2007-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Suspension Strut Mount Kit Replacement Guide
Hearing clunks, pops, or feeling vibrations over bumps? Your Eclipse's strut mounts might be the problem.
- The most common signs of failure are clunking noises over bumps and squeaking sounds when turning.
- Always replace strut mounts in pairs to maintain vehicle stability and predictable handling.
- KYB is a reputable aftermarket brand that offers a good balance of quality and price for the Eclipse.
- For DIY replacement, consider a complete 'quick strut' assembly to avoid the danger and difficulty of using a spring compressor.
Is Your Eclipse Making Strange Noises? It Could Be the Strut Mounts
If you're starting to hear new noises or feel more vibration from the front end of your 2007-2012 Eclipse, there's a good chance the strut mounts are wearing out. These parts take a constant beating from road impacts and carry the vehicle's weight. Over time, the rubber inside cracks and degrades, and the bearing can wear out, leading to a number of noticeable symptoms. Strut mounts typically show signs of failure between 80,000 and 130,000 miles.
Top 5 Signs of a Bad Strut Mount on a 4G Eclipse
- Clunking or Knocking Noises: This is the most common symptom. You'll hear a distinct clunk or pop from the front suspension when driving over bumps, potholes, or uneven roads. This sound is caused by the worn rubber allowing metal components to hit each other. 🎬 Watch this guide to diagnosing common front-end suspension clunks.
- Squeaking or Binding When Turning: A "boink" or scraping noise when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, like in a parking lot, usually points to a bad strut mount bearing. This means the strut is no longer rotating smoothly as you steer.
- Excessive Vibration: Since the mount's job is to absorb vibration, a failed one will transfer more road harshness into the cabin. You might feel this through the steering wheel or floor.
- Poor Handling and Steering Memory: A worn mount can affect your Eclipse's alignment, causing the steering to feel loose or not return to center properly after a turn. The car may also feel less stable and exhibit more body roll when cornering.
- Uneven Tire Wear: When strut mounts fail, they can alter the wheel alignment. This can cause tires to wear unevenly, often creating a "cupping" pattern that you can feel by running your hand over the tread.
Known Issues for the 2007-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
While there are no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the strut mounts on this generation of Eclipse, owners should be aware of a few related safety recalls. These include a recall for a potentially faulty front crossmember on some 2007 models (NHTSA #06V274000) and an ABS hydraulic unit recall for 2006-2009 models (NHTSA #15V337000). It's wise to check if your vehicle has had these recall services performed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount: OEM vs. KYB
When it's time for a replacement, you have a choice between original equipment (OEM) parts from Mitsubishi and aftermarket parts. For the 2007-2012 Eclipse, KYB is a widely available and well-regarded aftermarket brand.
- OEM Strut Mounts: These are the exact same parts your vehicle came with from the factory. They guarantee a perfect fit and original ride quality. However, they are typically the most expensive option.
- KYB Aftermarket Mounts: KYB is a major manufacturer that supplies parts to many car companies for their factory installations. Their aftermarket parts are often described as "OE-quality" and are designed to meet or exceed original specifications. For many owners, KYB offers a great balance of quality and cost, often being significantly cheaper than OEM parts. However, some mechanics and owners note that the rubber in aftermarket mounts may not always have the same lifespan as the original OEM part.
Pro Tip: If you are not replacing the entire strut assembly (a 'quick strut'), it is highly recommended to replace the strut mounts and bearings at the same time you replace the struts. They are a common failure point, and replacing them with the struts saves you from paying for the same labor twice. Always replace strut mounts in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even handling and performance.
Cost to Replace Strut Mounts on a 2007-2012 Eclipse
The cost can vary depending on whether you replace just the mount or the entire strut assembly. The labor for replacing a full strut assembly is often less than disassembling the old one to install a new mount.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Strut Mount Kit (per side) | $20 - $85 |
| New OEM Strut Mount (per side) | $60 - $120 |
| Shop Labor (per side) | $150 - $280 |
| Total (Aftermarket, DIY) | $40 - $170 (for a pair) |
| Total (Aftermarket, Pro Install) | $340 - $730 (for a pair) |
Note: A wheel alignment (approx. $80-$150) is required after replacing struts or mounts to prevent tire wear and ensure proper handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special tool to replace a strut mount?
If you are only replacing the mount and not the entire strut assembly, you will need a spring compressor. This tool can be very dangerous if not used correctly. For most DIY mechanics, it is much safer and easier to replace the entire 'quick strut' assembly, which comes with a new strut, spring, and mount already assembled. A video tutorial for the 4G Eclipse shows the process, which can be difficult if parts are rusted or seized.
🎬 See this full tutorial on replacing struts and springs.Should I replace anything else at the same time?
Yes. When you're replacing strut mounts, it's the perfect time to inspect and likely replace the strut bellows (dust boot) and the sway bar end links. These parts are relatively inexpensive and are easy to access during a strut job. Worn sway bar links can also cause clunking noises that are often mistaken for bad struts.
🎬 Watch how to replace rear sway bar end links.Is KYB a good brand for my Eclipse?
Yes, KYB is generally considered a high-quality aftermarket option that often provides performance similar to the original factory parts. They are a popular choice for owners looking for a reliable repair without paying dealership prices for OEM parts.
Can I replace just one strut mount?
It is always recommended to replace suspension components like struts and mounts in pairs (both front sides or both rear sides). Replacing only one can lead to unbalanced handling, uneven ride height, and unpredictable steering, which can be unsafe.
Helpful Videos
![[FULL TUTORIAL] How to Replace Struts/Install Lowering Springs on 2006-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse](https://img.youtube.com/vi/lqfZJ2NjIJo/mqdefault.jpg)
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MN101780
The strut mount kit includes the mount, and often the bearing. The front mounts for the 2007-2012 Eclipse include a bearing to allow for steering rotation. The rear mounts are typically solid. Aftermarket kits from brands like KYB are designed to be direct-fit replacements for the original equipment.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mitsubishi Eclipse:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Eclipse Making Strange Noises? It Could Be the Strut Mounts
- Top 5 Signs of a Bad Strut Mount on a 4G Eclipse
- Known Issues for the 2007-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount: OEM vs. KYB
- Cost to Replace Strut Mounts on a 2007-2012 Eclipse
- Frequently Asked Questions
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