Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Suspension Service and Maintenance
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Suspension Service and Maintenance
Posted on June 23, 2025
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross features a refined suspension system that balances everyday comfort with responsive handling. Understanding how this system works and maintaining it properly is essential for preserving the vehicle's ride quality, handling characteristics, and overall longevity. This comprehensive guide explores the suspension components, service intervals, and maintenance procedures specific to the Eclipse Cross.
2025 Red Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Suspension System Overview
The Eclipse Cross employs a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension configuration. This setup delivers a smooth, comfortable ride while maintaining adequate handling capabilities. Mitsubishi has deliberately chosen to equip the vehicle with sensibly sized 18-inch wheels and higher-profile P225/55R18 tires across all trim levels, prioritizing ride comfort over aggressive styling.
Each corner of the vehicle features key components, including struts or shocks, springs, control arms, stabilizer bars, and various bushings and links that work together to absorb road imperfections while maintaining tire contact with the road surface. The S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system, standard across all Eclipse Cross models, works with the suspension to optimize traction and stability, particularly in challenging weather conditions.
Recommended Service Intervals
Adhering to recommended service intervals is crucial for maintaining suspension performance and preventing premature wear. For the Eclipse Cross, the suspension service schedule includes:
- Regular Inspections: Visual inspection of suspension components during each oil change service (approximately every 8,000 km)
- Comprehensive Suspension Check: Full inspection every 24,000 km, including checking for leaking struts/shocks, worn bushings, and proper alignment
- Shock/Strut Replacement: Typically required between 80,000-120,000 km, depending on driving conditions and habits
- Wheel Alignment: Recommended every 24,000 km or when tire wear patterns indicate misalignment
- Bushing and Component Inspection: Thorough evaluation of all rubber components every 48,000 km
Signs That Suspension Service Is Needed
Knowing when to service the suspension can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Key indicators that the Eclipse Cross suspension requires attention include:
- Excessive Bouncing: If the vehicle continues to bounce after hitting a bump or dip in the road
- Uneven Tire Wear: Abnormal or uneven tire wear patterns often indicate suspension issues
- Nose-Diving During Braking: Excessive forward dipping when braking suggests worn front struts
- Leaking Fluid on Struts/Shocks: Dark stains on the exterior of these components indicate seal failure
- Handling Changes: Drift or pull to one side during normal driving
- Knocking or Clunking Sounds: Particularly when driving over bumps or making turns
Suspension Service Procedures
When servicing the Eclipse Cross suspension system, technicians typically perform the following procedures:
Inspection and Diagnosis
Comprehensive visual inspection of all components, followed by specialized tests to identify worn or damaged parts. This may include bounce tests, driving evaluations, and computerized alignment checks.
Strut/Shock Replacement
When replacement is necessary, both components on the same axle (front or rear) should be replaced simultaneously to ensure balanced handling. The Eclipse Cross uses sealed strut units that require complete assembly replacement rather than individual component rebuilding.
Bushings and Mount Service
Rubber bushings and mounts gradually deteriorate and harden over time. These components are critical for isolating road noise and vibration. During comprehensive service, technicians inspect and replace worn bushings, particularly in control arms and stabilizer bar links.
Alignment Service
After component replacement or at recommended intervals, a four-wheel alignment ensures optimal handling, tire wear, and fuel efficiency. The Eclipse Cross advanced S-AWC system benefits significantly from properly aligned suspension geometry.
Stabilizer Bar Service
The front and rear stabilizer bars help reduce body roll during cornering. Service includes checking for proper connection, bushing condition, and ensuring links move freely without binding.
