The rear shocks in your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer are crucial for maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride, as well as ensuring safe handling and control of your vehicle. Over time, shocks can wear out, leading to a bumpy ride, poor handling, and increased tire wear. Replacing the rear shocks is a key part of vehicle maintenance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of identifying when it’s time to replace your shocks, the steps involved in replacing them, and tips for maintaining your vehicle’s suspension system.
Table of Contents
Signs Your Rear Shocks Need Replacement
Decreased Ride Comfort
One of the most noticeable signs of worn rear shocks is a decrease in ride comfort. If your Lancer feels more bumpy or unstable over uneven roads, it’s a good indicator that the shocks are no longer effectively absorbing impacts.
Poor Handling
Worn shocks can affect your vehicle’s handling. You might notice increased body roll during turns, longer braking distances, or a general feeling of instability while driving. These issues can compromise your safety on the road.
Uneven Tire Wear
If your rear shocks are worn out, they can cause uneven tire wear, particularly cupping or scalloping of the tire tread. This happens because the tires lose consistent contact with the road, leading to irregular wear patterns.
Visible Leaks
Inspect the shocks for any visible oil leaks. Shocks contain hydraulic fluid, and if you notice any leaking fluid around the shock absorber, it’s a clear sign that the shocks need to be replaced.
Excessive Bouncing
After pushing down on the rear of your vehicle, it should rebound and settle quickly. If it continues to bounce more than once or twice, the rear shocks are likely worn out and need replacement.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before starting the replacement process, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- New rear shock absorbers
- Socket set and wrenches
- Jack and jack stands
- Wheel chocks
- Torque wrench
- Penetrating oil (optional, for rusty bolts)
- Repair manual (for reference)
Steps to Replace Rear Shocks on a 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
1. Preparation and Safety
- Park Safely: Park your vehicle on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Wheel Chocks: Place wheel chocks around the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving.
- Jack Up the Car: Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before working underneath it.
2. Remove the Rear Wheels
- Loosen Lug Nuts: Before lifting the car, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels.
- Remove Wheels: Once the car is securely lifted and supported by jack stands, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the rear wheels.
3. Locate the Rear Shocks
- Identify Shocks: Locate the rear shocks, which are typically attached to the lower control arm and the vehicle’s body.
4. Remove the Old Shocks
- Apply Penetrating Oil: If the bolts are rusty or difficult to remove, apply penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Upper Mount Bolts: Use a socket or wrench to remove the bolts securing the top of the shock absorber to the vehicle’s body.
- Lower Mount Bolts: Remove the bolts or nuts securing the bottom of the shock to the control arm or axle.
- Remove Shock: Carefully slide the old shock absorber out of its mounting points.
5. Install the New Shocks
- Position New Shock: Place the new shock absorber in position, aligning it with the mounting points.
- Secure Upper Mount: Insert the bolts or nuts through the upper mount and tighten them loosely to hold the shock in place.
- Secure Lower Mount: Align the bottom of the shock with the control arm or axle and insert the bolts or nuts. Tighten them to the manufacturer’s specified torque using a torque wrench.
- Tighten Upper Mount: Go back to the upper mount bolts and tighten them to the specified torque.
6. Reinstall the Rear Wheels
- Reattach Wheels: Put the rear wheels back on the vehicle and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the Car: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
- Tighten Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.
7. Test the Installation
- Test Drive: Take your Lancer for a test drive to ensure the new shocks are functioning correctly. Pay attention to ride comfort and handling.
Maintenance Tips for Your Suspension System
Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect your shocks and other suspension components for signs of wear or damage. Early detection can prevent more significant issues and costly repairs.
Check Alignment
Have your vehicle’s alignment checked regularly, especially after replacing suspension components. Proper alignment ensures even tire wear and optimal handling.
Monitor Tire Pressure
Maintaining the correct tire pressure helps the suspension system perform efficiently and prolongs the life of your shocks and tires.
Replace in Pairs
When replacing shocks, always replace them in pairs (both rear shocks) to maintain balanced handling and performance.
Conclusion
Replacing the rear shocks on your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer is a crucial maintenance task that can significantly improve ride comfort, handling, and safety. By following this guide and paying attention to the signs of wear, you can ensure your Lancer continues to provide a smooth and stable driving experience. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of suspension components will keep your vehicle in top condition for years to come.
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