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Mitsubishi Lancer Problems

The Mitsubishi Lancer was a compact sedan that accumulated 2,270 complaints across its US production years. Powertrain and visibility issues are the most common concerns, followed by air bag and suspension problems. The 2002-2003 model years show the highest complaint volumes, while later production demonstrated some improvement.

2,270
Total Complaints
36
Total Recalls
18
Model Years
6
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2003 2002
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1996 2000 2005

Common Problem Categories

Power Train 320
Visibility 256
Air Bags 232
Suspension 156
Engine 156

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2017 12 0 2 0 Good
2016 76 2 2 0 Average
2015 72 1 18 0 Average
2014 46 0 14 8 Good
2013 18 0 0 0 Good
2012 52 1 14 0 Good
2011 102 3 6 0 Average
2010 132 6 14 2 Average
2009 278 6 46 8 Below Average
2008 252 3 24 4 Below Average
2007 6 2 0 0 Good
2006 104 4 20 0 Average
2005 54 3 6 0 Good
2004 192 3 16 10 Below Average
2003 482 1 34 4 Avoid
2002 388 1 94 2 Avoid
2000 2 0 0 0 Good
1996 2 0 0 0 Good

Mitsubishi Lancer Years to Avoid

2003, 2002, 2009, 2008, 2004

Best Mitsubishi Lancer Years

1996, 2000, 2007, 2017, 2013

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Lancer?

Powertrain issues lead with 320 complaints, including CVT transmission concerns on later models. Visibility problems (256), air bag issues (232), suspension concerns (156), and engine problems (156) are also frequently reported.

Which Mitsubishi Lancer years should I avoid?

The 2003 model year has the most complaints at 482, followed by 2002 with 388. The 2008-2009 model years (first years of the final generation) also show elevated complaints at 252 and 278 respectively.

Is the Mitsubishi Lancer reliable?

The Lancer has mixed reliability depending on model year. Early seventh-generation (2002-2003) and early eighth-generation (2008-2009) models show more issues. Mid-cycle years tend to be more dependable. The CVT requires proper maintenance.

What should I check before buying a used Mitsubishi Lancer?

Test the transmission thoroughly (especially CVT models), check all visibility features including wipers and defrost, verify air bag warning lights are off, and inspect suspension components. Service history is important for CVT-equipped models.