension geometry and stiffer bushings
• Improved steering feedback and responsiveness for better driver control
• Enhanced balance during rapid direction changes, critical in emergency avoidance
• Better integration with performance suspension upgrades like coilovers or sway bars

Performance Note: In racing and performance tuning circles, adjustable control arms allow fine-tuning of camber and caster angles, maximizing tire contact patch during aggressive driving.

Commercial Fleet Reliability

While not explicitly mentioned, a key commercial application is the use of durable control arms in fleet vehicles. For companies operating Mitsubishi Proton-based service vans or delivery trucks, reliable suspension components mean:

• Reduced downtime due to suspension repairs
• Lower maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifespan
• Consistent ride quality for drivers logging high mileage
• Improved safety record through predictable handling

Smart Investment: Fleet managers should consider control arms with extended warranties and corrosion-resistant materials to maximize ROI and vehicle longevity.

Professional Recommendation: When servicing Mitsubishi Proton vehicles for commercial use, always inspect control arm bushings and ball joints for wear. Even minor degradation can compromise alignment, safety, and performance. For heavy-duty or off-road applications, recommend upgraded arms made from forged steel or aluminum alloy with sealed bearings and reinforced bushings to ensure long-term reliability.

Application Type	Control Arm Features	Material & Design	Recommended For
Urban Commuting	OEM-spec geometry, noise-dampening bushings	Stamped steel with rubber bushings	Daily drivers, taxi services
Heavy Load Transport	Reinforced structure, load-rated ball joints	Forged steel with polyurethane bushings	Delivery trucks, utility vehicles
Towing Operations	Adjustable camber, anti-sway design	High-strength alloy with corrosion coating	Trailer towing, agricultural use
Off-Road Use	Extended travel, impact-resistant housing	Aluminum or chromoly steel with sealed joints	Adventure, mining, forestry
Performance Handling	Adjustable geometry, low-deflection mounts	Billet aluminum or composite materials	Racing, fleet response vehicles

Additional Considerations

• Compatibility: Ensure control arms are specifically designed for Mitsubishi Proton models to avoid fitment issues and alignment errors
• Maintenance: Regular inspection of bushings and ball joints can prevent sudden failures and costly secondary damage
• Aftermarket Options: High-quality aftermarket brands often offer improvements over OEM parts, including better materials and longer warranties
• Installation: Always use torque specifications and alignment checks post-installation to ensure safety and performance
• Environmental Resistance: In coastal or winter climates, opt for control arms with rust-inhibiting coatings or stainless components

How to Choose the Right Control Arm for Mitsubishi Proton Vehicles

Selecting the correct control arm for your Mitsubishi or Proton vehicle is essential for maintaining ride quality, steering precision, and overall suspension performance. A faulty or poorly matched control arm can lead to uneven tire wear, unstable handling, and even safety risks. This comprehensive guide outlines the most critical factors to consider when purchasing a control arm, helping you make an informed decision for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Safety Note: Always ensure compatibility and professional installation. Incorrectly fitted control arms can compromise steering response and vehicle stability, especially under high-speed or emergency conditions.

1. Material: Strength, Durability, and Environmental Resistance

The material of the control arm significantly affects its durability, weight, and resistance to wear and corrosion. Choosing the right material ensures long-term reliability and performance under various driving conditions.

• Forged Steel: Offers exceptional strength and impact resistance, ideal for heavy-duty use and rough road conditions. Most OEM control arms use high-tensile steel for maximum durability.
• Aluminum Alloy: Lighter than steel, improving fuel efficiency and handling response. Resistant to rust but may be less impact-resistant in extreme conditions. Common in performance or weight-sensitive applications.
• Rust-Resistant Coatings: Look for control arms with powder-coated, zinc-plated, or e-coated finishes—especially important if you drive in humid climates, coastal areas, or regions that use road salt in winter.

For Mitsubishi and Proton models, forged steel remains the most reliable choice for daily drivers, while aluminum may be suitable for modified or performance-oriented setups.

2. OEM vs. Aftermarket: Balancing Cost, Quality, and Compatibility

Understanding the differences between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket control arms is crucial for making a cost-effective and reliable choice.

