What are the most common Mitsubishi Lancer problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Evolution AYC Rear Differential Pump Failure, Drive Belt Tensioner Flange Cracks, Belt Detaches and Engine Stalls (Recall 18V069), CVT Transmission Failure (Non-Evo). Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mitsubishi Lancer reliable?
The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Evolution AYC Rear Differential Pump Failure and Drive Belt Tensioner Flange Cracks, Belt Detaches and Engine Stalls (Recall 18V069) and CVT Transmission Failure (Non-Evo) and Evo VIII/IX/X Active Center Differential (ACD) Transfer Case Wear and 4B11 Timing Chain Stretch. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mitsubishi Lancer problems?
Repair costs for known Mitsubishi Lancer issues range from $800 to $5,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Evolution AYC Rear Differential Pump Failure, typically costs $800-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2003-2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution AYC Rear Differential Pump Failure?
The Active Yaw Control (AYC) hydraulic pump on the Lancer Evolution rear differential is a known failure point. The pump motor burns out or the internal gears strip, disabling the active torque vectoring rear differential and triggering warning lights. Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Drive Belt Tensioner Flange Cracks, Belt Detaches and Engine Stalls (Recall 18V069)?
Mitsubishi recalled 2009-2012 Lancer sedans built with the 4B11 or 4B12 engine because the automatic tensioner for the accessory drive belt can crack at its flange. Once the flange cracks, the tensioner no longer holds the belt properly and the accessory drive belt can come off t… Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer CVT Transmission Failure (Non-Evo)?
Non-Evolution Lancer models with the CVT experience premature transmission failure, with the CVT belt and pulleys wearing out between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. The transmission develops slipping, shuddering, and eventually complete failure. Repairs typically run $2,500-$5,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VIII/IX/X Active Center Differential (ACD) Transfer Case Wear?
The Lancer Evolution Active Center Differential (ACD) transfer case develops internal failures, particularly under hard launching and track use. The ACD clutch pack wears prematurely, and the transfer case bearings can fail, causing grinding noises and loss of AWD function. Repairs typically run $1,500-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer 4B11 Timing Chain Stretch?
The 4B11 engine timing chain stretches over time, particularly when oil changes are neglected. Chain stretch leads to retarded cam timing, rough idle, and potential engine damage if the chain jumps a tooth on the sprockets. Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: high.