DIY Maintenance Tips
While major suspension work requires specialized tools and expertise, Eclipse Cross owners can perform basic maintenance to extend suspension life:
- Regular Cleaning: Particularly important in areas where there is road salt, washing the undercarriage helps prevent corrosion of suspension components
- Visual Inspections: Periodically checking for visible leaks, damage, or loose components
- Tire Rotation and Pressure: Maintaining proper tire pressure and regular rotation helps ensure even wear and proper suspension performance
- Pothole Avoidance: Being mindful of road conditions to prevent impact damage
- Load Management: Avoiding exceeding the vehicle's recommended payload capacity (approximately 400 kg, depending on configuration)
Impact of Driving Habits on Suspension Longevity
While robust, the Eclipse Cross suspension system is influenced significantly by driving habits. Aggressive driving, frequent travel on rough roads, or regular heavy loading will accelerate wear. The vehicle's 215 mm ground clearance provides good obstacle clearance, but the suspension is tuned primarily for on-road comfort rather than extreme off-road use.
Facts About the Eclipse Cross Suspension
- The Eclipse Cross suspension provides a smoother ride than most competitors in its class, with Mitsubishi engineers prioritizing comfort over sportiness despite the vehicle's sporting nameplate heritage.
- The S-AWC system works in tandem with the suspension to provide active yaw control, enhancing the effectiveness of the suspension during cornering and on slippery surfaces.
- All Eclipse Cross models maintain identical suspension tuning across trim levels, unlike many competitors that offer "sport" packages with firmer settings on higher trims.
- The 215 mm ground clearance of the Eclipse Cross is higher than that of many compact crossovers, providing better obstacle clearance without compromising handling characteristics.
- The decision by Mitsubishi to use consistent 18-inch wheels with P225/55R18 tires across all trim levels helps ensure replacement parts compatibility and consistent ride quality regardless of model selection.
Questions and Answers About the 2025 Eclipse Cross
How often should I have the suspension checked on my Eclipse Cross?
- A basic visual inspection should be performed during each oil change (approximately every 8,000 km), with a more comprehensive inspection every 24,000 km or if you notice any changes in ride quality, handling, or unusual noises.
What is the typical lifespan of the struts and shocks on the Eclipse Cross?
- Under normal driving conditions, the struts and shocks typically last between 80,000-120,000 km. However, this can vary based on driving habits, road conditions, and climate.
Will upgrading to larger wheels affect my Eclipse Cross suspension?
- Yes. Upgrading beyond the factory 18-inch wheels can negatively impact ride comfort, potentially increase stress on suspension components, and may require adjustments to maintain proper alignment specifications.
How does the S-AWC system interact with the suspension?
- The S-AWC system works with the suspension by actively managing torque distribution to improve stability. While not a direct suspension component, it complements the suspension system to enhance overall vehicle dynamics and traction.
What are the early warning signs of suspension wear?
- Early signs include a rougher than normal ride, unusual tire wear patterns, increased body lean in corners, front-end nose diving during braking, and unusual noises (clunks, knocks, or squeaks) when driving over bumps.
Can I replace just one strut if it's leaking?
- While technically possible, replacing struts in pairs (both front or both rear) is strongly recommended to maintain balanced handling and even wear characteristics.
How does the Eclipse Cross suspension compare to other crossovers in its class?
- The Mitsubishi suspension prioritizes comfort over sportiness, delivering a smoother ride than many competitors. The consistent wheel size across all trims ensures uniform ride quality throughout the model range.
Does the Eclipse Cross have adjustable suspension settings?
- No, this SUV does not feature electronically adjustable suspension. The suspension tuning is fixed but provides a good balance of comfort and handling in various conditions.
How do driving conditions affect my suspension maintenance schedule?
- Harsh driving conditions such as rough roads, extreme temperatures, or frequent heavy loading can accelerate wear and require more frequent inspections and earlier component replacement.
What suspension maintenance is covered under the Eclipse Cross warranty?
- This vehicle has a comprehensive 5-year/100,000 km basic warranty covering suspension components for defects in materials or workmanship, but normal wear items may have different coverage terms.
Learn More About Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross at Scarborough Mitsubishi