2016 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer has 2 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are CVT Transmission Failure (Non-Evo) ($2,500-$5,500 repair) and 4B11 Timing Chain Stretch ($800-$2,000 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $800 to $5,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2008-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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.
Regular CVT fluid changes every 30,000 miles can extend transmission life. When the CVT fails, a remanufactured unit from a reputable rebuilder is more cost-effective than a new Mitsubishi unit.
On the 2008-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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.
Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides as a set. Use the updated Mitsubishi timing chain kit with the improved tensioner. Maintain strict 5,000-mile oil change intervals to minimize chain wear.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAY
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Outlander, 2015-2016 Lancer and Outlander Sport, and 2015 Lancer Evolution vehicles. These vehicles may have defective relays that can result in an engine stall, reduced engine power or the engine overheating.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles and 2016 Outlander and Lancer vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a constant velocity transmission (CVT) that, in certain driving conditions, may cause a delay in the vehicle accelerating.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2016-2016 Mitsubishi Lancer has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure (Non-Evo), 4B11 Timing Chain Stretch. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2016-2016 Mitsubishi Lancer has 2 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure (Non-Evo) 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.
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, CVT Transmission Failure (Non-Evo), typically costs $2,500-$5,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
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.
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.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
