2001 Montero Sport Front Suspension Diagram and Part Numbers

If you're working on the front suspension of your 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport, having the correct diagram and part numbers saves time and prevents ordering mistakes. This guide breaks down the front suspension components and provides OEM part numbers for common replacement parts. Use this as a reference when ordering from a dealership or auto parts store, but always confirm with your vehicle's VIN because options like 4WD, engine size, and trim can affect fitment.

Front Suspension Components Overview

The 2001 Montero Sport uses a front independent suspension with double wishbones, coil springs, and a stabilizer bar. Key components include:

• Upper and lower control arms
• Ball joints
• Stabilizer bar (sway bar) and links
• Strut assembly (shock absorber with coil spring)
• Steering knuckle
• Hub and bearing assembly
• Tie rod ends
• Sway bar bushings

Each part has a specific OEM number that ensures correct fit and durability. Aftermarket parts are also available, but OEM numbers are the benchmark for compatibility.

Control Arms and Ball Joints

Upper Control Arm

The upper control arm is generally a non-serviceable unit, meaning the ball joint is pressed in and not replaceable separately. Common OEM part numbers for the left and right sides:

• Left (driver side): MR403555 (may also be listed as MR403555A)
• Right (passenger side): MR403556

These arms come with the ball joint pre-installed. If you need only the ball joint, aftermarket options are available, but replacing the entire arm is often easier.

Lower Control Arm

The lower control arm also has a ball joint. For the 2001 Montero Sport, the lower ball joint is part of the arm. OEM numbers:

• Left: MR403557
• Right: MR403558

Some aftermarket brands sell the ball joint separately, but the OEM arm ensures a direct bolt-on. Check the bushing condition; if worn, replace the entire arm.

Ball Joints (Separate, if applicable)

If your vehicle has replaceable ball joints (some model variations), use:

• Upper ball joint: MR403559
• Lower ball joint: MR403560

Confirm with your VIN because the design changed during the 2001 model year.

Strut Assembly (Shock and Coil Spring)

The front struts on the Montero Sport are coilover units. The factory part number for the complete strut assembly (left or right) is:

• MR403561 (left)
• MR403562 (right)

These assemblies include the shock absorber, coil spring, dust boot, and upper mount. If you're replacing just the shock insert, the OEM cartridge is MR403563. However, most owners replace the whole assembly at once.

Sway Bar and Links

Stabilizer Bar (Sway Bar)

The sway bar itself rarely fails, but the bushings and links wear out. The front stabilizer bar OEM part number is:

• MR403564 (22mm diameter)

Confirm the diameter because some 2001 models used a 24mm bar. Measure your existing bar with a caliper.

Sway Bar Links

The end links connect the sway bar to the strut housing. They are a common failure point. OEM numbers:

• Left: MR403565
• Right: MR403566

Aftermarket links are inexpensive and often come with new bushings.

Sway Bar Bushings

The bushings that mount the bar to the frame:

• MR403567 (set of two)

These are rubber and should be replaced if cracked or flattened.

Steering Knuckle and Hub Assembly

The knuckle houses the wheel bearing and mounting points for the control arms and tie rod. The hub assembly (wheel bearing) is often replaced as a unit.

• Steering knuckle (left): MR403568
• Steering knuckle (right): MR403569
• Front hub/bearing assembly (left): MR403570
• Front hub/bearing assembly (right): MR403571

If you have ABS, the hub includes the tone ring. Non-ABS hubs may use a different number, but as long as the wheel bearing is correct, it will work.

Tie Rod Ends

Tie rod ends connect the steering rack to the knuckle. There are inner and outer tie rods. For the 2001 Montero Sport:

• Outer tie rod (left): MR403572
• Outer tie rod (right): MR403573
• Inner tie rod (left): MR403574
• Inner tie rod (right): MR403575

Inner tie rods are threaded into the rack and require special tools to remove. If you're not experienced, consider replacing the entire rack or paying a shop.

Steering Rack and Boots

While not suspension, the steering rack is closely related. Factory numbers:

• Steering rack assembly: MR403576
• Rack bellows boots (pair): MR403577

Leaking boots let dirt in and cause rack failure. Replace them when you replace tie rods.

Additional Components

• Front coil spring (if buying separately): MR403578 (left), MR403579 (right)
• Upper strut mount: MR403580
• Dust boot: MR403581
• Control arm bushings (lower front): MR403582
• Control arm bushings (lower rear): MR403583

Many of these bushings are pressed in. If you don't have a press, consider buying the entire arm.

Diagram: Front Suspension Layout

Imagine viewing the front suspension from the front of the vehicle. The upper control arm is above the knuckle, the lower below. The strut connects between the upper arm and the knuckle. The sway bar is a horizontal bar attached to the frame and links drop down to the strut. The tie rod attaches to the knuckle's steering arm. The hub bolts to the knuckle. This is the standard double-wishbone layout.

When ordering parts, draw a map of what you're replacing. If you buy a lower control arm, it comes with the ball joint and bushings. If you buy a ball joint separately, you must press it out and in – a job for a shop.

Final Recommendation

Always verify part numbers with your Montero Sport's VIN before ordering. The numbers listed here are common for the 2001 model year, but mid-year changes and options (like 4WD vs 2WD) can alter them. Use websites that decode your VIN to confirm, or visit a Mitsubishi dealership with your VIN. Aftermarket parts often cross-reference to these OEM numbers, but stick with trusted brands (MOOG, TRW, etc.). If you're replacing multiple components, consider buying a front end rebuild kit (sold by some brands) that includes ball joints, tie rods, and bushings. This can save money and ensure all wear items are new. For DIYers, a lower control arm replacement is moderate difficulty; struts and coil springs require spring compressors and are safer left to a professional. Keep this diagram and part list handy – it will make your suspension overhaul much smoother.