• OEM Control Arms: These are manufactured to the exact specifications of the original vehicle. For example, genuine Mitsubishi Endeavor parts ensure perfect fitment, factory-level performance, and long-term reliability. They are ideal for maintaining factory suspension geometry and handling characteristics.
• Aftermarket Control Arms: Offer greater variety in materials, designs, and price points. Reputable aftermarket brands often enhance durability with upgraded bushings or ball joints. While generally more affordable than OEM, quality can vary significantly between brands.

Recommendation: Choose OEM for reliability and guaranteed compatibility. Opt for high-quality aftermarket brands (such as Moog, Mevotech, or Febi) if you're seeking cost savings or upgraded components—just ensure they meet or exceed OEM specifications.

Expert Tip: Some premium aftermarket control arms come pre-assembled with new bushings and ball joints, saving time and labor during installation. Check product details to see if it's a complete assembly or just the arm itself.

3. Compatibility: Ensuring the Perfect Fit for Your Vehicle

Even the highest-quality control arm won’t perform well if it doesn’t fit your specific vehicle. Mitsubishi and Proton models vary significantly across model years, trims, and drivetrains.

• Always provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) when purchasing to confirm exact compatibility.
• Specify the year, model, engine type, and trim level (e.g., Mitsubishi Lancer ES 2015 vs. GTS 2015) as suspension components can differ.
• Cross-reference the OEM part number to ensure the replacement matches the original. Many aftermarket parts use the same numbering system for easy identification.
• Determine whether you need an upper or lower control arm, and whether it’s for the front or rear suspension.

Using incorrect parts can lead to misalignment, poor handling, and premature wear on tires and other suspension components.

4. Quality: Assessing Build Standards and Component Integrity

Not all control arms are created equal. Quality directly impacts safety, performance, and service life.

Poor-quality control arms often use substandard metals, weak welds, and low-grade rubber bushings, leading to:

• Excessive flex and reduced steering precision
• Premature failure of bushings or ball joints
• Compromised suspension geometry and alignment
• Increased noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH)

Look for these quality indicators:

• Certified manufacturing standards (ISO, TS 16949, etc.)
• Reinforced weld points and stress-tested designs
• Durable, greaseable ball joints and EPDM rubber or polyurethane bushings
• Positive customer reviews and brand reputation

Always prioritize quality over price—your safety depends on it.

5. Design: Matching OEM Specifications and Application Needs

Control arms are engineered to precise OEM dimensions and mounting configurations to maintain proper suspension geometry, camber, and caster angles.

• Ensure the replacement control arm matches the exact shape, length, and mounting points of the original.
• Avoid "universal" or non-application-specific arms unless you're in a custom build scenario with professional alignment support.
• Some aftermarket arms offer adjustable features for performance tuning, but these are typically unnecessary—and potentially harmful—for daily-driven vehicles.

Deviating from OEM design can lead to improper tire contact, accelerated wear, and unsafe driving dynamics.

Selection Factor	Key Considerations	OEM Advantage	Aftermarket Advantage
Material	Steel for durability, aluminum for weight savings, coated for corrosion resistance	Factory-tested materials and coatings	Wider material choices and upgrades
Compatibility	VIN, year, model, trim, and part number verification	Guaranteed fitment	Extensive cross-reference databases
Quality	Bushing type, ball joint quality, weld integrity	Consistent manufacturing standards	Premium options with enhanced components
Cost	Long-term value vs. upfront savings	Higher initial cost, lower failure risk	More budget-friendly options available
Design	Conformance to OEM specs, upper/lower configuration	Precise replication of factory design	Some offer performance enhancements

Maintenance Tip: After installing a new control arm, always have a professional perform a wheel alignment. This ensures optimal tire wear, handling, and safety.

Final Recommendations

• For most Mitsubishi and Proton owners, OEM or high-tier aftermarket control arms provide the best balance of safety, fit, and longevity.
• Always verify compatibility using your VIN and OEM part number before purchasing.
• Inspect new control arms for solid construction, proper labeling, and included hardware.
• Consider complete assemblies with pre-installed bushings and ball joints to simplify installation.
• When in doubt, consult a trusted mechanic or dealership parts specialist.

Investing time in selecting the right control arm pays off in improved ride comfort, precise handling, and long-term reliability. Never compromise on this critical suspension component—your vehicle’s performance and safety depend on it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mitsubishi Control Arms

Q1: How important are control arms for the overall performance of a Mitsubishi?

Control arms are critically important to the overall performance, safety, and longevity of your Mitsubishi. As a core component of the suspension system, they connect the wheels to the vehicle's frame and allow controlled movement over uneven surfaces. Their primary functions include:

• Wheel Alignment: Control arms maintain proper wheel geometry (camber, caster, and toe), ensuring tires remain aligned with the road for optimal steering and stability.
• Ride Comfort: They absorb road shocks and vibrations, contributing to a smooth and comfortable driving experience.
• Handling Precision: By stabilizing the suspension, control arms improve cornering ability and responsiveness.
• Tire Longevity: Properly functioning control arms prevent uneven tire wear, saving money on premature replacements.

When control arms become worn or damaged, the suspension system can fail to perform correctly, leading to misaligned wheels, reduced handling, increased tire wear, and compromised safety—especially during emergency maneuvers or high-speed driving.

Q2: Can a damaged control arm cause an accident?

Yes, a damaged or failing control arm can significantly increase the risk of an accident. Here’s how:

• Loss of Steering Control: Worn bushings or bent arms can cause unpredictable steering behavior, making the vehicle feel loose or wander on the road.
• Wheel Misalignment: This leads to poor tracking, increased effort to maintain a straight path, and reduced stability in turns.
• Excessive Tire Wear: Uneven wear patterns reduce grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions, increasing stopping distances.
• Catastrophic Failure: In extreme cases, a severely damaged control arm can break, potentially allowing the wheel and suspension to detach from the vehicle—resulting in immediate loss of control.

Because control arms directly affect steering and suspension integrity, any signs of damage should be addressed immediately to maintain vehicle safety and avoid dangerous situations on the road.

Q3: Are control arms interchangeable across different Mitsubishi models?

No, control arms are not interchangeable across different Mitsubishi models. Each model—such as the Outlander, Eclipse Cross, Lancer, or Triton—is engineered with a unique suspension design that requires specific control arm specifications. Key differences include:

Design Factor	Variation by Model	Impact on Fitment
Shape & Geometry	Determined by suspension type (MacPherson strut, multi-link, etc.)	Affects wheel alignment and suspension travel
Length & Mounting Points	Customized to chassis dimensions	Incorrect length causes misalignment or binding
Bushing Type & Size	Varies by model year and trim level	Affects ride comfort and noise levels
Material & Strength	Steel vs. aluminum; load-bearing requirements	Impacts durability and performance

Using a non-compatible control arm can lead to improper fitment, suspension damage, and safety hazards. Always ensure replacement parts are specifically designed for your Mitsubishi’s make, model, year, and engine configuration.

Q4: How frequently should control arms be inspected?

It is recommended to inspect control arms at least once a year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (19,000–24,000 km), whichever comes first. However, more frequent inspections are advised under certain conditions:

• Rough Driving Conditions: Frequent travel on potholed roads, gravel, or off-road terrain accelerates wear.
• Heavy Loads: Regular towing or carrying heavy cargo puts additional stress on suspension components.
• Coastal or Winter Climates: Exposure to salt and moisture can cause corrosion, weakening the arm or its mounting points.

Additionally, you should have your control arms checked immediately if you notice any of the following warning signs:

• Clunking or knocking noises when driving over bumps
• Steering wandering or pulling to one side
• Uneven or rapid tire wear
• Vibrations in the steering wheel

Regular inspections during routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations) help catch issues early and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Q5: Can control arms be repaired, or do they always have to be replaced?

In most cases, control arms are not repaired but replaced entirely. While minor issues like worn bushings or ball joints can sometimes be serviced individually, full replacement is generally preferred for several reasons:

• Safety and Reliability: A repaired arm may not restore original strength or performance, especially if the metal is bent or cracked.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Labor costs for disassembling and rebuilding a control arm often approach the price of a new or remanufactured unit.
• Availability of Parts: Individual components like integrated ball joints or pressed-in bushings may not be sold separately, making full replacement more practical.
• Warranty Coverage: New or OEM replacement arms typically come with warranties, offering peace of mind and protection against future failures.

That said, some aftermarket suppliers offer rebuildable control arms with replaceable bushings and ball joints, which can be a cost-effective option for older Mitsubishi models. However, for safety-critical suspension components, it’s best to follow manufacturer recommendations and consult a qualified mechanic to determine the most appropriate course of action.